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Semi-Private Early Morning Sistine Chapel & Vatican Tour allows you to be among the first to enter the storied halls of the Vatican Museums and see the Sistine Chapel, in all its glory.

Highlights

• Enter the Vatican Museums in the early morning hours
• Be amongst the first of the day to visit the Sistine Chapel & Raphael Rooms
• Enjoy comprehensive tour of the Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter’s Basilica
• Get a personalized semi-private tour in a small group of 6
• Get an overview of hundreds of years of art history in just one tour

Description

Your Semi-Private Early Morning Vatican Tour will begin near the Vatican Museums’ entrance. Here you will meet your professional and charismatic tour guide. The tour will begin with the Pinecone Courtyard and Octagonal Courtyard. Learn about the greatest statues of antiquity. From the mysterious composition of the Greek statue of the Laocoon, to the Apollo Belvedere and the Belvedere Torso, which despite it’s ruined state, inspired generations of artists. Then, stop to admire the art and decoration of the Gallery of the Maps and the Gallery of the Tapestries. Then, onto to the world-renowned Sistine Chapel, Michelangelo’s masterpiece. Because this Chapel is the number one attraction inside the Vatican, LivTours believes it is important to give guests the time and space they need to fully appreciate it. Stand in amazement as you gaze onto Michelangelo’s awe-inspiring ceiling frescoes. Wonder over the breathtaking “The Last Judgement” before the major surge of crowds. Your tour will continue by visiting the Raphael Rooms before the rush of tourists. Guests will be privy to some of the most important works of art in the museum – all without the rush of the usual crowds around them. With your tour guide by your side, you’ll learn about the intriguing stories and meaning behind the paintings that adorn the walls of the pope’s private apartments. Once you’re done, you’ll head directly into St. Peter’s Basilica. This VIP access saves time and allows you to skip-the-line. Once inside, you’ll be greeted by the breathtaking space, which is the largest Catholic church in the world. Two of the glorious works of art that you will get to see up close include Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s Baldacchino. Before you leave St. Peter’s Basilica, your guide will tell you about the Papal Tombs and share how to access the dome of St. Peter’s. Conclude your Early Morning Vatican Tour by walking around Piazza San Pietro Square and taking in the grandeur that is St. Peter’s.

Includes

Fully guided experience Pinecone courtyard Octagonal Courtyard & Belvedere Palace Muses Room & Belvedere Torso Lacoon statue Apollo of the Belvedere statue Gallery of Candelabra Gallery of Maps Gallery of Tapestries Raphael Rooms School of Athens painting Sistine Chapel Michelangelo's ceiling St. Peter's Basilica* Bernini's bronze altar canopy St. Peter's square

Important Information

• Access to the Raphael Rooms depends on crowding, timing, and guard-regulated routes; inclusion is not guaranteed. The guide may adjust the itinerary to maintain quality. Due to the 2025 Jubilee, St. Peter’s Basilica may close unexpectedly. If closed, the guide will revise the tour to maintain its full value; no refunds apply. Modest dress required: shoulders and knees must be covered. The Sistine Chapel may open late for religious reasons; museum time will be extended accordingly. No photography in the Sistine Chapel; elsewhere, flash is prohibited. Silence is required inside the Sistine Chapel; the guide will brief you beforehand. St. Peter’s Basilica may close for liturgical events; the Museums portion will be extended with no compensation. Backpacks are not allowed in the Museum. Wheelchair users should book the private tour for accessible routing. All guests need government-issued ID for Vatican entry. Please inform us if a disability may grant you free Vatican access.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund