Private Vatican Museums Tour with Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica
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Private Vatican Museums Tour with Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica

Active
(537 reviews)
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

What better way to see the Vatican than with your own private guide? Do just that on this 3-hour walking tour, and explore the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St Peter’s Basilica with customized commentary. From the splendor of Michelangelo’s “The Last Judgement” fresco to the intrigue of an architectural optical illusion in St Peter’s Square, this in-depth tour charts the stories behind the Vatican’s sacred sites. Even better, the tour provides access that allows you to skip all the entrance lines — even the priority ones.

Available options

Private Tour up to 4 guests

Private Guided Tour of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica for up to 4 people.

Vatican Private - English

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes

Private Tour up to 2 guests

Private Guided Tour of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica for up to 2 people.

What's included

Reserved Skip-the-Line Access to the Vatican Museums
Carefully curated private tour just for your group
Reserved Access to the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica
English-speaking expert guide exclusively for your group

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Experience the UNESCO-listed Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel effortlessly with a private guided tour. Say goodbye to the hassle of long queues, giving yourself the gift of extra time to explore these incredible museums with an Expert Guide just to yourself. Enjoy a seamless and unforgettable journey through art and history!

2
Stop 2

Kick off your Vatican adventure by meeting your private guide, who'll whisk you past the lines with your skip-the-line ticket. Customize your experience by sharing specific interests or requests, whether it's delving into Vatican history or juicy, sometimes-scandalous anecdotes about its inhabitants.

Embark on a personalized tour with your guide, exploring diverse galleries like Raphael’s Rooms, the Gallery of Maps, the Gallery of Tapestries, and the charming Pinecone Courtyard. Dive into tales of Renaissance giants such as Raphael and Michelangelo, who crafted masterpieces for the popes, while also uncovering intriguing stories of artistic rivalries. Your journey through the Vatican promises an exclusive blend of history, art, and captivating narratives.

3
Stop 3

Finally, arrive at the renowned Sistine Chapel, celebrated for Michelangelo's iconic frescoes—The Last Judgment and The Creation of Adam—adorning its sacred ceiling. Inside, immerse yourself in the silent majesty of these masterpieces.

While talking is prohibited, your guide will share insightful commentary just outside the chapel doors, ensuring you don't miss a moment of this awe-inspiring experience.

4
Stop 4

Through a dedicated access, step into the grandeur of St. Peter's Basilica, an architectural marvel that stands as the epitome of spiritual and artistic excellence. Marvel at Michelangelo's iconic Pieta, gaze up at the breathtaking dome, and absorb the sacred atmosphere. The heart of Vatican City, this basilica offers a profound encounter with history, faith, and awe-inspiring beauty. Embark on a journey through the largest church in the world, where every detail tells a story of centuries past. St. Peter's Basilica invites you to witness the intersection of divine inspiration and human achievement, leaving an indelible mark on your soul. Your private guide will make sure you do not miss a detail.

5
Stop 5

Next, walk over to St Peter’s Basilica, the Italian Renaissance church that’s home to more artistic masterpieces, most famously Michelangelo’s La Pietà sculpture and Bernini’s bronze baldachin altar canopy.

6
Stop 6 Pass by

As your tour ends in St Peter's Basilica, head to St. Peter's Square, an iconic masterpiece in Rome. It embraces visitors with its grandeur. Designed by Bernini, the vast elliptical space is encircled by a majestic colonnade, symbolizing the Church's embrace. The central obelisk and fountains add splendor, while the stunning façade of St. Peter's Basilica stands as a beacon of architectural brilliance, inviting pilgrims and tourists alike to marvel at the heart of Vatican City.

What's not included

Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7
445 reviews
5★
377
4★
40
3★
9
2★
11
1★
8
Tripadvisor 4.6
92 reviews
5★
81
4★
1
3★
0
2★
1
1★
9

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Visitors must pass through metal detectors at the security check point; expect to wait 20-30 minutes to clear security
Only small bags are allowed
Saint Peter’s Basilica is subject to last-minute closures for religious ceremonies. When this occurs, we're happy to offer customers an extended tour of the Vatican Museums. While we endeavour to tell tour groups ahead of time if there are any planned disruptions to the Basilica's opening hours, this is not always possible and in these cases we are unable to provide refunds or discounts.
On Wednesdays, due to the Papal Audiences, access to St Peter's Basilica is not possible until 1pm
Please provide the full names of all participants at the time of booking. Failure to submit this information will result in customers being unable to visit St. Peter’s Basilica, and no refunds will be issued.

Meeting point

At the bottom of the steps across the street from the Entrance of the Vatican Museums.
The steps are located right next to Caffè Vaticano on the corner of Viale Vaticano and Via Tunisi.
The closest Metro stop is Line A (Ottaviano – Musei Vaticani).

Important notes

• Please be at the meeting point 15 minutes before the departure time. Guests arriving after departure time cannot be accommodated & missed tours or tickets cannot be refunded.
• Only small bags are allowed on the tour
• Entrance into the Vatican requires a strict dress code. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. City Wonders cannot be held responsible for refused entry due to improper dress.
• On Wednesdays, due to the Papal Audiences, access to St Peter's Basilica is not possible until 1pm
• Please note that in case of unexpected closures of some of the areas inside the Museums, the guide may have to modify the itinerary slightly.
• Gratuities for your guide/driver that provided excellent service are appreciated!

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

Adults
Age 19-99
1
Childs
Age 7-18
0
Infants
Age 0-6
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 5
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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