This is definitely the way to go - skip the line. We realised about half way through our tour that one had to stay ahead of the crowds to enjoy the magnificence and splendour of the frescos. Our guide was terrific and obviously loved her subject, which definitely inspired us.

Our guide was very knowlegeable and very patient with the slower tourists, which we all appreciated. The tour was a great introduction to Rome and all its history - I recommend everyone who is visiting Rome for the first time take this tour to famialiarise themselves with the general layout and history of this magnificent city

We enjoyed skipping the line, although by getting to the Eye so early, this was not really necessary. There were few people there and a lot of the "pods" were empty.