VIP Small-Group Vatican Early Morning Guided Tour

Rome , Italy

VIP Small-Group Vatican Early Morning Guided Tour

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(10 reviews)

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Meet your guide at least 15 minutes prior to your departure time at Piazza della Città Leonina 2, in front of the Pizzeria.

Join us on this exceptional journey in a semi-private group and enter the astoundingly beautiful Vatican City, home to some of the most famous collections of art and architecture in the world.

Be led by your professional guide, who will bring to life the fantastic art, history, and architecture housed within the walls of this beautiful city's 7 km of galleries, chapels, and rooms.

On your tour, you will not worry about the tickets and join us on an emotional experience through the incredible collections of the Vatican Museums, and then move on to the Sistine Chapel and see the Michelangelo-painted ceiling described in detail by your professional tour guide in a small, semi-private experience.

After this, you can go to St. Peter's Basilica to explore it at your own leisure.

Available options

Spanish Tour

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes

English Tour

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes

What's included

Professional Art Historian Certified Guide

All Fees and Taxes

Headsets to hear your guide clearly

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Meeting place for the morning tour is: Piazza della Città Leonina

Stop 2

The 110 acres that comprise the Vatican City are home to some of the most famous tourist destinations in the world. The global centre of the Catholic religion attracts millions of fervent religious supporters and interested visitors each year. As you pass the famed Pontifical Swiss Guard, the Pope’s security force since 1505, you’ll enter perhaps the most recognizable plaza in the Western world: St. Peter’s Square.

Stop 3

The Sistine Chapel has drawn admirers from around the world for over five hundred years, ever since the completion of Michelangelo’s great Sistine Chapel ceiling. The magnificent frescoes that makeup Michelangelo’s famous ceiling include The Creation of Adam, an iconic depiction of a Biblical scene; only Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa matches its artistic significance. To be admired in silence, the Sistine Chapel provokes awe among its visitors with breath-taking art and architecture in all directions. In order to prepare you for the grandeur of the Chapel’s interior, our guides will offer a helpful history of the art inside and provide orientation to better direct your exploration.

What's not included

Gratuities

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Food and Drinks

Available languages

Audio guide

EN ES

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.6

9 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meet your guide at least 15 minutes prior to your departure time at Piazza della Città Leonina 2, in front of the Pizzeria.

If you arrive late for the meeting time, it will not be possible to 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 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.

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.

All visitors must pass through the monument/attraction security check please allow at least 10 minutes to clear security.

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

All clients will be asked to show a photo ID, you must bring a photo ID to be allowed into the monument.

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Pets are not allowed inside the venue

On Wednesday, due to the weekly Papal Audience, and on 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.

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. On such occasions, no refund is guaranteed to customers.

Meeting point

Important notes

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 'The Best Of Rome' logo sign. Please be at the meeting point 15 minutes prior to the departure booking time.

• To join the tour you are required to be at the meeting point for check-in at least 15 minutes prior to your tour departure time.
• Knees & Shoulders MUST be covered for both men & women to enter!

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