PRIVATE Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica (shortcut)
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This tour is designed for those who want to explore the highlights of the Vatican Museums, admiring the works of art collected by the Popes during more than five centuries.
We will see all the masterpieces, including the outstanding Roman statues which inspired Michelangelo: the celebrated Laocoon Group and the powerful Belvedere Torso.
Walking through the Gallery of Candelabra, Tapestries and Maps, full of statues, frescoes and mosaics, we will get inside the spectacular, world famous Sistine Chapel, entirely covered with the most celebrated Michelangelo’s frescoes: the Ceiling and the Last Judgement!
Then we'll take advantage of the exclusive shortcut from the Sistine to St. Peter's, the largest church in the world, to admire the Pietà, by Michelangelo and much more...
*TICKETS ARE NOT INCLUDED: from €40 to 50€ per Adult according to tickets availability
START TIME is subject to availability (1 hour before or after set time slot)
WE'LL BUY THEM AS SOON AS YOU SEND AMOUNT VIA PAYPAL
Available options
Vatican and Sistine Chapel
Duration: 2 hours: Vatican Museums Highlights and Sistine Chapel private tour
Vatican, Sistine and St.Peter
Duration: 3 hours: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica private tour
What's included
Professional licensed Official guide of the Vatican Museums
Exclusive shortcut to St. Peter's Basilica
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Meet our guide in front of the Vatican Museums ready to start the tour inside one of the most famous museums in the world!
2
The courtyard was originally part of the Cortile del Belvedere, designed by Donato Bramante to connect the palace of Pope Innocent VIII with the Sistine Chapel. When Bramante died, architect Pirro Ligorio finished the project and added the wall and niche to close the courtyard.
3
Stop 3
The Octagonal Court used to be known as the Cortile delle Statue. It was home to the first nucleus of antique classical statues in the pontifical collections when Pope Julius II della Rovere (1503-1513) displayed his own collection of antique sculpture. Among them the world famous Laocoön group.
4
the longest gallery in the Vatican Museums, hosting the frescoed maps of all the regions of Italy, from south to north, commissioned by Pope Gregory XIII in 1580.
5
Stop 5
The Sistine Chapel takes its name from Pope Sixtus IV della Rovere. The 15th century decoration of the walls includes: the Stories of Moses and of Christ. It was executed by a team of painters made up initially of Perugino, Botticelli, Ghirlandaio and Rosselli.
Michelangelo painted the Ceiling, nine central panels showing the Stories of Genesis and the Last Judgement on the altar wall.
6
Stop 6
Michelangelo's masterpiece, made by the great florentine artist when he was just 21 years old, represents the Virgin Mary holding in her arms the body of Jesus
7
Stop 7
the biggest Basilica in the world, built above the tomb of the apostle Peter, home of incredible treasures!
What's not included
Gratuities
"Skip-the-Line" ticket to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
St. Peter's Basilica entrance fee and headsets
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
6 reviews
5★
6
4★
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3★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
9 reviews
5★
9
4★
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
If you have mobility issues please let me know so I can better customize the tour for you.
Meeting point
You will meet the guide in front of the Vatican Museums Entrance (Viale Vaticano). He will hold a sign with your name on it.
About Vatican City
Vatican City, the world's smallest independent state, is the spiritual and administrative headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church. Nestled within Rome, Italy, it's home to iconic landmarks like St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums, which house some of the world's most renowned art collections, including the Sistine Chapel.
Top Attractions
St. Peter's Basilica
St. Peter's Basilica is one of the most renowned churches in the world and a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. It is a significant pilgrimage site and a must-visit for its stunning interior, including Michelangelo's Pietà and the dome offering panoramic views of Rome.
Religious/Architecture
1-2 hours
Free entry (€8 for dome climb)
Vatican Museums
The Vatican Museums house an extensive collection of art and artifacts amassed by the Catholic Church over the centuries. Highlights include the Sistine Chapel, the Raphael Rooms, and the Gallery of Maps. It's a treasure trove for art lovers and history enthusiasts.
Museum/Art
3-4 hours
€17 (includes entry to St. Peter's Basilica)
Castel Sant'Angelo
Originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, Castel Sant'Angelo is now a museum and fortress. It offers fascinating exhibits and panoramic views of Rome from its terrace. The passage leading to the Vatican, known as the Passetto di Borgo, is a historical highlight.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
€15
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cacio e Pepe
A classic Roman dish made with pecorino cheese and black pepper, creating a creamy and flavorful sauce.
Pasta
Vegetarian
Supplì
Fried rice balls filled with tomato sauce and mozzarella, similar to Sicilian arancini.
Appetizer
Vegetarian (some versions contain meat)
Tiramisu
A popular Italian dessert made with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cheese.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in nearby parks
Biking tours
Strolling through historic neighborhoods
Visiting parks and gardens
Museum visits
Art tours
Historical site exploration
Boat tours on the Tiber River
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
The best time to visit is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the tourist crowds are manageable. These months offer the best conditions for sightseeing and exploring the city's outdoor attractions.
15-30°C
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian, Latin
- Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Vatican City is generally safe, with a strong police presence and low crime rates. However, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas, so it's important to stay vigilant.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services.
Getting there
By air
- Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport • 30 km from Vatican City
By train
Roma San Pietro Station
By bus
Roma Termini Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The metro system in Rome is efficient and connects to Vatican City via the Ottaviano Station, which is a short walk from St. Peter's Basilica.
Taxis
Available • Apps: FreeNow, MyTaxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Borgo
Prati
Day trips
Rome
0 km (Vatican City is an enclave within Rome) • Full day or more
Rome, the capital of Italy, is a treasure trove of ancient history, art, and culture. It offers iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Trevi Fountain, as well as world-class museums and vibrant neighborhoods.
Ostia Antica
30 km from Vatican City • Half day
Ostia Antica is an ancient Roman port city that offers a fascinating glimpse into Roman life. The well-preserved ruins include homes, shops, and public buildings, providing a unique historical experience.
Festivals
Easter Celebrations • March or April (dates vary)
Christmas Celebrations • December 24-25
Pro tips
- Book tickets for major attractions like the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica in advance to skip the lines.
- Dress modestly when visiting religious sites to show respect and avoid being turned away.
- Use public transportation or walk to get around Vatican City and Rome, as driving can be challenging and parking is limited.
- Learn a few basic Italian phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals.
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
