Vatican Museums Alone: Semi-Private Early Entry Tour & Breakfast

Rome , Italy

Vatican Museums Alone: Semi-Private Early Entry Tour & Breakfast

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(8 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

At daybreak, before the Eternal City awakes, be the first to enter the hallowed halls, opulent galleries, and sacred chambers of the Vatican Museums, in an exclusive small group with an expert guide. You will experience the Apostolic palaces as the popes of the Renaissance did – peacefully, without the crowds. Enjoy some of the greatest art in the world. The Apollo and Laocoon of antiquity, the Renaissance wonders of the Raphael rooms, and the majesty of Michelangelo’s masterpieces in the Sistine Chapel. Enjoy a breakfast buffet in the stately Pinecone Courtyard to conclude your journey through the heart of the papacy.

Available options

Vatican Museums Alone: Semi-Private Early Entry Tour & Breakfast

What's included

Expert guide

Museum Highlights

Pinecone Courtyard for a full breakfast

Extra early VIP access to the Vatican Museums

First look at the Sistine Chapel & Raphael Rooms

A group of no more than 10 people

Semi-Private tour

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Be the first people to enter the hallowed halls and galleries of the Vatican two hours before it opens to the general public. Enjoy an exclusive semi-private tour with an expert guide alone in the Vatican with just a small group of 10 people.

Stop 2

Normally full of hundreds of people jostling for position, enjoy the peace and quiet of Pope Julius II’s private apartments by Raphael, the painter of sweetness and light. Admire the incredible frescoes of the School of Athens and the Disputa. Learn about the life and tragic early death of the beloved Raphael.

Marvel at the hand-stitched Flemish tapestries, created according to Raphael school designs. Admire the golden opulence and amazing accuracy of the 17th-century frescoes in the Gallery of Maps.

Stop 4

To enter the empty Sistine Chapel is an unforgettable moment. Normally filled with over 1000 people, you will stand alone beneath Michelangelo’s mighty masterpieces. Be swept up in their splendor and magnificence.

At the end of your wonderful experience, enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet in the restaurant of the stately Pinecone Courtyard.

What's not included

Saint Peter’s Basilica is not included

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

8 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

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 photography allowed inside the Sistine Chapel.

Backpacks are not permitted in the Museum.

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.

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

Due to the exceptional circumstances of this tour your group size will have a max of 10 people

Meeting point

In front of Cafe Vaticano, right across the street from the Vatican Museum's Entrance. Please arrive 15 minutes before the start time.

IMPORTANT: You must bring photo ID to guarantee entry.

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.

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