Sistine Chapel & Vatican Tour: Art and History Unveiled

Rome , Italy

Sistine Chapel & Vatican Tour: Art and History Unveiled

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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

With our skip-the-line ticket, you'll make the most of your time and fully enjoy the tour without the stress of waiting to buy tickets for each stop.

Discover the impressive Vatican Museums, which include the Art Gallery, the Egyptian Museum, the Etruscan Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Museums of Classical and Greco-Roman Antiquities, the Philatelic and Numismatic Museum, and the Ethnological Museum.

You'll also explore the Gallery of Tapestries and the Gallery of Geographical Maps, culminating in the majestic Sistine Chapel. Our guides, all Vatican-accredited, will highlight precious details you might otherwise miss.

The visit will continue in the stunning Sistine Chapel, where you'll learn about Michelangelo's magnificent masterpiece and interesting anecdotes, such as the boneless self-portrait the artist painted to express his aversion to repainting the chapel.

Available options

Afternoon Tour with Guide

Morning tour

Morning Tour with Guide

What's included

Entrance: Vatican Museums

Expert local guide in English

Entrance: Sistine Chapel

Online support at the time of boarding the tour

Online Consultant who will send you boarding information

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The Vatican Museums are an impressive collection of galleries and exhibits housing some of the world's greatest artistic treasures. Located in Vatican City, they feature a vast array of works by renowned artists such as Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo. The visit begins in the Sala dei Candelabri and continues through a series of stunning rooms, including the Gallery of Tapestries and the Gallery of Maps. The highlight is the Sistine Chapel, famous for its ceiling painted by Michelangelo, a Renaissance masterpiece. The museums not only offer an unparalleled view of art and history but also provide a deep immersion into the cultural and religious richness of the Vatican. Each room and gallery tells a part of the story intertwined with the grandeur of the Catholic Church and Rome's artistic legacy.

Stop 2

The Sistine Chapel is one of the Vatican’s most precious treasures and a landmark of Renaissance art. Designed by Domenico Fontana and completed by Michelangelo, its famous ceiling and frescoes are masterpieces of Western painting. Michelangelo's ceiling, painted between 1508 and 1512, is renowned for its biblical scenes, including the iconic "Creation of Adam." The chapel's altar features the "Last Judgment," a vast composition of figures depicting the end times. The Sistine Chapel is also the location where the papal conclave takes place, a globally significant event. With its grandeur and impressive details, the Sistine Chapel offers an unforgettable experience, revealing the splendor of Renaissance art and the spiritual depth of the Vatican.

What's not included

Pickup and return to the hotel

Food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Entry to places of worship and some museums requires appropriate clothing. No shorts or sleeveless shirts are allowed, Knees and shoulders MUST be covered.

The youth rate is applicable to students and children: identification document with photo proving age is required.

You will receive a confirmation at the time of booking.

Skip the included queue, it means you will be in the fast queue, not that there will be no one in front of you.

It is advisable not to book more than one tour on the same day, with schedules close together.

This tour is shared.

Important notice for last minute bookings (same day or overnight): in case of lack of spaces, the customer will be accommodated the day following the booked date.

If the chosen time is not available, you will be transferred to another time on the same day. These changes do not depend on us. Therefore, when making the reservation you are aware of this possibility, we will not accept subsequent complaints or refund requests. Example: If you choose the 9:30 am time slot and the Vatican ticket office closes at that time, you will be transferred to the first available time slot, 11:00 am, 2:00 pm or 4:30 pm.

Meeting point

When you will arrive, please enter in the office in Via Del Mascherino 37/41 to do the check in

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