pristine sistine vatican tour

Private Early Entrance Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel

Get privileged access to the vatican on a vip early morning private tour with st. peter’s basilica.

Looking for the ultimate private Vatican experience? This early morning tour lets you into the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel a full hour before the general public! With your own personal guide to lead you through the iconic sites and artwork, Vatican tours don’t come more exclusive than this. Be one of the first of the day to step inside the magnificent Sistine Chapel, get a closer viewing of the masterpieces inside the Vatican galleries, then skip the line to explore St. Peter’s Basilica!

• Super-early first entrance to the Vatican
• Beat the crowds for a more private experience
• Candelabra Gallery
• Gallery of the Tapestries
• Gallery of Maps
• Be one of the first inside the Sistine Chapel
• Skip the line to the Basilica
• St. Peter's Basilica
• Papal Tombs

Most early entrance Vatican tours will let you start exploring at 8:30 am, half an hour before the general public. But with our special access early morning private tour, you'll be one of the privileged few to enter even earlier, and you'll have a full hour to explore the Vatican before it opens its gates to the masses! You'll meet your expert guide early in the morning by the Vatican Museums entrance, then it's time to begin your private Vatican tour.

Although your guide will have a carefully planned itinerary to show you the best of the Vatican, there's room for flexibility depending on your group size, the things you want to see, and the pace you're comfortable with. Enjoy a tailored experience viewing the iconic works of the Vatican Museums and marvel at the Sistine Chapel without the crowds, before skipping the line to explore St. Peter's Basilica with your guide.

Early Morning Private Vatican Tour Description

Your 2.5-hour private Vatican tour includes:

Early entry, skip-the-line Vatican tickets

Tailored highlights tour of the main Vatican galleries

Exclusive Sistine Chapel tour before the crowds arrive

Skip-the-line tour of St. Peter's Basilica

An expert English-speaking private tour guide

The Best Galleries at the Vatican

Your private guide will lead you on through the Vatican Museums before the crowds arrive, visiting the Candelabra Gallery, Gallery of the Tapestries, and Gallery of Maps. Admire the ancient Roman and Greek statues, the Flemish tapestries created by Raphael's students, and the gorgeous topographical depictions of Italy.

At the height of the Roman Empire, pontiffs rarely left Rome. In order to understand the Italian peninsula without endangering his life, Pope Gregory XIII commissioned 40 giant meticulous maps to be created for his use. Most of these maps measure more than 15 by 16 feet, and the end result is nothing short of spectacular.

You'll hear the stories behind these treasures from your expert guide as you see the most popular highlights of the Vatican Museums.

Sistine Chapel Without the Crowds

One of the top things to do in the Vatican City is, of course, to visit the Sistine Chapel. The chapel opens its doors at 8:00 am, well before the main crowds arrive, meaning you can literally be one of the first few people of the day to step inside and admire this beautiful, iconic chapel where popes have been elected for centuries. Speaking is not allowed in the chapel since it's a sacred space, so your guide will explain what you'll see before entering and give you a handy guide for reference.

Only when you are inside, it's clear why the Sistine Chapel is one of the most celebrated works of art in Western civilization. Michelangelo painted more than 600 figures in all, and the sheer magnitude of his endeavor is mind-blowing. As one of Michelangelo’s most prized masterpieces, the Sistine Chapel also serves as a gathering place for cardinals of the Catholic Church.

Majestic St. Peter’s Basilica

After your time in the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, you'll walk through a passageway that allows you to bypass the ticket lines and enter St. Peter's Basilica more quickly. Here, you'll be awestruck as your guide leads you around by the impressive architecture, statues, and artwork made by famous artists like Michelangelo and Bernini. Gaze upon the beautiful Pietà, the incredible mosaics, the Tomb of Innocent XI, and Bernini's canopy under the dome.

You tour ends here, but feel free to spend extra time enjoying the Basilica on your own afterwards.

  If your tour falls on a Wednesday, St. Peter’s Basilica is closed due to the Papal Audience. In this case, your guide will use this time to show you more masterpieces that the Vatican Museums has to offer.

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What you get with this tour

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AMAZING!!!!

The ROMAN Guy made my daughters and I'd vacation and tours extremely simple, easy and full of knowledge. Its the best way to go!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What to bring?

In addition to wearing or bringing clothing that covers your knees and shoulders, it's recommended to wear comfortable shoes. You're also welcome to bring a water bottle as it can get hot inside the Vatican during the summer months.

I have some doubts about my mobility. Is this tour right for me?

If you have any doubts about your mobility then this is a great tour for you to take. Your private guide will ensure you are comfortable the entire way and can tailor the tour to your needs.

What are the chances my tour will be canceled or the Vatican will close something.

Although it is rare, sometimes part of the Vatican closes with little notice. If an area normally covered on a tour is closed, your guide will be sure to make up the time in other areas.

Does this tour really enter before other groups?

Yes! The public has access at 9:00 am, while other early-access tours enter at 8:30 am. This tour is admitted at 8:00 am, which is a full hour before the crowds.

Does this tour always include St. Peter's Basilica?

St. Peter's is always included on this private Vatican Museums tour, except on Wednesdays when it is closed in the morning for the Papal Audience.

In addition to wearing or bringing clothing that covers your knees and shoulders, it's recommended to wear comfortable shoes. You're also welcome to bring a water bottle as it can get hot inside the Vatican during the summer months.

Is photography allowed in the Sistine Chapel?

No, photography is not allowed inside the Sistine Chapel.

Does the Vatican ever experience sudden closures?

During state visits or special religious events, parts of the Vatican may be closed unexpectedly and without much notice. If an area normally visited during a tour is suddenly closed, our guide will still provide explanations of the closed areas and show you another gallery to compensate for the lost time in the usual location.

Is there a dress code to enter the religious sites on this tour?

We ask both men and women to cover knees and shoulders, otherwise the Vatican might refuse entry to religious sites and you’ll miss out on a portion of your tour. We understand the summers in Rome can be hot, so a great alternative is to bring a shawl/scarf/sweater with you. That way you can cover your knees and shoulders when necessary.

Free 24-hr cancellation on group tours! Learn more

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Pristine sistine early entrance vatican tour.

