Exclusive Vatican Museums Private Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Skip-the-line access to Vatican Museums
- Guided tour of Sistine Chapel
- Visit to St. Peter's Basilica
- Explore the Gallery of Maps
- Admire Michelangelo's frescoes
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Skip-the-line access to Vatican Museums
- Guided tour of Sistine Chapel
- Visit to St. Peter's Basilica
- Food and beverages
Itinerary
You will meet your tour guide at our office, which is located in the oldest neighbourhoods of the Vatican, Borgo Pio. It is an area filled with charming local shops and vendors.
After meeting your guide, you will head directly to the Vatican Museum through a special group entrance route and bypassing the enormous lines that are guaranteed to be present all year round. This is a 2.5 to 3 hour journey through one of the most amazing museums of the world. Learn about Greek and Roman sculptures, tapestries, and interesting anecdotes about the artists and their times.
This part of the museum, containing four stanze (Italian for rooms) features frescos by the Italian Renaissance artist Raphael. The famous “School of Athens” is displayed here. Portraits of history’s greatest thinkers, such as Aristotle, Plato, and Raphael himself, can also be gleamed.
Enter in the beautiful Sistine Chapel, where you will witness the work of the the celebrated artist, Michaelangelo. Prepared to be dazzled as you look up to admire the frescoed ceilings that have stood the test of time, like the Last Judgement.
Upon completion of the museum areas, you will discover how the smallest state in the world functions in its own right. Finally, a special door connecting the museums to the Basilica will bring you inside the church of S.Peters! Unlike other tourists who line up for normal entrance, you will be able to get access without the fuss of passing through security once again.
Goodbye! Got any questions about Rome or the Vatican? Raise your questions here. Your guide provide tips of your stay in the eternal city as the tour concludes.
Important information
Know before you book
- The tour is conducted in English; ensure you understand the language.
- The Vatican Museums are closed on Sundays; plan your visit accordingly.
- Large bags and backpacks are not permitted; bring only essentials.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the tour involves extensive walking.
- Bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated during the tour.
- Photography is allowed in most areas; however, flash photography is prohibited.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair Accessible
- Stroller Accessible
- Easy Public Transport
Traveler reviews
Great Tour
Samantha gave us an amazing tour and explained everything to us very well. We really enjoyed the tour and learned a lot.
Excellent tour and Carl was an excellent guide
Carl gave one of the best tours in Rome. The history and knowledge of the topic was exceptional. He was organized and patient and moved the group through the chaos exceedingly well.
very good
very good clear audio to hear about all places
Best Tour Guide in Rome!!!
As a family who have traveled all over the globe, we were incredibly surprised that our last-minute reservation to tour Saint Peter’s Basilica, Sistine Chapel, and gardens was led by one of the best tour guides we have ever had! Alexandra was incredibly knowledgeable, passionate, kind, and engaging to all of us on the tour. She made the entire experience five star.!
Excellent tour- We learned so much in a personal, entertaining way
Our private tour with Francesca was outstanding. We were just three of us (two teens) and she made the stories and history interesting & colorful. It was definitely worth avoiding the long lines & knowing where to go in the massive crowds. We appreciated the stories of what statues & art we encountered along the way that inspired Michelangelo in his creation of the Sistine Chapel. Francesca showed a great respect to the sanctuary of St. Peter’s Basilica, and even us as non church-goers understood the significance. We learned so much and came away appreciating these notable sights! So glad we did this. Grazie Mille, Francesca!