Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel Tour
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
You can't come to Rome without visiting the Vatican. But with millions of tourists visiting each year, most people spend more time standing in line than sightseeing - and even when inside they don't know what to see.
Our priority skip-the-line entrance and expert guides guarantee you see the very best the Vatican has to offer, leaving you feeling like an expert who's seen everything there is to see. It visits all the main sites, including the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and Raphael Rooms - giving you the complete Vatican experience!
When visiting the Vatican, please make sure you cover knees and shoulders - even in the summer.
Available options
Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel Tour
What's included
Small-Group Tour
Guide Headset
All Fees and Taxes
Expert Local Guide
Fast Track Vatican Tickets
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The Vatican Museums are some of the largest museums in the world, with over 1000 rooms and 7km of art galleries. With our expert guides, you’re guaranteed to see the very best the Vatican has to offer without spending a whole day getting lost. You will explore the Gallery of the Maps and Gallery of Tapestries. Your guide will bring to life the magnificent works of Raphael, Da Vinci, Caravaggio, Michelangelo and many more. Discover the hidden secrets and dark politics that lie behind the beauty of the works collected in these sacred halls.
2
Stop 2
Prepare to be in awe of the masterpiece that is the Sistine Chapel. Stand beneath Michelangelo’s legendary Creation of Adam and marvel at The Last Judgement. There is no talking in the chapel so your guide will explain the history before you enter. You will learn the secrets of the Pope’s personal place of worship and the story of how Michelangelo spent years perfecting his works. But no photos allowed!
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
10 reviews
5★
10
4★
0
3★
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2★
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1★
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Tripadvisor
4.9
8 reviews
5★
7
4★
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3★
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Please meet us at the top of the steps on the corner of Viale Vaticano 100, next to Café Vaticano. Your guide will be there holding a yellow Carpe Diem Rome flag.
Please arrive 10 minutes prior. Late arrivals will not be eligible for refunds.
Please ensure to check local Covid-19 regulations.
Important notes
The guide will wait for you at the top of the steps by Viale Vaticano 100 holding a yellow flag with the Carpe Diem Rome logo.
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
