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Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel Tour and Basilica Access

4.4(4569 reviews)Rome, Italy
3hDurationGerman, Portuguese, Mandarin, Japanese, English, Italian, French, SpanishOffered inMobile ticketTicketNot includedPickupModerateLevel

About this experience

Join an expert guide for a detailed exploration of the Vatican. This tour includes skipping the long lines and visiting the Vatican Museums, where you will see significant artworks and historical artifacts spanning centuries. Key highlights include the Gallery of Maps, the Gallery of Tapestries, and renowned sculptures such as the Apollo Belvedere and Laocoön. You will also enter the Sistine Chapel, where the guide will explain the details behind Michelangelo’s famous frescoes, including the Creation of Adam and the Last Judgment. An upgrade is available to include St. Peter’s Basilica, featuring Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s Baldachin. The tour is suitable for those interested in a comprehensive understanding of the Vatican’s art and history, but may not be ideal for travelers seeking a quick visit. It is important to note that this experience involves walking and may not be suitable for individuals with mobility issues.

Itinerary

1

Vatican City

The Vatican City State, also known simply as the Vatican, became independent from Italy with the Lateran Treaty (1929), and it is a distinct territory under "full ownership, exclusive dominion, and sovereign authority and jurisdiction" of the Holy See, itself a sovereign entity of international law, which maintains the city state's temporal, diplomatic, and spiritual independence.With an area of 49 hectares and a population of about 825,it is the smallest state in the world by both area and population.

2

Vatican Museums

Vatican Galleries including the one of the Maps, Tapestries and Candelabra. Pine Court courtyard, Pio Clementine Museum, Apollo of Belvedere, Laocoon, Nero's bathtub, Room of Muses.

3

Cortile della Pigna

The Pineyard Courtyard at the Vatican Museums is a peaceful spot where classic architecture meets greenery, with Bramante’s bronze Pigna statue at its center.

4

Galleria Delle Carte Geografiche

The Gallery of Maps showcases stunning, hand-painted maps from across Italy, blending history and artistry in a breathtaking visual journey.

5

Sistine Chapel

Frescoes of Michelangelo

What's included / not included

Access to St. Peter's Basilica (if option selected)Professional Licensed GuideHeadsets so you can hear the guide clearlySkip-the-ticket-line entry to the Sistine Chapel.Team assistance at the meeting point for a smooth startSkip-the-ticket-line entry to the Vatican MuseumsFree Wi-Fi at the meeting point
Hotel pickup and drop-offGuided tour of the Basilica

Additional information

Accessibility and comfort

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Good to know

  • Please note that on Wednesday morning the basilica will be closed due to the papal audience. If you paid for access of the basilica, we will provide you a ticket for the first time available.
  • All guests must bring a photo ID for the security check.
  • Strict timed entry: The Vatican Museums enforce strict entry times. Late arrivals or no-shows may not be admitted, and no refunds will be provided.
  • Dress code: Shoulders and knees must be covered. Sleeveless tops, shorts, miniskirts, or low-cut outfits are not allowed.
  • Basilica closures: St. Peter’s Basilica is closed during certain religious holidays. Access may also be restricted without notice due to ceremonies or events.
  • Special needs: Disabled visitors should note this at the time of booking to receive free entry and appropriate assistance.
  • Contact info: Ensure your phone number is correct, including country code, so we can contact you if needed.
  • Please note that by purchasing this tour, you accept our Terms and Conditions and are aware that no refund will be given in case you do not attend the tour or arrive late for the tour.
  • In peak season, due to the high number of visitors, it might take extra time to go through the security check and to collect the Vatican headsets which are compulsory.
  • Please note that the Sistine Chapel may close without prior notice on rare occasions. Should this occur, your guide will provide a tour of other sections of the Vatican Museums.

Traveller reviews

4.44569 reviews

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