Vatican City is home to some of the most iconic sites in Europe, including the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. Luckily for you, this tour covers all three! You’ll start with a guided visit through the museums and the breathtaking Sistine Chapel, followed by skip-the-line access into St. Peter’s Basilica via a special back entrance from the chapel—an exclusive privilege that can only be unlocked with our expert guides.
Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica Guided Tour
Unlock skip-the-line access to all three sites on this ultimate exploration of Vatican City! Led by an expert storyteller, delve into the rich history and masterpieces of the Vatican, from stunning tapestries to Michelangelo’s iconic frescoes.
Begin your journey at the Vatican Museums, gaining a new appreciation for art history as you navigate through the galleries toward the Sistine Chapel. Enjoy the perks of skip-the-line access as your guide leads you through a special entrance directly into St. Peter’s Basilica, cutting the wait and diving straight into the action!
Conclude your visit with a leisurely exploration of St. Peter’s Basilica, enriched by insights that bring these extraordinary sites to life.
Our Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel Tour includes:
- Guided tour of Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
- Guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica
- Expert, Passionate and Professional Tour Guide
Exclusive Access
Skip-the-Line Entry Tickets to the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica
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Duration3-hour experience -
Group SizeMaximum group size of 20 people -
AudioHeadsets to ensure clear audio throughout the tour -
About the TourThis tour is offered in English, Italian, French, Spanish and German
What You Will See
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the artistic wonders and rich history of Vatican City. Each moment of this tour is thoughtfully designed to enhance your experience.
About our local
Knowledgeable Tour Guides
- Local guides with expert knowledge of history and culture
- Engaging storytelling that makes history come alive
- Fluent in multiple languages for a seamless experience
- Passionate about providing exceptional service on every tour
- Personalization of tours to tailor to the interests, pace and preferences of the group
- An interactive approach that encourages participation and creates a memorable hands-on experience
- Ensuring cultural sensitivity and respect for important World Heritage sites
GREAT FOR THESE TRAVELERS
Whether you’re here to admire world-renowned art, explore the history of the Vatican or simply experience one of the most significant cultural sites in the world, this tour is crafted with your interests in mind.
The Planner
We know you love to plan! This tour works well for building your ideal itinerary in advance of your upcoming trip.
The Historian
You love to read and soak up every detail about history! This tour is perfect to help you deepen your understanding with detailed insights that will enrich your historical knowledge.
The Art Aficionado
You’re an artist or an art lover, and we know you don’t want to miss any local or historical art on your visit. This tour will allow you to experience renowned and hidden art pieces guided by experts who are as passionate about art as you.
The Chic Explorer
You love staying on top of all the trends! We’ve got you covered with this tour that will aid you in discovering emerging and unique local styles you won’t find anywhere else.
Reviews
Authentic stories, expertly guided by Europe’s most trusted tour operator.
As a leading tour operator in Europe, our commitment to quality and authenticity shines through in everything we do, from selecting passionate guides to crafting detailed itineraries that showcase the best of each destination. We make booking straightforward and direct, ensuring you get great value and a seamless experience, guaranteed. At Crown Tours, we don’t just visit places — we tell stories, sharing the rich histories and cultures along the way. Join us to Explore, Discover, and Dream.
About The Trip
FAQs
Vatican City is home to incredible attractions, with the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums topping the list. The Sistine Chapel, renowned for Michelangelo’s stunning ceiling, is a true masterpiece, while the Vatican Museums feature an extensive collection of art and historical treasures.
Yes, many attractions in Vatican City offer audio guides. However, our guided tour includes a professional guide who provides detailed insights and stories about the sites, enhancing your experience far beyond what an audio guide can offer.
Absolutely! Vatican City offers a wealth of historical and artistic wonders that can captivate young minds. Many guided tours provide engaging insights that are suitable for children.
Sundays at the Vatican can be a bit complicated. While St. Peter’s Basilica and St. Peter’s Square are open to visitors, the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel are closed on Sundays, except for the last Sunday of the month when entrance is free. Just keep in mind that there are no guided tours available on that day. Additionally, on Sundays, the papal audience typically takes place in the morning, starting around 9 AM, which can lead to larger crowds. So, if you’re planning a visit, be prepared for a bustling atmosphere!
Yes, our tours are conducted in several languages, including English, Italian, French, Spanish and German.
Yes, photography is allowed in some areas of the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica, though flash photography is not permitted. Please note that photography is prohibited inside the Sistine Chapel to protect its artwork. Some of the best spots for photos include the breathtaking Gallery of Maps, the impressive Rotunda, and the vast St. Peter’s Square, where you can capture the beauty of this iconic location. Be ready to snap some unforgettable memories!
Yes, it’s highly recommended to book your tickets in advance for entry to the Vatican. This helps you avoid long lines and ensures a smoother experience. Additionally, there are ID checks at the entrance, so be sure to double-check that all guest names are entered correctly when booking. Don’t forget to bring valid identity documents with you to avoid any hassle on the day of your visit!
Small bags are allowed in the Vatican, but large bags and backpacks are not recommended. While there is a bag check at the entrance of the museums, it’s best to avoid bringing large items since this tour ends with skip-the-line access to St. Peter’s Basilica, and you won’t be able to retrieve any checked items afterward. For a smoother experience, it’s advisable to travel light!
Food and drinks are not allowed inside the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. However, you can bring water with you. Fortunately, there are plenty of cafes, osterias, and lunch spots in the area where you can grab food and drinks before or after your tour. Enjoy exploring the local flavors!
Start by checking your confirmation voucher, which contains specific details about the meeting point and any additional instructions. It’s advisable to arrive at least 15-30 minutes early to give yourself ample time to locate your guide. If you have difficulties finding the meeting point on the day of the tour, don’t hesitate to use the dedicated tour group chat, where our team will be ready to assist you. This way, you can ensure a smooth start to your experience!
