Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel Semi Private Skip-the-Line Tour

Rome , Italy

Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel Semi Private Skip-the-Line Tour

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(19 reviews)

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About this experience

Visiting the Vatican Museums (one of the busiest museums in the world) can be an overwhelming experience, where hordes of tourists are everywhere, the guides trying to get their groups to the next gallery as fast as possible and where the Sistine Chapel is usually shoulder to shoulder packed, you probably will not be able the see the mosaic work beneath your feet. This is why we have organized this early entry tour; where you enter the Vatican as early as possible and will have a certified tour guide accompanying and guiding you every step of the way.

Available options

Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel Semi Private Skip-the-Line Tour

What's included

Audio Guided Tour of the St. Peter's Basilica (subject of availability)

All Fees and Taxes

Fast Track Ticket of the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel

English Language Guided Tour of a highlight of the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel

Priority Access to the St. Peter's Basilica (subject of availability)

Use of Radio Transmitters

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Founded by Pope Julius II in the early 16th century and enlarged by successive pontiffs, the Vatican Museums boast one of the world's greatest art collections. Exhibits, which are displayed along about 7km of halls and corridors, range from Egyptian mummies and Etruscan bronzes to ancient busts, old masters and modern paintings. Highlights include the spectacular collection of classical statuary in the Museo Pio-Clementino, a suite of rooms frescoed by Raphael, and the Michelangelo-painted Sistine Chapel.

Stop 2

Home to two of the world’s most famous works of art – Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes and his Giudizio Universale (Last Judgment) – the Sistine Chapel is the one part of the Vatican Museums that everyone wants to see, and on a busy day you could find yourself sharing it with up to 2000 people. Michelangelo's ceiling design, which is best viewed from the chapel’s main entrance in the far east wall, covers the entire 800-sq-m surface.

At the end of the tour only if the passage to the Basilica (Scala Regia) is open the guide will take the group to the Basilica.

Stop 3

The last part of this tour, a brief guided visit of the biggest church in the world; St. peter's Cathedral

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.4

16 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Knees and shoulders must be covered in order to enter the Vatican

Valid ID: Travelers are required to carry a valid identity document

Due to the Vatican Museums regulations persons with any sort of disabilities can not be accommodated

Due to numerous number of stairs and uneven trains we can not accommodate wheelchair/walker users and or slow walkers

Due to the Jubilee, some monuments may be under restoration. Please pay attention to any messages we may send regarding potential changes.

The St. Peter's Basilica is subject of last minute closure due to religious celebrations with the new Pope. In this case we offer a extended in depth guided tour of the Vatican Museums

The Vatican Museums reserve the right to close any section, including the Sistine Chapel, due to unforeseen circumstances. In such occasions, no refund is guaranteed to customers

Important notes

1- The meeting point is in Via Sebastiano Veniero, 15, 00192 Roma RM, Italy (Vatican Hill Tours agency). In front of the Grand Vatican Museum Entrance (where it is written MVSEI VATICANI on the top of the big door) there is a street. Cross that street and you will find yourself at the top of steps leading down. Walk down those stairs and immediately turn right and look for number 15. When you are at the meeting point please come inside and check in with the front desk.

2- Meeting time: 15 minutes in advance of your start time. Please note it is extremely important that you are present at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before starting time. Please notice tickets are with a strict time entrance and so kindly be on time!:). Due to a severe shortage of tickets we are not able to accommodate later comers and the tickets are non refundable after starting time and if there is availability for later entrances you may have to pay full price again.

3- The Vatican Museums' tickets are nominal and it is mandatory to carry a valid ID, even a photo or copy of valid ID, thank you.

4- Vatican Museums and specially the Sistine Chapel have dress code and knees and shoulders must be cover, please keep this in mind.

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