Private Vatican Experience with Sistine Chapel & Raphael's Rooms
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Go at your own pace and linger as long as you like at the masterpieces. That’s the benefit of having a private guide just for you and your group at the Vatican! Use the fastest available skip the line access and let your guide handle all of the logistics - so you can focus on enjoying your experience of the Vatican Museums, and Sistine Chapel. Have a special request? Let your insider guide know so they can tailor the tour to your interests.
Available options
Private Tour in German
2.5-3 hour private tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel in German.
Private Tour in English
2.5-3 hour private tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel in English.
Private Tour in Spanish
2.5-3 hour private tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel in Spanish.
Private Tour in French
2.5-3 hour private tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel in French.
Private Tour in Italian
2.5-3 hour private tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel in Italian.
What's included
Skip the Line Access to the Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
Private Insider Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Together with a private guide, guests will discover the highlights of the extensive collection at the Vatican Museums. This private Vatican Tour also includes the fastest possible skip the line access.
Explore the Pinecone Courtyard and Belvedere Courtyard, along with the Hall of the Muses, Round Room, and Gallery of the Candelabra. Admire intricate tapestries from some of Raphael's pupils in the Gallery of Tapestries, and historical maps by the Vatican cartographers in the Gallery of the Maps.
Do you have a special request or particular interest? Please let me know so I can tailor your experience. We’ll go at your pace and linger as long as you like at the masterpieces. That’s the benefit of having a private guide just for you and your group!
2
One of many open-air courtyards located in the Vatican Museums, this is one of the first you will visit. Named for the giant bronze pinecone sculpture that dominates the space.
3
Stop 3
Pass by
Located in the Pinecone Courtyard, Arnaldo Pomodoro's "Sphere within a Sphere" is one of the museum's more famous pieces of modern art on display. Different iterations of this sculpture are on display throughout the world. Give it a spin!
4
They call them the "Vatican Museums" because they are comprised of many smaller museums, or "wings". The Pio Clementino Museum is the first you will come across on your private tour, and the most important - encompassing the largest number of highlights. Here you will find the Round Room with its giant bronze sculpture of Heracles. You will also find the Room of the Animals, with it's impressive collection of lifelike sculptures of everything for turtles and horses to lions and bears. In the Octagonal Courtyard you will encounter the Laocoön, the very first statue of this collection as well as the the Apollo Belvedere. In the Room of the Muses you will find the famous, twisting, Belvedere Torso. Admire the 3D painted ceilings of the Candelabra Gallery.
5
Head with your guide to the Gallery of the Maps and get a perspective of the world how it was five centuries ago. These exquisitely detailed, hand-painted giant maps are a favorite of the Vatican Museums. See if you can find the Italian cities you have visited, or spot the nod to Christopher Columbus' journey to the Americas.
6
Stop 6
Famous painter Raffaello frescoed this series of rooms in the Vatican Museums. Discover them together with your private guide.
7
Stop 7
Your private visit of the Vatican Museums culminates at Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel. No speaking is allowed in the Chapel, so you will enjoy free time on your own to take this masterpiece in.
8
The tour concludes at the entrance of the Vatican Museums.
9
Stop 9
Pass by
Visit to Vatican Museums - Vatican City
What's not included
Food & Beverages
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
5.0
87 reviews
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children 6 and under are entitled to free access to the Vatican Museums (with proof of age)
Children aged 7-18 are entitled to a reduced entry fee (see tour and ticket pricing) and must provide proof of age.
Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements.
Check-in is 15 minutes prior to the booked start time. Tickets are time sensitive and we cannot accomodate late arrivals.
Entrance into St. Peter's Basilica is separate from the Vatican Museums and is not included in your ticket.
Due to the Jubilee, some monuments may be under restoration. Please pay attention to any messages we may send regarding potential changes.
Meeting point
Plan to arrive at least 20 minutes in advance of selected departure time. Meet our representative on the steps at Via Tunisi, at the corner with Via Sebastiano Veniero. Many companies meet in this general location, look for the representative holding a sign with the EcoArt logo.
Important notes
Plan on arriving to our meeting point at least 15 minutes in advance of your selected departure time. Meet our representative on the steps at Via Tunisi, located at the corner with Via Sebastiano Veniero. They will be holding a flag with the green EcoArt logo.
About Vatican City
Vatican City, the world's smallest independent state, is the spiritual and administrative headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church. Nestled within Rome, Italy, it's home to iconic landmarks like St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums, which house some of the world's most renowned art collections, including the Sistine Chapel.
Top Attractions
St. Peter's Basilica
St. Peter's Basilica is one of the most renowned churches in the world and a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. It is a significant pilgrimage site and a must-visit for its stunning interior, including Michelangelo's Pietà and the dome offering panoramic views of Rome.
Religious/Architecture
1-2 hours
Free entry (€8 for dome climb)
Vatican Museums
The Vatican Museums house an extensive collection of art and artifacts amassed by the Catholic Church over the centuries. Highlights include the Sistine Chapel, the Raphael Rooms, and the Gallery of Maps. It's a treasure trove for art lovers and history enthusiasts.
Museum/Art
3-4 hours
€17 (includes entry to St. Peter's Basilica)
Castel Sant'Angelo
Originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, Castel Sant'Angelo is now a museum and fortress. It offers fascinating exhibits and panoramic views of Rome from its terrace. The passage leading to the Vatican, known as the Passetto di Borgo, is a historical highlight.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
€15
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cacio e Pepe
A classic Roman dish made with pecorino cheese and black pepper, creating a creamy and flavorful sauce.
Pasta
Vegetarian
Supplì
Fried rice balls filled with tomato sauce and mozzarella, similar to Sicilian arancini.
Appetizer
Vegetarian (some versions contain meat)
Tiramisu
A popular Italian dessert made with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cheese.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in nearby parks
Biking tours
Strolling through historic neighborhoods
Visiting parks and gardens
Museum visits
Art tours
Historical site exploration
Boat tours on the Tiber River
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
The best time to visit is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the tourist crowds are manageable. These months offer the best conditions for sightseeing and exploring the city's outdoor attractions.
15-30°C
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian, Latin
- Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Vatican City is generally safe, with a strong police presence and low crime rates. However, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas, so it's important to stay vigilant.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services.
Getting there
By air
- Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport • 30 km from Vatican City
By train
Roma San Pietro Station
By bus
Roma Termini Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The metro system in Rome is efficient and connects to Vatican City via the Ottaviano Station, which is a short walk from St. Peter's Basilica.
Taxis
Available • Apps: FreeNow, MyTaxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Borgo
Prati
Day trips
Rome
0 km (Vatican City is an enclave within Rome) • Full day or more
Rome, the capital of Italy, is a treasure trove of ancient history, art, and culture. It offers iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Trevi Fountain, as well as world-class museums and vibrant neighborhoods.
Ostia Antica
30 km from Vatican City • Half day
Ostia Antica is an ancient Roman port city that offers a fascinating glimpse into Roman life. The well-preserved ruins include homes, shops, and public buildings, providing a unique historical experience.
Festivals
Easter Celebrations • March or April (dates vary)
Christmas Celebrations • December 24-25
Pro tips
- Book tickets for major attractions like the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica in advance to skip the lines.
- Dress modestly when visiting religious sites to show respect and avoid being turned away.
- Use public transportation or walk to get around Vatican City and Rome, as driving can be challenging and parking is limited.
- Learn a few basic Italian phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals.
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
