Rome , Italy

Vatican VIP Early Entrance 8:00 AM

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About this experience

The VIP Super Early Vatican and Sistine Chapel Tour is the best you could have if you are looking for an exclusive experience. This unique guided tour is organized for a small group of 20 people only. This way, you can interact with your expert English-speaking guide as if you were on a private tour.
This special tour will allow you to enjoy the Vatican highlights with almost nobody around, while most of the other tours offered in the Vatican are held with thousands of other tourists at the later hours.
After the tour, you can go to St. Peter's Basilica, where you can explore it at your own leisure. The entry to the basilica is free.

Available options

English Vatican Guided Tour

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes

Spanish Vatican Guided Tour

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes

What's included

Expert English or Spanish Speaking Guide

Vip access to the Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel

Taxes and fees

Headsets to hear your guide clearly

Detailed itinerary

Meet your tour coordinator in the middle of Piazza del Risorgimento (400m from Metro A Line, Ottaviano metro stop), in front of the caffe Bar "L’Ottagono". Look for the staff with the 'Best Of Rome' logo sign. Please be at the meeting point 15 minutes prior to the departure booking time.

Stop 2

You will visit the 3 amazing galleries : the Gallery of the Candelabra, home to roman copies of hellenistic originals, the Gallery of the Tapestries (16th and 17th century) and the Gallery of Maps, covered with amazing frescoes of geographical maps.

Stop 3

You will visit the Papal apartments, which are definitely as important as the Sistine Chapel.

Stop 4

You will visit the Sistine Chapel at your own pace. This is definitely the best VIP experience you could get on any Vatican tour.

Stop 5

Along this Vip Vatican tour, you will also explore the private collection of statues and paintings that popes gathered during the centuries. It is breathtaking to walk in the footsteps of the Popes.

What's not included

Breakfast

Private transportation

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.7

44 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

97 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting time: Please make sure to be at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before your booked time slot. Latecomers won't be waited for and no refunds will be granted.

Important: Please note that large bags/backpacks/suitcases have to be checked in the Vatican cloakrooms,located at the entrance of the museums,while your tour will end up in front of the Basilica. Only very small bags are allowed.

Important: Shoulders and knees must be covered

Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair.

Pets are not allowed inside the venue

We can’t be held responsible in case of sudden closure of the Saint Peter’s Basilica or any other room inside the Vatican Museums without notice, as this is a decision of the Vatican Administration itself and we have no control over it.

Due to the Jubilee, some monuments may be under restoration. Please pay attention to any messages we may send regarding potential changes.

The Vatican Museums reserve the right to close any section, including the Sistine Chapel, due to unforeseen circumstances. While we regret that refunds cannot be guaranteed in such situations, please rest assured that your tour will proceed with access to other remarkable and historically significant sections of the museum. We remain committed to providing you with a meaningful and enriching experience.

Meeting point

Important notes

This is a VIP entrance, you will only be allowed inside of the Vatican with our tour group. You must be on time at the meeting point.

Meet your tour coordinator in the middle of Piazza del Risorgimento (400m from Metro A Line, Ottaviano metro stop), in front of the caffe Bar "L’Ottagono". Look for the staff with the 'Best Of Rome' logo sign. Please be at the meeting point 15 minutes prior to the departure booking time.

Latecomers won't be waited for and no refunds will be granted.

On Wednesday, due to the weekly Papal Audience, and on a religious ceremony, there is a possibility that St Peter's Basilica will be unavailable during which the access to St Peter's Basilica is closed.

We can’t be held responsible in case of sudden closure of the Saint Peter’s Basilica or any other room inside the Vatican Museums without notice, as this is a decision of the Vatican Administration itself and we have no control over it.

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