Skip the Line Complete Vatican City Full Day Guided Tour
Active
6h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Did you know the Vatican Museums contain over nine miles of galleries? It is understandable that much of this magnificent artwork is overlooked. But, our expert English-speaking tour guide will make sure that you see it all on this extended tour of the Vatican Art Gallery, plus the Sistine Chapel, St Peter’s Basilica, and St. Peter’s Square. The tour itinerary has been planned to ensure that you don’t miss the most famous sights, and also to show you some things you never knew existed.
Please note that lunch is included.
Available options
Skip the Line Complete Vatican City Full Day Guided Tour
Transfer Option
Car or minivan
What's included
Local guide
Private tour
Professional art historian guide
Hotel pickup (selected hotels only)
Guaranteed to skip the long lines
Local taxes
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Your guide will wait you at the entrance of the Vatican Museum, take a look at the amazing site and listen to the history of the one of the most important sites for the global art.
2
Your Guide will lead you throught Museo Chiaramonti, a gallery created by Pio VII Chiaramonti full of sculptures of emperors and divinities. Follow your guide until Cortile della Pigna, a beautiful belvedere with the famous Fountain of the Pine located in the Courtyard of the Pine. Designed by genius architect Bramante, it is one of the few Ancient Roman fountains that survives to this day.
3
Your tour continue in another beautiful site of the Vatican Museum, the Pio Clementino Museum created by Popes Clement XIV and Pius VI and exhibits the most important Greek works of the Vatican.
4
Overcome the Etrurian Museum and admire three beautiful Galleries.
First you will learn more about the Gallery of the Chandeliers, with six expositive section of sculptures and chandeliers. Then visit the Gallery of the tapestries famous for its tapestries of the Fiammingo epoque. Finally you will visit the Gallery of the Maps, colorfull and bright, its maps frescos on the wall represent Italian regions and church's property.
5
Stop 5
Follow your guide to the Raffaello rooms, listen the story about these four rooms frescoed by Raffaello and his disciples. Giulio II della Rovere choose this sites as his residence.
6
Stop 6
Take your time to admire one of the greatest works of art in the world. The Sistine Chapel take its name from Papa Sisto IV della Rovere who committed the renovation of the old Cappella Magna creating a new one. The ceiling was assigned to Michelangelo Buonarroti that painted the history of the Genesis, the creation of Adam and Eve, the Flood and Noè's family.
7
Stop 7
End your tour inside the Vatican Museum passing by the famous Pinacoteca, your guide will explain you the eighteen rooms paints exposition.
Once out of the Museum it's time to visit one of the greatest Basils of Italy. St. Peter's Basilica is amazing and contains Michelangelo's Pietà, Bernini's Baladacchino and San Peter's Statue.His underground preserves papal tombs. Your guide will tell you more about St.Peter's big and artistic dome.
8
Stop 8
End your tour in the famous square, symbol of catholicism and peace, every Sunday this square is full of worshipper. Take your time to appreciate the baroque architecture of the square!
What's not included
Gratuities
Drop-off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
Important information
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 you 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 be informed that during Holidays and Sunday (e.g. Easter Sunday, Easter Monday, Christmas and the 26th Dec.St.Stephen, New year ) the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel is closed.
Meeting point
At the stairs in front of the Vatican museums, at the gate topped with statues.
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
$491
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
