Skip the Line Vatican, Sistine Chapel and Basilica Guided Tour

Rome , Italy

Skip the Line Vatican, Sistine Chapel and Basilica Guided Tour

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(4138 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

Skip the line, avoid the long queues and explore the Vatican's exceptional collections and the magnificent Sistine Chapel with an expert guide in an intimate group. This extensive and exclusive tour is designed for those eager to experience everything the Vatican has to offer.

The Vatican Museums are home to an expansive array of art, featuring stunning sculptures, frescoes, and architectural masterpieces that together form an unparalleled collection found nowhere else in the world.

Admire the incredible sculptures, tapestries, paintings, and architectural works of Renaissance masters such as Bramante, Bernini, Perugino, Botticelli, D’Antonio, Rosselli, Signorelli, Della Gatta, Ghirlandaio, Raphael, and of course Michelangelo.

-TOURS WITH ST.PETERS BASILICA LAST APPROXIMATELY 2.5 HOURS
-IF ST.PETER'S BASILICA IS CLOSED ON THE DAY OF YOUR VISIT THERE WILL BE AN EXTENDED TOUR OF THE VATICAN MUSEUMS

-TOURS NOT INCLUDING ST.PETERS BASILICA LAST APPROXIMATELY 2 HOURS

Available options

ENGLISH SEMI-PRIVATE VATICAN

VIP EARLY MORNING SMALL GROUP: ENGLISH VATICAN TOUR - VIP EARLY MORNING SMALL GROUP

FRENCH VATICAN TOUR

ENGLISH VATICAN TOUR

SPANISH VATICAN TOUR

GERMAN VATICAN TOUR

What's included

St. Peter's Basilica if open on the day of your tour (if option selected)

Small Group Tour Experience with Expert Official Licensed Vatican Guide

Skip The Line Priority Access Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Tickets

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Explore the Vatican Museums with an Expert Guide, visit the highlights of the incredible collections comprised of a colossal 20,000 works on display, over 4 miles of Art, Sculptures, Tapestries, Paintings and Architecture.

Belvedere Courtyard
Pinecone Courtyard
Pio Clementino Museum
Octagonal Courtyard
Sala Degli Animali
Sala Delle Muse
Sala Rotonda
Sala A Croce Greca
Gallery of the Candelabra
Gallery of Tapestries
Gallery of Maps

Stop 2

Marvel at the incredible Sistine Chapel, an impressive sanctuary that boasts works of art by master painters like Perugino, Pinturicchio, Ghirlandaio, Rosselli, Botticelli, Signorelli, della Gatta and, of course, Michelangelo.

See the world famous frescoes stretch magnificently across the ceiling with the renowned Creation of Adam as the central focus and the majestic Last Judgement upon the rear wall, offering a visual spectacle that encapsulates the divine.

Sistine Chapel Frescoes
Cosmati Floor Mosaic
Forseen conception of Jesus Christ
Pagan Sibyls / Icons
Prophet depictions
Creation of Adam
The Last Judgement
Sacrifice of Jesus Christ
Greek Mythology Styx

Stop 3

The Papal Basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican City, or simply Saint Peter's Basilica, is a church of the Italian High Renaissance and the heart of the catholic faith located in Vatican City, an independent microstate enclaved within the city of Rome, Italy.

What's not included

Location Pick Up & Drop Off

Scavi / Necropolis

St Peter’s Basilica is subject to last-minute closures for religious ceremonies, with no warning

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

2,557 reviews

5★

2040

4★

207

3★

124

2★

1★

112

Tripadvisor 4.8

1,581 reviews

5★

1380

4★

110

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

If you arrive late for the meeting time, it will not be possible to join the group or reschedule. As per "No Show" rules you will not be entitled to a refund.

Due to the Jubilee, some monuments or areas may be under restoration and subject to last minute closures. Please pay attention to any messages we may send regarding potential changes.

If you purchase a reduced ticket and you are not under 16 years old or a student under 26 years old with a valid student photo ID, the Vatican will deny your entry and you will not be able to visit the Vatican or join the tour.

Knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women to enter the Sistine Chapel.

Please be aware that large bags/backpacks/suitcases are not permitted in the monument/ attraction.

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not suitable for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair. Please be aware that large oversized bags/backpacks/suitcases are not permitted in the monument/ attraction.

It is not possible to contact guides when they are inside the Vatican museums, it is the clients responsibility to stay with the guided tour group, if you lose your guide inside the Vatican, there is nothing we can do in this case.

St. Peter's Basilica is subject to last minute closures for religous events, and the Papal audience on some Wednesday and Saturday mornings. In the event that it is closed if you have selected the option to visit St. Peter's Basilica you will have an extended tour of the Vatican museums. The Basilica is free to enter and we do not have any control in the event of these closures it is not possible to provide a refund under these circumstances.

Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not suitable for those with walking difficulties or using a wheelchair.

Meeting point

Once you book, we organize everything. Just show up and check-in at the office (VIA GERMANICO, 16) at the correct time (Please arrive 10 minutes before your booked departure time) and your guide will escort you inside the Museums & provide you with your ticket.

Important notes

Once you book, we organize everything. Just show up at the Maya Tours office (VIA GERMANICO, 16) at the correct time (Please arrive 15 minutes before your booked departure time) where your guide will meet you with your ticket to skip the line and enter the Vatican.

If you arrive late for the meeting time, it will not be possible to join the group or reschedule. As per "No Show" rules you will not be entitled to a refund.

If you purchase a reduced ticket and you are not under 16 years old or a student under 26 years old with a valid student photo ID, the Vatican will deny your entry and you will not be able to visit the Vatican or join the tour.

Knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women to enter the Sistine Chapel.

Please be aware that large bags/backpacks/suitcases are not permitted in the monument/ attraction.

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not suitable for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair.

It is not possible to contact guides when they are inside the Vatican museums, it is the clients responsibility to stay with the guided tour group, if you lose your guide inside the Vatican, there is nothing we can do in this case.

St. Peter's Basilica is subject to last minute closures for religious events, and the Papal audience on some Wednesday and Saturday mornings. In the event that it is closed if you have selected the option to visit St. Peter's Basilica you will have an extended tour of the Vatican museums. The Basilica is free to enter and we do not have any control in the event of these closures it is not possible to provide a refund under these circumstances.

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