Skip the Line Vatican Guided Tour with Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover the treasures of the Vatican on this skip-the-line access tour. Your guide will reveal a world of secrets and intrigue as they take you around the Museums, the Raphael's Rooms and the Sistine Chapel.
Your guide will take you to admire the best of the papal collections. Wander through the Gallery of the Candelabra, Gallery of Maps, Gallery of Tapestries, and the Courtyard of the Pinecone. See works by the most renowned artists of their times, from Raphael to Rodin. Discover one of the most important collections of Roman portrait busts, with over a thousand pieces on show in the Chiaramonte Museum.
Marvel at the incomparable decoration of the Sistine Chapel. Michelangelo’s frescoes, some of the most famous in the world, are the largest ever painted by one man and are truly testament to his incredible talent.
Available options
Spanish tour
Italian Tour
French Tour
English Tour
German Tour
What's included
Expert tour guide
Bathroom access
Free Wi-Fi at the meeting point and recharging services
Headsets
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Beat the queues and enter into one of the largest art galleries in the world with your semi-private guide at your side. Discover the 2000 years of art spanned in the papal collection, and compare the majestic ancient statues of the Pio Clementino rooms with the intricate Renaissance displays in the Gallery of the Tapestries. Listen as your guide captivates you with tales of artistic genius and highlights the most fascinating details for your group.
2
Stop 2
Complete your Vatican Museums’ experience as you arrive at the most revered room: the Sistine Chapel. The papal chapel’s holy significance is displayed in its outstanding artistic beauty, home to Michelangelo’s iconic ceiling and wall frescoes. Marvel at the intricate details and vivid colour of works that include ‘The Last Judgment’ and ‘The Creation of Adam’.
3
Stop 3
Continue your tour as you enter St. Peter’s Basilica with priority access. Admire even more Renaissance masterpieces inside the beautiful church as you appreciate Michelangelo’s ‘Pietà’ and Bernini’s altar covering. Rub the toes of the statue of St. Peter for the chance to receive some good luck!
What's not included
Gratuities/ tips (optional)
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
RU
PT
EN
IT
FR
RO
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.7
22 reviews
5★
10
4★
5
3★
1
2★
2
1★
4
Tripadvisor
3.6
22 reviews
5★
9
4★
5
3★
3
2★
1
1★
4
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
On Wednesdays, Easter, Christmas and other religious holidays and feasts, Saint Peter’s Basilica will be closed. In that case, a three-hour tour will be offered inside the Vatican Museums.
Please note- the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica maintains a strict dress code year-round. All visitors must have their shoulders covered and pants/skirts must come to the knee. Please wear comfortable shoes.
The Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica have strict security restrictions. Due to metal detectors at the entrances of most attractions, It is forbidden to bring the following: Sharp objects, aerosol, bike, bag packs etc.
All students should have their student identity card in order to get the discount for the admission fee
Pets are not allowed
St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel close without notice on rare occasions; if this happens, your guide will take you to tour the Vatican Museums and/or the Sistine Chapel/St Peter's Basilica/Raphael Rooms instead
Individuals with Disabilities MUST NOTE it on their booking.
Meeting point
Please arrive 25 minutes before the tour's departure time, inside Tours About Office.
Important notes
Please arrive 25 minutes before the tour starts
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
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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