We will be spending 4 full days in Rome next June and I have booked a rental apartment just off Piazza Navona. We have been to Rome several times before, though not in the recent past and we're looking forward to seeing some of our favourite places again. Our tentative itinerary is as follows:

Sat 7: arr 8am, take taxi to apartment. In the afternoon walk around Piazza Navona, Trevi fountain, Spanish Steps, then maybe do Angel's 7pm free Pantheon tour.

Sun 8: Colosseum/Palatine Hill tour, then walk around

Mon 9: Vatican museum and Sistine Chapel tour, spend the day in that general area

Tues 10: Borghese Gallery and maybe catacombs?

Wed 11: Take mid-morning train to Venice

My main question is about the Vatican tours, can't decide between the ones offered on their website or book one by the various tour operators. There's quite a substantial price difference and I'm wondering if its really worth paying almost double for the private tour. How big are Vatican's tour groups? What time would be better, morning or afternoon? Of course it's going to be very crowded anyway in June! Also, would I do better to switch the Vatican to Tuesday instead of Monday?

Look forward to your suggestions, thanks in advance

We did a commercial tour. Communication from the guide to the 20-30 tour members was by wireless headsets. It was sort of OK, but there was no chance for any 2-way communication (you can't ask a headset a question). Of course, there is no individualization. An expensive private tour would eliminate these issues. Your choice.

Have you don't the Scavi Tour, if not, do not miss it this time. It was wonderful.

If you are looking for a fabulous, incredible tour, look into the Scavi Tour which takes place under St. Peters. Limited number of tours and people allowed.

Yes, am also looking at the Scavi tour, haven't done it before.