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Early Vatican - Small Group Vatican Tour at 7am

• Tour Code: TUR-01446
• Type: Small Group
• Duration: 3.5 Hours
• Departs from:
• Meeting Place:

Price Starting From : EUR 116 (Pricing is per person based on 2 pax traveling) Note : Price also Depends on Point of Departure & Number of Participants. Get in touch with us today to get an accurate quote!

Inclusions/Exclusions

Pricing & availability, tour highlights and what's included.

• Skip the Line Access tickets to the Vatican Museums (with early entrance an hour before the general public!)
• Skip the Line Access to St. Peter’s Basilica
• Expert Walks of Italy tour guide
• Small groups, never more than 14 people

What's Not Included

Please contact us today by either phone or email for assistance with this booking. Email : [email protected] Toll Free : 1-866-779-2565

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The trip was great we appreciate all the hard work you and your team invested to make our experience a once in a lifetime trip. We appreciate all the attention to the details in particular Giuseppe spending the time and the focus with us on the road and as we were exploring your great country. ... [Read More]

In September of 2018 I brought a group of 12 from Venice to Sicily and organized all of my services with the Italy Vacation Specialists. Being a travel agent and in the business, I know how complicated organizing travel arrangements can be in Italy and the IVS team took a huge burden off of me! I would like to start of by saying "THANK YOU" both for the amazing job you did on our trip. There was n ... [Read More]

I went to high school with the owner of the company who organized my honeymoon for myself and my now wife from Tokyo. We spent three short weeks seeing Piedmont and experiencing wine paradise there, then heading to Nice in France with our private driver and flying to Rome where honestly 4 days is NOT enough. They keep saying to spend more time and we could not agree more! You need to spend more ti ... [Read More]

In August 2018, my family of four and myself travelled from Vancouver, BC to Rome Italy and spent 3 weeks touring Italy with IVS. This company had come highly recommended by many friends and associates of ours who had used them before and indeed to say they do an outstanding job is an understatement. You can tell while being in Italy that it is one complicated place to run tours in, just by the ... [Read More]

We're home now from the most amazing trip to Italy! I can't thank you enough for your efforts and coordination of what was without question the finest vacations I've been on to date. ... [Read More]

I traveled with JoAnn West through your services, guided by Giuseppe, in July of this year. What a wonderful experience; your service is really top notch! If I return to Italy for a tour, I will absolutely use your services again and recommend you to my friends! ... [Read More]

I am a travel agent from Lebanon and have organized several group tours as well as individual tours of Italy with Italy Vacation Specialists. I highly recommend them as one of the very best tour operators in Italy to work with, given their professionalism and work ethic which I feel is second-to-none in the travel industry. All of the staff, the guides, the coaches and even the meals we enjoyed we ... [Read More]

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Pristine Sistine at Closing Time: Late Entry Vatican Tour

1370 reviews

Why take this tour?

• See the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel without the crowds on a relaxing tour before closing time.
• Visit the Vatican Museums with skip-the-line access.
• Savour the splendor of the Sistine Chapel and famous works of art like "Laocoön and His Sons".
• Enjoy insightful commentary from your guide to make the most of your visit.
• Sites Visited
• Vatican Museums
• Sistine Chapel
• Pinecone Courtyard
• Belvedere Courtyard with Ancient Greek & Roman sculptures
• Gallery of the Candelabra
• Gallery of the Maps
• Gallery of the Tapestries
• Tour Includes
• Skip-the-line Vatican Museums tickets
• Expert Walks tour guide

Avoid the crowds on this peaceful afternoon Vatican and Sistine Chapel tour

Total customer reviews: 1370, latest reviews.

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Private Early Morning Sistine Chapel with Vatican Tour

See the Sistine Chapel through the eyes of the popes, visiting the Vatican Museums in the early morning

Starts from 645 €

(57 Reviews)

• tour overview
• tour description
• tour reviews

starting time 7:45

duration 3,5 hours

Tour Overview

Discover the jaw-dropping treasures of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel at their best on this special early-morning tour. With skip-the-lines access, we’ll be entering the Vatican collections first thing, exploring the highlights of the galleries in the tranquility of the early morning. Gaze on the secrets of Michelangelo’s era-defining masterpieces in the Sistine Chapel at the best time of the day, and let our expert art-historian guide bring the iconic Birth of Adam to life. Get an in-depth understanding of Raphael’s School of Athens in the papal apartments, and discover the unexpected masterpieces of the Vatican museum’s collections of ancient art - your private guide can personalise the itinerary to suit you! Finish your tour by skipping the lines at St. Peter’s Basilica, home to Michelangelo’s Pietà, Bernini’s incredible baldacchino and the largest dome in the world. Join us to find out why our early-entrance private Vatican tour is one of our most popular itineraries!

• Early entrance to the Vatican Museums
• Skip the line tickets to the Vatican
• Expert English-speaking guide
• St. Peter's tour

• The Sistine Chapel
• The Raphael Rooms with School of Athens
• The Belvedere Courtyard
• St. Peter's Basilica (except on Wednesdays)
• Michelangelo's Pieta

• The Ancient Sculpture Galleries
• The Hall of Maps
• The Tapestries Gallery
• The Gallery of the Candelabras
• Sarcophagi of Helena and Costanza

Tour Description

Early morning vatican museums tour: in the footsteps of the popes.

Our private tour offers the perfect environment to explore the Sistine Chapel and other works of incomparable beauty of the Vatican Museums and to fully comprehend their meaning. Your personal guide will help you visualize the cultural context in which such works arose, immersing you in the climate of the Renaissance, in the passions that accompanied artists and princes, merchants and bankers in the creation of a new world of palaces, domes, and cities. Our exclusive Vatican private tour will take you to discover this happy season of human history when the flowering of the arts was accompanied by the evolution of science, together laying the foundations for much of our modern world.

