Exclusive Private Tour: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St Peter's Basilica

Rome , Italy

Exclusive Private Tour: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St Peter's Basilica

Active

(141 reviews)

2h - 3h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Private entry at the Vatican is always a special experience. Even our seasoned guides who have seen it countless times appreciate the opportunity to admire art in this setting. You may be surprised to learn that the Vatican oversees over 6 million visitors each year, so entering alone can soon prove to be an overwhelming and painful ordeal.
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We recommend reserving this private tour with us to customize your experience for you and you family. We promise that this family/child-friendly setting will satisfy ever member of your group (our guides are known to keep the little ones intrigued!) Should we also mention Michelangelo’s frescoed ceilings of the Sistine Chapel?? This beautiful masterpiece needs no introduction.

No line = no stress! (not to mention that you get to steer clear of the sun and unbearable heat during the summer months!)
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We offer two time slots for this private tour experience (morning or afternoon). Have your pick!

Available options

Exclusive Private Vatican Tour

Includes:: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica<br/>English Tour<br/>Private Tour

English - Private Vatican Tour

-: Vatican Museums + Sistine Chapel + St. Peter’s Basilica

St.Peter Basilica NOT Included

Vatican Tour INCLUDES: VATICAN MUSEUMS and SISTINE CHAPEL<br/>NOT Included: St. Peter's Basilica

Vatican GROUP Tour

Includes: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica<br/>GROUP TOUR: This option is shared with other clients.

What's included

Admission to the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica

A tour guide highly reviewed on Tripadvisor

Guaranteed skip-the-line access to the Vatican Museum & St. Peter’s Basilica

Detailed itinerary

You will meet your tour guide at our office, which is located in the oldest neighbourhoods of the Vatican, Borgo Pio. It is an area filled with charming local shops and vendors.

Stop 2

After meeting your guide, you will head directly to the Vatican Museum through a special group entrance route and bypassing the enormous lines that are guaranteed to be present all year round.

This is a 2.5 to 3 hour journey through one of the most amazing museums of the world. Learn about Greek and Roman sculptures, tapestries, and interesting anecdotes about the artists and their times.

Stop 3

This part of the museum, containing four stanze (Italian for rooms) features frescos by the Italian Renaissance artist Raphael. The famous “School of Athens” is displayed here. Portraits of history’s greatest thinkers, such as Aristotle, Plato, and Raphael himself, can also be gleamed.

Stop 4

Enter in the beautiful Sistine Chapel, where you will witness the work of the the celebrated artist, Michaelangelo. Prepared to be dazzled as you look up to admire the frescoed ceilings that have stood the test of time, like the Last Judgement.

Stop 5

Upon completion of the museum areas, you will discover how the smallest state in the world functions in its own right.

Finally, a special door connecting the museums to the Basilica will bring you inside the church of S.Peters! Unlike other tourists who line up for normal entrance, you will be able to get access without the fuss of passing through security once again.

Stop 6

Goodbye! Got any questions about Rome or the Vatican? Raise your questions here. Your guide provide tips of your stay in the eternal city as the tour concludes.

What's not included

Private transportation

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

37 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

104 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The meeting point is located in Borgo Pio, very close to St. Peter's square. The exact address is Via Plauto 17/A.
Please check your booking and confirm your chosen time. Be sure to arrive at the office earlier than the start time (9 AM)

Important notes

The meeting point is located in Borgo Pio, very close to St. Peter's square. The exact address is Via Plauto 17/A.

Please check your booking and confirm your chosen time. Be sure to arrive at the office earlier than the start time.

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