Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel, Castel Sant'Angelo Private Tour
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Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel, Castel Sant'Angelo Private Tour

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(1 reviews)
5h - 6h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Exclusive Private Tour Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica, and Castel Sant'Angelo. Skip The Line Tickets.
Start your activity with a 3-hr skip-the-line private tour of the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel, one of the most extraordinary collections of art worldwide, admiring incredible masterpieces such as Michelangelo's "Last Judgment." Enter St.Peter's Basilica and listen to stories about the popes, pilgrims, and Renaissance art masters who have left their marks on this iconic Catholic site, whose Michelangelo-designed dome dominates the Rome skyline. The experience continues with an intimate 2 hours guided tour, discovering the main treasures of Castel Sant'Angelo. With your guide, you will admire the impressive castle's architecture. Once you get inside, you will be led through the several historical stages of the Eternal City and admire this incredible castle and some of the greatest panoramic views of Rome.

Available options

Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel, Castel Sant'Angelo Private Tour

What's included

Castel Sant'angelo private tour
Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel private tour
Private Professional art historian guide
All Fees and Taxes
Guaranteed to skip the long lines tickets

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Introduction on the Vatican City and Vatican History while entering into the Museum.

2
Stop 2

Let's get into the history and secrets of the Catholic Church and hear about the rivalry between the Renaissance artists. 

Discover the treasures hosted by one of the largest and most-visited museums of the world enriched by a huge number of masterpieces collected through time.
Admire the best of the ancient world visiting the Greek and Roman sculpture section. A collection of classical art masterpieces where admire the beauty of several sculpture groups, as for example the statue of Laocoön and His Sons that is one of the most famous ancient sculptures.

3
Stop 3 Pass by

Enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the Vatican Garden

and much more ...

4
Stop 4

Pass along the Chandelier Gallery, named by the several marble chandelier decorating this section.

5
Stop 5

Be astonished by the elegant Tapestry gallery, wallpapered by the finest tapestry worldwide, realized by Raphael's disciples.

6
Stop 6

Visit the Maps Gallery, a complete exhibition of maps representing Italy as it was seen by cartographer in 1581.

7
Stop 7

Admire the major representatives of the Italian art such as Leonardo, Perugino, Beato Angelico, and many more
Towards the end of this tour, you will visit the beautiful Sistine Chapel to admire Michelangelo’s masterpiece: The Last Judgement.

8
Stop 8

An official experienced guide will escort you around the castle, showing the incredible masterpieces hosted there and telling you all about the castle's histories along with its role during the history of Rome.

Your tour will start just outside Castel Sant'Angelo, where you will find your guide. From there, you will appreciate and admire the incredible and impressive structure of the Castle and its wonderful setting.

Once you get inside, you will be impressed by the several treasures hidden there.

During the visit you will see:

Emperor Adrian's tomb

Popish apartments and bastion

Historical prisons

Michelangelo's courtyard

An amazing panoramic view from the terrace

Castel Sant'Angelo bridge

and so much more!

9
Stop 9

Ponte Sant'Angelo, originally the Aelian Bridge or Pons Aelius, is a Roman bridge in Rome, Italy, completed in 134 AD by Roman Emperor Hadrian (Publius Aelius Hadrianus), to span the Tiber from the city centre to his newly constructed mausoleum, now the towering Castel Sant'Angelo. The bridge is faced with travertine marble and spans the Tiber with five arches, three of which are Roman; it was approached by means of a ramp from the river. The bridge is now solely pedestrian and provides a scenic view of Castel Sant'Angelo. It links the rioni of Ponte (which was named after the bridge itself), and Borgo, to whom the bridge administratively belongs.

10
Stop 10 Pass by

The Papal Basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican (Italian: Basilica Papale di San Pietro in Vaticano), or simply Saint Peter's Basilica (Latin: Basilica Sancti Petri), is a church built in the Renaissance style located in Vatican City, the papal enclave that is within the city of Rome, Italy. It was initially planned by Pope Nicholas V and then Pope Julius II to replace the aging Old St. Peter's Basilica, which was built in the fourth century by Roman emperor Constantine the Great. Construction of the present basilica began on 18 April 1506 and was completed on 18 November 1626.[2]

11
Stop 11

Saint Peter's Square (Italian: Piazza San Pietro [ˈpjattsa sam ˈpjɛːtro], Latin: Forum Sancti Petri) is a large plaza located directly in front of St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, the papal enclave inside Rome, directly west of the neighborhood (rione) of Borgo. Both the square and the basilica are named after Saint Peter, an apostle of Jesus considered by Catholics to be the first Pope.

