Vatican Museums Early Access Tour
From€355
3 hours
Province of Rome, Italy
About this activity
Experience the Vatican's treasures with early access, guided tours, and skip-the-line entry to the Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica.
Highlights
- Skip-the-line entry to Vatican Museums
- Guided tour of Sistine Chapel
- Access to St. Peter's Basilica
- Explore Raphael Rooms
- Admire Michelangelo's masterpieces
Full description
Discover the Vatican's artistic masterpieces without the usual crowds on this exclusive early access tour. Enjoy skip-the-line entry to the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica. Led by expert guides, you'll delve into the rich history and art of these iconic sites, including Michelangelo's renowned frescoes and the Raphael Rooms. This tour offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the Vatican's treasures in a more intimate setting, enhancing your cultural experience in Rome.
Included / Excluded
- Skip-the-line entry to Vatican Museums
- Guided tour of Sistine Chapel
- Access to St. Peter's Basilica
- Food and beverages
Itinerary
1
Your tour starts near the entrance to the Vatican Museums where, an hour before the official opening time you will meet with your very knowledgeable tour guide. Head inside Vatican Museums to see some of the highlights of the museums marvellous art collection. There will be stops at the Pinecone Courtyard and Octagonal Courtyard where you will learn something about the antique statues that are displayed there; the mysterious composition the mysterious composition of the Greek Statues of Laocoon, the Apollo Belvedere and the impressive Belvedere Torso.
Duration: 1 hourAdmission: YES
2
Your guide will tell you about Michelangelo’s amazing ceiling frescoes and other masterpieces so that you get to really appreciate this wonderful chapel.
Duration: 1 hourAdmission: YES
3
It is then time for a tour of St. Peter’s Basilica where you will explore the numerous side chapels with their hidden crypts. You will see Michelangelo’s Pietà and your guide will explain why this is the only work that he signed. You will gain an appreciation of the mastery that went into the creation of Bernini’s altarpiece and learn how Michelangelo triumphed over his contemporaries for the honour to paint St. Peter’s magnificent dome. There is still more to see though below ground level. You guide will lead you below ground to the papal crypt where, over the centuries, many of the Popes have been interred. This special place is a site of pilgrimage for many Catholics. Although talking is allowed, before you enter the crypt you guide will tell you where the most important popes are laid to rest.
Duration: 1 hourAdmission: YES
Meeting point
Start Location
Viale Vaticano, 100, 00192 Roma, Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, Italy
Important information
Know before you book
- This tour is conducted in English; ensure you understand the language.
- Photography is allowed in most areas; however, flash photography is prohibited.
- Large bags and backpacks are not permitted inside the Vatican; consider bringing a small bag.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the tour involves extensive walking.
- Dress modestly; shoulders and knees should be covered when entering religious sites.
- Arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the scheduled departure.
Cancellation policy
0All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Accessibility
- Easy Public Transport
Good to know
- 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
- Food and drinks are not allowed in the museums except for bottled water
- READ CAREFULLY: Because of the growing popularity of the current pope Francis and his intense activity in organising mass events in the Vatican some areas might get closed last minute without previous notice. This has already happened this year and can happen again during you Vatican tour. In case of such events our tour guide will provide you with a valuable alternative focusing the tour inside the Vatican museums.
- PLEASE NOTE: Due to the Jubilee the Basilica might not be accessible as part of the tour. Unfortunately, we know that very last minute. In any case, you can go there after the tour, queuing.
Additional information
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
Food and drinks are not allowed in the museums except for bottled water
READ CAREFULLY: Because of the growing popularity of the current pope Francis and his intense activity in organising mass events in the Vatican some areas might get closed last minute without previous notice. This has already happened this year and can happen again during you Vatican tour. In case of such events our tour guide will provide you with a valuable alternative focusing the tour inside the Vatican museums.
PLEASE NOTE: Due to the Jubilee the Basilica might not be accessible as part of the tour. Unfortunately, we know that very last minute. In any case, you can go there after the tour, queuing.