Best of the Vatican in one full day: Museums Sistine Chapel, Dome & more

Vatican City, VA
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (1 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    private guide
  • inclusion
    skip the line ticket

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Private transportation

Meeting Point

At the Vatican museums entrance. Below the white gate topped with the statues of Michelangelo and Raphael. Your tour guide will hold a sign with your name.

Meeting point

00120 Vatican City , Holy See

End point

End Point

Meeting point

00120

End point

What to expect

1
Vatican Museums

Start your Vatican tour right away with your skip-the-line tickets. You’ll meet your guide just outside the Vatican Museums,and be escorted straight in to the breathtaking exhibits.

Duration 30 minutes
Admission Admission Included
2
Cortile della Pigna

Your first stop is the Gallery of Maps, the Gallery of Tapestries, and the Pinecone Courtyard.

Duration 30 minutes
Admission Admission Included
3

Stanze di Raffaello

Next you’ll see highlights of the impressive collections of the Vatican Museums, including the stunning works of Raphael and Michelangelo, collected by various Popes throughout the centuries.

Duration 60 minutes
Admission Admission Included
4
Sistine Chapel

Next, you’ll enter the glorious Sistine Chapel, where you’ll see Michelangelo's famous frescoes "The Last Judgment," and "The Creation of Adam."

Duration 30 minutes
Admission Admission Included
5
Cupola di San Pietro

The Dome of St. Peter's Basilica is best seen from an up-close perspective. A short lift ride will take you to the main level inside the vault. From here, you’ll have a fantastic view of the staggering mosaics and stunning elaborate embellishments. This view affords the best perspective to appreciate the artisans’ skills and techniques used to create such intricate work. Climb up the 281 steps to the highest point of the Dome for one of the best views of the entire city of Rome, and your guide will show you landmarks and points of interest from this birds-eye view.

Duration 30 minutes
Admission Admission Included
6
St. Peter's Basilica

When you return to ground level, you’ll explore St. Peter’s Basilica, and you’ll see Michelangelo's famous Pietà, the only piece of work he ever signed. You’ll learn how Michelangelo was chosen over his peers for the distinct honor to paint St. Peter’s heavenly arch. Then, you’ll visit the underground ecclesiastical tomb, where many Popes have been buried over the centuries. You will also explore the various houses of prayer, and shrouded graves.

Duration 30 minutes
Admission Admission Included
7
St. Peter's Square

The tour will end at St Peter's square.

Duration 30 minutes
Admission Admission Included
8
Obelisco Vaticano

One of the 13 egyptians obelisks of Rome, probably the most mysterious.

Duration 20 minutes
Admission Admission Included

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Provided by Bruno Tours

What our experts say

  • icon
    Try the Vatican’s restaurant for lunch.
  • icon
    Visit the Vatican Gardens if time allows.
  • icon
    Don’t miss the view from the Dome!
  • icon
    Bring a camera for stunning photos.
  • icon
    Wear comfortable shoes for walking.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Experience the wonders of the Vatican like never before with the "Best of the Vatican in one full day" tour. Skip the long lines and dive straight into the opulence and grandeur of one of the most famous landmarks in the world. Your knowledgeable guide will meet you outside the Vatican Museums, and from there, your extraordinary journey begins.

What to expect?

Prepare to be amazed as you explore the Vatican Museums and discover their hidden treasures. Marvel at the intricate details and breathtaking art collections in the Gallery of Maps, the Gallery of Tapestries, and the Pinecone Courtyard. Be captivated by the masterpieces of Raphael and Michelangelo, which were amassed by various Popes throughout history. Experience the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel, where you can witness the iconic frescoes, "The Last Judgment" and "The Creation of Adam." That's not all - take an exhilarating lift ride up to the main level of the Dome of St. Peter's Basilica for a close-up view of its majestic mosaics and stunning embellishments. Climb the 281 steps to the highest point of the Dome and be rewarded with a panoramic view of Rome that will leave you breathless. Explore the underground ecclesiastical tomb, visit the beautiful library, and admire the collection of Popes' carriages.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for anyone who wants to explore the Vatican in depth and truly appreciate its historical and artistic significance. Whether you're a history buff, an art lover, or simply curious about the wonders of the world, this tour is designed to cater to your interests. It's suitable for all ages and welcomes individuals, couples, families, and groups who want an insider's perspective on the Vatican.

Why book this?

Immerse yourself in the rich history and extraordinary beauty of the Vatican with this exclusive tour. By skipping the long lines, you'll have more time to explore and soak up the grandeur of this iconic destination. With a knowledgeable guide by your side, you'll gain insights and anecdotes that bring the Vatican's stories to life. From the famous masterpieces of Raphael and Michelangelo to the breathtaking views from the Dome of St. Peter's Basilica, this tour guarantees an unforgettable experience.

Good to know

Please note that lunch is not included in the tour price, but you'll have the option to enjoy a meal at the Vatican Museums restaurant. Wear comfortable shoes as there's a fair amount of walking and climbing involved. Your guide will have a sign with your name, making it easy to locate them at the meeting point. Don't forget your camera to capture the incredible moments throughout the tour.

Reviews

Travelers who have embarked on this tour rave about the knowledgeable guides who brought the Vatican's history and masterpieces to life. Reviews highlight the convenience of skipping the long lines and the awe-inspiring beauty of the Sistine Chapel. Visitors were particularly impressed by the close-up views from the Dome of St. Peter's Basilica, which provided a unique perspective on Rome's iconic landmarks. Overall, the tour receives high praise for its comprehensive exploration of the Vatican's hidden corners and the exceptional value it offers.

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