Tour the Sistine Chapel: meet a genius

Whoever sees the Sistine Chapel through the eyes of Michelangelo, whoever reads in it his thoughts and sentiments, encounters genius. Who he was, how he lived and what he thought. Your guide will accompany you on this Vatican private tour into the great building projects of the Italian Renaissance and together you will relive the environment of the Florentine Renaissance and the Papal court in Rome in which Michelangelo created his masterpieces. The figures of Jonah, Adam, Eve, Noah and thousands of others on the ceiling of the  Sistine Chapel  and in the  Last Judgement  speak of Michelangelo and of the Renaissance: our private tour will reveal clearly what they say, and how and why these frescoes of the Vatican Museums have redefined not only art, but the way in which we look at the world.

The Raphael Rooms: enter into the courts of the Italian Renaissance

This was a period of overwhelming enthusiasm and of amazing innovation. The men of the Renaissance didn't merely dream of changing the world - they really revolutionised it. The printing press, the geographic maps with which Columbus reached the Americas, modern science, architecture, art and the sense of beauty (a concept demonized in the Middle Ages), all these were their creations. The frescoes of the  Raphael rooms  perfectly depict the world of the contemporary courts that governed the course of this new world and where the great geniuses of the age called home. The cultured conversations fueled by the wine of sumptuous banquets, the statues brought to light by a frenzied passion for excavations, new fashions, and above all new ways of thinking and living, are marvellously recreated by Raphael with the perfect touch of his graceful brush. This is an experience that we will have the opportunity to relive in the flesh on our private Vatican tours. There is an entire world to discover here, a world of which we ourselves are the children.

The Vatican Museums: stories of art and history

Some of the the most important works that we will discover, such as timeless Greek masterpieces like the  Laocoon , the  Belvedere Torso  and the  Apollo Belvedere , were excavated at the time of Michelangelo and Raphael, who studied and admired them in the same architectural context in which they are preserved today. The artworks that they created are the fruit of their careful study. And so we too will pass through the  Pinecone courtyard , the  Belvedere courtyard  and the tapestry galleries on our Vatican private tour, discovering a selection of masterpieces with a guide capable of recreating the climate of the epoch, helping you to appreciate the Raphael Rooms and the Sistine Chapel in their historical context.

From the Sistine Chapel we will directly enter St. Peter's Basilica (except on Wednesday's) without waiting in line

St. Peter's Basilica: The Story of Faith

This part of our guided visit will bring us to the heart of the Christian faith, and along the way we will discover an incredible collection of relics and religious tokens that have accumulated here over the course of nearly 2,000 years at the site of St. Peter's tomb. At the same time you will have the chance to admire and understand enchanting works of art such as  Michelangelo's Pietà , a work whose intimate embrace overflows with such tenderness that it can move even the hardest viewer to tears. The masterpieces of  Bernini , the great genius of the Italian Baroque, also dominate St. Peter's, and the spectacular eponymous piazza dazzles with astounding optical effects. It is here that the faithful have gathered for centuries to celebrate the great events of Christianity, from the election of new popes to solemn masses. We will bring you here to read a history that will also become our own, a history lived by the protagonists of our fascinating Vatican tours.

The Basilica of St.Peter's may be subject to unscheduled closings and late openings for religious ceremonies. Because these are often last-minute for security reasons, we do not have time to notify our guests. We will provide you with a complete experience by exploring the Vatican Museums in more detail. Therefor we will not provide any refunds.

Please note that the Wednesday morning tour will not visit St. Peter's Basilica , as the church is closed for the weekly Papal Audience at this time. The tour will run as normal, with the extra time spent exploring the Vatican Museums in more detail.  

meeting point

Tour Reviews

5.0 (57 reviews)

The crowds were crazy even at this hour and we had to move more quickly than we would have liked through some sections, but our guide Enrica was great, extremely knowledgeable, and passionate about the Vatican museums. We’re glad we booked the guided tour rather than just getting a ticket.

Stevel - Aug 01, 2024

Our tour guide was one of the most knowledgeable people I have ever met. He knew everything there was to know about the history of the artwork and the Vatican. Thoroughly enjoyed this tour and would highly recommend it!

Stephanie - Jul 24, 2024

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Visit The Sistine Chapel - How To Prepare For The Best Experience!

By Elyssa Bernard

November 21, 2023

When I went to visit the Sistine Chapel for the first time, I don’t think I was prepared for how much I would have to take in.

My senses were completely overloaded, and a feeling of true awe washed over me.

I wish I could bottle that feeling.

It was just so wonderful, and I feel it every time I visit this beautiful place.

The best way to visit the Sistine Chapel

I feel very lucky that I've been able to visit the Sistine Chapel many times since then.

And every time, I feel the same way.

I step inside, my eyes try to take it all in, and I let the overwhelming power of the art, the artists, and the history envelope me. 

If you’re planning to visit the Sistine Chapel, here’s everything you need to know (yes I know it's a lot!)

Where is the Sistine Chapel and how can you visit it?

• What are the Sistine Chapel hours?
• How much does it cost? Are there any discounts? Is it possible to see the Sistine Chapel for free? 

Can you visit the Sistine Chapel with the Roma Pass?

• Can you visit just the Sistine Chapel without visiting the Vatican Museums?
• How can you avoid the crowds inside the Sistine Chapel?
• Is there a limit to how much time you can spend inside the Sistine Chapel?
• What is the difference between Saint Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel?

Why is it called the Sistine Chapel?

Did michelangelo lie on his back to paint the ceiling, what is the sistine chapel used for is it really a chapel, why can’t you take pictures inside the sistine chapel, is the sistine chapel wheelchair accessible, what are the best tours to take of the sistine chapel.

• Is it worth taking an early morning tour to see the Sistine Chapel before it’s open to the general public?

The Sistine Chapel is inside the Vatican Museums in Vatican City .

Click here to view a map of Vatican City (it opens in a new window.)

It’s the last thing you visit in the museums.

You can visit the Sistine Chapel by purchasing a ticket to the Vatican Museums .

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What are the Sistine Chapel hours and opening days?

As the Sistine Chapel is part of the Vatican Museums , it's open every day Monday-Saturday from 8am-7pm.

With extended hours on Saturday and Sunday to 8pm during high season.

Last entry to the museums is at 5pm.

The museums are also open the last Sunday of every month for free , from 9am-2pm.

Last entry is 12pm - expect crowds!

Sistine Chapel costs and discounts

How much are tickets are there any discounts.

