Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica Private Tour Options
33 Reviews
4.94 out of 5 stars Based on 33 reviews collected by City Boat Tours and TripAdvisor
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Recommended by 100% of reviewers
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Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards.
Rome, Italy
3 to 4 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Instant confirmation
Overview
Skip the line for fast-track entry to the world-famous Vatican Museums complex, comprised of Galleries boasting an impressive array of artwork and masterpieces.
During your visit, you'll have the opportunity to witness one of the world's most exquisite collections of sculptures, carvings, frescoes, and paintings. Take a leisurely stroll through some of the most captivating rooms, including the Gallery of Tapestries and the Gallery of Maps. Be stunned by Michelangelo's masterpiece inside the Sistine Chapel.
Finally, venture into the splendid St. Peter's Church, home to the renowned Baldachin by Bernini. You will also have the privilege of admiring Michelangelo's incredible sculpture, "La Pietà."
Don't miss the exceptional chance to elevate your experience with our RENAISSANCE or DOME Options. These options offer you a unique opportunity to explore the exquisite and fine Raphael Rooms or ascend St. Peter's Dome, where you'll be treated to a breathtaking panoramic view of the city.
What's Included
- If RENAISSANCE OPTION SELECTED: Raphael Rooms included in the itinerary
- Visit of the Sistine Chapel
- Vatican Museums Skip The Line Ticket
- Shortcut to St. Peter's Basilica
- If ST. PETER'S DOME OPTION SELECTED: climbing of the Cupola included in the itinerary
- Private Tour with Blue Badge Guide
- Food And Drinks
Meeting Location
Meeting point
viale
Viale Vaticano, 00192 Roma RM, Italy
Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.
End point
Piazza San Pietro
00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City
In case St. Peter's Basilica is closed for last-minute masses or ceremonies, the tour will end at the exit of the Vatican Museums.
What To Expect
Vatican Museums
With this Tour, we get you inside the Museums. we will visit together the Vatican Museum Galleries and halls
40 minutes • Admission Ticket Included
Cortile della Pigna (Pass By)
The Courtyard of the “Pigna”, created from the 16th-century area of the “Belvedere”
Sphere within a Sphere (Pass By)
The Sphere within a Sphere" by Arnaldo Pomodoro at the Vatican Museums is a striking sculptural masterpiece that graces the Cortile della Pigna. This captivating artwork features a large bronze sphere with a textured, fractured surface, revealing a smaller sphere within. The interplay of light and shadow on the intricate patterns adds to its mesmerizing allure. Symbolizing themes of complexity and inner depth, Pomodoro's sculpture at the Vatican Museums stands as a testament to the convergence of art, spirituality, and profound meaning in the heart of one of the world's most renowned cultural institutions.
Galleria Delle Carte Geografiche
The Gallery of Maps, inside the Vatican Museums, displays a stunning collection of topographical maps of Italy. Created in the 16th century under Pope Gregory XIII, these beautifully painted maps span 120 meters, offering a unique geographical snapshot of the Italy of the past.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Included
Gallery of Tapestries
The Vatican Museums' Gallery of Tapestries showcases stunning 15th and 16th-century tapestries, intricately woven with scenes from biblical and historical narratives. Inspired by designs from Raphael’s school, this gallery highlights the artistic sophistication and storytelling of the Renaissance.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Included
Galleria dei Candelabri (Pass By)
The Gallery of the Candelabra is a part of the Vatican Museums, showcasing a rich collection of Greek and Roman statues, sarcophagi, and reliefs. It is named for the grand marble candelabra that decorate it, dividing the gallery into thematic sections. Set up in the late 18th century, the gallery merges ancient art with stunning architectural details, providing visitors a journey through history and beauty.
Stanze di Raffaello
If RENAISSANCE OPTION SELECTED: the tour will include the Rooms of Raphael.
Each room offers a vibrant tableau of Renaissance ideals—harmony, intellect, faith, and history.
