Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel Tour w/ Ticket | Max 8 People
Active
3h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Unlock the Vatican on a 3-hour semi-private tour with priority entry. Follow an expert guide through the Vatican Museums, exploring the Papal collections of art, sculptures, and treasures gathered over centuries. Be amazed by Raphael’s Rooms and marvel at the breathtaking Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s genius fills every inch of the ceiling and altar wall.
Your guide will end the tour at St. Peter’s Square, dropping you off at the Basilica entrance. From here, you’ll explore St. Peter’s Basilica on your own, taking in Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s magnificent sculptures at your own pace.
Important: As per Vatican regulations, guests using wheelchairs or with limited mobility will follow a separate route between the Museums and the Sistine Chapel, accompanied by an escort instead of the main guide.
Available options
Afternoon Vatican tour
Afternoon Vatican tour
Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel Tour w/ Ticket | Max 8 People
What's included
Local guide
Professional guide
Professional art historian guide
Guaranteed to skip the long lines
Headsets to hear the guide clearly for groups of 7+
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Come face-to-face with Michelangelo's masterpiece before the Vatican officially open.
2
Stop 2
Journey through the Vatican Museums' vast and treasured collection. Encounter breathtaking ancient sculptures, the School of Athens and other immersive frescoes in the Raphael Rooms, the eye-wateringly beautiful Flemish artworks of the Gallery of Tapestries, and the incredibly lifelike statues of the Gallery of the Candelabra. That, and so much more, all in the company of an expert, licensed guide.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.5
15 reviews
5★
11
4★
1
3★
2
2★
1
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.6
35 reviews
5★
30
4★
1
3★
2
2★
0
1★
2
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
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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 being refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements
Please note that the Papal Audience (held on Wednesdays) may result in the closure of the Basilica. There is no way of knowing where the Pope will choose to hold his audience, but should the Basilica be closed, we will spend more time in the Vatican Museums.
We kindly inform clients that due to the upcoming Jubilee, we can not guarantee access to St. Peter's Basilica from December 24th, 2024 to January 6th, 2026.
Meeting point
Outside the entrance of the Vatican Museums.
Important notes
• Visitors must pass through metal detectors at the security check point. Please arrive in good time for the 7:30am start as you can expect to wait 20-30 minutes to clear security. A dress code is required to enter the Vatican Museums and knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. This dress code is strictly enforced and you will be refused entry if you fail to comply with requirements.
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
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