At the centre of the square is an ancient Egyptian obelisk, erected at the current site in 1586. Gian Lorenzo Bernini designed the square almost 100 years later, including the massive Doric colonnades,[1][2] four columns deep, which embrace visitors in "the maternal arms of Mother Church". A granite fountain constructed by Bernini in 1675 matches another fountain designed by Carlo Maderno in 1613.

What's not included

Food and drinks
Gratuities (recommended)
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Transportation to/from attractions

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

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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
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Mandatory meeting time for the Vatican Museum tour is 20 minutes before the scheduled departure time
Mandatory meeting time for Castel Sant'Angelo walking tour is 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time
Late arrivals cannot join the group or reschedule, unless you pay for the activity again. As per "No Show" rules you will not be entitled to a refund.
A dress code is required to enter places of worship and Vatican Museum. 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
You must have a valid photo ID (student's ID, Driver License, Passport or State ID all work.) You will be asked to also provide your name, last name and date of birth (at the beginning of the tour, if not provided beforehand.) Security may prevent you from entering the site if the information provided is not accurate and/or don't match the one on your ID.
Child discount is applied only with a valid ID card
Please note that security check at the entrance cannot be skipped. This could lead to delays in access to the site, even for pre-booked visitors.This could also influence the smooth running of the tour especially on national holidays and events.
Please be advised capacity regulations and security may delay the tour departure This could also influence the smooth running of the tour especially on national holidays and events.
This tour will not operate on religious holidays
IT IS NOT POSSIBLE TO VISIT THE BASILICA DURING RELIGIOUS HOLIDAYS AND CEREMONIES (Audiences, Beatifications, Masses of the POPE). The Basilica is often subject to sudden closures. In these cases it is not possible to guarantee access to the Basilica.
Cancellations, changes or issues due to weather, security and events held by the monument are beyond our control and are directly decided by their administration team. These issues will be reviewed by us and dealt with on an individual basis but are the responsibility of the monument.
Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair.
Please be aware that large bags/backpacks/suitcases are not permitted in the monument/ attraction. Only very small bags are allowed. Please do not bring these items with you on the day of your tour as there are no cloakrooms at the monument.
For security reasons all visitors and their luggage shall be screened. To facilitate the security checks please insert any object (including mobile phone) in the bag/backpack or in the tray to be included in the X-ray
No change on a booking can be accepted after 24hrs to the starting time of the tour. In that instance, no refund will be issued.
For the safety of all guests, the tour operator reserves the right to refuse service to passengers who are intoxicated or show signs of intoxication. If, as a result, your tour is canceled, you will not be entitled to a refund.
Pets are not allowed
Cancellations, changes or issues due to weather, security and events held by the monument are beyond our control and are directly decided by their administration team. These issues will be reviewed by us and dealt with on an individual basis but are the responsibility of the monument.
Every refund request MUST be done within and not later than 48 hours from the day of the tour
Not recommended for travelers with motor difficulties and walker users
We kindly inform you that any kind of disability (visual impairment, hearing impairment,... ) or anything that might prevent you to regularly join the tour, MUST BE communicated in advance to our staff.

Meeting point

Meeting time 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time in front of the entrance/exit of the Vatican Museum. (The entrance and the exit of the Vatican Museum are at the same place) The meeting point can change in case the tour starts from Castel Sant'Angelo.

