Rome: Vatican, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Small-Group Tour

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Experience the Vatican Museums on a guided tour, including Saint Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel.

Highlights

  • Enjoy a semi-private tour of no more than 6 people max with reserved entrance
  • Discover the masterpieces of the Vatican Museum with your expert guide
  • See works by Bramante, Michelangelo, Bernini, Bramante & Raphael on one tour
  • Visit the world's largest Christian basilica, the resting place of St Peter
  • See the world's most prized artwork

Description

Your Vatican & Sistine Chapel tour begins with direct access to the Vatican Museums, meaning no waiting in line. Experience the wonders of the Pinecone and Octagonal Courtyard, and the Belvedere Torso. Stroll throughout the Round Room and admire the Constantine coffins of the Greek room. Your expert guide will take you to see the Gallery of Tapestries where you will walk the halls of handcrafted tapestries by Pieter van Aelst’s School which were created from drawings by Raphael’s pupils. Next, it is on to the Gallery of Maps, just imagine, wall-to-wall hand-painted maps from the 16th-century giving you an idea of what the geography looked like back then. From there you will visit the recently restored Raphael Rooms which are sure to take your breath away. Admire The School of Athens, one of Raphael’s master works, and learn about the historic greats and some contemporaries he carefully placed within this painting. After this, it’s time to head over to see one of the stars of the tour – Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel. Admire the 8,000 square feet of this masterpiece standing in its center surrounded by paintings. After the Chapel and all its glory, your tour guide will take you towards your final stop, St. Peter’s Basilica* where you will enjoy exclusive access to the most immense and ornate Catholic church in the world. Visit one of the most stunning pieces of art in the basilica, Michelangelo’s statue of the Pietà, depicting the Virgin Mary holding her dying child in her arms. Another must-see work of art is Bernini’s alter canopy, which is made of an astounding 100,000 pounds of gilded bronze. This comprehensive tour will give you an idea of the grandeur of Vatican City and the artwork it holds. To end, your guide will leave you inside Saint Peter’s Basilica, allowing you ample time to continue your exploration of the Papal Tombs, and even climbing to the top of the Dome. Family Experience Option: Vatican Tour for Kids Private Tour is the perfect tour for the whole family! A fantastically fun tour, your private Vatican Family Friendly experience explores the vast history and art collections of the Vatican Museums in a way that is fun and engaging for kids: a one-of-a-kind interactive kids tour. Who are we kidding… it’s a lot of fun for adults too! Highlights of your private tour include the many collections of the Vatican Museums, Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, and other special gems, like the Egyptian museum, added specifically for our younger guests.

Includes

Reserved Vatican entrance tickets Fully guided experience Groups of maximum 6 people Pinecone and Octagonal Courtyard Belvedere Torso The round room Constantine coffins Gallery of Tapestries Gallery of Maps Raphael Rooms* The School of Athens painting Sistine Chapel Michelangelos ceiling & Last Judgement St Peters Basilica* Berninis bronze alter canopy St Peters square Family Experience: Vatican Tour for Kids Private Tour Option

Important Information

  • All visitors must pass airport-style security; in high season, waits may reach 30 minutes. The Basilica may close without notice for private events; tours will continue with extended visits elsewhere. Access to the Raphael Rooms depends on crowd levels and guard routes; guides will adjust if needed. 2025 Jubilee: Basilica may face unexpected closures; tours will adapt to maintain a full-quality experience. No refunds for closures per Terms & Conditions. If you believe a disability qualifies you for complimentary Vatican access, please inform us.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

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