Skip-the-line Vatican City Tour, Sistine Chapel St Peter Basilica
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3h
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Your tour will start with a visit to the Cortile del Belvedere, the Museo Pio-Clementino and the vast collection of ancient Roman and Greek statues.
The guide will draw your attention to the rooms painted by Raphael for Pope Julius II, considered the greatest works of his life, in particular the Parnassus and the School of Athens.
You will be fascinated by the famous frescoes that decorate the splendid Sistine Chapel made by the best Italian painters, such as Michelangelo, Botticelli and other famous artists.
Continue your visit to the Basilica of San Pietro, where the Pietà of Michelangelo, the Baldacchino by Bernini and numerous monuments dedicated to Popes and Saints are kept. Your tour will end in Saint Peter's Square to see the Swiss guards and the Pope's Palace.
Available options
Skip-the-line Vatican City Tour, Sistine Chapel St Peter Basilica
What's included
Private tour
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Walking tour
Guaranteed to skip the long lines
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The Sistine Chapel is one of the greatest works of Italian art. Currently it is still consecrated as a papal chapel and is included in the visit of the Vatican Museums.
The Chapel takes its name from Pope Sixtus IV della Rovere and was built as a private chapel, inside which the most important ceremonies were held during the Holy Year and gathered in the Conclave, when it was to elect a new pontiff.
When Pope Sixtus IV decided to create the Chapel he called the greatest Tuscan and Umbrian artists of the period (Botticelli, Signorelli, Cosimo Rosselli, Ghirlandaio, Perugino and Pinturicchio), who decorated the side parts with frescoes representing two important cycles of stories taken from the Old and New Testaments.
The vault, originally, was painted with a simple blue sky studded with golden stars, and kept this aspect until Pope Julius II della Rovere commissioned to Michelangelo the redecoration of the vast surface, which created what is today called the absolute masterpiece of the Italian Renaissance.
2
Stop 2
The Vatican Museums were founded by Pope Julius II in the sixteenth century and occupy a large part of the vast courtyard of the Belvedere. It is one of the largest collections of art in the world, as they preserve the enormous collection of works of art accumulated over the centuries by the Popes: the Sistine Chapel and the papal apartments frescoed by Michelangelo and Raphael are just some of the works that visitors can admire in their path.
3
Stop 3
The Basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican stands in the place where, according to tradition, the apostle Peter was buried in 64 AD.
In 1506 Pope Julius II called Bramante for the realization of the project for the new and current basilica, which provided for the complete demolition of the previous basilica. Artists such as Antonio da Sangallo, Carlo Maderno and Gian Lorenzo Bernini collaborated in the construction of the church.
Inside the Basilica of San Pietro are unique masterpieces, many of which are the work of the genius of Bernini.
What's not included
Food and Drinks
Gratuities
Hotel drop-off
Transportation to and from sites
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
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Tripadvisor
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
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
Food and drinks are not allowed in the museums except for bottled water
A moderate amount of walking is involved
Please note the Vatican can decide to close some areas (ie: Sistine chapel and Basilica of St Peter) without notice, in those unfortunate cases the tour guide will adapt the itinerary accordingly.
Meeting point
Your guide will meet you at the stairs outside Vatican Museums, at the white monumental door topped with the statues of Michelangelo and Raphael.
The guide will be holding a sign with your name on it.
Important notes
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
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
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