If you're looking for a Vatican tour that goes beyond the usual offerings, our combination tour has got you covered. With this tour, you'll bypass the line at St. Peter's, climb to the top of the dome for a stunning panoramic view of the Vatican and Rome, visit the Papal Crypts, and then skip the line at the Vatican to see the Sistine Chapel.
Your tour begins with an exciting elevator ride to the top of St. Peter's iconic dome, where you'll take in an unforgettable view of the city. From there, you'll join your expert Vatican guide for a comprehensive exploration of the art, history, and famous landmarks of this sacred city. The tour is designed to provide a deep dive into the Vatican's rich cultural heritage, allowing you to fully appreciate the art and architecture that make this place so special.
Inclusions & Exclusions
✔ Group size of 20 people max
✔ Skip-the-line entry and guided tour to the Vatican Museums
✔ Access to the elevator and stairs to the top of St. Peter's dome
✔ A professional, fun, English-speaking guide
✔ Entry to Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel
✔ Early Entry and guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica and papal crypts
✖ Hotel pickup and drop-off
✖ Food & Beverages
✖ Gratuities
Departure & Return
Departure:
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Please arrive 10 minutes early. Meet your guide at Largo Del Colonnato. This is the area just outside of the St. Peters Square colonnades, on the right side when looking at St. Peter’s Basilica. Our staff will be there holding a “The Tour Guy” sign standing between the fountain and the green kiosk.
Itinerary
1
St. Peter's Square
Ready for the ultimate Vatican exploration? Your day will start meeting our staff just outside of St Peter's Square at an indicated meeting point.
Duration: 5 minutes
2
Cupola di San Pietro
Take your Vatican discovery to new heights climbing the Dome of St Peter's. A combo of elevator and stairs (231 steps) a medium level of fitness is required for the dome climb, but the panoramic views of Rome and the Vatican State, will stay with you for a long time.
Duration: 40 minutes
3
St. Peter's Basilica
Considered the epicentre of the Catholic faith, the St Peter's Basilica is a must-see destination for millions of tourists annually. Let our guide introduce you to all its unique features including the Holy door, Michelangelo's Pietà, Bernini's Baldacchino and plenty more!
Duration: 60 minutes
4
The Vatican Grottoes
After visiting the very peak of the Vatican and learning about the treasures held within the St Peter's Basilica, its time to descend to the bottom. Visiting the Papal Crypts, you'll witness remains of the original 4th century basilica and sarcophagi of numerous popes.
Duration: 15 minutes
5
Sphere within a Sphere
Before exploring the Vatican Museums alongside your guide, you'll enjoy a quick stroll through the Pinecone Courtyard. Here you'll find Alnaldo Pomodoro's famous Sphere within a Sphere, symbolising how Christianity struggles against the chaos of the world.
Duration: 5 minutes
6
Vatican Museums
Experience the best of the Vatican City with our Highlights of the Vatican Museums tour. Skip the line and delve into the treasures of this holy place, guided by an expert who will reveal the secrets behind the stunning artworks and artifacts.
Follow your guide through the Candelabra Gallery, Gallery of the Tapestries, and Gallery of Maps, marvelling at the ancient Greek and Roman statues, Flemish tapestries, and detailed maps of Italy.
In the Pio-Clementino Museum, home to some of the world's most famous sculptures, you'll see Laocoön and His Sons, the Belvedere Torso, and the magnificent sarcophagus of St. Helen, mother of Constantine.
Next, enter the Raphael Rooms and immerse yourself in the Renaissance era of amazing art and literature. See the rooms frescoed by Raphael and admire his most famous work, The School of Athens, as your guide shares insights into the artist's life and influences.
Duration: 2.4166666666667 hours
7
Sistine Chapel
Experience the grandeur of Michelangelo's most celebrated masterpiece at the world-renowned Sistine Chapel. With over 600 figures, the frescoes depicting biblical stories from Genesis to Revelations are awe-inspiring and truly a sight to behold. From the iconic Creation of Man to the powerful Last Judgement, every inch of the chapel's ceiling and walls is covered in captivating imagery.
Please note that speaking inside the chapel is forbidden due to its religious significance. However, your guide will provide an overview before entering and we'll also provide you with a map/handout to help you identify each fresco you'll see.
Duration: 20 minutes
Additional info
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• Not recommended for travellers with claustrophobia and/or vertigo
• Please note there is no skip the line service at the St Peter's Basilica, though due to our early start we are able to avoid most of the day time crowds.
