Private Vatican Highlights Tour - Skip The Line
Active
3h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
We are proud to offer the least expensive Private Vatican Highlights Tour available! You will visit all of the must sees of the
Vatican Museums,
Sistine Chapel and
St. Peter's Basilica on this 3 hour tour. Book with us and we assure you of "great fist class service with an exciting guide" who you can understand your needs.
As this is truly a one-of-a-lifetime experience, its best to have a
Private Vatican Tour so that you are not being rushed by a group tour and so that you can explore at your own pace.
With more then 2000 years of Art, History and Religion, there is no better way to explore the Vatican than with our professional English speaking private guides.
Available options
Private Tour up to 4 people
Private Vatican Highlights Tour for private group up to people. The tour cost is a total cost for groups up to people.Entrance fees are a cost per person.
What's included
Professional guide
Private tour
Guaranteed to skip the long lines
Local taxes
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
We first visit the largest collection in the world, the Vatican Museums. In these museums we will see the Gallery of the Maps, Tapestries, Old Papal Apartments and the Rooms of Raffaele.
2
Stop 2
Once in the Sistine Chapel we get to enjoy the fruit of Michelangelo's intensive labor. Mainly the 'Creation of Man' on the ceiling, and the 'Last Judgement' on the alter wall.
3
Stop 3
Once in the Basilica we will get the chance to see the tombs of past Pope's, Michelangelo's Pieta, the central alter and baldachino designed by the famous architect Bramante. No visit to the Basilica would be complete without looking into the awe-inspiring dome, also built by Michelangelo.
4
Stop 4
The tour will finish looking over St Peter's Square with a full explanation of the piazza, the special markings throughout it, and the saints and martyrs looking over it.
What's not included
Entrance fees - Payable directly to the guide on the day of the tour.
Combined Vatican Museums + St. Peter's Basilica entrance fee
Free - Under 6 years
Radio Headsets - Compulsory after 5 people (rental fee of €3/person)
Gratuities (optional)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
3 reviews
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Tripadvisor
4.9
40 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
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
St Peter's Basilica is a holy place of worship and it is not subject to the rules of the Vatican Museums. The Basilica can often close with little or no notice due to religious events and in this case the tour will conclude in the Sistine Chapel.
All youth / students aged 18-25 years must present a valid photo student ID and document with date of birth. Students below the age of 18 will only be asked to show proof of age. If you do not arrive with the proper documents, the Vatican will not honour the reservation and a new full price ticket must be purchased.
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
Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.
A moderate amount of walking is involved.
Meeting point
The tour meets at the bottom of the stairs located on Via Tunisi. These stairs are directly across the street from the entrance of the Vatican Museums. The meeting point is at the bottom of the stairs, look for your guide holding a sign with your name, and/or a sign with Maximus Tours.
Important notes
• All youth / students aged 18-25 years must present a valid photo student ID and document with date of birth. Students below the age of 18 will only be asked to show proof of age. If you do not arrive with the proper documents, the Vatican will not honour the reservation and a new full price ticket must be purchased.
• 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
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
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
