Early Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel guided Small group Tour

Rome , Italy

Early Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel guided Small group Tour

Active

(94 reviews)

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Maximize your Vatican Museums experience with exclusive early entry, allowing you to explore without the typical crowds in a small group!
You’ll enter the museums around 8 a.m., enjoying privileged access before the rush. Led by your expert guide, you’ll wander through grand galleries and ornate rooms, where insightful storytelling brings centuries of art and history to life.

Admire timeless masterpieces and explore the breathtaking Gallery of Maps, showcasing vibrant 16th-century cartography. Wander through the stunning Belvedere Courtyard, a serene oasis of classical elegance within the Vatican Museums

Following an exclusive route, you’ll reach the Sistine Chapel ahead of the crowds. Here, take your time to appreciate Michelangelo’s breathtaking frescoes, including the iconic Creation of Adam, in a more serene and intimate atmosphere.

This early-access Vatican tour offers a unique opportunity to connect with the Vatican’s timeless art and rich history in an intimate group

Available options

Early Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel guided Small group Tour

What's included

Professional guide

Early access to the Vatican Museums

Small group (10 pax max)

Helpline and assistance

Earphones

Access to Sistine Chapel

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Immerse yourself in centuries of art and culture at the Vatican Museums, one of the world's most renowned art collections. Housed within the Vatican City, these museums boast an extraordinary collection amassed by popes over centuries.

Beyond the Sistine Chapel, visitors will encounter a vast array of masterpieces. Explore the Raphael Rooms and marvel at the frescoes that defined the High Renaissance. The Pinacoteca houses a treasure trove of paintings by renowned artists such as Raphael, Caravaggio, and Leonardo da Vinci.

For art and history enthusiasts, the Vatican Museums offer a journey through time. Explore the ancient world in the Pio-Clementino Museum with iconic sculptures like the Apollo del Belvedere and the Laocoön. Delve into the mysteries of ancient Egypt and Etruria in the Gregorian Egyptian Museum and the Gregorian Etruscan Museum.

Stop 2

The Sistine Chapel is renowned for its stunning frescoes, particularly Michelangelo's masterpieces.

The chapel's ceiling is adorned with breathtaking scenes from the Book of Genesis, painted by Michelangelo between 1508 and 1512. These frescoes, including the iconic creation of Adam, are considered one of the greatest artistic achievements of the Renaissance.

On the chapel's altar wall, Michelangelo's later work, "The Last Judgment," is a powerful and awe-inspiring depiction of the end of the world. This monumental fresco covers the entire wall and is filled with intricate details and dramatic figures.
Beyond Michelangelo's masterpieces, the chapel's walls are decorated with vibrant frescoes by other Renaissance masters, including Botticelli, Perugino, and Ghirlandaio. These works depict scenes from the lives of Moses and Christ and showcase the artistic talent of the era.

What's not included

Pick-up and mobility

tips

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 2.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

93 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

In the event of extraordinary closures or restrictions imposed by the Museums, no refund will be provided. The tour's itinerary may change, but it will have the same duration

Meeting point

Meet at Via Tunisi 4, upper side of the road closer to the corner with Viale Vaticano,in front of Vatican Museums entrance.
Our assistant will be there with a sign of the local supplier. We strongly recommend you to arrive to the meeting point at least 15 minutes before the beginning of the tour

Important notes

Our assistant will be there with a sign that says “Tourismotion”. Please, we strongly recommend you to arrive to the meeting point at least 15 minutes before the beginning of the tour.

To access the museums, you must go through a security check (like an airport check). Please bring an ID card or passport with you.

You are reminded not to take large pieces of luggage with you

To access places of worship, we recommend wearing clothing that covers your shoulders and knees

In the event of extraordinary closures or restrictions imposed by the Museums, no refund will be provided. The tour's itinerary may change, but it will have the same duration

We kindly remind you that you have booked a guided tour which includes group tickets, not individual ones. Should you fail to arrive at the meeting point on time, the agency will be unable to provide the tickets, as these are strictly designated for group use at scheduled times

The number to contact us is +39 06 92926678, contact us via whatsapp for emergencies

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