Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Private Tour w/Holy Door Access
Active
3h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience the spiritual and artistic heart of Vatican City on this exceptional private tour. Benefit from skip-the-line access to the renowned Vatican Museums and the breath-taking Sistine Chapel, guided by an expert who will illuminate the treasures within. This unique experience also includes special access to the Holy Door, a sacred privilege during this Jubilee Year. After your guided tour, you'll have the opportunity to independently explore the grandeur of St. Peter's Basilica.
Available options
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Private Tour w/Holy Door Access
What's included
Vatican Museums Guided Tour: Highlights of key galleries
Your own knowledgeable guide will lead you through the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
Sistine Chapel Visit: Focus on Michelangelo's masterpieces
Special Holy Door Access: Entry to St. Peter's Basilica via the Holy Door (Jubilee Year)
Skip-the-Line Access: Fast entry to Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
Detailed itinerary
1
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.
2
Stop 2
End your Vatican Museums visit with entry to the Sistine Chapel, where you’ll marvel at Michelangelo’s iconic ceiling and The Last Judgment. Quiet reflection is encouraged in this sacred space.
3
Stop 3
After your private Vatican tour, enjoy self-guided access through the Holy Door into St. Peter’s Basilica — one of the world’s most revered pilgrimage sites. Entry via the Holy Door is available only during Jubilee years.
What's not included
St. Peter's Basilica (Independent): Exploration after guided tour is self-led
Transfers: Transportation not provided
Dome Access: Separate tickets required on-site
Food, Drinks & Personal Expenses
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
RO
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.2
6 reviews
5★
4
4★
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3★
1
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1★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
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3★
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1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
All visitors must have their shoulders and knees covered to enter the Museums & Basilica
During busy periods, increased visitor numbers may lead to longer wait times for security checks and the mandatory collection of Vatican headsets
In the rare case of basilica closure your expert guide will curate an alternative itinerary within the Vatican to ensure a memorable experience
During a Papal transition, the Sistine Chapel may close without notice for the Papal Conclave. Access is not guaranteed, and no refunds will be issued for closures.
Due to uneven surfaces and numerous stairs within the Museums, this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users. Please contact us to discuss accessible tour options or alternative arrangements
Free admission with a certified disability card of 74% or higher. Companions for non-self-sufficient visitors also enter for free. Please notify the tour provider at booking
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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