Vatican and Sistine Chapel at Night Private Tour, Top-Rated Guide

Rome , Italy

Vatican and Sistine Chapel at Night Private Tour, Top-Rated Guide

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(103 reviews)

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

This Exclusive Vatican Evening Private Tour will give you an After Hours experience of one of the most popular tourist attractions in the whole world. Avoid the summer heat, long lines and crowded noisy hallways and allow yourself to appreciate and experience the Vatican and Sistine Chapel to their fullest potential. Our 3 hour experience includes skip-the-line access, and your very own private group. Your expert tour guide is sure to give you a more intimate experience, along with a chance for you to interact with and ask all the questions you wish, go at your own pace, and have closer access to sites.

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Vatican and Sistine Chapel at Night Private Tour, Top-Rated Guide

What's included

Belvedere Torso

Ancient Apollo statue

Pinecone courtyard

Ancient Laocoon statue

Berninis bronze canopy

Octagonal courtyard

Private, Professional and Local Tour Guide

Extensive Tour of the Vatican Museums at your very own pace in your private group

Raphael rooms

Admire the Sistine Chapel in the enchanted lighting of the evening hours

Gallery of maps

Skip the Line Exclusive Entry into the Vatican After Hours

"The School Of Athens" masterpiece

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

This Exclusive Private tour of the Vatican Museums at Night is a great way to beat the crowds and the heat, and see Vatican masterpieces from a different light, in a soft, romantic evening glow. In the luxury of your very own Private Group you will enjoy the privilege of touring the Vatican grounds in an intimate and personalised way.

Enjoy skip the line entry to the museums and explore his vast wonders after the heat and bustle of the daytime crowds has gone. See the Gallery of Maps, the Hall of Animals, the Gallery of Tapestries, the Pinecone Courtyard, Raphael's Rooms and SO much more! Your head is sure to spin with all the incredible Art you will see!

Stop 2

Of course this wonderful Vatican tour includes access to the incredible Sistine Chapel. Although it is true there is something to be said for the early morning light in the Sistine Chapel, we believe there is even more to be said about its magical evening glow. Rome is famous for its “golden hour” which is that fleeting, enchanted moment just before dusk when the city seems to turn to Pure Gold.

From January 12 through March 31, the Vatican Museums will be carrying out special conservation work on Michelangelo’s Last Judgment inside the Sistine Chapel. During this time, a scaffolding structure will cover the entire Last Judgment wall. The Sistine Chapel will remain open and fully accessible, but this specific artwork will not be visible during the restoration period. Thank you for your understanding as this masterpiece receives important care.

What's not included

Food and Drink

Gratuities

Hotel Pick up and Drop Off

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

16 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

87 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Places of worship have strict dress code requirements for entry. All participants are required to have shoulders and knees covered (no tank tops or short dresses) to enter.

There is no flash photography allowed on this tour, and all photography is forbidden inside the Sistine Chapel.

Please be aware that the Sistine Chapel is a Holy Place and talking during your visit inside is strictly forbidden, therefore your guide will give you an explanation of the Sistine Chapel beforehand during your tour, in order to give you a comprehensive explanation before entering the chapel.

Backpacks are not permitted in the Museum.

Everyone in your group, regardless of age, needs a government issued ID to enter the Vatican Museums.

Guests with mobility concerns should contact the supplier as soon as possible, as the itinerary may need to be adjusted to accommodate specific needs.

IMPORTANT: Please advise our team if you believe that a disability qualifies you for complimentary access to the Vatican

Offered in: English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian. Please specify under “Additional notes” if you wish to book the tour in a language other than English.

Meeting point

The meeting point is in front of Caffe Vaticano on Viale Vaticano 100. Your guide will be holding a sign with our company name. Please arrive 15 minutes before the start time.

Important notes

From January 12 through March 31, the Vatican Museums will be carrying out special conservation work on Michelangelo’s Last Judgment inside the Sistine Chapel. During this time, a scaffolding structure will cover the entire Last Judgment wall. The Sistine Chapel will remain open and fully accessible, but this specific artwork will not be visible during the restoration period. Thank you for your understanding as this masterpiece receives important care.

• Please arrive at the meeting point 10-15 min prior tour start time.

• 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

• Occasionally the basilica may be closed due to last minute private events outside of our control and often without notice. In these uncommon circumstances the tour will operate as usual and the time spent inside the basilica will be made up elsewhere on the tour

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