Vatican City Private Tour: Vatican Museums Sistine Chapel and Vatican Basilica

Rome , Italy

Vatican City Private Tour: Vatican Museums Sistine Chapel and Vatican Basilica

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About this experience

Enjoy a private tour of the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and Saint Peter's Basilica with this skip-the-line guided tour to enjoy the best of the Vatican. The Vatican Museums offer a unique collection of art masterpieces. The itinerary is focused on the most important areas of the museum. Finally, arrive at the Sistine Chapel to see Michelangelo's masterpiece on the ceiling and in the extraordinary depiction of the Last Judgement. The Basilica of St. Peter, the biggest church in the world, will be the last stop on your visit. Today, the church is a treasure trove of precious works of art, such as the Pietà by Michelangelo and the Baldachin by Gian Lorenzo Bernini.

Available options

Vatican City Private Tour: Vatican Museums Sistine Chapel and Vatican Basilica

What's included

If St. Peter's Basilica is closed, Rafael Rooms will be visited instead

Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel Private Tour

St. Peter's Basilica Tour

Skip the Line Tickets

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

- Skip the line to get inside Vatican Museums directly
- Discover the Treasures of the Vatican Museums with a professional Art Historian.
- Explore one of the most important collection of masterpieces and artifacts of all the world.

Stop 2

- Discover the Sistine Chapel.
- Admire the paintings of the genius Michelangelo.
- Know all the details and secrets of the most important paintings of the Vatican City.

Stop 3

- Discover the Biggest church of the World.
- Admire the bronze Baldachin of St. Peter
- See the Throne of St. Peter
- Explore the Pietà of Michelangelo

What's not included

Transportation to/from attractions

Food and drinks

Tours starting from 14:30 will not visit St. Peter's Basilica

St. Peter's Basilica is subject to last minute closure

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.5

8 reviews

5★

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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

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please cover between your shoulders and knees to be allowed inside the Vatican

Please note that St. Peter's Basilica can be closed last minute for private services

After the Guided tour you can stay more time inside St. Peter's Basilica

Pets and service dogs are not allowed

Tours starting from 14:30 will not visit St. Peter's Basilica but Raphael Rooms instead

This tour does not include climbing the Dome

For information or assistance to reach the meeting point please contact us directly on our phone number

We Highly recommend to avoid street vendors around the Vatican Area as they may give you incorrect information

Please don't go directly to The Vatican Museums Entrance without our Guide

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

Meeting point

Viale Vaticano 100, Rome, at the top of the stairs nearby Caffè Vaticano across the road from Vatican Museums’ Main Entrance. Our guide will be waiting for You holding a sign that says '' BUONJORNO TOURS ''

Important notes

- Our Guide will be waiting for you holding a sign that says '' BUONJORNO TOURS ''
- Meeting point is Viale Vaticano 100, Rome, at the top of the stairs near to Caffè Vaticano across the road from Vatican Museums Entrance.
- Tour runs on time, Please arrive to the meeting point early.
- A dress code is required to enter places of worship. No short shorts or sleeveless tops allowed.
- You will have a free time to visit the St. peter's Basilica after our guide introduction.
- St. Peter's Basilica is a Place of Devotion and can be closed without any notice.
- Entry tickets will be delivered by the guide the day of the event.
- Tours starting from 14:30 will not visit St. Peter's Basilica.
- All visitors are required to undergo airport-style metal detector screenings, which may necessitate a few minutes of patience.

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