Starting January 1, 2024 tickets to the Vatican Museums (where the Sistine Chapel is) will increase in price:

• 20€ per person over 18
• 8€ for anyone 6-18
• free for children 5 and younger

Tickets are also free for the disabled and their caregiver .

Buy Sistine Chapel tickets now

when can you visit The Sistine Chapel for free?

• On the last Sunday of the month (unless it falls on a Catholic holiday), the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel are open and free for everyone .
• On World Tourism Day , September 27, the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel are open and free for everyone.

No, you cannot use the Roma Pass to visit the Sistine Chapel.

The Roma Pass does not include anything in Vatican City .

There are other passes that can be used - read more about them here .

Can you visit JUST the Sistine Chapel?

No, it’s not possible to just visit the Sistine Chapel without visiting the Vatican Museums. 

You can, however, take the shortest route possible from the entry of the museums.

Go up the escalator as soon as you enter the museums.

Skip the Pinacoteca, Pinecone Courtyard, and Octagonal Courtyard.

Make a left at the top of the elevator and walk until you come to a set up stairs going up on your left.

Go straight up two sets of stairs.

Walk through the Candelabra room, Tapestries gallery and the Maps hall.

Skip the Raphael rooms, and go directly to the Sistine Chapel.

This will take less than half an hour if you don’t stop to look at anything.

How to see JUST the Sistine Chapel (sort of), without massive crowds

This is what tour companies offer with their "pre-opening, visit the Sistine Chapel before the crowds come" tours.

They beeline to the Sistine Chapel so you can enjoy it before the doors open to the public.

Then, the tour guide will do a loop back to the exit/entrance of the museums before doing a normal tour through the museums so you don't miss out.

But, you can sign up for one of these early morning tours, and simply leave after you've visited the Sistine Chapel.

You can sign up for this Pristine Sistine tour with Walks of Italy.

It's a superb tour, even if you only visit the Sistine Chapel and leave the tour early.

How can you avoid the crowds? When is the least crowded time to visit the Sistine Chapel?

The Sistine Chapel is one of the most popular sites in Rome , so it can be notoriously crowded in there, to the point where you don’t even want to be there and can’t deal with the crowds.

I have heard so many visitors say they just wanted to get out. 

The most amazing way I've ever visited the Sistine Chapel is with the Vatican Museums clavigero - the key master who opens the museums at 6 AM and turns on all the lights .

You can book this tour, too!

Click here to book a tour with the Vatican Museums key master and turn on the lights in the Sistine Chapel!

And more likely than not, they missed a lot of the beauty because they didn’t feel good, and the crowds can make it hard to take it all in.

But there are times when it’s less crowded, believe it or not.

Here’s when you can try to visit the Sistine Chapel without (so many) people:

• Take an early-morning (pre-opening) tour . These tours are NOT exclusive, as many tour operators offer them. But you do race to the Sistine Chapel and get to be inside before the main door opens, and you will be with less people than during normal hours. You will then get to go back and have a tour of the museums.
• Visit Rome in low season , like early December, mid-January – mid-February , parts of November and parts of August .
• Visit the Vatican Museums as close to closing-time as possible. The crowds are on a kind of bell curve – there are fewer people first thing in the morning and then again at the end of the day. With this, you need to be careful to time it right, or you may miss something you want to see.
• Book an exclusive after-hours tour. This type of tour is expensive because it's truly exclusive. These tours are typically not offered in low season as there's not enough demand to make it worthwhile for a tour agency.

My Zen Bubble

Maybe you won't have the chance to visit the Sistine Chapel without the crowds.

I have visited it many times with large crowds.

This is what I do.

Throughout my visit to the Vatican Museums on a crowded day, I accept from the beginning that it's crowded.

Very crowded.

Once I accept it and let it go, it doesn't bother me any more.

Then, I decide what art I want to enjoy and I do my best to see it and get close to it.

I find some art without crowds.

This is ALWAYS possible, even on crowded days.

There are many rooms in the Vatican Museums that usually have fewer visitors, like the Etruscan collection, Pinacoteca and New Wing .

I get into my Zen Bubble.

I just decide I am alone with the art.

I decide not to let the crowds irritate me, I close off my senses to everything except the art and what's happening inside my heart and mind.

And when it comes time to visit the Sistine Chapel, I keep the zen bubble around me.

Michelangelo is there.

I can feel him.

I want to get close to him.

I do not let the crowds take away anything from me. 

Mind over matter.

Is there a limit to how much time you have to visit the Sistine Chapel?

If you are visiting alone, when you get to the Sistine Chapel, try to find a seat, sit down and try to block out everyone and everything and just take it all in.

You may want to try to then find a seat on the opposite side so you can see all the paintings on both sides.

The only limits as to how long you can spend in the Sistine Chapel are:

• If you're on a tour and your group has a schedule. You could leave the tour if you wanted to stay inside the Sistine Chapel. Just inform your guide you'll be staying there and not completing the tour.
• If you are inside close to closing time .

The perfect 3-day itinerary in Rome

Trying to figure out how to organize your visit to Rome? I've got the perfect 3-day itinerary for first-time visitors (or those who have not been here in a while.) It works for a 2.5 day visit as well.

In my 3-day itinerary, you'll see all the major must-see Rome attractions like the Vatican , Colosseum , Trevi Fountain , Pantheon , Piazza Navona , Spanish Steps , Castel Sant'Angelo , and much more.

And if you have more time, or want suggestions for extra/other things to do, you'll find that there too.

Visit my page with the best 3-day itinerary in Rome for first-timers .

What is the difference between Saint Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel? Are they both in the Vatican?

St Peter's Basilica Shortcut

You can only take the shortcut from the Sistine Chapel to St Peter's Basilica if you are on a tour that INCLUDES the basilica.

The shortcut is open from 9:30 am - 5 or 5:30PM, and it's ONLY accessible to tour companies or private guides that you book OUTSIDE the Vatican Museums website.

The Vatican Museums does not have any ticket or tour that includes the shortcut.

This means that you won't have access to the shortcut during the  KeyMaster tour , the  Extra Time tour , or any other tour that does not specifically include the basilica.

