Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel and St Peter's Guided Tour

Vatican City , Italy

Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel and St Peter's Guided Tour

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(301 reviews)

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

• See Michelangelo's miraculous frescoes in the Sistine Chapel.
• Admire the masterpieces by Raphael, Caravaggio, and more.
• Travel through centuries of ancient history.
• Explore ancient civilizations from Europe and beyond.
• Visit the Belvedere Courtyard and the Octagonal.

Available options

ENGLISH GUIDED TOUR

Duration: 3 hours

Visita guiada en Español

What's included

Headsets to hear the guide clearly.

Priority entrance tickets

Tour Guide

All taxes, fees and handling charges.

Detailed itinerary

Travelers booking this experience will explore the world-renowned Vatican Museums, home to a stunning collection of art, including masterpieces by Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci, and Caravaggio. An expert guide will lead them through the museum's halls, sharing fascinating stories behind each artwork and artifact. The highlight of the tour is the Sistine Chapel, where visitors will marvel at Michelangelo’s breathtaking frescoes, including the iconic "Creation of Adam." The guide will provide insights into the history and significance of this masterpiece. This immersive experience offers a deeper understanding of art, history, and culture, making it a must-do for art lovers and history enthusiasts.

Stop 2

Travelers booking this experience will gain exclusive access to St. Peter's Basilica, one of the world’s most iconic churches. Inside, they’ll be mesmerized by the grandeur of its architecture, intricate mosaics, and stunning marble sculptures. A highlight is Michelangelo’s *Pietà*, a masterpiece of Renaissance art. This access-only experience allows visitors to explore the basilica at their own pace, with the opportunity to admire the altars, chapels, and St. Peter’s Tomb. While no guided tour is included, the visit offers a chance to immerse in the beauty and spiritual significance of this renowned site.

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Food and drinks

Guided tour inside St. Peter's Basilica

Audio guide for St. Peter's Basilica

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.9

41 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.7

260 reviews

5★

223

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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

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.

Please note that St. Peter's Basilica is an active parish and is therefore subject to unforeseen closures for spiritual celebrations. In such cases we will, if possible, contact you in advance with an alternative tour time or itinerary.

Please note: All guests must go through an airport-style security check. During peak seasons, the wait time at security check can be up to 30 minutes.

Please Note: We are not responsible for partial closures within the Vatican Museums or the Sistine Chapel. No refunds will be provided if specific areas are closed due to special events. Refunds will only be issued if the entire site is closed and the visit cannot take place.

Visitors with certified disabilities of 67% or more receive free entry to the Vatican Museums. If the visitor is not self-sufficient, one companion also enters free. Note: This type of ticket cannot be booked online

Important notes

• 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.
• A current valid passport/ID is required on the day of visit ( Only for children 6-17)
• A current valid passport/ID AND valid Student card are required on the day of visit ( Only for Youth Ticket)
• Please note that St. Peter's Basilica is an active parish and is therefore subject to unforeseen closures for spiritual celebrations. In such cases we will, if possible, contact you in advance with an alternative tour time or itinerary.
• PLEASE MAKE SURE TO ARRIVE AT THE OFFICE 30 MINUTES BEFORE SET TICKET TIME. WE CANNOT GUARANTEE TICKETS FOR LATE ARRIVALS. RESCHEDULE COST WITHIN 24-HOURS OF TOUR/TICKET TIME: € 25,00

About Vatican City

Vatican City, the world's smallest independent state, is the spiritual and administrative headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church. Nestled within Rome, Italy, it's home to iconic landmarks like St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums, which house some of the world's most renowned art collections, including the Sistine Chapel.

Top Attractions

St. Peter's Basilica

St. Peter's Basilica is one of the most renowned churches in the world and a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. It is a significant pilgrimage site and a must-visit for its stunning interior, including Michelangelo's Pietà and the dome offering panoramic views of Rome.

Religious/Architecture 1-2 hours Free entry (€8 for dome climb)

Vatican Museums

The Vatican Museums house an extensive collection of art and artifacts amassed by the Catholic Church over the centuries. Highlights include the Sistine Chapel, the Raphael Rooms, and the Gallery of Maps. It's a treasure trove for art lovers and history enthusiasts.

Museum/Art 3-4 hours €17 (includes entry to St. Peter's Basilica)

Castel Sant'Angelo

Originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, Castel Sant'Angelo is now a museum and fortress. It offers fascinating exhibits and panoramic views of Rome from its terrace. The passage leading to the Vatican, known as the Passetto di Borgo, is a historical highlight.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours €15

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cacio e Pepe

A classic Roman dish made with pecorino cheese and black pepper, creating a creamy and flavorful sauce.

Pasta Vegetarian

Supplì

Fried rice balls filled with tomato sauce and mozzarella, similar to Sicilian arancini.

Appetizer Vegetarian (some versions contain meat)

Tiramisu

A popular Italian dessert made with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cheese.

Dessert Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in nearby parks Biking tours Strolling through historic neighborhoods Visiting parks and gardens Museum visits Art tours Historical site exploration Boat tours on the Tiber River

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

The best time to visit is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the tourist crowds are manageable. These months offer the best conditions for sightseeing and exploring the city's outdoor attractions.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian, Latin
Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Vatican City is generally safe, with a strong police presence and low crime rates. However, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas, so it's important to stay vigilant.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services.

Getting there

By air

Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport • 30 km from Vatican City

By train

Roma San Pietro Station

By bus

Roma Termini Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system in Rome is efficient and connects to Vatican City via the Ottaviano Station, which is a short walk from St. Peter's Basilica.

Taxis

Available • Apps: FreeNow, MyTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Borgo Prati

Day trips

Rome

0 km (Vatican City is an enclave within Rome) • Full day or more

Rome, the capital of Italy, is a treasure trove of ancient history, art, and culture. It offers iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Trevi Fountain, as well as world-class museums and vibrant neighborhoods.

Ostia Antica

30 km from Vatican City • Half day

Ostia Antica is an ancient Roman port city that offers a fascinating glimpse into Roman life. The well-preserved ruins include homes, shops, and public buildings, providing a unique historical experience.

Festivals

Easter Celebrations • March or April (dates vary) Christmas Celebrations • December 24-25

Pro tips

Book tickets for major attractions like the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica in advance to skip the lines.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites to show respect and avoid being turned away.
Use public transportation or walk to get around Vatican City and Rome, as driving can be challenging and parking is limited.
Learn a few basic Italian phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals.
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.