Vatican
3.5 hours
Times vary
Max 20

Highlights

  • Enjoy a complete tour of the Vatican and go beyond the expected, gaining deeper insight into its countless artistic and architectural treasures.
  • See the best of the Vatican Museums—from the Sistine Chapel to the Raphael Rooms and the Belvedere Courtyard—and explore St. Peter’s Basilica, home to Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s Baldachin.
  • Avoid often hours-long lines with skip-the-line access at both the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica.
  • Relax in the company of a small group, making it easier for you to engage with our 5-star guides.

Preview the experience

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Tour description

More than the Sistine Chapel—this skip-the-line tour shows you the best of the Vatican Museums.

Our Complete Vatican Tour goes beyond the ordinary to give you unrivaled insight into one of the world's most sacred sites. From the Sistine Chapel and Raphael Rooms to incredible ancient sculptures you may never have heard of, our route through the Vatican Museums visits all the sights you wanted to see—plus some surprises you didn’t expect.

The pièce-de-resistance, of course, is the Sistine Chapel. By the time we arrive at the crown jewel of the Vatican, your guide will have explained the stories and secrets behind the paintings—what they mean and why they’re so renowned—so you can fully appreciate every detail.

Enjoy a guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica (and skip the line!).

Located outside of the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica has its own entrance and its own rules, with limited hours for guided tours. Our Complete Vatican Tour ensures that you get inside the Basilica (and avoid the long line to get in!) with your expert guide to enjoy Michelangelo’s moving Pietà, Bernini’s ornate Baldachin, and the chair of St. Peter, among other treasures.

Explore with one of the best guides in the business on our Complete Vatican Tour.

We’ve spent years growing a team of passionate experts who want to share the Vatican with you. Combine them with a small group and you have a recipe for sightseeing perfection! We also use privileged entrances at the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica, bypassing general access lines that can stretch for hours at each site during high season.

The Complete Vatican Tour offers an uncompromising, unhurried exploration of the world’s most fascinating independent state for those who want a truly in-depth Vatican experience.

Important Note: All participants must provide their name and surname at the time of booking. The information must exactly match what is listed on the ID or passport. Name changes are not allowed. Failure to supply this information will lead to the cancellation of your booking.

Please note that this description is an example and your experience may vary depending on the season, day of the week, and group size. Regardless of where your tour goes, you always have an excellent experience.

Sites visited

  • Vatican Museums
  • Sistine Chapel
  • St. Peter’s Basilica
  • St. Peter’s Square
  • Raphael Rooms
  • Apollo Belvedere & Laocoön & His Sons
  • Pinecone Courtyard
  • Gallery of the Candelabra
  • Gallery of the Maps
  • Gallery of the Tapestries

Included

Verified guest reviews

4.6 / 5
6131 Customer Reviews
  1. Excellent

    4479

  2. Great

    1134

  3. Good

    329

  4. Average

    115

  5. Poor

    74

Richard

Apr 14, 2025

Our tour was led by Davide who was absolutely fantastic. His knowledge brought the paintings as well as all of the artifacts in the museum to life. Coupled with some dry humor thrown in, he was terrific making for a memorable experience.

Alice

Apr 14, 2025

Everything was so great and the tour guide was so accommodating when we needed a little extra help. Smaller group and so much great information from our guide. Well worth it.

Molly

Apr 12, 2025

Our tour guide Laura, was fabulous! PhD in Art history, knowledgable and fun.

Corey

Apr 11, 2025

Our tour guide Steven was absolutely amazing! He was well educated and a great storyteller. Steven was able to weave the historical context (politics, history, etc...) of the past with today to add complexity and dimension. He was also funny and entertaining. This was my families favorite tour while in Italy. Steven was also well organized and kept the group together well. The tour itself was wonderful - easy check in, access and guidance throughout our time together. Would highly recommend walks!

Kimberly

Apr 07, 2025

Juliette was a phenomenal tour guide on our Complete Vatican Tour. She has an extensive knowledge of after studying Roman history for 30 years. She is also very entertaining and will know you by name quickly. Very good at taking appropriate restroom breaks when available and also making sure we had everyone in the group before proceeding as some sites are very crowded. She also gave several great recommendations for restaurants and gelato in the area. Highly recommend!

Know before you book

Make it a perfect day

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Check off Rome’s major sights and hidden gems on this perfect one-day itinerary for your trip to the Eternal City.