If you book any tour of the Vatican Museums, you can check the details to see if it finishes in the  Sistine Chapel  or the basilica.

Click here to view a map of Vatican City  (it will open in a new page.)

St Peter’s Basilica is one of the most important churches in the Catholic world, one of the four papal basilicas in Rome (the others are Santa Maria Maggiore , St John in Lateran  and St Paul Outside the Walls ).

It was built on the site of Saint Peter’s tomb ( which you can visit if you book in advance .)

You can easily visit Saint Peter’s Basilica by entering from Saint Peter’s Square .

You can also attend mass there, even mass with the pope if you book in advance .

All this is free.

The Sistine Chapel is a working chapel.

You will need to visit the Vatican Museums to see the Sistine Chapel, usually you need to pay for this, although there are some free dates (see above).

Disclosure: If you make a purchase through a link on this page, I may receive a small commission - at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my site!

Unlike Saint Peter’s Basilica , you cannot (easily) attend any liturgical services inside the Sistine Chapel.

This is typically reserved for the pope, some clergy, residents of Vatican City and their families.

Michelangelo had a huge part in the architecture of the basilica and the Sistine Chapel, designing both structural elements and artistic features that make both these places unique.

Many other artists were involved with both the Sistine Chapel, St Peter’s Basilica and its famous dome but it’s Michelangelo who is most famously associated with them both.

One of the things that strikes me the most when I visit these holy places is the overwhelming presence of Michelangelo.

At least, it’s how I feel, and it’s one reason he is my favorite artist of all.

Click here to visit my page all about Michelangelo and the Sistine Chapel for more!

When the pope is elected, he takes on a papal name.

For example, Pope Francis’ actual name is Jorge Mario Bergoglio.

In the Renaissance, many popes came from noble families.

Two popes came from the della Rovere noble family, Pope Sixtus IV , and Pope Julius II . 

The Sistine Chapel is named for Pope Sixtus IV who commissioned its construction as his private chapel.

Pope Sixtus IV's nephew Pope Julius II is the one who later had Michelangelo paint the ceiling.

One of my favorite books about Michelangelo is Irving Stone's "The Agony and the Ecstasy".

It's not 100% biographical but almost.

And it's a fun, fascinating, and easy read.

Yes, Michelangelo laid on his back to paint the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel – in the 1965 movie called “ The Agony and the Ecstasy ”, starring Charlton Heston as Michelangelo.

But the truth is that NO, Michelangelo did not lie on his back to paint the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel.

It’s much more complicated than this.

Find out more over here .

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The Sistine Chapel is the Pope's private chapel, as well as being a place for visitors like you and me.

There are many liturgical celebrations held here throughout the year.

In fact, the Sistine Chapel has a choir box with their own choir.

The Sistine Chapel is also where the conclave is held when it's time to select a new pope.

The word "conclave" comes from " con clave ", which means "with a key."

The cardinals lock themselves into the Sistine Chapel until a new pope is chosen.

This is a funny topic.

I think I've heard just about every answer to this question, but I believe I know the truth.

These are incorrect answers :

• Because the flash would damage the paintings
• Because a Japanese company paid for the restoration of the Sistine Chapel and they own the rights to images of it. (Those rights have long expired.)
• Because it’s the Pope’s chapel and a holy place
• Because the Vatican wants you to buy their merchandise

I have had the great fortune to visit the Sistine Chapel on several occasions where I was not only allowed, but encouraged, to take all the photos and video I wanted .

That’s why I have these images on the website.

I did not take them clandestinely, nor would I have.

On those occasions, we were inside the Sistine Chapel for a special reason. 

On two separate occasions, I was graciously invited to attend Vespers inside the Sistine Chapel, and we all had time before and after services to take photos and video.

On a few other occasions I have been alone (with a small group) inside the Sistine Chapel, and then we were allowed plenty of time for photos and videos.

This leads me to believe that the reason they don’t allow you to take photos inside the Sistine Chapel is crowd control.

They would never get people out if people could take photos.

It’s already a limited space, and it easily fills up to the brim during peak season.

Imagine if all those people were snapping away, taking pictures of the art, themselves, and each other.

They would not be able to get people IN and it would cause a huge bottleneck and fire hazard.

This is just my opinion, but I believe it makes sense.

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Yes, you can visit the Sistine Chapel (and much but not all of the Vatican Museums) in a wheelchair .

They also have a few wheelchairs at the Vatican Museums if you need one.

You cannot reserve this in advance.

Just ask for it when you arrive.

You cannot specifically take a tour of JUST the Sistine Chapel.

You need to book a tour of the Vatican Museums.

I have a whole page about the different types of Vatican Museums tours here .

No matter what season you visit Rome, here are 4 essential things we recommend never leaving home without:

Is it worth it to take an early morning tour to visit the Sistine Chapel?

I think the price of this type of tour is reasonable considering what you get.

It’s not super expensive like the after-hours tours, and it’s also not exclusive.

But you do get to see the Sistine Chapel without huge crowds and as a bonus, you get to finish your Vatican visit relatively early in the day.

Is it worth getting up that early ?

I have done it and it’s definitely worth it, at least in my opinion. 

Bottom line – if seeing the Sistine Chapel without the crowds is important to you, then bite the bullet and set your alarm.

One of the best early-morning tours to visit the Sistine Chapel before regular opening hours is Pristine Sistine with Walks of Italy .

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Express Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums Tour

With our exclusive Express Tour, our guide will help you experience the Sistine Chapel in peace.

• With our Early Access to the Vatican, no one can get you in earlier to the Sistine Chapel
• Let our guide take you directly to the Sistine Chapel
• Enjoy the Sistine Chapel before the crowds arrive and take in the frescoes in rare quiet and solitude
• Small groups of less than 12 people

Your Early-Morning Sistine Chapel Tour

What's included.

• Reserve entrance to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel
• Our exclusive Early Access
• Vatican Museum Map
• Entrance Tickets and Reservation Fees

Sites Visited

• Sistine Chapel
• Vatican Museums

Get in Before the Crowds

With our First Entry Reserved Access to the Vatican Museums, you will get ahead of the crowds and enter the  Sistine Chapel  among the first. Imagine being first into the Sistine Chapel?

