Private Early Morning Express Tour Sistine Chapel, Raphael Rooms

Rome , Italy

Private Early Morning Express Tour Sistine Chapel, Raphael Rooms

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About this experience

The Express Sistine Chapel and Raphael Rooms Private Tour is a perfect 2 hours tour that will allow you to experience first hand and in a private environment, one of the most important sites in Rome. With your expert local guide, skip the lines and gain direct access into the Sistine Chapel to fully absorb the beauty of Michelangelo's masterpiece prior the hustle and bustle of the crowds. Your guide will then escort you to the Raphael Rooms for an intimate experience with these fresco masterpieces. This private tour creates a friendly environment where you can interact with your knowledgeable guide, and enjoy the peace of an almost-empty museum. Your guide will then lead you back to the Museums' galleries, where you will be given information on how to enjoy the rest of your time.

Available options

Private Early Morning Express Tour Sistine Chapel, Raphael Rooms

What's included

Raphael Rooms

Early morning tour of the Vatican Museums

Sistine Chapel

Visit to the galleries

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Make the most of your time in Rome with direct access to the Sistine Chapel prior to the arrival of public tourists. Enjoy the incredible beauty of Michelangelo's masterpiece with your expert local guide and learn the history, techniques and secrets behind one of the most visited sites in Italy. With over 25,000 tourists visiting per day, you will be thankful to enjoy it prior to the regular opening times!

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.

Stop 2

After experiencing the wonder of the Sistine Chapel, your private expert guide will take you to your next stop - the Raphael Rooms. Have a truly intimate experience in a near-empty museum to enjoy the gorgeous frescoes of Raphael as your expert guide explains these masterpieces in detail with historic anecdotes.

Stop 3

Your guide will then escort you to the Raphael Rooms for an intimate experience with these fresco masterpieces.

What's not included

tips and gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

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Tripadvisor 4.9

37 reviews

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Vatican management maintains the right to delay the opening of the Sistine Chapel for religious reasons, in this case the guide will modify the itinerary and extend your visit of the museums to ensure you make the most of your time before access to the Sistine Chapel is permitted.

No photography is allowed inside the Sistine Chapel.

The Sistine Chapel is a Holy Place and talking while inside is strictly forbidden. Your guide will provide all commentary prior to entry

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 us 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.

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.

Meeting point

Viale Vaticano 100, in front of Cafè Vaticano, right across the street from the Vatican Museum's Entrance.

Important notes

Please arrive 10-15 minutes prior to tour starting time.

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.

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