Wednesday Early Morning Sistine Chapel and Vatican Private Tour

Rome , Italy

Wednesday Early Morning Sistine Chapel and Vatican Private Tour

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(13 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

Wednesday's are wonderful - and they are the best day to experience the Vatican museums in all their glory! Since St Peter's Basilica is closed for the Papal Audience on Wednesday mornings, the museums are far emptier than on other days of the week. This, coupled with early morning access, gives you the ultimate advantage of seeing the museums with the fewest crowds possible! Explore the vast Vatican Museums with your expert guide and see incredible works from famous Renaissance masters such as Raphael, Caravaggio, Leonardo and Giotto. Stroll through the charming Pinecone Courtyard & Octagonal Courtyard as you hear stories and anecdotes from your guide. Then, behold Michelangelo's greatest masterpiece - the Sistine Chapel, all before the crowds pile in! On your fully private tour, easily maneuver through the museums and ask all the questions you like!

Available options

Wednesday Early Morning Sistine Chapel and Vatican Private Tour

What's included

Pinacoteca

Raphael Rooms

Early Access to the Vatican Museums 1 hour before the public

The Sistine Chapel

Fully Private Tour with Local Expert Guide

Galleries of the Candelabra, Tapestries & Maps

Pinecone Courtyard & Octagonal Courtyard

Carriage Pavilion

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Discover some of the most famous paintings and sculptures from western civilization and listen to amusing anecdotes about the former popes and artists represented in the museums. With your very own private tour, easily maneuver through the crowded museums at a comfortable pace.
After a view of the terrace over the Vatican gardens, make your way across the beautiful early Renaissance courtyard to admire Hadrian's Pinecone, and then to the modern art piece of Arnaldo Pomodoro. You will then head to the magnificent Octagonal Courtyard which is one of the most remarkable collections of Roman and Greek artifacts. Admire the famous Belvedere Torso, learn about the mystery of the Laocoon Priest of Troy, and visit the Muses Room. Walk through the beautiful galleries to admire an abundance of candelabra, tapestries, and maps. Then head to the Julius II apartments and see the grandeur and the magnificent details of the Raphael Rooms.

Stop 2

Next comes the highlight of the tour -Michelangelo's masterpiece, the Sistine Chapel. Since you are forbidden to speak inside the chapel, your guide will prepare you with anecdotes and details before entering to see one of the most remarkable works of Renaissance art ever known. Then, enter through a tiny door to admire the majestic Sistine Chapel. Take in its grandeur in contemplative silence as you admire this 8,000 square foot wonder.

Stop 3

Marvel in front of Raphael's masterpieces.

Stroll through the charming Pinecone Courtyard

What's not included

Food and drinks

Gratuities (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

12 reviews

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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

On Wednesday morning St. Peter’s Basilica is closed, which means less crowds, but also that you will not be able to access the Basilica until after the tour ends.

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.

There is no photography allowed in the Sistine chapel, and all other artwork can only be photographed without flash.

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.

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

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.

Meeting point

Outside Caffe Vaticano, on Viale Vaticano 100 which is directly across from the Vatican Museums entrance. Your guide will be holding a LivTours sign. Please arrive 15 minutes before the start time.

Important notes

ALERT: Sistine Chapel Closures. Starting April 28th, the Sistine Chapel will be closed for the Papal Conclave, the traditional process of electing a new Pope. The Conclave begins May 7th and has no fixed end date, though the Chapel is expected to reopen by mid-May. During this time, your Vatican tours will follow a special itinerary featuring additional highlights from the Vatican Museums. We’ll continue to update our guests as new information becomes available.

Your guide will have your entry tickets the day of the tour.

Guests with mobility concerns should contact us at booking@livtours.com as soon as possible, as the itinerary may need to be adjusted to accommodate specific needs.

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