Rome: Vatican, Sistine Chapel Restoration & St. Peter's Tour

Rome , Italy

Rome: Vatican, Sistine Chapel Restoration & St. Peter's Tour

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About this experience

Discover the Vatican’s legendary art and secrets on a premier private tour designed for those who want to avoid the crowds. With skip-the-line access, your guide, an expert in Roman history will take you on a curated journey through the Vatican Museums. From the Raphael Rooms to the stunning Gallery of Maps, you’ll experience the Papal collections at a pace that suits you.

The tour’s centerpiece is the Sistine Chapel. Note: As of 2026, Michelangelo’s "Last Judgment" is undergoing meticulous restoration. Your guide will provide an exclusive look into this conservation work while you admire the perfectly visible and iconic ceiling frescoes.

Your experience continues into St. Peter’s Basilica for a guided exploration. You’ll see the historic Holy Door; learn the 500-year-old heritage of this sacred portal, recently sealed after the 2025 Jubilee. Inside, your guide reveals the stories behind Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s grand altar, completing your elite Vatican experience.

Available options

Rome: Vatican, Sistine Chapel Restoration & St. Peter's Tour

What's included

Skip-the-line to the Vatican Museums

Expert Private Guide: Your own knowledgeable guide will lead you through Vatican City

Headsets to hear the guide better (from 6 & more participants)

Access St. Peter's Basilica

Bypass the queues & maximize your time exploring with pre-reserved tickets

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Immerse yourself in a world of artistic and historical marvels within the Vatican Museums. Explore vast galleries brimming with sculptures, paintings, and artifacts, spanning from ancient civilizations to the Renaissance. Your expert guide will navigate you through iconic spaces like the Gallery of Maps, featuring intricate cartographical masterpieces, revealing the geographical understanding of the past.

Stop 2

Your exploration of the Museums reaches its peak at the Sistine Chapel. As you enter this sacred space, you will gaze upon Michelangelo’s legendary ceiling frescoes, including the world-famous Creation of Adam. 2026 Maintenance Notice: Please note that Michelangelo’s The Last Judgment wall is currently undergoing a vital three-month restoration project. While scaffolding may partially cover this masterpiece, your guide will provide a fascinating 'insider’s' explanation of the conservation work being done by Vatican experts to preserve these 16th-century colors for future generations

Stop 3

Your experience also includes a fully guided exploration of St. Peter’s Basilica. During the visit, you will have the opportunity to see the historic Holy Door. Although recently sealed following the 2025 Jubilee, your guide will share the 500-year-old secrets of this sacred 'Porta Sancta.' Inside the Basilica, you’ll discover masterpieces like Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s Baldachin as your guide brings the history of this holy site to life

What's not included

Dome access is not included. Tickets (€10 per person) can be purchased inside St. Peter’s Basilica.

Transfer services

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR RO ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.2

6 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Visitors with a certified disability of 74% or higher, along with one accompanying person, must notify the activity provider at the time of booking so that appropriate arrangements can be made

Guides are not permitted to speak inside the Sistine Chapel. An explanation will be provided before entry, and the guide will accompany the group silently inside

During peak periods, security checks and mandatory headset collection may cause longer wait times

Shoulders and knees must be covered to enter the Sistine Chapel and Basilica. Entry may be denied for non-compliance

From January to March 2026, restoration work on Michelangelo’s The Last Judgment will take place

The Sistine Chapel will remain open, but scaffolding may partially or fully obstruct the altar wall. No refunds are issued due to restoration work, scaffolding, or unannounced closures by the Vatican

In the rare event of Basilica closure, the guide will offer an alternative Vatican itinerary

Meeting point

Meet Your Guide: Make your way to Via Vittor Pisani, 6/8. Look for our friendly Wanderwise staff holding a flag – they'll be ready to greet you and begin your Vatican adventure!

Important notes

Meet Your Guide: Make your way to Via Vittor Pisani, 6/8. Look for our friendly Wise Travel guide holding a flag – they'll be ready to greet you and begin your Vatican adventure!
Please plan ahead. Be sure to arrive at least 10 minutes before the tour's start time.

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