Vatican Museums Small Group Tour with St. Peter's Basilica Access
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience an exclusive small group tour of the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica, limited to just 10 guests.
Enjoy skip-the-line access, ensuring more time to explore the stunning art and architecture.
During this 3-hour tour, you'll be guided by an expert, licensed guide through the Vatican Museums, marvel at the breathtaking Sistine Chapel, and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring St. Peter's Basilica.
With a small group size, you'll have a more intimate and personalized experience, allowing for better interaction with your guide.
Don't miss this unique opportunity to uncover the history, art, and beauty of the Vatican.
Available options
First Access Early Morning
First Access Small Group : This option includes first access to the Vatican Museums (8 AM) and a smaller group size (Max. 6 people).
Rome: Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica Small Group Tour
What's included
St. Peter's Basilica Fast-Access (No guided tour)
Small-group format, maximum 10 people per group
Blue Badge Guide
Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel Skip-the-Line Tickets
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Begin your journey with skip-the-line access to the Vatican Museums, one of the largest and most impressive museum complexes in the world. Follow your private guide through centuries of art, history, and culture.
2
Stop 2
Step into the scenic Pinecone Courtyard, a peaceful open-air space framed by classical architecture and home to the enormous bronze pinecone sculpture that gives the courtyard its name.
3
Stop 3
Admire Arnaldo Pomodoro’s striking modern sculpture, Sphere within Sphere, located in the heart of the courtyard. Your guide will explain its symbolic layers and how it fits into the setting of the Vatican.
4
Stop 4
Marvel at the ancient masterpiece Laocoön and His Sons, one of the most famous sculptures in the Vatican Museums. Your guide will recount the dramatic myth behind this powerful work.
5
Stop 5
Walk through the ornate Gallery of Tapestries, featuring beautifully woven scenes depicting religious and historical events, crafted by master Flemish weavers.
6
Stop 6
Continue into the Gallery of Maps, an extraordinary corridor lined with detailed 16th-century topographical maps of Italy. The vivid colors and large scale of the frescoes make this one of the museum’s highlights.
7
Stop 7
Enter the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel and gaze at Michelangelo’s iconic ceiling frescoes and The Last Judgment. Your guide will explain the key scenes and symbols before you enter, as speaking is not allowed inside.
8
Stop 8
Pass by
At the end of the tour, your guide will lead you to the entrance of St. Peter's Basilica, using a special skip-the-line access. The tour ends here. Guests may visit the basilica on their own, taking time to explore this monumental church and its treasures at their own pace.
What's not included
Guided Tour of St. Peter's Basilica
Transfers from/to Hotel
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
37 reviews
5★
28
4★
5
3★
3
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
5.0
15 reviews
5★
15
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements
Not recommended for travelers with mobility issues.
A moderate amount of walking is involved - comfortable shoes are recommended
Due to the Jubilee, some monuments may be under restoration or closed due to extraordinary celebrations. Please pay attention to any messages we may send regarding potential changes
The internal visit of St. Peter's Basilica is not included - tickets are included, therefore the tour will end outside the Basilic - you will skip the line to access it.
Meeting point
Meet your guide in front of the Giuly's Cafè (Via Santamaura, 3 - Rome, Italy)
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
