Best of the Vatican in a Day Tour: Museum Sistine Chapel & Church

Rome , Italy

Best of the Vatican in a Day Tour: Museum Sistine Chapel & Church

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About this experience

Our Extended Vatican Tour gives you a great true appreciation of all that the Vatican City has to offer; from the Sistine Chapel and Raphael Rooms to a vast number of incredible statues, many of which are renowned and some which are almost unheard of. The tour itinerary has been planned to ensure that you don’t miss the most famous sites and sights which you will want to visit and also make sure that you get to see some things you never knew existed.
You will head through the Gallery of Maps, Gallery of Tapestries, Gallery of the Candelabra and view the renowned sculpture of Lacoon and his sons; plus, a real highlight of the Vatican Museums - the beautiful Raphael Rooms. Your guide will also give you detailed information on Michelangelo’s famous frescoes in the Sistine Chapel so that once inside you will have time to fully appreciate the splendor of this historical chapel.

Available options

Vatican City in OneDay: Vatican Museums,Sistine Chapel & Basilica

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Private tour

Professional art historian guide

Guaranteed to skip the long lines

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

A standout stop on this tour is the Borgia Apartments. In the 15th century these rooms were home to the infamous former cardinal Rodrigo Borgia (then Pope Alexander VI). You’ll see some of the family portraits and hear from your guide some of the secrets of one of the most renowned and most controversial papal families. There is a lot of history hidden within the paintings’ religious content. You will also have a peek into the scandalous life of the Pope’s beautiful daughter Lucretia and also his son Cesare.

Stop 2

You will then head into Michelangelo’s world-famous Sistine Chapel. Before entering, you’ll hear the stories behind the frescoes from your guide, their meaning and their significance. Michelangelo spent eight years of his life painting these wonderful frescoes – an incredible undertaking!

Stop 3

It is then time for a tour of St. Peter’s Basilica where you will explore the numerous side chapels with their hidden crypts. You will see Michelangelo’s Pietà and your guide will explain why this is the only work that he signed. You will gain an appreciation of the mastery that went into the creation of Bernini’s altarpiece and learn how Michelangelo triumphed over his contemporaries for the honour to paint St. Peter’s magnificent dome.

There is still more to see though below ground level. You guide will lead you below ground to the papal crypt where, over the centuries, many of the Popes have been interred. This special place is a site of pilgrimage for many Catholics.

Stop 4

Finally, it is out into St. Peter’s Square to visit Bernini’s magnificent statues that surround this wonderful square.

What's not included

Gratuities

Drop off to the Hotel

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

3 reviews

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4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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

PLEASE NOTE: Due to the Jubilee the Basilica might not be accessible as part of the tour. Unfortunately, we know that very last minute. In any case, you can go there after the tour, queuing.

READ CAREFULLY: Due to the jubilee it can happen quite often that some areas might get closed last minute without previous notice, especially the Sistine Chapel and/or the Basilica of St Peter. In case of such events we do NOT refund NOR reschedule the tour, our tour guide will provide you with a valuable alternative focusing the tour inside the Vatican museums.

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