After your guide leads you through the museums to the Sistine Chapel you will have the opportunity to take in Michelangelo's fabulous frescoes in an atmosphere of peace and quiet. There is no better way to experience what some consider to be the apex of Western Civilisation art from the Renaissance period. While the paintings and frescoes are instantly recognizable, viewing them in their original state is an experience that can be charged with emotion and awe.

So, make the most of your visit to the Sistine Chapel by availing of our reserved entrance and access to the Museums.

Check out our full range of Vatican Tours

Thousands of 5-Star Reviews

Tripadvisor, know before you go, meeting point.

Near Museum Entrance - Open in Google Maps

Important Notes

• Appropriate dress is required for entry into some sites on this tour. Knees, shoulders and backs must be covered.

Cancelation Policy

• Please be advised that some tour options are subject to a 24-hour cancelation policy. If you wish to cancel or amend your booking, you can do so without charge by contacting us up to 24 hours in advance of your expected departure time.
• Please be advised that some tour options are non-refundable, with no cancellations or date changes allowed due to pre-purchased tickets.
• It is mandatory to bring a valid ID or Passport for security checks, and entry will not be granted without proper documentation. Thank you for your cooperation.

Please note that the Vatican Museums offers free tickets for people with disabilities exceeding 74%. Show the required documentation (certification of invalidity) to our City Wonders staff at Meeting Point to avail of this. After the tour you can contact our CW Customer Care in order to get the reimbursement of Vatican ticket cost. However, due to some itinerary restrictions, we are unable to accommodate wheelchair users or customers with restricted mobility on our Vatican Group Tours.

We welcome wheelchair users on our Private Vatican tours. Wheelchair users are required to use a different route through the Vatican Museums. Our Private Vatican Tours fully accommodate wheelchair users and persons of reduced mobility. Your guide will bring you through the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel, but not the Basilica. 

*Important note: Neither option detailed above includes the special skip-the-line access to Saint Peter's Basilica as it is not wheelchair accessible. If you wish to visit Saint Peter's Basilica after your tour, you will need to exit the Vatican Museums, go to Saint Peter's Square and queue to enter. Entry to the Basilica is free. 

No. With our tickets, it is not possible to re-enter the Vatican once you leave as the Vatican tickets are single entry only.

Throughout most of the Museums and in St. Peter's Basilica it is possible to take photographs. However, photography is strictly prohibited inside the Sistine Chapel.

• Book Direct: Best prices always guaranteed.
• Multilingual Customer Service: Talk to us, we are here to help.
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Semi-Private Sistine Chapel, Vatican Museums & St. Peter's Basilica Tour

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Best Vatican tours: Sistine Chapel, Vatican Museums and St Peter’s Basilica

This article may contain compensated links. See our full disclosure here

Touring the Vatican is one of the top things to do in Rome. But deciding which tour to choose can be overwhelming. We’re here to help you find the best Vatican tour for your trip.

Summary of recommended tours

We’ve provided a complete analysis of the best Vatican tours available in this article. This includes dates and times available, duration and other useful information. Here is a summary if you’re the kind of person who wants quick answers.

Best standard tours

• Walks of Italy – Complete Vatican Tour  (small groups up to 20 people)
• LivTours – Skip the line Highlights of the Vatican tour (small groups up to 6 people – 5% off with code – UntoldItaly)
• CityWonders – Skip the line tour of the Vatican (larger groups)
• Vatican official – Standard Vatican tour (provided by the museums – historic focus)

5% discount on small group tours with LivTours. Discount applied at checkout when you click this link  or use code ‘UntoldItaly’

Best early access tours (beat the crowds).

• Walks of Italy – VIP Key Masters Tour (open the Sistine Chapel at 6.00am – small group tour) – this is the earliest and most exclusive tour
• Walks of Italy – Alone in the Vatican (small group and early access from 6.30am)
• LivTours – Alone in the Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums (small group with early access from 6.30am, includes breakfast in the Pine Cone Courtyard)
• Walks of Italy – Pristine Sistine – best first access with the general public tour

*Note, in 2024 the Vatican Museums changed it’s early entry policy to allow only a handful of visitors access prior to 8am when doors are open to the general public. Places on these exclusive tours are extremely limited

What to see on a Vatican tour

First, let’s clear up exactly what ‘the Vatican’ is so you can decide which parts you wish to tour. The Vatican is in fact an independent city state within Rome ruled by the Pope – the head of the Catholic church. It is the smallest country on Earth with an area of 0.44 square kilometers and population of just 1,000.

The main areas to visit inside the Vatican City are:

• St Peter’s Basilica including cupola (dome), tombs and square – more info
• Vatican Museums including the Sistine Chapel – the world’s greatest art collection with works by Raphael, Giotto, Caravaggio and of course Michelangelo
• Vatican Gardens – arguably the most beautiful gardens in Rome with stunning views of St Peters, grottoes and lawns

Most Vatican tours will include visiting both St Peters and the Vatican Museums as part of their package. The gardens can only be accessed by a separate tour usually combined with a tour of the Vatican Museums (but not St Peters).

Why take a tour of the Vatican Museums and St Peters

There are two main reasons to join a tour of the Vatican – experience and convenience.

With over 6 million visitors a year, the Vatican Museums and St Peters are among the most popular attractions in Rome and the world. And rightly so. Their collection of art is mind boggling in scale and value. And the historical importance of the buildings is almost unparalleled.

Unless you are a highly educated art historian, there is no way you will know what to look for among all the glitz and walls dripping with priceless paintings. And unfortunately, the information provided by the museums is disappointing.

Visit with a guide and they will be able to point out the most important pieces and their symbolism and significance. Not to mention the major events that have taken place between those walls.

You will spend at least 2 – 3 hours visiting the Vatican no matter how you approach your visit. This is because it takes that amount of time to move through the buildings. That being the case, it makes sense to have an expert guide you through the highlights.

Tours start in the Vatican Museums skipping the long lines for tickets and use a special entrance to St Peter’s from the Sistine Chapel to avoid the separate lines for the Basilica. So if you are not on a tour or have not pre-purchased tickets you will need to line up twice to see both main areas of the Vatican.

Prefer to visit without a guide?

