VIP Vatican Museums: Sistine Chapel Afterhours Private Tour

Rome , Italy

VIP Vatican Museums: Sistine Chapel Afterhours Private Tour

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(45 reviews)

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This unique VIP tour of 2 hours will allow you to have the Vatican Museums all for yourself! You will get to enjoy the Galleries and Sistine Chapel without any other visitor.

Your passionate tour guide will animate the history of the magnificent artworks and share with you stories and legends of the great artists from the past.

Visiting the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel when they're closed to the general public is an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Transfers are included.

Available options

Vatican Vip Experience

Explore the Vatican Museums with a private guide on this 2-hour VIP tour. Hotel Pickup and drop off included<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Vatican Museums VIP Afterhours Exclusive Access

Private Transfers from and to Hotel

Official Private Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Begin your extraordinary journey through the Vatican Museums, where centuries of art, history, and culture come together. With exclusive private access, you’ll have the rare privilege of exploring these world-renowned collections without crowds, making for an intimate and immersive experience.

Stop 2

Step into the Cortile del Belvedere, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture designed by Bramante. In complete tranquility, admire the harmonious design of this grand courtyard, once used as a stage for papal ceremonies and artistic inspiration.

Continue to the Cortile della Pigna, home to the massive Bronze Pinecone, an ancient Roman sculpture that has stood the test of time. With the space entirely to yourself, take in the serene beauty of this historic setting.

Stop 4

Enter the Cortile Ottagono, the heart of the Vatican’s classical sculpture collection. Marvel at the Laocoön Group, a dramatic masterpiece that influenced Michelangelo himself, along with other timeless sculptures that shaped Renaissance art.

Stop 5

Walk through the spectacular Galleria degli Arazzi, where intricate tapestries depict biblical and historical scenes. In complete silence, admire the craftsmanship of these woven masterpieces, usually admired by thousands of visitors each day.

Stop 6

Immerse yourself in the Galleria delle Mappe, an awe-inspiring corridor lined with large-scale frescoes depicting the geography of Italy. With no interruptions, fully absorb the vibrant colors, intricate details, and impressive artistic vision of this 16th-century treasure.

Stop 7

Conclude your unparalleled visit inside the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s most celebrated frescoes—The Creation of Adam and The Last Judgment—unfold above you. With the chapel entirely to yourself, take in every detail of this masterpiece in absolute peace, an experience reserved for only the most privileged visitors.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Visit to St. Peter's Basilica

Available languages

Guide guide

DE RU PT EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

45 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

A minimum of 2 people per booking is required

A dress code is required to enter places of worship and select museums, please see voucher for more details

Wheelchair accessible, please advise at time of booking

Food and drinks are not allowed inside each attraction

Pictures are strictly forbidden inside the Sistine Chapel

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

Important notes

• A dress code is required to enter places of worship and select 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
• Transportation is provided in a Mercedes E-Class which seats up to 3 people, or the Mercedes Viano which seats up to 7 people
• Food and drinks are not allowed inside each attraction
• Pictures are strictly forbidden inside the Sistine Chapel

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