Crazy amount of people here all the time... consider going real early, like 9 AM. If you are with a group, look into asking for special permission to view the Bramante spiral staircase. It's not open to the public but the museum does grant request to groups... there're several parts of the museum that they do this with...
Yes, but the dream can be a nightmare in August at 95 degrees and people cramming that beautiful hallway of art shoulder to shoulder. BY the way At that time of year once you get in, there s no way out so count on hours of human traffic jams and peering over shoulders to get a glimpse of art.
beautiful artwork. one of those places where you just can't believe you are actually there. important to take the tour because there is so much amazing history to learn