Get ready for an exclusive and unforgettable experience at the Vatican! Our direct-access tour allows you to beat the crowds and discover the wonders of the Holy See in peace. With both early morning and afternoon start times, you'll be sure to be able to squeeze in a visit tot he Vatican state!
With the help of our expert local guide and an extra small group of maximum 10 travellers, you’ll enjoy priority access to the Vatican Museums jumping right past the ticketing line.
This means you'll get an up-close and personal view of the stunning art and architecture of the Vatican Galleries, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica without having to push through the masses. Trust us, you won't regret starting your day off with this tranquil and awe-inspiring adventure!
Duration: 3 hours
Meet your guide and semi private group of maximum 10 participants, at a selected location in Vatican City (see voucher) from where your tour will start.
Before entering the extensive halls of the Vatican Museums, join your guide on a walk through the stunning Pinecone Courtyard. Here you'll have a chance to marvel at Arnaldo Pomodoro's famous ''Sphere within a Sphere''
Highlights of the Vatican Museums
Experience the best galleries at the Vatican with your expert guide, visiting the Candelabra, Tapestries, and Maps galleries. Admire ancient Roman and Greek statues, Flemish tapestries, and spectacular topographical maps commissioned by Pope Gregory XIII. Your guide will reveal the stories behind these treasures as Vatican secrets are unveiled to you. See Raphael's famous fresco, The School of Athens, and other masterpieces in multiple rooms inside the Vatican Museums.
Raphael Rooms
Experience the grandeur of the Renaissance with a visit to the Raphael Rooms inside the Vatican Museums. As one of the most iconic artists of the era, Raphael's frescoes are a must-see for any art enthusiast. Explore multiple rooms adorned with stunning artworks. And don't miss the chance to marvel at The School of Athens, one of Raphael's most renowned masterpieces that depicts some of history's greatest thinkers in a grand architectural setting.
Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo's Last Judgement
Prepare to be wowed as you visit the Sistine Chapel - a top attraction in Vatican City. Arriving early gives you the chance to admire Michelangelo's incredible artwork without the crowds. As a sacred space, silence is required, but your guide will provide you with a guide and a pre-visit explanation of what you're about to see. Inside, you'll be mesmerized by the sheer number of figures painted by Michelangelo - over 600! This masterpiece is not only a testament to his talent but also serves as a gathering place for cardinals of the Catholic Church.
Please note: The Sistine Chapel is a sacred place, so visitors are required to have their knees and shoulders covered when inside. Failure to do so will result in refused entry to a portion of the Vatican tour. During Rome’s hot summer months, consider bringing a shawl or sweater for covering yourself when necessary.
(excluding Wednesdays) Your tour concludes with privileged access to St. Peter’s Basilica—no need to wait in the long lines outside, thanks to a dedicated passage reserved for groups through the Scala Regia (Holy Staircase).
Once inside, take your time exploring one of the most renowned churches on earth, traditionally believed to house the tomb of St. Peter himself. Marvel at Michelangelo’s moving La Pietà, stand beneath Bernini’s majestic Baldacchino, and soak in the serene atmosphere of this spiritual landmark.
Please note: St. Peter’s Basilica is not accessible on Wednesdays due to the Papal Audience and may close unexpectedly on other days. In such cases, your guide will adapt the itinerary to ensure a full and enriching experience elsewhere within the Vatican.
Please arrive 10 minutes early. Your guide will meet you between Tmark Hotel Vaticano and Caffé Vaticano, at the top of the big staircase (Viale Vaticano, 100). A representative will be there holding a sign reading “The Tour Guy.”
* DRESS CODE: Entrance into any religious site requires a strict dress code. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. We will not be held responsible for refused entry due to unsuitable dress.
* IMPORTANT: During State visits or special religious events, there may be unexpected closings of different parts of the Vatican. We will do our best to inform you on time of possible closings, but for the most part, the Vatican does not announce them in advance. In the event that an area normally covered on the tour is closed, our guide will still provide the explanation and will show you an extra site or gallery to compensate for the closure.
• Large bags, backpacks, luggage, and tripods cannot be brought into the Vatican Museums. There is a coat check at the museum entrance, however, the tour ends far away. If you choose to leave anything at the Vatican Museums coat check, you will be responsible to retrieve it on your own after the tour.
• Mandatory: Everyone is required to carry a copy of the identification page of their passports on all tours.
• Guests arriving after departure cannot be accommodated, & missed tours or tickets cannot be refunded.
• We are unable to accommodate guests with wheelchairs or any walking impairments that require special assistance on our group tours. We are also unable to accommodate strollers or baby carriages on our group tours.
• We will be subject to a security check at the entrance to all sites. Depending on the volume of visitors, we may have a short wait in the security line.
• The museums, sites and monuments we visit on our tours are among the most popular in the world. Careful planning helps limit crowd exposure, but please be aware that some locations may be unavoidably busy during standard hours/high season.
• On Wednesdays, the tour does not visit St. Peter's Basilica due to an Audience blessing being held there. On this day will cover other areas of the Vatican Museums in place of the Basilica.
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.
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.
Vatican City is an independent city-state enclaved within Rome. It is the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church.
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.
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.
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.
A simple yet delicious pasta dish made with Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper.
A rich pasta dish made with eggs, Pecorino Romano, guanciale (cured pork cheek), and black pepper.
Fried rice balls filled with mozzarella and tomato sauce.
Artichokes braised with garlic, mint, and olive oil.
Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the summer peak. Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
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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.
Roma Termini, Roma Tiburtina
Tiburtina Bus Station, Roma Termini
The metro system is efficient and covers major tourist areas. It operates from 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM.
Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow
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A picturesque town known for its stunning villas and gardens, including the famous Villa d'Este with its elaborate fountains and gardens.
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