Make sure you buy skip the line tickets prior to your visit to avoid waiting in lines – around 2-3 hours during peak periods.

You can buy tickets for the Vatican Museums on the official site here or if you are having trouble using the site or they are sold out you can buy Vatican  Museums skip the line tickets with authorized ticket seller GetYourGuide here .

St Peter’s Basilica is a separate site with its own entrance. Be aware – security line times can extend well over an hour during peak periods

What to look for in a tour of the Vatican

By law, all guides operating in the Vatican must hold a license that can only be obtained by a very strict examination process. So you know that any guide you tour with will have a thorough knowledge of the details, dates, and facts of the art and buildings you visit.

Your choice really comes down to timing, group size, inclusions, length and style and price of tour. Generally, the size and length of tour will determine the price, however, you also pay extra for exclusive experiences.

• Timing – early morning and evening tours are available and are strictly limited so you will have fewer crowds to contend with
• Group size – if budget allows, try to book a tour with a group size less than 20. Any more than this and you’ll be struggling to hear (despite headsets) or engage with your guide
• Inclusions and itinerary  – basic and express tours of the Vatican focus on the highlights of the Vatican Museums (Sistine Chapel, Gallery of Maps, Michelangelo’s masterpieces, Pinacoteca Courtyard) plus St Peter’s interior. Longer tours will take you to the Underground Crypts, the Carriage Pavilion and Nero’s bath
• Length – the shortest tours available are around 2 hours and you can also join full day tours of the Vatican.
• Budget – basic tours start at around €40 for large group tours while you can pay between €300 – €500 per person for a private tour of the Vatican

Worth Noting

• We have not found a tour that includes visiting St Peter’s dome. If you want to ascend the dome you will need to buy a ticket at the basilica office at the conclusion of your tour
• If you find yourself waiting in line for tickets and wishing you had booked a tour, please do not join one of those offered by the scammers that work the crowd. They are not recommended – expensive and basically just entry tickets (if that!)

The best Vatican tour companies

Here are some of the most popular operators and our assessment of how they differ. There are literally hundreds of tour operators working in the Vatican so we have chosen the best for different types of travelers.

• Walks of Italy – working closely in partnership with the Vatican Museums to create unique and engaging experiences for English speaking visitors, the Walks of Italy offerings Pristine Sistine and VIP Key Masters tours are outstanding 
• Vatican official tours – The Vatican Museums tours are generally the least expensive option but note that group sizes start at 16 people. Expect a focus on religious history and the church. Their Art and Faith tours are focused on the relationship between art and religion in the context of the history of the Catholic Church in Rome – view all official Vatican tours
• LivTours – this Rome based company is known for their very small group and private tours and knowledgeable guides who are expert at adjusting tours for their guests’ interest and knowledge level – view all LivTours Vatican tours PLUS 5% off with code ‘UntoldItaly’ 

Best Vatican tours

We chose the best small and larger group tours of the Vatican offered by the tour companies mentioned above. We used our own experience and cross checked this with ratings on tours on TripAdvisor, GetYourGuide and other media. This is updated on an ongoing basis so we can bring you the best tours available.

Please note – If you are visiting on a Wednesday, your tour group will not be able to enter St Peter’s basilica due to the weekly Papal Address. In this case, the tour will include additional galleries of the museums.

If you are looking for a private Vatican tour please skip forward to the section below.

Standard tours of the Vatican

Most tour operators offer a standard 2 – 3 hour Vatican tour that includes highlights of the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel and St Peter’s. These tours start at the same time the museums are open to the general public.

Your tour includes skip the line for tickets and have a dedicated guide escorting you and explaining the art and history.  But, there is no escaping the crowds, unfortunately. You will however be able to use the group entrance into St Peter’s avoiding a half hour walk back to the main entrance and line for the basilica.

Early morning Vatican tours

We think that early access tours are the best way to experience the Vatican. You can see the priceless artwork in relative solitude as you pay a premium to enter without the crowds. If these tours are within budget then we strongly suggest choosing the earliest tour available.

The Vatican Museums allow a very limited number of people each day in to the galleries at 6:00am with the “ clavigero ” or key keeper of the Museums. You can join this unforgettable tour led by the wonderful team at Walks of Italy – more info and booking instructions here . Note – this applies to the museums only and does not include access to St Peter’s. If you would like to read our complete review of this experience – visit this page

LISTEN: to our Vatican Museums Tips and   Highlights podcast episode with Walks of Italy co-founder Stephen Oddo

Complete Vatican tours

If you’re an art and history lover it is fair to say that 2-3 hours will barely scratch the surface of the 54 galleries and 20,000 works on display. These early start tours ensure you see the highlights as well as some of the lesser known treasures in the museums such as Nero’s bath, the Borgia apartments, Pinacoteca Vaticana and 16th century double helix Bramante staircase which inspired the modern version of the same name. Visit the Vatican Museums ticket office to learn about openings of special galleries and sections of the Museums.

Family friendly tour of the Vatican

Do you want to take the whole family to tour the Vatican Museums? We suggest giving this a lot of consideration especially if you have very young children. They will need to do a lot of walking, often in hot and stuffy rooms and remain silent in the Sistine Chapel.

If you do decide to go, booking a family friendly tour is a great idea. Your tour will be tailored to the interests of children and your guide will assist in keeping your kids entertained so you can enjoy the experience too.

LivTours offer a fun family friendly interactive tour in the Vatican designed especially for families. This is a great way to introduce your children to the history and stories behind this precious art collection.

Special Vatican tours

Evening vatican museum tours.

During the summer months the Vatican Museums open from 19:00pm to 23:00pm on Friday evenings. With limited numbers allowed into the galleries you can enjoy them without the crowds and in the cooler night air. This exclusive experience will no doubt be a highlight of your trip to Rome.

Note – this experience does not include visiting St Peter’s basilica so you would need to go there separately

Recommended night Vatican tours

• Vatican Museums official [group size up to 30]  – click for info
• Walks of Italy [group size max 15] at 19:30pm – click for details

Claim your 5% discount on small group tours with LivTours.   Click here and use code ‘UntoldItaly’

Vatican Garden Tours

The Papal gardens are among the finest in Europe that are centuries old. A stroll through the gardens reveals sculptures, fountains and stunning views of the basilica. They are an oasis away from the chaos of the city beyond.

