What is the best time to arrive at the Vatican Museum to avoid a long line? Early in the morning or later in the day? We will be there the 1st week of November.

Don't know about November - I went last week around 8ish - there was a line of about 25 in front of me. When I left, I saw no one in line, but the museum was pretty crowded.

Do you know what time the museum actually opens?

I remember 8:45, but I'd double check.

The Vatican website will list the winter hours. www.vatican.va

November lines will be shorter than high season. In high season, arrive 12-1pm and you would have no lines.

I would recommend going between 930-1000am as the first group of tour buses have cleared the front. I was told this several months ago and found it to be true.Do remember that the museum closes usually by 130pm(and 1pm I think is the last ticket purchase?) so do that first and then go back to St. Peter's.

We were there the second week of November 2001. We arrived about an hour before opening and there were only a few people in front of us.The line lengthened quickly thereafter. We were quite chilled that early in the morning and took turns crossing the street to a cafe for a hot drink and the use of the washroom. Have a great time!

I was there Nov 03 and we arrived around 10am. There was a very long line, but it moved very quickly. I didn't think we waited for more than 15-20mins before we got in.