Fast Access Complete Vatican Sistine Chapel & St Peter Day Tour

Rome , Italy

Fast Access Complete Vatican Sistine Chapel & St Peter Day Tour

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About this experience

Join this extended fast access tour of the Vatican in the company of a very knowledgeable English-speaking guide. On most of the Vatican tours there is only enough time to see the highlights of the numerous treasures housed in the nine miles of galleries. On this tour you see the “must see” artworks, but much more as we take you on a journey through the Vatican Art Gallery, the Sistine Chapel and Saint Peter’s Square.

Available options

Fast Access Complete Vatican Sistine Chapel & St Peter Day Tour

What's included

Local guide

Professional guide

Private tour

Professional art historian guide

Guaranteed to skip the long lines

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

This splendid tour takes in the Galleries of Maps, Tapestries and Candelabra. In the latter you will see the famous sculpture of Lacoon and his sons. As well as these wonderful galleries you will spend time in the Raphael Rooms, and of course visit the Sistine Chapel. As you wend your way through the Vatican Museums your guide will point out the most important works of art and in particular give you an insight into Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes in the Sistine Chapel so that you can gain a much better appreciation of this magnificent chapel and its decorations.On this extended tour you have the opportunity to see much more of the wonders that are housed in the Vatican City including its numerous sculptures, some very famous and some equally stunning but almost unknown.

Stop 2

From the Sistine Chapel to Raphael’s Rooms, on this tour we ensure that in addition to the Vatican Museum’s highlights we show you a few surprises as well – things you didn’t know were housed within its walls.Something not on the normal tourist itinerary is a visit to the Borgia Apartments. Adorned with family portraits these apartments were occupied in the 15th century by the notorious Borgia Family. Cardinal Rodrigo Borgia of Spain, Pope Alexander VI, lived here with his beautiful daughter Lucretia and charismatic son Cesare. Your guide will explain the history hidden within the family portrait’s religious content and tell you some family secrets – a glimpse into the lives of this extraordinary family!
Before you arrive at the next stop on the tour, the Sistine Chapel, your guide will explain something of the history of Michelangelo’s magnificent frescoes; what to look for and why they are so renowned. It took eight years to complete this amazing ceiling, a real labour of love!

Stop 3

The tour ends in Saint Peter’s Square where your guide will give you some information about the magnificent statues by Bernini that surround the square. A perfect end to a wonderful tour!

What's not included

Gratuities

Lunch

Private transportation

St Peter's Basilica

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

4 reviews

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4★

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Tripadvisor 5.0

6 reviews

5★

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements

READ CAREFULLY: Because of the growing popularity of the current pope Francis and his intense activity in organising mass events in the Vatican some areas might get closed last minute without previous notice. This has already happened this year and can happen again during you Vatican tour. In case of such events our tour guide will provide you with a valuable alternative focusing the tour inside the Vatican museums.

Please note that due to Jubilee restrictions, access to the Basilica is not accessible

Meeting point

At the stairs outside the Vatican museums (street address is viale Vaticano ), under the big white monumental door topped with statues.
Your guide will have a sign with your name.

Important notes

All flight times are approximate and subject to change due to weather conditions and weight restrictions.

About Rome

Rome, the capital of Italy, is a city of ancient ruins, artistic masterpieces, and vibrant culture. Known as the Eternal City, it is a living museum where every corner tells a story of its rich history spanning over 2,500 years.

Top Attractions

Colosseum

The Colosseum is an iconic symbol of Rome and one of the most famous ancient amphitheaters in the world. It was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles.

Historical 1-2 hours €16 (combined ticket with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill)

Vatican City

Vatican City is an independent city-state enclaved within Rome. It is the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church.

Religious Half day €17 (Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel), Free (St. Peter's Basilica)

Roman Forum

The Roman Forum was the political, commercial, and legal hub of the Roman Republic and Empire. It is a sprawling ruin of temples, basilicas, and arches.

Historical 1-2 hours €16 (combined ticket with Colosseum and Palatine Hill)

Pantheon

The Pantheon is a former Roman temple, now a church, known for its large dome and oculus. It is one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in Rome.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is a Baroque masterpiece and the largest fountain in Rome. It is a popular spot for visitors to throw coins and make wishes.

Architecture 15-30 minutes Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cacio e Pepe

A simple yet delicious pasta dish made with Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper.

Pasta Vegetarian

Carbonara

A rich pasta dish made with eggs, Pecorino Romano, guanciale (cured pork cheek), and black pepper.

Pasta Contains pork and eggs

Supplì

Fried rice balls filled with mozzarella and tomato sauce.

Snack Vegetarian (some variations may contain meat)

Carciofi alla Romana

Artichokes braised with garlic, mint, and olive oil.

Vegetable Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Appian Way Regional Park Biking along the Tiber River Rock climbing in the nearby mountains Picnicking in Villa Borghese Gardens Boating on Lake Albano Enjoying a spa day at a luxury hotel Visiting the Vatican Museums Attending an opera at the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the summer peak. Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, Spanish, French
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Rome is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing and scams can be a problem in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use official taxis or ride-sharing services
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or bracelets

Getting there

By air

Leonardo da Vinci International Airport • 35 km from city center
Ciampino Airport • 15 km from city center

By train

Roma Termini, Roma Tiburtina

By bus

Tiburtina Bus Station, Roma Termini

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is efficient and covers major tourist areas. It operates from 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Trastevere Monti Prancipio Testaccio

Day trips

Ostia Antica

30 km from Rome • Half day

An ancient Roman port city with well-preserved ruins, including a theater, baths, and mosaics. It offers a glimpse into daily life in ancient Rome.

Tivoli

30 km from Rome • Full day

A picturesque town known for its stunning villas and gardens, including the famous Villa d'Este with its elaborate fountains and gardens.

Orvieto

120 km from Rome • Full day

A charming hilltop town known for its stunning cathedral, underground caves, and local wine. It offers a mix of history, culture, and scenic views.

Festivals

Natale di Roma • April 21 Festa de' Noantri • July Rome Film Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Use public transport or walk instead of taking taxis to save money and experience the city like a local
Try local specialties and ask for recommendations from locals and restaurant staff
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and be respectful of local customs and traditions
Be aware of pickpockets and scams, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots