tours to the vatican city

THE 10 BEST Vatican City Tours & Excursions

Vatican city tours.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Walking Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Skip-the-Line Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Skip-the-Line Group Tour of the Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica

2. Skip-the-Line Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's | Small Group

3. Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St Peter’s Basilica Guided Tour

4. Skip the Line: Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel with St. Peter's Basilica Access

5. Rome: Skip the Line Vatican, Sistine Chapel, St Peter 6 PAX Group

6. Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel Skip the Line & Basilica Tour

7. Rome: Early Morning Vatican Small Group Tour of 6 PAX or Private

8. Skip the Line Vatican, Sistine Chapel, Basilica & Papal Tomb Tour

9. Rome Hop-On Hop-Off Bus with Transfer from Civitavecchia Port

10. Skip the Line: Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel & Raphael Rooms + Basilica Access

11. Rome in a Day Small Group Tour with Vatican and Colosseum

12. Vatican Museum's, Sistine Chapel & Basilica Tour without Queue

13. Rome: Complete Early Morning Vatican Tour | Small Group

14. Rome in a Day Tour with Vatican, Colosseum & Historic Center

15. Vatican Museums Sistine Chapel with St. Peter's Basilica Tour

16. Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & Saint Peter's Semi-private Tour

17. Rome: The Original Entire Vatican Tour & St. Peter's Dome Climb

18. Rome's 12 Best Highlights Full Day Private Tour

19. Private Early Bird Vatican Museums Tour

20. Fast-Track Tour to Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's

21. Complete Vatican (Museums, Sistine Chapel, Basilica) - Max 10ppl

22. St. Peter's Basilica and Papal Grottoes Guided Tour

23. Skip the Line: Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Admission Ticket

24. Vatican & Sistine Chapel Tour With Access To St. Peter's Basilica

25. Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica Guided Tour

26. Charming VIP Rome Escorted Tour By Night

27. Skip-the-line Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel & St Peter's

28. Private Tour of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St Peter's Basilica

29. Rome: Skip-the-Line Guided Tour Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel

30. Pasta Class in Rome: Fettuccine Cooking Class near Piazza Navona

What travelers are saying.

• Leigh H 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Enjoyable and informative Our Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica tour was superb. Our tour guide Ami was excellent - very knowledgeable and engaging for the whole 3 hours of the tour. Ami was extremely informative, and gave a perfect balance of historical facts and humorous anecdotes. A wonderful tour that we will always remember. Read more Review of: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St Peter’s Basilica Guided Tour Written May 19, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

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The 5 best vatican tours of 2024.

Guided Vatican tours can make the experience less overwhelming and more enjoyable.

The Best Vatican Tours

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Key Takeaways

• Guided tours can help you make the most of your visit to Vatican City.
• Ticket prices can vary considerably depending on the tour group size.
• Anticipate crowds regardless of when or how you visit, as many tours offer early entry, after-hours and/or skip-the-line access.

One of the most famous landmarks in the world, Vatican City draws more than 5 million people each year, which means that no matter when you visit, you can expect massive crowds. Along with the crowds, the sheer size of this sovereign city-state in Rome can make a visit to Vatican City feel overwhelming.

If you're feeling intimidated by the experience, consider one of the following small-group Vatican tours, guided by local experts who can both explain the history of the Eternal City and help you navigate the crowds.

Editor’s Pick: What a Life Tours – Skip-the-line Vatican Small Group Tour

Price: Adults from 99 euros (about $108); kids from 94 euros (around $102) Duration: 3 hours

U.S. News independently paid to send Laura Itzkowitz , a freelance journalist based in Rome, on this tour to provide readers with an unbiased, first-hand perspective of what to expect. What a Life Tours – Skip-the-line Vatican Small Group Tour was selected by our team as an Editor’s Pick thanks to its popularity and favorable user reviews.

While the Vatican Museums are one of the must-see attractions in Vatican City (the city-state surrounded by Rome), they can can be overwhelming to navigate. After all, the site contains 26 museums, various chapels and numerous galleries. The engaging guide leading this skip-the-line tour wasted no time bringing us to the highlights, starting with the Pinecone Courtyard and ending at St. Peter’s Basilica . At the basilica, we saw Michelangelo’s Pietà and the guide explained why it’s the only work the artist actually signed.

Along the tour, you’ll see masterpieces from the Vatican Museums’ collection. Highlights include the ancient statue of Laocoön and his sons; the Belvedere Torso, which inspired Michelangelo; Greek Cross Hall; and the Round Hall, which contains a monumental bronze statue of Hercules. The Gallery of Candelabra, the Gallery of Tapestries and the Gallery of Maps – where the guide shared interesting facts about Italy in the 1600s – are other focal points, as is the Sistine Chapel. Since talking isn’t allowed in the Sistine Chapel, the guide explained Michelangelo’s frescoes at the beginning of the tour. Our guide had a great sense of humor and a deep knowledge of the artworks, which was impressive. However, she didn’t bring us to the Raphael Rooms; you may want to book a different tour if this is a priority for you.

Tours depart from the What a Life Tours office ( Via Santamaura 14B ) Monday through Saturday; the first tour starts at 9:30 a.m. What a Life Tours also offers skip-the-line access that omits the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica, as well as local food tours and tours of the Colosseum .

Laura Itzkowitz

Why we love it:

• No more than 12 people can join the tour at a time.
• To capture perfectly framed photos of St. Peter’s Basilica, stroll down Via della Conciliazione after the tour.
• If you’re hungry after the tour, head to Ristorante Arlù, a family-run eatery nearby that’s been open since 1959. Be sure to ask for a table outside on the charming cobblestone street if the weather is nice.
• The neighborhood surrounding the Vatican, Prati, is a great place to shop, especially along Via Cola di Rienzo. Stop by Castroni for espresso and other gourmet foods or il Sellaio di Serafini for a handmade leather bag.

– Laura Itzkowitz

Check prices & availability on:

The Best Rome Colosseum Tours

Laura Itzkowitz April 17, 2024

The Roman Guy – Vatican After Hours Tour with Sistine Chapel

Price: Adults from $124; kids from $100 Duration: 2 hours

Instead of early entry, this tour offers after-hours access to the Eternal City on select weekends in the summer months. Tours depart at 5:30 p.m. from Caffé Vaticano . Guided by a local expert, you'll see the Vatican museums, galleries, Raphael Rooms and School of Athens before the tour concludes at the Sistine Chapel. Recent reviewers highly recommend this tour, pointing to the tour guides' breadth of knowledge and the ability to experience Vatican City with fewer crowds.

The Roman Guy offers a number of other local tours that include visits to the Colosseum and Catacombs of Rome as well as food tours (and tours that combine some or all of the above).

Liv Tours – Vatican & Sistine Chapel Small Group Tour

Price: Adults from $140; kids from $124 Duration: 3 hours

This intimate tour is limited to just six people, making the experience more personal and enjoyable. Your tour guide will take you to through the famous galleries, the Julius II apartments, the Raphael Rooms and the Sistine Chapel. Recent tourgoers say they could see a difference in this tour versus the other Vatican tours. They also note how kind the tour guides are.

Tours, which are available during a wide variety of time slots each day, start and conclude at Caffé Vaticano , right across the street from the entrance to the museums.

Other experiences offered by Liv Tours include a Jewish Ghetto & Travestere Tour, cooking classes and tours designed for kids.

Private Tours of Rome – Vatican and Sistine Chapel Private Tour

Price: Adults from $364; kids from $87 Duration: 3 hours

Explore the Vatican with a professional historian on this private tour. Recent travelers say they're so glad they chose to visit the Vatican on a private tour, noting how much they enjoyed hearing the guides' personal stories about the museums and the pope.

Tours depart from Viale Vaticano at 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

If you're looking for a private tour of other attractions, Private Tours of Rome offers a variety of options. It also offers shore excursions, with pick up and drop-off at your ship in Civitavecchia.

Through Eternity Tours – Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum & Sistine Chapel: Essential Experience

Price: From $1,345 Duration: 6 hours

If you're short on time and/or prefer to see several Rome attractions at once, this jam-packed tour is a great option. During the six-hour excursion, you'll see the Colosseum, the Roman Forum , Trevi Fountain , Piazza Novana and the Pantheon before visiting the Vatican museums, Sistine Chapel, Raphael Rooms, St. Peter's Basilica and St. Peter's Square (and then moving on to other sites). This tour includes optional headsets and skip-the-line access at all ticketed attractions. Recent travelers say the tour guides make this experience especially fun.

This full-day tour starts at 9 a.m. in front of the Angelino "ai Fori" dal 1947 restaurant and concludes in St. Peter's Square. It's typically offered Monday through Saturday. While babies and toddlers up to age 2 are permitted free of charge, this tour is not recommended for children.

Through Eternity Tours offers a number of other guided experiences in Rome, including an Angels and Demons tour based on the bestselling book. The company also offers shore excursions and day trips to Tivoli, Florence and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Vatican is a sovereign city-state recognized under international law. Its government includes the pope and the departments of the Roman Curia that help him exercise his responsibilities.

In short, yes. Vatican City is considered an independent nation-state and is the world's smallest such entity.

Yes, and there are a variety of ticket options you can purchase on the Vatican's website . However, many travelers opt for a guided tour to see the highlights with the help of an expert. Plus, many Vatican tours include stops at other attractions in Rome.

All visitors must dress appropriately for a place of worship. Shorts, hats, miniskirts, sleeveless tops, low-cut tops and garments that show the knees are not permitted. Guests dressed inappropriately will not be allowed inside.

When choosing your outfit, remember to wear comfortable walking shoes . Any visit to Vatican City requires a lot of walking.

All visitors are required to go through a security check to enter the museums, and there are a variety of items that you may not take inside:

• Luggage: Bags, backpacks and the like must not exceed 40 x 35 x 15 centimeters (16 x 14 x 6 inches); if they're too big, they must be checked in the cloak room (free of charge).
• Umbrellas: If necessary, these can also be checked in the cloak room.
• Video cameras: Non-flash photography is permitted in all areas except the Sistine Chapel.
• Food and drink
• Weapons and firearms

The Vatican is easily accessible from different sections of Rome.

Metro: You can take the metro to either the Cipro or Ottaviano stop on Line A (orange line) to be dropped near the Vatican Museums.

Bus: If taking the bus, multiple routes drop off near St. Peter's Basilica.

Taxi: You can also opt for a taxi or walk into St. Peter's Square.

Additionally, there are parking garages outside of Vatican City if you want to drive there, though driving in Rome is generally not recommended, as there are many areas where driving is restricted and you could be fined. Traffic in Rome can also be brutal, especially during the summer. Plan to arrive at the tour departure point at least 10 to 15 minutes prior to your scheduled tour time.

The Vatican museums are open Monday through Saturday.

From March 2024 onward, hours are 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., with extended hours until 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. The museums are closed on Sundays, with the exception of the last Sunday of the month and certain holy days throughout the year, including Christmas. Final entry to the museum is approximately two hours before closing.

St. Peter's Basilica opens at 7 a.m. year-round, closing at 6:30 p.m. in the winter months and 7 p.m. from April through September.

Be sure to check if there are any museum closures ahead of your visit.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Hotels in Rome
• The Best Places to Visit in Italy
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Vatican Tours

Despite being a religious state, Vatican City isn’t exclusively for followers of the Catholic faith. In fact, this small country offers a treasure trove of historic buildings and a rich cultural heritage that will captivate tourists and art enthusiasts alike.

Situated right in the heart of Rome, the Vatican is a foreign state with some strict entry rules, and due to its popularity, it remains bustling with visitors all year round.

The Vatican City: the Smallest Country in The World

The Vatican isn’t just the smallest country in the world. This tiny State, with a population of less than 500 inhabitants, is renowned as the famous headquarters of the Catholic religion and the home of the Pope.

You have two options to explore the Vatican: you can visit it during a self-guided tour or join a guided tour of the Vatican. Personally, I’d recommend the latter, even if you happen to be a permanent resident of Rome. And now, let me explain why.

Are Guided Tours of the Vatican Worth it?

In a nutshell… yes. While it’s possible to explore the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica on your own, a guided tour can truly make a difference.

Why Opt for a Vatican Guided Tour

• A guided tour typically covers all the main attractions of the Vatican in a well-organised single tour of a few hours.
• The Vatican Museums are truly vast and filled with exquisite artworks. In fact, they’re so extensive that attempting to visit them independently can be overwhelming. With a guided tour, you can focus on the essential highlights without running the risk of getting tired before you’re even halfway through the visit.
• Even with a skip-the-line tour, queues for the Vatican Museums can be incredibly long. Choosing a guided tour with authorised tour operators can be a smart solution, as it grants you access through partner-exclusive entrances.
• Exploring the Vatican with professional guides allows you to discover fascinating anecdotes and insights that you wouldn’t come across during a self-guided visit.

Types of Vatican Tours

There are several options for visiting the Vatican. Let’s explore them.

Guided Tours of the Vatican

As I mentioned earlier, a guided tour is definitely the best way to make the most of your visit to the Vatican. I’ve tried visiting the Vatican on my own multiple times, and having an expert guide by your side can truly make a difference. These tours usually start at a meeting point in the area.

Group Tours of the Vatican

This is the most common type of tour. Many tour operators offer tours in small groups, so following your guide and moving around the Vatican Museums is not complicated at all. Besides, if you ever feel like breaking away from the group, you can always rejoin them and continue at your own pace.

Private Tours of the Vatican

This is a decidedly luxury option. The price of a private Vatican tour is higher than a group tour. The advantages? You’ll have the guide entirely at your disposal. Moreover, many private Vatican tours include pick-up and drop-off at your hotel or apartment.

Vatican Early Opening Tours

Among the various guided tours, both private and group, there are some that grant access to the Vatican Museums at their early opening. As I’ve mentioned before, the Vatican is one of the major tourist attractions in Rome, and there’s often a very long queue to get in.

So, if you want to see them without the typical crowd that fills them, I recommend booking one of the Vatican’s early opening tours. You’ll literally be the first to step inside the Museums and the Sistine Chapel, and your visit will have a whole different feel.

Self-guided Tours of the Vatican

If you’re on a budget, you can still visit the Vatican by purchasing an entrance ticket to the Vatican Museums without a guide. However, this option may entail waiting in line at the entrance for as long as 3 or 4 hours. The same goes if you decide to visit only St. Peter’s Basilica, which doesn’t require an entrance ticket.

Skip-The-Line Tours of the Vatican

Let me tell you: skip-the-line tickets for the Vatican are worth every penny of their price.

In the past, I worked for a tour operator, and for work-related reasons, I visited the Vatican several times with a skip-the-line service. I can assure you that if you choose the right tour operator, you won’t even wait for 5 minutes at the entrance. You’ll bypass the long queue that starts from Via Leone IV and goes all the way to the Vatican ticket office. And you’ll thank me for recommending this type of tour.

After-Hours Tours of the Vatican

From April to October, the Vatican stays open on Friday evenings. So, if you wish, you can opt for one of the enchanting evening tours of the Vatican offered by tour operators. Not only will you see the Vatican in a completely different light, but you’ll also avoid sightseeing during the hottest hours of the day.

Tours of the Pontifical Villas of Castel Gandolfo

Castel Gandolfo is a delightful town on the shores of its namesake lake, located about 24 kilometres southeast of Rome. It’s been the summer retreat for the Pope for centuries.

And now, you have the fantastic opportunity to join a tour of the Pontifical Villas, where you can travel to Castel Gandolfo and explore the beautiful gardens and historic residences that belong to the Vatican, just outside the confines of Vatican City itself.

These tours are typically available during the summer months, and you can easily reach Castel Gandolfo by train from the Vatican Museums. Once there, you’ll be guided through the extensive gardens and the Apostolic Palace, which serves as the official residence for the Pope during his stay at Castel Gandolfo.

Major Attractions in Vatican City

There’s so much to see within Vatican City, and it’s an incredible place to explore.

What to See Inside St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican

Inside St. Peter’s Basilica , you’ll have the chance to visit:

• Bernini ‘s stunning colonnade in St. Peter’s Square
• The magnificent Baldacchino, a work of art by both Bernini and Borromini
• Michelangelo’s breathtaking Pietà , located in the right nave of the Basilica
• The lid of Emperor Hadrian’s sarcophagus
• The tomb of Pope Alexander VII, crafted by Bernini
• Michelangelo ‘s iconic Dome
• The Vatican Grottoes: the final resting place of the Popes and St. Peter himself.

What to See Inside the Vatican Museums

Now, when you venture into the Vatican Museums, make sure you don’t miss out on these incredible sights:

• The Tapestry Room, filled with intricate and awe-inspiring tapestries
• The Pinacoteca, which houses masterpieces by Giotto, Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, the Perugino, and Caravaggio
• The Pio-Clementino Museum, dedicated to statuary, where you’ll find the impressive Laocoön sculpture group
• The Gallery of Maps
• Raffaello’s Rooms, including the famous ‘School of Athens’ fresco
• The magnificent Spiral Staircase
• The Sistine Chapel
• the Vatican Museum Gardens

Time Needed to Tour the Vatican

Most guided tours at the Vatican run for a standard 2 to 3 hours, giving you an overview of the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and the iconic St. Peter’s Basilica. These tours usually start early in the morning or early in the afternoon, leaving you plenty of time to enjoy the place.

Of course, nothing is stopping you from entering the Museums when they first open and spending the entire day delving into the wonderful art collections they hold.

Dress Code for the Vatican 

The Vatican is a religious site, and although it attracts many tourists, it does have a conservative dress code. It’s really important to respect this dress code if you want to be allowed entry. Many foreign visitors are disappointed each year when they’re turned away due to inappropriate attire, and I don’t want you to be one of these.

To enter the Vatican, it’s important to:

• Avoid short skirts and shorts
• Cover your shoulders and arms
• Steer clear of plunging necklines and cropped tops
• Remove hats before entering
• Wear anything that might offend Catholic morals or decency
• Cover any tattoos you might have

I know it gets scorching hot in Rome during the summer, but it’s crucial to adhere to these rules. My advice for the hot months is to wear a long dress or lightweight suit, or perhaps bring a light jacket to cover your arms and shoulders before entering. You can show off your sexiest outfit after you’ve completed the visit.

Tip: By dressing respectfully, you’ll ensure a smooth visit to the Vatican and demonstrate your appreciation for the sacredness of the place. 

Tips For a Great Vatican Experience

And here we are at the end of this guide to Vatican tours. I’ll share a few extra tips that might come in handy in addition to what’s already been mentioned.

• Make sure to visit the Vatican early in the day – you can’t imagine how crowded it can get.
• Only book guided tours from professional authorised tour operators.
• Always double-check the opening times, especially around religious dates and events throughout the year.
• Purchase your ticket several weeks in advance, as they often sell out quickly.
• Upon entering the Vatican, you’ll go through a security check with a metal detector, similar to airport security. Be sure to read the rules on the official Vatican website . Among other things, you can’t bring knives, scissors, umbrellas, or cameras with you, and even things like tripods and selfie sticks are not allowed.
• Once inside the Sistine Chapel, remember not to take any photos or videos – it’s strictly prohibited, and the security personnel may ask you to delete any shots you’ve taken in front of them.
• Accessing the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel requires payment, but on the last Sunday of each month, you can enjoy free admission to both the museums and the Vatican Gardens from opening until 12:30 PM. Visiting St. Peter’s Basilica alone is, instead, always free, so you can still marvel at its grandeur without any cost. Happy exploring.

The Complete Vatican Tour with Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter’s Basilica

• 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

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.

Note: The special access passage between the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica is closed on Wednesdays and subject to other unexpected closures during special celebrations/festivities, including the Easter ceremonies. On such days we will instead explore the magnificent Pinoteca Gallery.

Sometimes guides may not be allowed to give tours inside St. Peter's Basilica, in which case they will share a brief explanation from outside and you will be free to visit the Basilica by yourself.

Sites visited

Verified guest reviews, may 16, 2024.

Excellent tour with an excellent guide

May 15, 2024

Tour guide was excellent! Great communicator.. nice sense of humor while explaining everything we needed to knows under very crowded conditions.

Our tour guide Alessia was excellent and took good care of our group.

Very enjoyable. Marco our guide was very knowledgeable and shared his knowledge and enthusiasm.

Marco was a wonderful tour guide! He had great stories a great sense of humor, was very knowledgeable and moved the tour along well. We highly recommend any tour Marco gives!!

Know before you book

Make it a perfect day.

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

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ENTIRE VATICAN & VATACOMBS: FLAGSHIP VATICAN TOUR

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• Hour Glass Duration: 3 Hours
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Our Flagship Tour of the Vatican and Vatacombs

Meet your expert guide by the Vatican Museum entrance and after brief introductions enjoy skip-the-line entry to what is arguably the most important and largest art collection in the world.

The Vatican Museums weren’t always as we know them today. For over five hundred years, celebrated Popes slowly gathered and commissioned works of art from the most talented painters, architects and sculptors in Italy and brought them to the Vatican to showcase them for their own personal enjoyment and that of a carefully chosen circle of clerics, artists, nobles, and scholars. Each new Pope sought to leave a legacy, commissioning chapels, frescoes, sculptures, libraries, paintings, courtyards – one masterpiece after another until the Papal Collection finally grew to more than 70,000 works of art spread over 1400 galleries.

In 1771 Pope Clement XIV finally opened the doors to the public, making it possible for us to enter the Holy See and walk in the footsteps of Popes and the most celebrated artists from Renaissance and Baroque Italy.

On this epic Vatican Tour you’ll walk in the footsteps of Popes and Renaissance Masters as you take in the Rooms of Raphael and of course the Sistine Chapel from its commissioning to the finishing touches by none other than Michelangelo Buonarroti. With an expert guide, learn to discern between myth, fact, and popular Hollywood fiction regarding this epic work of art.

Enjoy fast-track access to St. Peter’s Basilica to view masterpieces by Michelangelo, Raphael, and Bernini among others before descending to the Papal crypts below. We conclude on the portico with an overview of Bernini’s magnificent piazza (St. Peter’s Square), the central obelisk, and of course the Swiss Guard.

• Stand just feet away from Michelangelo’s remarkable frescoes in the Sistine Chapel
• Take in the beauty of the extraordinary rooms of Raphael
• Skip all lines with priority tour operator access
• Visit the “Vatacombs,” the eerie resting place of former Popes beneath St. Peter’s Basilica
• Expert local guide
• Skip-the-line tickets to the Vatican Museums
• Room of the Muses and Belvedere Torso
• Pinecone Courtyard
• Octagonal Courtyard
• Rooms of Raphael
• Gallery of Maps
• Laocoonte Sculpture 1st Century AD
• St. Peter’s Basilica
• Vatacombs (papal tombs beneath St. Peter’s)
• Visit to the Necropolis / Scavi
• Transport to and from meeting point

ADDITIONAL INFO

• Tour departs rain or shine
• Unfortunately, wheelchairs and strollers cannot be accommodated on this tour. Contact us for private tour options for your group.

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7. Rome: Early Morning Vatican Small Group Tour of 6 PAX or Private

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13. Rome: Complete Early Morning Vatican Tour | Small Group

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17. Rome: The Original Entire Vatican Tour & St. Peter's Dome Climb

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19. Rome's 12 Best Highlights Full Day Private Tour

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21. Fast-Track Tour to Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's

22. Complete Vatican (Museums, Sistine Chapel, Basilica) - Max 10ppl

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What travellers are saying.

