About this experience
Take a 3 hour tour to one of the holiest sites in Christendom on this guided tour of the Vatican Museums. This exceptional tour includes, among other galleries of the Vatican corridors, a tour of the Pine Courtyard, Belvedere Courtyard, and the Gallery of the Maps, Candelabra Gallery, the Tapestry Gallery, with a comprehensive visit of the Sistine Chapel.
Your Local guide will take you to some of the best attractions, as well as to some lesser-known spots that other tourists often miss. You will understand the remarkable history, architecture and politics of the Vatican.
Purchasing your ticket online before your scheduled visit not only helps you save time but also allows you to choose an entry slot according to your convenience. your expert guide will walk you through the vibrant history of one of the world's most premier art collections.
At a glance
- Duration: 3 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 3 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
What is included
- An expert English-speaking guide
- Skip the line access to St. Peter’s Basilica
- Skip the line ticket for Vatican Museums and Sistine chapel
- Headset
- A group of 20 guests maximum
Not included
- Transportation
- Gratuities
Itinerary and highlights
Meet your guide at our office located in the old neighborhood of Borgo Pio, listen to an introduction about the Vatican city state and some background history of the Sistine chapel as no one should speak inside the Sistine chapel, so the guide would explain about it outside.
The largest church globally and a paramount site in Christendom, your guide will tell about the history of the basilica built in the fourth century AD by Emperor Constantine , the blessing balcony and the apartment where the Pope lives.
Explore the Vatican Museums with an Expert Guide, visit the highlights of the incredible collections comprised of a colossal 20,000 works on display
Admire the captivating ancient Roman and Greek statues, Flemish tapestries crafted by Raphael’s students, and exquisite topographical depictions of Italy.
Your expert guide will narrate fascinating stories about these treasures, offering a personalized and insightful experience.
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.
From the Sistine chapel, your guide will use a special exit dedicated to the groups with official guides to go directly to San Peter Basilica where your guide will give some more information about the basilica.
For those seeking a more in-depth exploration, extend your visit inside St. Peter’s Basilica. The guide concludes the official tour in front of the Basilica, providing the flexibility to delve deeper.
Explore the catacombs beneath the Church, including San Peter’s tomb, or opt to climb the Dome for a unique city view and a glimpse of the Vatican Gardens.
Meeting and pickup information
- The meeting point is located in Borgo Pio, near St. Peter's square. The exact address is via Plauto 17/A. IMPORTANT: Please check your booking for the start time of the Vatican English tour. please, arrive 20 minutes before at the meeting point for the check-in. Thank you !
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Rome First Choice Tours
Meeting points and locations
Accessibility and practical details
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Most travelers can participate
- Unforeseen events - The Vatican is an independent country and therefore the Pope can decide also last minute to close St. Peter’s Basilica for ad hoc events. It is a very rare event during the year but it is possible and we will do our best to inform you. If it is too late to inform you, our guide will extend the tour in the Vatican. Not to worry that the incredible collection of Vatican Museums and the masterpiece of Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel will still be included.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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