The interplay of art and history takes visitors on an unforgettable journey through one of the most remarkable periods in Western art and culture.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Included
Sistine Chapel
The Sistine Chapel takes its name from Pope Sixtus IV della Rovere (pontiff from 1471 to 1484) who had the old Cappella Magna restored between 1477 and 1480. It is known throughout the world both for being the place where the conclave and other official ceremonies of the Pope are held (in the past also some papal coronations), and for being decorated with one of the most famous and celebrated works of art of artistic civilization the frescoes by Michelangelo.
30 minutes • Admission Ticket Included
St. Peter's Basilica
INCLUDED ONLY FOR OPTIONS THAT INCLUDE ST. PETER'S BASILICA: Enjoy the breathtaking Saint Peter's Basilica, shrine of Christianity and Art. You will marvel at the Priceless Pietà, by Michelangelo, and stop by the venerable tomb of Saint John Paul II & Pope Karol Wojtyla.The Pietà (1498–1499) is a work of Renaissance sculpture by Michelangelo Buonarroti, housed in St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City.
30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
La Pieta
INCLUDED ONLY FOR OPTIONS THAT INCLUDE ST. PETER'S BASILICA: The Pietà is a work of Renaissance sculpture by Michelangelo Buonarroti, housed in St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City. It is the first of a number of works of the same theme by the artist. The statue was commissioned for the French Cardinal Jean de Bilhères, who was a representative in Rome. The sculpture, in Carrara marble, was made for the cardinal's funeral monument, but was moved to its current location, the first chapel on the right as one enters the basilica, in the 18th century. It is the only piece Michelangelo ever signed.
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
St. Peter's Baldachin
INCLUDED ONLY FOR OPTIONS THAT INCLUDE ST. PETER'S BASILICA: The Baldachin in St. Peter's Basilica is a breathtaking masterpiece of art and architecture. Designed by the renowned Baroque sculptor and architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini, it stands as a magnificent bronze canopy over the high altar of the basilica. This ornate structure, adorned with intricate details and towering over 90 feet tall, serves as a symbol of the grandeur of the Catholic Church and a focal point of the basilica's interior. It is a true marvel that captivates visitors with its beauty and historical significance.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Included
Cupola di San Pietro
IF DOME OPTION IS SELECTED: The dome of St. Peter's Basilica, a masterpiece designed by Michelangelo, stands as a defining symbol of the Vatican and Rome. As one of the largest and most iconic domes in the world, it offers breathtaking views both from the ground and its viewing gallery. Dominating the skyline, it reflects the architectural brilliance of the Renaissance.
30 minutes • Admission Ticket Included
St. Peter's Square
INCLUDED ONLY FOR OPTIONS THAT INCLUDE ST. PETER'S BASILICA: This monumental elliptical space, enclosed by 284 Doric columns four rows deep (196m wide and 148m long), is the masterpiece of Gian Lorenzo Bernini, who laid it out during the pontificates of Alexander VII and of Clement IX.
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Wheelchair accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- For ST. PETER'S DOME OPTION: not recommended for guests with mobility issues or claustrophobic
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- 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
- Please advise in case of mobility issues - wheelchair partly accessible
- For ST. PETER'S DOME OPTION is not suitable for wheelchair users
- For ST. PETER'S DOME OPTION: don’t attempt to visit the dome if you can’t physically climb steps or if you’re claustrophobic. A lift takes you some of the way, but then you still have to tackle 320 steps (and space is a bit tight in places).
