Pristine Sistine Early Entrance Small Group Vatican Tour
Supplied by: City Experiences
Be among the first visitors of the day to step into the Sistine Chapel and skip the line to enter St. Peter's Basilica.
Highlights
- Visit the stunning Sistine Chapel before the daytime crowds.
- Explore the Vatican Museums in peace and quiet.
- Skip the line at St. Peter's Basilica.
- Gaze upon masterpieces by Raphael, Michelangelo, & Bernini.
- Marvel at the awe-inspiring Raphael Rooms.
- Learn from one of the best expert guides in Rome.
What's included
- Local English-speaking guide
- Expertly guided walking tour
- Skip the line ticket for Vatican Museums
- Skip the line ticket to St. Peter's Basilica
- Skip the line ticket to St. Peter's Basilica
- Headset
- Small groups of 15 people or fewer
- Gratuities
- Hotel Pick-Up / Drop-Off
Overview
Beat the crowds and see historic masterpieces up close on this guided tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. See the stunning Raphael Rooms, marvel at the artwork in the Sistine Chapel, and visit the impressive Vatican Museums with a guide.
Enter the Vatican Museums before the general public for a complete guided tour of this stunning space. Enjoy the masterpieces without the bustling crowds as you follow your guide through the Belvedere Courtyard, the Gallery of Maps, the four Raphael Rooms, and more. Learn from your guide where Raphael worked the faces of Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo into his frescoes.
Next, head to the Sistine Chapel. Arrive just as the doors first open to groups and visit at the most peaceful time of day. Get a full run-down of Michelangelo's frescoes, including a detailed handout, from your guide before heading in.
Finish your tour by going to St. Peter's Basilica via a special secret passage, bypassing the long lines outside. End your morning with a full tour of this sacred space and gaze upon Michelangelo's moving Pietà, Bernini's grandiose altarpiece and learn the stories and legends behind the art.
Note: The special access passage between the Sistine Chapel and St.Peter's Basilica is subject to unexpected closures. On such days we will instead explore the magnificent Pinacoteca Gallery.
Sites Visited:
Vatican Museums
Sistine Chapel
St. Peter's Basilica
St. Peter's Square
Raphael Rooms (Stanze di Raffaello)
Belvedere Courtyard
Pinecone Courtyard
Octagonal Courtyard
Gallery of the Maps
Gallery of the Tapestries
Gallery of the Candelabra
Know before you go
This tour is in English.
This is a walking tour. Guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty.
The tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. No refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows.
If you cannot join your tour at the last minute (running late, etc), please contact us. We may be able to reschedule your tour with a small amendment fee depending on availability.
All guests (including children) must bring ID on the day of their tour.
All guests must pass through security. For useful information/restrictions about your tour in the Vatican Museum, visit https://m.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani-mobile/en/visita-i-musei/consigli-utili.html
Only small backpacks and handbags are allowed inside the Vatican Museums. Storage is available but please note you must return (about a 20-minute walk) to the entrance to pick up your items at the end of the tour.
Due to the religious nature of the Vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. Walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry.
Tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.
Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments, or for wheelchairs or strollers. Please contact the Guest Experience team at +39 068-596-0143 (Italy) or 888-683-8670 (USA) to make alternative arrangements.
Cancellation policy
Cancellations received greater than 72 hours prior to tour commencement are fully refundable.
