Semi-Private Tour Of Vatican Museums And St. Peter's Basilica

Rome , Italy

Semi-Private Tour Of Vatican Museums And St. Peter's Basilica

Active

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the Vatican Museums' fascinating art and history, then marvel at the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica! In a group of no more than 15, enjoy a personalized tour led by a professional guide who will unveil the museums’ masterpieces. Skip the lines and immerse yourself in this once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Available options

Semi-Private English Tour

Semi-Private Spanish Tour

What's included

Semi-private guided tour

Tickets to the Vatican Museums with priority access

Official Certified Guide

Radio system to hear the guide

Tickets to St. Peter's Basilica with priority access

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Your journey begins with VIP access as your guide expertly navigates your group past the famously long lines, allowing you to enter the Vatican Museums with ease. Once inside, you'll embark on a historical exploration of one of the most revered art collections in the world. Your guide will highlight key masterpieces, ensuring that you don’t miss the most significant works within the vast expanse of the museums.
As you explore, you'll encounter a stunning array of sculptures and paintings curated by the Popes over centuries. You'll be guided through the majestic Gallery of Tapestries and the mesmerizing Gallery of Maps, where Italy’s rich heritage and culture come to life through art and geography. These rooms offer a vivid glimpse into the grandeur of the past, leaving you in awe of the artistic achievements on display.

Stop 2

The pinnacle of your visit awaits as you enter the Sistine Chapel. Here, in hushed reverence, you'll have time to absorb the splendour of Michelangelo’s iconic ceiling. The vibrant colours and intricate details of this masterpiece are truly enchanting, offering a deeply emotional and unforgettable experience.

Stop 3

Finally, you will access St. Peter’s Basilica through a special passage, bypassing the regular lines. Inside this magnificent church, your guide will continue the tour, highlighting the incredible baroque architecture, Michelangelo’s poignant Pietà, and Bernini's grand St. Peter's Baldachin.
This semi-private tour is an essential part of any Roman holiday, immersing you in art and history through the expertise and passion of your guide, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Transportation to or from attractions

Entrance ticket to Dome of St. Peter's Basilica and Tombs of the Popes

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The Walking tour will only operate outside of each attraction and entrance tickets are not included.

Wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees, as the Vatican has a strict dress code. You may be refused entry if not properly dressed.

Peter’s Basilica has an airport-style security check after skipping the long line outside. No liquids, large bags, or sharp items are allowed. On peak days the wait time can be impacted by security checks.

"Skip-the-line" access is guaranteed, even during peak season (except in the event of delays or strikes by the Vatican Museum management).

In high season the time allowed inside the Sistine Chapel could be limited by the Vatican Museums security staff.

On rare occasions, St. Peter's Basilica closes without notice. In this case, the tour will include a 3-hour visit to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel instead of St. Peter's, the tour operator will not offer refunds.

You are not permitted to enter theses attractions with suitcases or large bags. Please note that there is no cloakroom on site.

Please note that the tour requires a minimum number of two guests to run.

Please note that if you arrive after the tour start time you will not be able to join and will not be refunded or have your tour rescheduled.

There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.

Meeting point

Meet your guide in front of the Brastours Shop at Via Santamaura, 28, 00192 Roma.

Important notes

Meet your guide in front of the Brastours Shop at Via Santamaura, 28, 00192 Roma.
Please be present at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before the departure time. Please present your e-confirmation / voucher and photo ID in exchange for your product.
The entrance tickets will be delivered by the guide or our representative at the meeting point before the start of the tour. (The staff will have a flag pole with the company logo, or signage with names printed).

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