- St. Peter's Basilica may close at the last minute for ceremonies or masses without warning
- In the case of visitors using wheelchairs and mobility scooters, please note that the Museums are partially accessible, and the Basilica won't be included
- St Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel are subject to last-minute closures for religious ceremonies. When this occurs, we're happy to offer customers an extended tour of the Vatican Museums. While we endeavor to inform our guests ahead of time about any planned disruptions to the opening hours, this is not always possible. In these cases, we are unable to provide refunds or discounts
- A current valid passport or ID document is required on the day of the tour for children under 18 years old as proof of their age
- All visitors must pass through the monument/attraction security check please allow at least 20 minutes to clear security
- Due to the Jubilee, some monuments may be under restoration or closed due to extraordinary celebrations. Please pay attention to any messages we may send regarding potential changes
- Please review the confirmation message that we send one day prior to the tour date, which confirms the final details of the service
- To ensure the safety and well-being of all our guests, every reservation that includes minors (under 18) must be accompanied by at least one adult. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept bookings made exclusively by unaccompanied minors.
Frequently Asked Questions
(6)Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica Private Tour Options?
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.
Still have questions?
We're here to help.
Activity code: C-20163P60
Traveler Photos
Reviews
4.94
33 reviews
Average 4.94 out of 5 stars based on 33 traveler reviews collected by City Boat Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor
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Additional Info
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Frequently Asked Questions (6)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Boat Tours customers.
Filter by:
Q:
What is the cancellation policy for the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica Private Tour Options?
A:Apr 2025
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
- Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (CEST).
Q:
What's included in the price?
A:
Apr 2025
The following is included:
- If RENAISSANCE OPTION SELECTED: Raphael Rooms included in the itinerary.
- Visit of the Sistine Chapel.
- Vatican Museums Skip The Line Ticket.
- Shortcut to St. Peter's Basilica.
- If ST. PETER'S DOME OPTION SELECTED: climbing of the Cupola included in the itinerary.
- Private Tour with Blue Badge Guide.
The following is NOT included:
- Food And Drinks.
Q:
What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:
There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..
Apr 2025
Q:
My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:
If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.
If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.
Apr 2025
Q:
Is this an accessible tour?
A:Apr 2025
Accessibility information for the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica Private Tour Options is as follows:
- Wheelchair accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- For ST. PETER'S DOME OPTION: not recommended for guests with mobility issues or claustrophobic
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Q:
Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica Private Tour Options will be included in your confirmation email from City Boat Tours. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!
Mar 2024What's Included
- If RENAISSANCE OPTION SELECTED: Raphael Rooms included in the itinerary
- Visit of the Sistine Chapel
- Vatican Museums Skip The Line Ticket
- Shortcut to St. Peter's Basilica
- If ST. PETER'S DOME OPTION SELECTED: climbing of the Cupola included in the itinerary
- Private Tour with Blue Badge Guide
- Food And Drinks
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Wheelchair accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- For ST. PETER'S DOME OPTION: not recommended for guests with mobility issues or claustrophobic
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- 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
- Please advise in case of mobility issues - wheelchair partly accessible
- For ST. PETER'S DOME OPTION is not suitable for wheelchair users
- For ST. PETER'S DOME OPTION: don’t attempt to visit the dome if you can’t physically climb steps or if you’re claustrophobic. A lift takes you some of the way, but then you still have to tackle 320 steps (and space is a bit tight in places).
- St. Peter's Basilica may close at the last minute for ceremonies or masses without warning
- In the case of visitors using wheelchairs and mobility scooters, please note that the Museums are partially accessible, and the Basilica won't be included
- St Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel are subject to last-minute closures for religious ceremonies. When this occurs, we're happy to offer customers an extended tour of the Vatican Museums. While we endeavor to inform our guests ahead of time about any planned disruptions to the opening hours, this is not always possible. In these cases, we are unable to provide refunds or discounts
- A current valid passport or ID document is required on the day of the tour for children under 18 years old as proof of their age
- All visitors must pass through the monument/attraction security check please allow at least 20 minutes to clear security
- Due to the Jubilee, some monuments may be under restoration or closed due to extraordinary celebrations. Please pay attention to any messages we may send regarding potential changes
- Please review the confirmation message that we send one day prior to the tour date, which confirms the final details of the service
- To ensure the safety and well-being of all our guests, every reservation that includes minors (under 18) must be accompanied by at least one adult. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept bookings made exclusively by unaccompanied minors.
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