Important notes

Tour Itinerary
VATICAN MUSEUM/SISTINE CHAPEL/ST. PETER’S BASILICA PRIVATE GUIDED TOUR
Duration 3 hours
Break
TOMB OF HADRIAN -CASTEL SANT'ANGELO PRIVATE GUIDED TOUR
Duration 2 Hours
Important to know:
Effective meeting point address will be sent some days prior tour departure date.
Due to a strict entrance time, there is a mandatory meeting time of 20 min before the tour starting time. Be aware that late arrivals cannot join the tour and won't be entitled to get a refund as per the standard procedure.
All visitors MUST have a photo ID. Security may prevent you from entering the monument.
The capacity regulations and security may delay the tour departure, especially on national holidays and events.
Please expect to wait 20-30 minutes to clear security. The departure time can differ up to 20 minutes from the selected one.
The guided tour of the Basilica may not be possible if direct access from the Sistine Chapel is closed or in case of special religious events. The closure of the direct access to the Basilica directly from the Sistine Chapel is managed by the Vatican, and it may happen that it is closed without notice.
In this case, the guide will accompany you to the entrance of the Basilica to visit but without the guide.
The itinerary, due to external events not attributable to our agency, may be subject to variations, and the visit to the different places of interest included in the tour may be reversed.

PLEASE NOTE:
Face masks are not mandatory but recommended.
Knees & Shoulders MUST be covered for both men & women to enter! You may risk refusing entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements.
Every refund request MUST be done within and not later than 48 hours from the day of the tour

About Vatican City

Vatican City, the world's smallest independent state, is the spiritual and administrative headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church. Nestled within Rome, Italy, it's home to iconic landmarks like St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums, which house some of the world's most renowned art collections, including the Sistine Chapel.

Top Attractions

St. Peter's Basilica

St. Peter's Basilica is one of the most renowned churches in the world and a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. It is a significant pilgrimage site and a must-visit for its stunning interior, including Michelangelo's Pietà and the dome offering panoramic views of Rome.

Religious/Architecture 1-2 hours Free entry (€8 for dome climb)

Vatican Museums

The Vatican Museums house an extensive collection of art and artifacts amassed by the Catholic Church over the centuries. Highlights include the Sistine Chapel, the Raphael Rooms, and the Gallery of Maps. It's a treasure trove for art lovers and history enthusiasts.

Museum/Art 3-4 hours €17 (includes entry to St. Peter's Basilica)

Castel Sant'Angelo

Originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, Castel Sant'Angelo is now a museum and fortress. It offers fascinating exhibits and panoramic views of Rome from its terrace. The passage leading to the Vatican, known as the Passetto di Borgo, is a historical highlight.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours €15

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cacio e Pepe

A classic Roman dish made with pecorino cheese and black pepper, creating a creamy and flavorful sauce.

Pasta Vegetarian

Supplì

Fried rice balls filled with tomato sauce and mozzarella, similar to Sicilian arancini.

Appetizer Vegetarian (some versions contain meat)

Tiramisu

A popular Italian dessert made with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cheese.

Dessert Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in nearby parks Biking tours Strolling through historic neighborhoods Visiting parks and gardens Museum visits Art tours Historical site exploration Boat tours on the Tiber River

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

The best time to visit is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the tourist crowds are manageable. These months offer the best conditions for sightseeing and exploring the city's outdoor attractions.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Italian, Latin
  • Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
  • English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Vatican City is generally safe, with a strong police presence and low crime rates. However, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas, so it's important to stay vigilant.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
  • • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
  • • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services.

Getting there

By air
  • Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport • 30 km from Vatican City
By train

Roma San Pietro Station

By bus

Roma Termini Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system in Rome is efficient and connects to Vatican City via the Ottaviano Station, which is a short walk from St. Peter's Basilica.

Taxis

Available • Apps: FreeNow, MyTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Borgo Prati

Day trips

Rome
0 km (Vatican City is an enclave within Rome) • Full day or more

Rome, the capital of Italy, is a treasure trove of ancient history, art, and culture. It offers iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Trevi Fountain, as well as world-class museums and vibrant neighborhoods.

Ostia Antica
30 km from Vatican City • Half day

Ostia Antica is an ancient Roman port city that offers a fascinating glimpse into Roman life. The well-preserved ruins include homes, shops, and public buildings, providing a unique historical experience.

Festivals

Easter Celebrations • March or April (dates vary) Christmas Celebrations • December 24-25

Pro tips

  • Book tickets for major attractions like the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica in advance to skip the lines.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites to show respect and avoid being turned away.
  • Use public transportation or walk to get around Vatican City and Rome, as driving can be challenging and parking is limited.
  • Learn a few basic Italian phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals.
  • Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 17-99
1
Infants
Age 0-5
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available

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