Vatican Museums Tour with Optional St. Peter's Basilica Access

Rome , Italy

Vatican Museums Tour with Optional St. Peter's Basilica Access

Active

3h - 4h

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Unlock the secrets of the Vatican with our Vatican Museums Tour, an unforgettable journey through some of the world’s most treasured art and history! Led by expert guides, you’ll skip the long lines and step into the Vatican Museums to explore a vast collection of masterpieces, from ancient Roman sculptures to Renaissance wonders. Marvel at the intricate Gallery of Tapestries, the stunning Gallery of Maps, and the world-renowned Raphael Rooms before reaching the highlight of the tour: Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel, where the ceiling and The Last Judgment will leave you speechless.
Enhance your experience with optional access to St. Peter’s Basilica, the heart of the Catholic Church and one of the most magnificent churches ever built. Gaze up at Michelangelo’s dome, admire Bernini’s grand altar, and take in the spiritual atmosphere of this sacred site.

Available options

First Access Tour with Basilic

(Group of 10)

English Guided Tour

Chinese Guided Tour

What's included

Admission to: St. Peter's Basilica (Skip-the-line)

Headset

Guided tour inside the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

Skip-the-line access to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The Vatican Museums are a must-see destination in Rome, offering an extraordinary journey through centuries of art, history, and culture. Located within Vatican City, the museums house one of the world’s greatest art collections, including ancient sculptures, Renaissance masterpieces, and priceless religious artifacts. Highlights include the intricate Raphael Rooms, the stunning Gallery of Maps, and the world-famous Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s breathtaking ceiling and The Last Judgment captivate millions each year. A visit to the Vatican Museums is more than just a museum tour — it’s a walk through the heart of Western civilization. For a deeper experience, guided tours are highly recommended to uncover the fascinating stories behind these treasures.

Stop 2

The Sistine Chapel, located within the Vatican Museums, is one of the most iconic and revered artistic masterpieces in the world. Famous for its breathtaking ceiling painted by Michelangelo between 1508 and 1512, the chapel features scenes from the Book of Genesis, including the celebrated Creation of Adam. Later, Michelangelo returned to paint The Last Judgment on the altar wall, a powerful depiction of the final day of reckoning. Originally built in the late 15th century under Pope Sixtus IV, the chapel still serves a religious function today, most notably as the site of the papal conclave, where new popes are elected. With its powerful imagery and incredible detail, the Sistine Chapel leaves visitors in awe and stands as a pinnacle of Renaissance art and spiritual expression.

Stop 3

Saint Peter’s Cathedral Basilica is a magnificent place of worship dedicated to Saint Peter, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus and regarded as the first Pope. The most renowned is St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, an architectural masterpiece blending Renaissance and Baroque styles, designed by legendary figures such as Michelangelo, Bernini, and Bramante. Built over the traditional burial site of Saint Peter, it is considered one of the holiest sites in Christianity and the largest church in the world. Visitors are awed by its grand dome, Bernini’s ornate Baldachin, the expansive St. Peter’s Square, and masterpieces like Michelangelo’s Pietà. Both a major pilgrimage destination and a symbol of the Catholic faith, the basilica attracts millions of worshippers and tourists each year, offering a powerful blend of spiritual significance and artistic beauty.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ZH-CN

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Total tour duration include in transportation time

Large backpacks must be left at your hotel; only small purses are allowed inside the museums

Saint Peter's Cathedral Basilica only included in Chinese guided tour option.

Meeting point

Giuly's Café, Via Santamaura, Rome, Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, Italy.
Please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before departure time.

Important notes

We will send an E-Voucher via Email one day before the 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