Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter Basilica Tour with Dome Lift
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Skip the lines and experience the Vatican’s three greatest landmarks in one seamless visit, ending with a self-guided climb up St Peter’s Dome with an included audioguide and a rare perspective over Vatican City plus picture-perfect views of Rome. Follow a curated route through the Vatican Museums, from the Gallery of Maps to the Pio-Clementine Museum, home to the Apollo Belvedere and the Laocoön. In the Sistine Chapel, stand beneath Michelangelo’s Creation of Adam and The Last Judgment. Then enter St Peter’s Basilica via Bernini’s Royal Staircase, once reserved for popes and royalty, while avoiding the Basilica’s external entry system in St Peter’s Square. Inside, admire Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s Baldachin. After the guided tour, take the elevator partway up the Dome, then climb to the Lantern viewpoint at the top.
Available options
French Full Tour + Dome Lift
Service: Guided Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter’s Basilica Tour + rooftop lift and audio-guided Dome visit
<br/>Access: Skip-the-line entry to Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St Peter’s Basilica + pre-reserved Dome entry & rooftop terrace lift<br/>Duration: 4 hours<br/>Dome Lift Access Details: Elevator to the rooftop terrace, then continue on foot with approximately 300 steps to reach the Dome top.
German Full Tour + Dome Lift
Service: Guided Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter’s Basilica Tour + rooftop lift and audio-guided Dome visit
<br/>Access: Skip-the-line entry to Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St Peter’s Basilica + pre-reserved Dome entry & rooftop terrace lift<br/>Duration: 4 hours<br/>Dome Lift Access Details: Elevator to the rooftop terrace, then continue on foot with approximately 300 steps to reach the Dome top.
Spanish Full Tour + Dome Lift
Service: Guided Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter’s Basilica Tour + rooftop lift and audio-guided Dome visit
<br/>Access: Skip-the-line entry to Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St Peter’s Basilica + pre-reserved Dome entry & rooftop terrace lift<br/>Duration: 4 hours<br/>Dome Lift Access Details: Elevator to the rooftop terrace, then continue on foot with approximately 300 steps to reach the Dome top.
English Full Tour + Dome Lift
Service: Guided Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter’s Basilica Tour + rooftop lift and audio-guided Dome visit
<br/>Access: Skip-the-line entry to Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St Peter’s Basilica + pre-reserved Dome entry & rooftop terrace lift<br/>Duration: 4 hours<br/>Dome Lift Access Details: Elevator to the rooftop terrace, then continue on foot with approximately 300 steps to reach the Dome top.
What's included
Free WiFi at the meeting point
Skip-the-line entry to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
Staff assistance at the meeting point for a smooth check-in
Audio headsets to clearly hear your guide
Self-guided Dome audioguide up to the Lantern viewpoint
Direct internal access to St. Peter’s Basilica via Bernini’s Royal Staircase
Licensed, professional expert guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Explore the Vatican Museums with a licensed guide, focusing on the must-see highlights you will actually visit. Walk through the Pio Clementino Museum and its classical masterpieces, then continue to the Gallery of Tapestries and the Gallery of Maps, where your guide brings the art, symbols, and history to life. End in the Sistine Chapel to admire Michelangelo’s ceiling and The Last Judgment.
2
Stop 2
Enter the Sistine Chapel and take time to admire one of the most extraordinary artistic achievements in history. Look up at Michelangelo’s ceiling and The Last Judgment as you absorb the scale, detail, and meaning of this remarkable space.
3
Stop 3
Explore St. Peter’s Basilica with a licensed guide, then continue to the Dome on a self-led route. Take the elevator to the rooftop terrace to admire the Dome up close and look down into the Basilica, then you have the option to climb the final 320 steps to the top, using an audioguide for added context along the way.
What's not included
Transfer
Gratuities
Food and Drinks
Available languages
Audio guide
DE
EN
FR
ES
Guide guide
DE
EN
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.6
14 reviews
5★
8
4★
0
3★
2
2★
1
1★
3
Tripadvisor
4.7
74 reviews
5★
65
4★
2
3★
2
2★
1
1★
4
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Bring a valid photo ID (a photo is accepted); names and ages must match the booking and the selected ticket type.
Timed entry is strictly enforced; late arrival may be refused with no refund.
Skip-the-line access (if included) bypasses ticket lines only; all visitors must pass security screening.
Dress code is enforced; shoulders and knees must be covered or entry may be refused.
No animals allowed.
No cloakroom available; bring small bags only.
Strollers must be left outside (under the Basilica portico); strollers are not permitted inside.
Children aged 6 and under cannot use audio receivers (Museum rule).
Dome elevator: elevator access is to the rooftop terrace only, with an interior view from above.
Dome climb: 320 steps with narrow spiral staircases and long continuous stretches
Closures: the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, or sections of the Vatican Museums may close or restrict access without notice for events, security, or restoration; the itinerary may be adjusted and no refunds apply.
Expect a lot of walking and standing; comfortable shoes are recommended.
Not recommended for travelers with mobility impairments
Not recommended for travelers with vertigo/claustrophobia
Not recommended for travelers with poor physical fitness
Meeting point
The exact address of the meeting point is Via Mocenigo, 15, 00192 Rome RM Italy.
Our office is located about 200 meters northwest from the entrance of the Vatican Museums, going down the steps, take first left onto Via Sebastiano Veniero keep walking straight until the end of the street.
Important notes
• Important: This is a confirmation voucher only and not your entrance ticket. You cannot enter the Vatican Museums by showing this voucher at the entrance.
• Meeting point: Via Mocenigo 15, 00192 Rome (RM), Italy. Meet our coordinators at our office to receive assistance and your entry arrangements. Do not go directly to the Museums entrance.
• Bring a valid photo ID: Names and ages must match the booking and the selected ticket type (photo of ID accepted). Without ID, entry cannot be guaranteed (especially for guests under 18).
• Timed entry: Your entry is time-slot based. Late arrivals may be refused entry and are not eligible for a refund. Meeting time is mandatory.
• Skip-the-line: Skip-the-line access bypasses ticket lines only. All visitors must pass security screening.
• Dress code: Shoulders and knees must be covered. Guests not complying may be refused entry.
• Bags: No cloakroom. Bring small bags only.
• Animals: No animals allowed.
• Strollers: Strollers must be left outside (under the portico).
• Audio receivers: Children aged 6 and under cannot use audio receivers (museum rule).
• Dome Elevator: Elevator goes to the rooftop terrace only, with an interior view from above.
• Dome Climb: 320 steps with narrow spiral stairways and long stretches. Not recommended for children under 6, pregnant guests, or anyone with reduced mobility, heart/respiratory issues, vertigo, claustrophobia, or low fitness.
• Closures and changes: The Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, or sections of the Vatican Museums may close or restrict access without notice due to events, security, or restoration. The itinerary will be adjusted accordingly and no refunds apply.
• Comfortable shoes are recommended.
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
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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