Best of the Vatican in one full day: Museums Sistine Chapel, Dome & more
Active
5h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Don’t waste your valuable time waiting on lines to see the Vatican. Your guide will meet you outside the Vatican Museums and will escort you straight to the luxurious exhibitions. You’ll see the Gallery of Maps, the Gallery of Tapestries, and the Pinecone Courtyard. The Vatican Museum’s highlights include the stunning works of Raphael and Michelangelo that were collected by various Popes throughout the centuries. Moreover you will visit other parts of the Vatican you usually do not have time to see on the standard tours: the dome, the Pinacoteca and much more. You will have the possibility to take your lunch at the Vatican Museums restaurant (food not included in the tour price)
Available options
Best of the Vatican in one full day: Museums Sistine Chapel, Dome & more
What's included
skip the line ticket
private guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Start your Vatican tour right away with your skip-the-line tickets. You’ll meet your guide just outside the Vatican Museums,and be escorted straight in to the breathtaking exhibits.
2
Your first stop is the Gallery of Maps, the Gallery of Tapestries, and the Pinecone Courtyard.
3
Stop 3
Next you’ll see highlights of the impressive collections of the Vatican Museums, including the stunning works of Raphael and Michelangelo, collected by various Popes throughout the centuries.
4
Stop 4
Next, you’ll enter the glorious Sistine Chapel, where you’ll see Michelangelo's famous frescoes "The Last Judgment," and "The Creation of Adam."
5
Stop 5
The Dome of St. Peter's Basilica is best seen from an up-close perspective. A short lift ride will take you to the main level inside the vault. From here, you’ll have a fantastic view of the staggering mosaics and stunning elaborate embellishments. This view affords the best perspective to appreciate the artisans’ skills and techniques used to create such intricate work.
Climb up the 281 steps to the highest point of the Dome for one of the best views of the entire city of Rome, and your guide will show you landmarks and points of interest from this birds-eye view.
6
Stop 6
When you return to ground level, you’ll explore St. Peter’s Basilica, and you’ll see Michelangelo's famous Pietà, the only piece of work he ever signed. You’ll learn how Michelangelo was chosen over his peers for the distinct honor to paint St. Peter’s heavenly arch. Then, you’ll visit the underground ecclesiastical tomb, where many Popes have been buried over the centuries. You will also explore the various houses of prayer, and shrouded graves.
7
Stop 7
The tour will end at St Peter's square.
8
Stop 8
One of the 13 egyptians obelisks of Rome, probably the most mysterious.
What's not included
Private transportation
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
At the Vatican museums entrance.
Below the white gate topped with the statues of Michelangelo and Raphael.
Your tour guide will hold a sign with your name.
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
