Vatican: Museum, Sistine Chapel & Basilica Fast Track Tour
Appreciate the intimate atmosphere of the Vatican as you explore the Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica on this skip-the-line guided tour.
About this activity
Free cancellation. Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Reserve now & pay later. Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Special health and safety measures are in place. Check your activity voucher once you book for full details.
Duration 3 hours. Check availability to see starting times. Skip the ticket line.
Experience Highlights
- Avoid the queue with Skip-the-line tickets
- The Vatican Museum tour
- The Sistine Chapel tour
- The St. Peter's Basilica tour
- Capture history with an expert and passionate guide.
- Discover the extensive collection of art gathered by the popes through the years
- Explore the Galleries with masterpiece paintings and different frescoes.
Full description
Experience a level of tranquility by taking advantage of the skip-the-line guided tour to explore the stunning beauty and ancient history of the Vatican.
Have the chance to marvel at the extensive art collections of the Renaissance period belonging to the Catholic Church that have gathered great significance historically and artistically throughout the years.
Wander inside the Vatican Museum, explore the most spectacular rooms and sophisticated galleries and walk through the impressive paintings in the Gallery of Maps.
Mesmerized by the beauty of the Sistine Chapel and admire its iconic ceiling painted by Michelangelo host to his unique masterpieces.
Roam around the St. Peter’s Basilica, the greatest of all churches of Christendom, home of the famous mosaics, Michelangelo’s Pietà and the iconic Bernini’s Baldachin.
Includes: Skip-the-line tickets, St. Peter’s Basilica tour, Vatican Museum tour, Sistine chapel tour, Expert tour guide, Headsets if needed, Hotel pick up and drop off, Gratuities, Dome tour.
Not suitable for
- People with mobility impairments
- People with claustrophobia
- Wheelchair users
Meeting point
*Please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the activity starts. The meeting point is at Via Tunisi 4, 00192. Located at the bottom of the wide steps across from the entrance to the Vatican Museums. The steps are located between Caffè Vaticano and Hotel Alimandi Vaticano, on the corner of Viale Vaticano and Via Tunisi. Our staff will be meeting you holding a “Loving Rome” orange flag.
Important information
What to bring:
- Passport or ID card
- Comfortable shoes
- Comfortable clothes
- Weather-appropriate clothing
Not allowed:
- Pets
- Shorts
- Weapons or sharp objects
- Luggage or large bags
- Short skirts
- Sleeveless shirts
- Tripods
- Backpacks
- Umbrellas
- Skirts
Know before you go:
- Some parts might not be accessible and are subject to unexpected closures until further notice due site’s restrictions.
- During religious holidays or Wednesday morning (Papal Audience) the tour will only include an external guided tour of the Basilica.
- Wear clothing that covers at least the shoulders and knees, If your clothing does not comply with the rules, you may be denied entry.
- All guests must undergo airport-style security. During high season the wait may be up to 30 minutes.
- Late arrivals will not be accommodated.
- Photography is not allowed in the interior of the Sistine Chapel and some parts. The staff are authorized to delete any files taken.
- Food and drinks are not allowed, with the exception of water.
- Bags and suitcases larger than 40x35x15 cm, tripods, large umbrellas and potentially dangerous objects are not allowed inside the Vatican Museums and must be left in the cloakroom. The cloakroom is a 20-minute walk from the end of the tour.
Likely to sell out. From $72.80 per person. Check availability. Reserve now & pay later to book your spot and pay nothing today.
History of the Vatican and Treasures of the Sistine Chapel
The Vatican, officially known as the Vatican City State, is an independent city-state enclaved within Rome, Italy. It is the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church and is also the smallest independent state in the world, both in terms of area and population.
The history of the Vatican is intertwined with the history of Christianity itself. It all began with the construction of St. Peter's Basilica over the tomb of Saint Peter, one of Jesus' twelve apostles. The basilica, considered one of the holiest Catholic shrines, was built during the Renaissance period and is a masterpiece of Italian Renaissance architecture.
One of the most significant aspects of the Vatican is the Sistine Chapel, located within the Apostolic Palace. The chapel is renowned for its breathtaking ceiling, painted by the brilliant artist Michelangelo. The masterpiece depicts scenes from the Book of Genesis, including the iconic "Creation of Adam" where the fingers of God and Adam almost touch.
Treasures of the Sistine Chapel
The Sistine Chapel not only houses Michelangelo's magnificent ceiling but also contains a wealth of other artistic treasures. The walls are adorned with frescoes by other prominent Renaissance artists such as Botticelli, Ghirlandaio, and Perugino.
Another notable feature of the Sistine Chapel is the Last Judgment fresco, also painted by Michelangelo, located on the altar wall. It is a powerful and dramatic depiction of the second coming of Christ and the final judgment of souls.
The Chapel also contains the Stories of Moses and the Stories of Jesus frescoes, showcasing Michelangelo's extraordinary talent and mastery of human anatomy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the Sistine Chapel?
The Sistine Chapel is of immense historical and cultural importance. It is considered one of the greatest artistic achievements in the world and serves as a symbol of the Vatican's role as the center of the Catholic Church.
Can visitors enter the Sistine Chapel?
Yes, the Sistine Chapel is open to visitors. It is a part of the Vatican Museums, and visitors from around the world come to marvel at its stunning art and architecture.
Is photography allowed inside the Sistine Chapel?
No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the Sistine Chapel to preserve the delicate frescoes. This rule helps maintain the integrity of the artwork for future generations.