A tour of the gardens will help you appreciate the history and stories behind the many works of art within the gardens and their significance to the Catholic church. There is a replica of the sacred Lourdes grotto in France as well as monuments and statues collected by and dedicated to former popes.

An advantage of doing a tour of the gardens is that it also includes admission to the Vatican Museums. And yes, you skip the lines. No tour is provided in the museums, however.

Vatican Scavi tours

If you have a particular interest in Christianity and history, there could be no bigger thrill to see what is said to be the tomb of St Peter the apostle, deep below the basilica that bears his name. Only 250 people per day are allowed into this sacred area as part of escorted 90 minute tours run by the Vatican. Tour groups are small with only 12 people visiting the excavation site and tomb.

You need to book this tour months in advance by following the instructions on the official Vatican excavations office page . Please note – children under 15 years may not go on this tour. You may not take photos on the tour.

Private Vatican tours

Would you prefer a fully private tour of the Vatican Museums? Private tours are a great way to enjoy the Vatican at your own pace and to see those things you really want to see. Starting at around €350, they can also be more cost effective if you are traveling in a larger group. We recommend  LivTours for private Vatican tours.

DISCOVER: The Best hotels near the Vatican City .

Useful information for visiting the Vatican

Both the Vatican Museums and St Peter’s basilica are religious sites. Men and women should cover knees and shoulders as a sign of respect. You may be refused entry if you are not suitably attired.

During the hot Roman summers you might like to bring a light shawl or scarf as an alternative to wearing clothing that covers your shoulders.

Tours are not offered on Sundays when the museums are either closed or open to the public for free admission.

Tour itineraries do not include St Peter’s basilica on Wednesday due to the usual Papal audience in the piazza.

The best day to do a standard Vatican tour is probably Tuesday when you avoid the extended long weekend European visitors.

If you want to do an early morning tour choose from Monday, Tuesday, Thursday or Saturday.

Night tours of the Vatican are only available on Fridays from April to October.

Yes, it is a condition of entry that all people entering the Vatican Museums and St Peters pass security checks. Don’t worry, these lines move quickly

Yes, cloakroom facilities are found near the entrance to the Vatican Museums and there is a separate cloakroom for St Peters. Both are free of charge

Yes, you can take photos (without flash) in most areas except the Sistine Chapel where photography of any kind is not allowed. Flash photography is forbidden in all areas as it may damage the artwork

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The Complete Vatican Tour with Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter’s Basilica

• Enjoy a complete tour of the Vatican and go beyond the expected, gaining deeper insight into its countless artistic and architectural treasures.
• See the best of the Vatican Museums—from the Sistine Chapel to the Raphael Rooms and the Belvedere Courtyard—and explore St. Peter’s Basilica, home to Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s Baldachin.
• Avoid often hours-long lines with skip-the-line access at both the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica.
• Relax in the company of a small group, making it easier for you to engage with our 5-star guides.

Preview the experience

Tour description, more than the sistine chapel—this skip-the-line tour shows you the best of the vatican museums..

Our Complete Vatican Tour goes beyond the ordinary to give you unrivaled insight into one of the world's most sacred sites. From the Sistine Chapel and Raphael Rooms to incredible ancient sculptures you may never have heard of, our route through the Vatican Museums visits all the sights you wanted to see—plus some surprises you didn’t expect.

The pièce-de-resistance, of course, is the Sistine Chapel. By the time we arrive at the crown jewel of the Vatican, your guide will have explained the stories and secrets behind the paintings—what they mean and why they’re so renowned—so you can fully appreciate every detail.

Enjoy a guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica (and skip the line!).

Located outside of the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica has its own entrance and its own rules, with limited hours for guided tours. Our Complete Vatican Tour ensures that you get inside the Basilica (and avoid the long line to get in!) with your expert guide to enjoy Michelangelo’s moving Pietà, Bernini’s ornate Baldachin, and the chair of St. Peter, among other treasures.

Explore with one of the best guides in the business on our Complete Vatican Tour.

We’ve spent years growing a team of passionate experts who want to share the Vatican with you. Combine them with a small group and you have a recipe for sightseeing perfection! We also use privileged entrances at the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica, bypassing general access lines that can stretch for hours at each site during high season.

The Complete Vatican Tour offers an uncompromising, unhurried exploration of the world’s most fascinating independent state for those who want a truly in-depth Vatican experience.

Note: The special access passage between the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica is closed on Wednesdays and subject to other unexpected closures during special celebrations/festivities, including the Easter ceremonies. On such days we will instead explore the magnificent Pinoteca Gallery.

Sometimes guides may not be allowed to give tours inside St. Peter's Basilica, in which case they will share a brief explanation from outside and you will be free to visit the Basilica by yourself.

Please note that this description is an example and your experience may vary depending on the season, day of the week, and group size. Regardless of where your tour goes, you always have an excellent experience.

Sites visited

Verified guest reviews, sep 11, 2024.

Sev was fantastic.

Sep 08, 2024

The tour was excellent. Our guide Sabrina was very knowledgeable - you couldn’t fault her. I’d recommend the tour

Very enjoyable tour. The guide knowledgeable and friendly. Highly recommend.

Sep 07, 2024

We were so glad we booked this tour. Not only did it mean we weren’t just walking around by ourselves ( it is so busy) but the information from our guide Maria Teresa was also informative with all the history and in-sites we needed. There was plenty of time to take photos and just soak up the atmosphere. We are very independent travellers but would not want to do this one on our own. Line up to get tickets after we had finished was at least 200 meters long, standing in the sun, no thanks. Brad and Silvia

Sep 04, 2024

Tour was awesome, very insightful and tour guide, Maria Teresa was very nice and knowledgeable thank you!

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Make it a perfect day.

Check off Rome’s major sights and hidden gems on this perfect one-day itinerary for your trip to the Eternal City.

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Pristine sistine at closing time: late entry vatican tour, pristine sistine™ early entrance small group vatican tour, st. peter’s basilica from top to bottom with dome climb & crypt.

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