Unveil Vatican Secrets: Museums, Sistine Chapel & Basilica Tour
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Take a 3-hour guided walking tour of one of the holiest sites in Christendom — the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica. This exceptional tour includes, among other galleries of the Vatican corridors, a tour of the Pine Courtyard, Belvedere Courtyard, the Gallery of Maps, Candelabra Gallery, Pio Clementino's Rooms, the Tapestry Gallery, and a comprehensive visit of the Sistine Chapel. Your expert guide will lead you to some of the major attractions, as well as to lesser-known spots that many visitors miss. Next, visit Michelangelo's Pietà at St. Peter's Basilica and other highlights, guided by your expert throughout this part of the tour as well.
✔ Explore the vast galleries of the Vatican Museums with a guide in your chosen language
✔ Discover Michelangelo's masterpiece in the Sistine Chapel
✔ Skip-the-ticket-line access to the Vatican Museums
✔ Skip-the-ticket-line access to the Sistine Chapel
✔ Skip the ticket lines to enter St. Peter's Basilica
✔ Tour guide
Available options
Reduce Price
Vatican City Tour : Vatican and Sistine Chapel with Direct Basilica Access
Vatican City Tour : Vatican an: Maximum of 20 people and discover the most important parts of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peters Basilica gu
What's included
Charging stations for your devices & Bathroom access
Expert tour guide
Headphones
Free Wi-Fi at the meeting point
Entry to St. Peter’s Basilica
Skip-the-line access to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
Meet your expert guide at Via Germanico, 8, near the Vatican Museums entrance. Your guide will assist with check-in and provide an overview of the tour before entry.
2
Stop 2
Begin your exploration of the Vatican Museums — home to one of the world’s greatest art collections. Walk through grand corridors filled with masterpieces that span centuries of art, culture, and history.
3
Discover world-famous sculptures like Laocoön and His Sons and Apollo Belvedere. Learn how these works embody the rediscovery of classical beauty during the Renaissance.
4
Stop 4
Admire Bramante’s architectural vision connecting the Vatican Palace to ancient sculpture gardens, offering beautiful open-air views and artistic harmony.
5
Stop 5
Walk through this marble-adorned gallery filled with ancient Roman statues, rich columns, and ornate candelabra that showcase the grandeur of papal decoration.
6
Stop 6
Marvel at exquisite Flemish tapestries based on Raphael’s designs, illustrating biblical stories with breathtaking craftsmanship and color.
7
Stop 7
Travel through time and geography as you view detailed frescoed maps of Italy painted in the 16th century, highlighting the artistry and influence of the papacy.
8
Stop 8
Enter the Sistine Chapel and witness Michelangelo’s legendary frescoes — The Creation of Adam and The Last Judgment. Experience a sacred silence while absorbing one of humanity’s greatest artistic achievements.
(Note: Guiding is not permitted inside; explanations are provided before entry.)
9
Stop 9
Climb to the Dome for panoramic views of Vatican City and Rome.
10
Stop 10
Pass by
Your tour concludes near Basilica di San Pietro where you can continue exploring or enjoy a relaxing break nearby.
What's not included
Transportation
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Fast-track entry is included for the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. However, access to St. Peter’s Basilica may still require a wait due to mandatory security checks.
Please note: Pets, weapons or sharp objects, shorts, and short skirts are not allowed during the tour.
St. Peter's Basilica is closed on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 8 AM to 12 PM. During these times, the tour will visit other parts of the Vatican Museums.
St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel may close without prior notice; if this occurs, your guide will adjust the itinerary to explore other areas of the museums.
Tour meeting times are subject to change. If any adjustments occur, guests will be notified in advance by phone call or message from the activity provider.
Please arrive at the meeting point on time.No refunds will be issued for latecomers.
Guests with disabilities or special medical needs must inform the activity provider at the time of booking to ensure appropriate arrangements.
Compulsory Vatican dress code: Visitors must wear clothing that covers their knees, arms, and back.
Please wear comfortable shoes as this experience involves a lot of walking.
All visitors are required to pass through airport-style security, and during the high season, wait times may be up to 30 minutes.
Normally, travellers receive the final voucher 3–5 days before the tour date. It includes the exact meeting point and important instructions.
Meeting point
Please check your final voucher for the meeting point details and specific instructions.
-Please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the scheduled time of your tour to avoid any delays.
Important notes
Tour voucher(s) with all the necessary informations will be e-mailed to you very soon (based on your travel date)
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
