Early Vatican Museums Tour: The Best of the Sistine Chapel
Active
3h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Enter the Sistine Chapel at the most peaceful time of day to enjoy Michelangelo’s masterpiece in serenity and embark on a thorough guided tour of the Vatican Museums, ending at the awe-inspiring St. Peter's Basilica. There's no better way to see the highlights of the Vatican without the crowds that descend upon the galleries later in the day. Not a morning person? Book the Vatican Express Tour with Sistine Chapel for a relaxed afternoon visit after the crowds have left for the day.
Available options
Private - Early Access Tour
Vatican Museums & Basilica: Enter the Vatican before the crowds on a private morning tour of the Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica.<br/>Duration: 4 hours
Early Access Vatican Museums
& St. Peter's Basilica: Enter Sistine Chapel at the most peaceful time of day on expertly guided tour of the Vatican Museums & St. Peter's Basilica.
Vatican Express
Duration: 3 hours<br/>& Sistine Chapel: Discover the Vatican Museums on a skip-the-line guided tour, avoiding the typical crowds. St. Peter's Basilica not included.
What's included
Local English-speaking guide
Small groups of 18 people or fewer
Expertly guided tour of the Vatican
Skip the line ticket for Vatican Museums
Skip the line ticket for St. Peter's Basilica (Early Access option only)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Your guide will lead you on a full tour of the Vatican Museums, stopping to see all the most important works. Visiting either before or after the daytime crowds, you’ll appreciate the extra space and silence to appreciate the magnificent artwork in the Museums.
2
Stop 2
Pass by
Guided tour & Photo Stop
3
Stop 3
Pass by
Inside the peaceful, Pinecone Courtyard you'll pass a spectacular bronze globe. It was designed for the Vatican by well-known Italian artist Arnaldo Pomodoro and copies of it can now be found all over the world, including Dublin, Tel Aviv and New York City.
4
Stop 4
If you select the Early Vatican Museums Tour: During the day, the Raphael Rooms are as busy as the Sistine Chapel. At this hour of the morning, however, when the Museums have just opened for the day, you'll have plenty of space to enjoy them peacefully. Your guide will point out where Raphael worked the faces of his contemporaries Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo into his frescoes.
5
Stop 5
Pass by
Guided tour & Photo Stop
6
Stop 6
Pass by
Guided tour & Photo Stop
7
Stop 7
The Sistine Chapel wasn’t meant to be seen standing shoulder to shoulder with hundreds of other people. Beat the crowds by entering first thing in the morning or in late afternoon to enjoy the incredible frescoes in relative peace.
8
Stop 8
If you select the Early Vatican Museums Tour: Last but certainly not least, you'll head straight to St. Peter's Basilica via a special secret passage, bypassing the long lines that are starting to form outside. End your morning with a full tour of the sacred space and gaze upon Michelangelo's moving Pietà, Bernini's grandiose altarpiece, and so much more as you learn the stories and legends behind them.
What's not included
Gratuities
Hotel Pick-Up/Drop-Off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
447 reviews
5★
370
4★
34
3★
24
2★
9
1★
10
Tripadvisor
4.7
491 reviews
5★
421
4★
29
3★
20
2★
8
1★
13
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or with wheelchairs, or strollers.
The special access passage between the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica is closed on Wednesdays and Saturdays and is subject to other unexpected closures during special celebrations/festivities, including the Easter ceremonies. On such days we will offer a more in-depth tour of the Museums.
All guests (including children) must bring ID on the day of their tour.
The full names of all participants must be provided at the time of booking and must match the names on the ID/Passport. Name changes are not permitted.
Between January 12 and March 31, 2026, the Vatican Museums will carry out a dedicated preservation project focused on Michelangelo’s "Last Judgment" in the Sistine Chapel. The Sistine Chapel will remain open to visitors, though this specific artwork will be temporarily out of view during the restoration period. We appreciate your patience and understanding.
Walks Tours is an Accredited Tour Operator with an official ticketing agreement with the Vatican Museums.
Meeting point
Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of your tour, your guide will be holding a green Walks sign. This tour meets at Antico Café Candia, Via Candia, 153, 00192 Roma RM.
Important notes
- Please arrive 15 minutes before your tour start time for check-in. Out of courtesy to other guests, we’re unable to wait for latecomers. No refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows.
- All guests (including children) must bring ID on the day of their tour.
- Only small backpacks and handbags are allowed inside the Vatican Museums. Storage is available, but please note you must return (about a 20-minute walk) to the entrance to pick up your items at the end of the tour.
- Due to the religious nature of the Vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. Walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry.
- No photography or filming is permitted in the Sistine Chapel.
- The special access passage between the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica is closed on Wednesdays and Saturdays and is subject to other unexpected closures during special celebrations/festivities, including the Easter ceremonies. On such days we will offer a more in-depth tour of the Museums. We are unable to provide refunds or discounts.
- Between January 12 and March 31, 2026, the Vatican Museums will carry out a dedicated preservation project focused on Michelangelo’s "Last Judgment" in the Sistine Chapel. The Sistine Chapel will remain open to visitors, though this specific artwork will be temporarily out of view during the restoration period. We appreciate your patience and understanding.
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
Instant confirmation
