Vatican Tour: Museums, Raphael Rooms & Sistine Chapel

Rome , Italy

Vatican Tour: Museums, Raphael Rooms & Sistine Chapel

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(21 reviews)

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This group tour is perfect for those who want a more personal experience of the Vatican Museums.

With no more than 10 people per tour group, it is easy to interact with your expert and licensed guide.

This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the Vatican when it is near-empty: a limited number of people can visit each day, which means you can feel secure in your visit.

Enjoy the Vatican highlights and marvelous masterpieces you’ve waited a lifetime to see, including the Raphael Rooms, the Sistine Chapel, and more.

All of this with all the benefits of a relaxed small group tour and an expert guide there for you to explain the things you see and answer all your questions.

The Vatican museums were established by Pope Julius II as early as the beginning of the 16th century. Since then, thousands of artworks have been gathered.

Find out more with our expert guide, who is ready to share with you facts and stories about these places.

Available options

English tour

What's included

Entrance Tickets and Admission Fees for the Vatican Museums

Radios & Headsets

Entrance Tickets and Admission Fees for the Sistine Chapel

Live Explanation with expert local tour guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The Vatican museums display works from the great collection built by the Catholic Church and the papacy throughout the centuries.

The Vatican museums are among the most visited and largest museums in the world and the most ancient ever established. In the early 16th century in fact, Pope Julius II founded the museums. Since then, thousands of artworks have been gathered.

Stop 2

Get ready to admire the breath-taking Sistine Chapel, decorated with some of the most beautiful frescoes ever made. The Sistine chapel is part of the Apostolic Palace, the official residence of the Pope. Although the Chapel takes its name from Pope Sixtus IV, the amazing frescoes date back to the patronage of Pope Julius II, at the beginning of the 1500’. It was then when the pope commissioned Michelangelo painting the chapel's ceiling, a project that changed the course of Western art and is regarded as one of the major artistic accomplishments of human civilization. Even more famous is the Last Judgment, from Michelangelo as well.
A special place requires special rules:
As this is a holy place, there is a dress code policy to comply with. Knees, shoulders and backs must be covered.
Pictures cannot be taken at any time.
The tour guide cannot give share information concerning the chapel once already in. For this reason the explanation takes place before and after visiting the chapel.

What's not included

Food and Drinks

Transports from hotel to the venue

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.1

8 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 3.4

13 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 poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

The costumers need to show up 20 mins before at the meeting point in order to guarantee a smooth departire of the activity.

Meeting point

The meeting point is on the Via Tolemaide stree, right next to the Habemus Cafe.

Important notes

Starting from October 18, 2023, nominative tickets have been introduced for the Colosseum. All guests must have an ID with them as they may be required to show it at the entrance.

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