As you’re entering a religious site, it’s important to remember that both the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica require modest clothing. Please make sure to cover your knees, midriff, cleavage, and shoulders. If you’re traveling during the hotter months, we strongly recommend bringing a shawl or light wrap to help you cover up.
Yes, there are ID checks and bag checks required for entry. During the high season, you may experience longer waiting times in the security check lines, so it’s a good idea to arrive early. Being prepared will help ensure a smoother start to your visit!
Yes, the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica may close without prior notice for exceptional religious events. In the event that it is closed, the tour will be extended inside the museums (the activity is not refunded in this case).
Yes, the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica may close without prior notice for exceptional religious events. In the event that it is closed, the tour will be extended inside the museums (the activity is not refunded in this case).
As an indoor site, you won’t be exposed to the elements, so tours will continue rain or shine. Our guides are committed to ensuring you have an enjoyable experience, regardless of the weather forecast.
Due to the layout of the museums, our tour is not suitable for wheelchair users. However, there is a dedicated route for those with limited mobility, including access to elevators. Guests with disabilities are entitled to free entrance and do not need a reservation. If you have any specific needs or questions, please feel free to reach out, and we’ll do our best to assist you!
Our skip-the-line tickets allow you to bypass the regular entrance lines, saving you time so you can enjoy more of what the Vatican has to offer.
Yes, our Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St Peter’s Basilica tour is capped at 10 guests or less.
The tour lasts around 3 hours, covering the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. For tours departing at 3 PM or later, a guided visit to St. Peter’s Basilica may not be possible, but your guide will ensure you have skip-the-line access.
Yes, the tour is suitable for children and families. Guides often tailor the content to be engaging for all ages.
Yes, our tours run year-round, from Monday to Saturday, with some exceptions for closure dates throughout the year. Be sure to check our schedule for any specific dates when the tours may not be available.
The tour includes the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel and ends at St. Peter’s Basilica.
Yes, a modest dress code is enforced. Shoulders and knees must be covered to enter these sacred sites.
Photography is allowed in most areas of the Vatican Museums but is strictly prohibited inside the Sistine Chapel.
At Crown Tours, we believe in flexibility. Guests may cancel their tour up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time to receive a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour will not be eligible for a refund. Alternatively, guests may choose to reschedule their tour within this time frame, subject to availability.
Itinerary
We look forward to hosting you on this Vatican and Sistine Chapel Tour, guiding you through one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks. This tour is 3 hours and includes approximately 2 kilometers/1.25 miles of walking. Here’s everything you need to know!
1
Meet at Via Mocenigo, 15
Please meet us at the Crown Tour Office on Via Mocenigo, 15, just a short walk from the Vatican Museums. You will find our staff dressed in Crown Tours purple. Please arrive at the meeting point 30 minutes before your tour as we cannot guarantee access to the tour if you do not arrive by this time.
2
Pinecone Courtyard
Kickstart your visit in the Pinecone Courtyard, where ancient architecture meets stunning gardens. Marvel at the impressive bronze pinecone statue, a symbol of the Vatican’s rich history.
3
Octagonal Court
Discover the Octagonal Court, home to some of the finest classical sculptures. Here, you’ll encounter masterpieces like the Laocoön and His Sons, showcasing the pinnacle of ancient artistry.
4
Sala Rotonda
Head towards the Sala Rotonda, passing by iconic works such as the Torso Belvedere. As you explore, uncover the rich histories behind these impressive masterpieces with help from an expert art historian.
5
Gallery of Candelabra
Stroll through the Gallery of Candelabra, adorned with exquisite candelabra and stunning frescoes. This gallery beautifully blends art and architecture, offering a glimpse into Renaissance opulence.
6
Gallery of Maps
Admire the Gallery of Maps, a breathtaking collection of frescoed maps depicting Italy’s regions. Each map tells a story of geographical exploration and artistic mastery from the 16th century.
7
Gallery of Tapestries
Enter the Gallery of Tapestries, where intricate tapestries narrate biblical stories. The vibrant colors and detailed craftsmanship reflect the artistry of the time and the importance of these historical narratives.
8
Sistine Chapel
It’s time for quiet reflection in the magnificent Sistine Chapel, renowned for Michelangelo’s breathtaking ceiling and The Last Judgment. This iconic site is not only a masterpiece of Renaissance art but also serves as a profound spiritual sanctuary.
9
St. Peter's Basilica
Enjoy skip-the-line access with our expert guides, who will share fascinating stories about the stunning mosaics, statues, and artworks that adorn this magnificent basilica. Immerse yourself in the rich history and significance of each piece as you explore this iconic site.
Special Notes
All guests must pass through an airport-style security check to gain entrance to the Museums, which may lead to delays.
At the end of the visit, guests will have the opportunity to extend their time inside St. Peter’s Basilica, making the most of the monument.
Attire Recommendations: Please ensure that knees, shoulders, and midriffs are covered. Access to the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica may be denied if the dress code is not followed.
What to bring: It is essential to bring your official ID, as failure to do so may result in denial of entry. Ensure that all guest names, including minors, are indicated correctly on your tickets.
Bag restrictions: While there are storage facilities inside the museum, this visit offers skip-the-line access to the Basilica, so you will not be able to use these facilities. We strongly discourage bringing large backpacks and suitcases.
Mobility restrictions: Visitors with limited mobility are discouraged from booking this tour, as a different route is mapped out for wheelchair users.
Photography restrictions: No flash photography is allowed during the visit, and no photos can be taken inside the Sistine Chapel.
Cancelation Policy: Guests may cancel their tour up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time to receive a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour will not be eligible for a refund.
