Private Guided Tour at Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel

Rome , Italy

Private Guided Tour at Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel

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About this experience

Experience the Vatican like never before with a skip-the-line private tour, led by an expert local guide dedicated to answering your questions and bringing history to life. Explore one of the world’s most significant religious and artistic sites with exclusive insights and fascinating stories.

Marvel at the iconic Belvedere Courtyard, wander through the antique galleries, and admire the breathtaking frescoes of Raphael’s Rooms. Stand in awe before Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel, one of the Vatican’s most sacred spaces, where popes are elected and history is made.

Capture the perfect shot at the Pinecone Courtyard, uncover the Vatican’s hidden legends, and learn secrets only a local guide would know. Ever wondered where the famous chimney for the black and white smoke is placed? Or whether Raphael and Michelangelo were rivals or friends? Let’s uncover these stories together on this unforgettable journey!

Available options

Private group Vatican

private

What's included

Licensed local tour guide

Headset cost (if needed)

Skip the line tickets to the Vatican Museums

Vatican Museums, Raphael Rooms, Sistine Chapel

Small Grouop (max 15 people group to ensure priority access)

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Vatican Museums: walk on one of the old private pope courtyards, the pinecone courtyard with a pinetree from the II aD. Have a look to the optagonal courtyard and admire the iconic Laocoon. Explore the Museo Pio Clementino and discover its roman and greek sculpture collection, walk on the amazing galleries such as the Gallery of the Maps, Gallery of the Tapestries, and Gallery of the Candelabra. Be surprised by the wonderful frescos made by Raphael for Julius II della Rovere at the beginning of the XVI century and get in to the mysterious life of the famous Pope Borgia.

The Fontana della Pigna or simply Pigna is a former Roman fountain which now decorates a vast niche in the wall of the Vatican facing the Cortile della Pigna, located in Vatican City, in Rome, Italy.

The Gallery of Maps[1] (Italian: Galleria delle carte geografiche) is a gallery located on the west side of the Belvedere Courtyard in the Vatican containing a series of painted topographical maps of Italy based on drawings by friar and geographer Ignazio Danti

Stop 4

The four Raphael Rooms form a suite of reception rooms in the Apostolic Palace, now part of the Vatican Museums, in Vatican City. They are famous for their frescoes, painted by Raphael and his workshop. Together with Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel ceiling frescoes, they are the grand fresco sequences that mark the High Renaissance in Rome.

Stop 5

Sistine Chapel: We will go and see the famous works of Michelangelo, where he spent years to create this treasured master piece while standing upright on wooden scaffolds.

Stop 6

St. Peters Basilica is included in the ticket but not in the experience as the access from the Vatican Museums has been closed due to Covid. The guide will explain you how to admire the masterpieces of La Pieta, the statue of St. Peter, the Baldacchino, the famous Pope’s tombs such as John Paul II and John XXIII so in case you woul'd like to go by your own.

What's not included

St. Peter’s Basilica access is included but not part of the guided tour due to entry restrictions.

Private transportation

Gratuities: Optional and at your discretion

Personal Expenses: Souvenirs or additional purchases not covered

Food & Drinks: Meals and beverages not included

Available languages

Guide guide

Written guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please note that certain areas of the monument/attraction may be closed on your visit due to religious events or national holidays.

Only small bags are allowed

Only your group will participate

Meeting point

Right at the corner between the Caffe Vatican and the top of the stairs, there will be one of us waiting for you!

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