Secret Vatican Off-The-beaten Path Tour with Sistine Chapel & Carriage Pavillon
Active
3h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Do you want to enjoy the Vatican away from the usual throng of tourists? If so, this Hidden gems Vatican Tour including Sistine Chapel is the perfect tour for you! You will have the services of a local guide who has a wealth of information on the history of this wonderful place. You will be taken to see some of the lesser-known parts of the museums – places not on the usual tourist itinerary. Visit the Gallery of Paintings (Pinacoteca), the New Wing with marvelous collections of Ancient Greek and Roman statues and the Carriage Pavilion with its wonderful exhibition of antique vehicles, including three Popemobiles!
Available options
Secret Vatican Off-The-beaten Path Tour with Sistine Chapel & Carriage Pavillon
What's included
Local guide
Private tour
Professional art historian guide
Guaranteed to skip the long lines
Local taxes
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
You will meet with your guide outside the Vatican Museum and with skip-the-line entry you begin your tour away from the bustling tourist crowds and busy galleries. This is truly an alternative experience of the Vatican Museums where you can immerse yourself in the history of the Catholic Church and the lives of the Popes.
2
Stop 2
On the tour you have the opportunity to discover some of the lesser-known parts of the museums like the Gallery of Paintings where you will see wonderful masterpieces by Raphael, Caravaggio, Leonardo da Vinci, Tiziano and many more! Then it is on to the Carriage Pavilion where the many vehicles used over the centuries by the various Popes are displayed. There is the Grand Gala Berlin made in Rome in 1826 for Pope Leo XII, the Fiat Campagnola, the car in which Pope John Paul II was standing when an assassination attempt was made in 1981 in St. Peter’s Square. There are also three Popemobiles on show (Land Rover, Toyota and Mercedes 230 GE) and the Renault 4 donated by Pope Francis in 2013.
3
Stop 3
At this point on the tour your guide will give you a detailed overview of the Sistine Chapel (talking inside is strictly forbidden). You will then be free to enjoy the rest of the museums and once you enter the Sistine Chapel you will have some background knowledge of the works displayed so that you can more fully appreciate its beauty and artistry.
4
Stop 4
It is then time for a tour of St. Peter’s Basilica where you will explore the numerous side chapels with their hidden crypts. You will see Michelangelo’s Pietà and your guide will explain why this is the only work that he signed. You will gain an appreciation of the mastery that went into the creation of Bernini’s altarpiece and learn how Michelangelo triumphed over his contemporaries for the honour to paint St. Peter’s magnificent dome.
5
Stop 5
The tour will end in Saint Peter's Square
What's not included
Gratuities
Private transportation
Hotel pick up and drop off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements
READ CAREFULLY: Because of the growing popularity of the current pope Francis and his intense activity in organising mass events in the Vatican some areas might get closed last minute without previous notice. This has already happened this year and can happen again during your Vatican tour: the Sistine chapel and/or the Basilica of Saint Peter might not be accessible. In case of such events our tour guide will provide you with a valuable alternative focusing the tour inside the Vatican museums.
Please note due to the Jubilee, the Basilica might not be accessible as part of the tour. Unfortunately, we know that very last minute.In any case, you can go there after the tour, queueing.
Meeting point
At the stairs under the big white monumental gate topped with the statues of Michelangelo and Raphael ( vatican museums entrance).
Address: viale vaticano
About Rome
Rome, the capital of Italy, is a city of ancient ruins, artistic masterpieces, and vibrant culture. Known as the Eternal City, it is a living museum where every corner tells a story of its rich history spanning over 2,500 years.
Top Attractions
Colosseum
The Colosseum is an iconic symbol of Rome and one of the most famous ancient amphitheaters in the world. It was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles.
Historical
1-2 hours
€16 (combined ticket with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill)
Vatican City
Vatican City is an independent city-state enclaved within Rome. It is the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church.
Religious
Half day
€17 (Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel), Free (St. Peter's Basilica)
Roman Forum
The Roman Forum was the political, commercial, and legal hub of the Roman Republic and Empire. It is a sprawling ruin of temples, basilicas, and arches.
Historical
1-2 hours
€16 (combined ticket with Colosseum and Palatine Hill)
Pantheon
The Pantheon is a former Roman temple, now a church, known for its large dome and oculus. It is one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in Rome.
Historical
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is a Baroque masterpiece and the largest fountain in Rome. It is a popular spot for visitors to throw coins and make wishes.
Architecture
15-30 minutes
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cacio e Pepe
A simple yet delicious pasta dish made with Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper.
Pasta
Vegetarian
Carbonara
A rich pasta dish made with eggs, Pecorino Romano, guanciale (cured pork cheek), and black pepper.
Pasta
Contains pork and eggs
Supplì
Fried rice balls filled with mozzarella and tomato sauce.
Snack
Vegetarian (some variations may contain meat)
Carciofi alla Romana
Artichokes braised with garlic, mint, and olive oil.
Vegetable
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Appian Way Regional Park
Biking along the Tiber River
Rock climbing in the nearby mountains
Picnicking in Villa Borghese Gardens
Boating on Lake Albano
Enjoying a spa day at a luxury hotel
Visiting the Vatican Museums
Attending an opera at the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the summer peak. Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
15-30°C
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, Spanish, French
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Rome is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing and scams can be a problem in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use official taxis or ride-sharing services
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or bracelets
Getting there
By air
- Leonardo da Vinci International Airport • 35 km from city center
- Ciampino Airport • 15 km from city center
By train
Roma Termini, Roma Tiburtina
By bus
Tiburtina Bus Station, Roma Termini
Getting around
Public transport
The metro system is efficient and covers major tourist areas. It operates from 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Trastevere
Monti
Prancipio
Testaccio
Day trips
Ostia Antica
30 km from Rome • Half day
An ancient Roman port city with well-preserved ruins, including a theater, baths, and mosaics. It offers a glimpse into daily life in ancient Rome.
Tivoli
30 km from Rome • Full day
A picturesque town known for its stunning villas and gardens, including the famous Villa d'Este with its elaborate fountains and gardens.
Orvieto
120 km from Rome • Full day
A charming hilltop town known for its stunning cathedral, underground caves, and local wine. It offers a mix of history, culture, and scenic views.
Festivals
Natale di Roma • April 21
Festa de' Noantri • July
Rome Film Festival • October
Pro tips
- Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
- Use public transport or walk instead of taking taxis to save money and experience the city like a local
- Try local specialties and ask for recommendations from locals and restaurant staff
- Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and be respectful of local customs and traditions
- Be aware of pickpockets and scams, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots
$428
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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