Meet our Guide Kickstart your day with an early morning rendezvous in front of the Vatican Museums, where your expert guide awaits. As you join your small group, you'll immediately skip past the regular line, granting you exclusive access to the Vatican Museums before the general public. Prepare to immerse yourself in the wonders of the Vatican Galleries, marveling at the finest masterpieces, and basking in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Sistine Chapel, all without the hustle and bustle of large crowds.

Highlights of the Vatican Museums As you continue your journey through the Vatican, you'll find yourself strolling through the magnificent and tranquil courtyard, seemingly untouched by the bustling crowds. Your next stop will be the main galleries of the Vatican, including the mesmerizing Gallery of the Candelabra, the enchanting Gallery of the Tapestries, and the captivating Gallery of the Maps. These extraordinary galleries house a treasure trove of remarkable sculptures, paintings, tapestries, and meticulously crafted maps, each with its own rich history and significance. Among these incredible galleries, our personal favorite is the Gallery of the Maps. Dating back almost 300 years prior to the unification of Italy, the exquisite frescoes within this gallery offer a glimpse into the geography of the Italian peninsula as it stood in the year 1580. Prepare to be transported back in time as your guide shares the fascinating stories behind each map.

MIchelangelo's Sistine Chapel One of the most iconic experiences in Vatican City is visiting the Sistine Chapel, and once you step inside, you'll understand why. It's no wonder that this masterpiece is revered as one of the greatest works of art in Western civilization. Since the chapel is a sacred place of worship, speaking is not allowed inside, and your guide won't be able to provide commentary while you're there. But fear not, they'll provide commentary before entering ensuring that you're fully prepared to take in all the wonders of the Sistine Chapel. To gain entry into the Sistine Chapel, both men and women must ensure that their knees and shoulders are covered. Failure to comply might result in the Vatican denying entry to religious sites. We understand that the Roman summers can be scorching, so a great alternative is to bring a shawl, scarf, or sweater with you. Get ready to be spellbound by the sheer grandeur of the Sistine Chapel!

Embark on an exclusive journey through the hidden treasures of the Vatican Gardens. With our longstanding relationship with the Vatican, you have the rare opportunity to join this exceptional adventure. Immerse yourself in a full-day tour to Castel Gandolfo, where the highly sought-after Vatican Gardens tickets await. Experience serenity and respite in this oasis nestled within Rome's bustling heart. Accompanied by an expert Vatican guide, stroll through the enchanting Vatican Gardens, discovering hidden grottoes, antiquities, meticulously crafted landscapes, and ornate fountains. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere as only a limited number of visitors are granted access to the Vatican Gardens. Behold breathtaking views of St. Peter's Basilica unfolding before your eyes.

Enjoy a Train ride to Castel Gandolfo Prepare to feel truly special as one of the exclusive guests of the Vatican, permitted to embark on a unique train journey departing from Stazione di Città del Vaticano. Today, that distinguished honor belongs to you! Depart directly from Vatican City and embark on a serene and picturesque ride through the breathtaking Castelli Romani hills. After a bustling morning filled with exploration, this is the perfect opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate for the second part of the day's adventures. After an hour of leisurely travel, your train arrives at the Castel Gandolfo Train Station. From there, hop on a comfortable bus that will transport you up the hill to the awe-inspiring Barberini Gardens and the Pope's summer residence, also known as the Apostolic Palace.

Wander Through the Barberini Gardens Get ready to immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of the Barberini Gardens, exploring both by bus and on foot. Nestled atop the remnants of Emperor Domitian's Villa, these captivating gardens have been generously opened to the public by Pope Francis as a gesture of goodwill. As you wander through this picturesque paradise, marvel at meticulously groomed hedges, elegant fountains, vibrant flowers, and remnants of ancient Roman ruins that add an aura of history to the landscape. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you to specific points of interest, sharing fascinating stories about the rich history of this lush oasis. Prepare for a truly awe-inspiring experience as you step inside the ruins of a Roman amphitheatre dating back to the first century. Let the allure of the Barberini Gardens captivate your senses. After the Gardens a Delicious Local Buffet Lunch is Included.

Free Time to Explore Indulge in a delightful lunch, and then set forth to explore the charming town of Castel Gandolfo perched atop the hill, offering mesmerizing views of the pristine Lake Albano. Meander through the picturesque streets adorned with shops, restaurants, art galleries, bars, and cafes, immersing yourself in the local ambiance. This is also your chance to embark on a self-guided tour of the Pope's former summer residence, now transformed into a captivating museum. As your exploration of this enchanting town draws to a close, hop aboard a convenient bus that will transport you back to the train station. Sit back and relax as you journey homeward, heading towards the San Pietro train station located just south of Vatican City. Reflect on the incredible experiences of the day, savoring the memories of an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Rome.