Our first morning started before sunrise with a 5:00 report time. The Villa Agrippina staff had set out a lovely continental breakfast for us, though and we were excited for what was in store. This morning, we would be unlocking and opening the Vatican Museum in Vatican City!! One of the most prestigious museums in the world, the Vatican Museum houses priceless art and artifacts. It draws tremendous crowds and I have heard people say they didn't even see anything as there were so many people crowding the galleries.
Our exclusive Adventures by Disney tour, however, was private for just our group. No one was there besides us. At the door to the museum, we were greeted by the Key Masters. We had two hours to unlock the galleries, turning on lights and opening window shutters as we went.
Watch the amazing transformation as we turn the lights on in this gorgeous gallery!
Inside the museum, Simone took us through the galleries, giving context to all of the art we saw. We had access that is usually limited when the museum is actually open. In one instance, we were allowed to view the back of a sculpture where it is normally roped off.
The conclusion of our tour was in the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo painted his famous frescoes. On a normal day, you cannot even move in the chapel, it is so crowded with visitors. However, we had 20 minutes or so all to ourselves. Photos from the Chapel are not permitted to be shared, so you will have to trust me that this was an amazing highlight to our tour.
Once we left the Vatican Museum, we were treated to breakfast in the gardens. As we left the museum, we saw the crush of visitors, waiting to get into the site and were delighted to not be in the line!
The rest of our day was spent on a walking tour through some of Rome's other iconic sites. We learned about the Spanish Steps, tossed a coin in the Trevi Fountain, had a delicious gelato and toured the Pantheon.
For dinner that night, we were 'on our own.' Marcello, our wonderful Italian guide, directed us to a place in Trastevere, a trendy neighborhood. And, a good thing he did! We never would have stopped at this place - small, hole in the wall kind of spot. But we had amazing suppli (Roman street food) and the absolute BEST tiramisu we have ever enjoyed.
What an incredible day in the Eternal City!
Stay tuned for Day 3!!
Mary Graham / Trips by Mary has been professionally planning travel for over seven years. I have personally been on two Adventures by Disney, and planned many more for my clients.
To start planning your trip, please visit my Calendly and schedule a Discover Call: https://calendly.com/trips-by-mary/discoverymeeting
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