• Leigh H 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Enjoyable and informative Our Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica tour was superb. Our tour guide Ami was excellent - very knowledgeable and engaging for the whole 3 hours of the tour. Ami was extremely informative, and gave a perfect balance of historical facts and humorous anecdotes. A wonderful tour that we will always remember. Read more Review of: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St Peter’s Basilica Guided Tour Written 19 May 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

The 7 Best Vatican Tours ⛪ [2024 Reviews]

Taking a guided tour of the vatican museums is the best way to appreciate the magnificent artwork and galleries.

The Vatican, formally the Vatican Museums, is a sprawling network of museums, secret rooms, galleries, and more.

These top rated guided Vatican tours will show you some of the most significant artifacts and works of art the Vatican museum has to offer.

A guided tour will help you learn more about the artwork and give you opportunities to see and experience more than you could on your own. So mark the Vatican off your bucket list with one of these tours!

Be sure to see our reviews of Amalfi Coast Day Trips , Colosseum Tours and Tuscany Day Trips .

Best Vatican Guided Tours

Quick answer: the 7 best rated vatican tours from rome.

• Vatican City: Private Vatican Tour, Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and Vatican Basilica
• Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica: Early Morning Tour
• Vatican and Colosseum Combo Tour: Don’t Wait in Line to See the Best of Rome
• Entire Vatican Tour: Treasures of the Sistine Chapel
• Private Vatican Tour Museum and Sistine Chapel
• Vatican: Early Entry to Museums, Sistine Chapel & St Peter’s
• Rome: Entire Vatican Museums Tour and St. Peter’s Dome Climb

Vatican Tour Reviews

1. vatican city: private vatican tour, vatican museums, sistine chapel and vatican basilica.

• Departure Location : Viale Vaticano, 100, 00192 Roma RM
• Return Location : Saint Peter’s Square
• Departure Time : Various
• Estimated Duration : 3 hours
• Includes : Vatican Museums, Rooms of Rafael and Sistine Chapel Private Tour, skip-the-line tickets

The crowds at the Vatican, as well as the Sistine Chapel, can be a bit overwhelming. This private Vatican tour will take you on a guided and informational walk through many of the most popular attraction stops at the Vatican.

Not only will you be able to see the Sistine Chapel, but also Rafael’s Rooms and the Chiaramonti Gallery, as well as several other famous sites.

Because your tour guide is taking you and your group on a private skip-the-line tour of the Museums and the Sistine Chapel, there may be some flexibility in what you see and when.

You’ll also be able to ask questions of your guide. Your ticket to this private tour also includes the ability to skip the long lines commonly seen at the Vatican.

This tour will bring you through the Pinecone Courtyard where you will see the bust of Augustus, dating back to the 1 st -century A.D. Other Roman sculptures and historical artifacts are also on display.

Both the Gallery of the Maps and the Gallery of the Tapestries offer beauty as well as the overwhelming sense of history located here.

Being able to take in the breathtaking details of both the Sistine Chapel and the Basilica of St. Peter is truly once-in-a-lifetime.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other rome experiences you may enjoy:, 2. sistine chapel and st. peter’s basilica: early morning tour.

• Departure Location : Piazza della Città Leonina
• Return Location : Piazza della Città Leonina
• Departure Time : 7:30am
• Includes : Guided tour of Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica , head sets

Before the crowds start to form for the day, you’ll be able to enjoy a walking tour through the Vatican Museums. With the VIP option, you will be given exclusive access and a private guided tour of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica.

Without the crowds elbowing you, you can take in the full majesty of the works of art and truly appreciate them. Your expert tour guide will tell you the background stories of the amazing sculptures and artwork of the Renaissance period.

Without the crowds, you’ll be guided through the various galleries, museums, and secret rooms of the Vatican. These are home to the vast collection of art and religious artifacts central to the culture of Italy and to the Catholic religion.

You will also see the Candelabra Gallery, Gallery of the Tapestries and the Gallery of Maps. These areas are seldom seen by most people but you will be able to stroll through them at a leisurely pace while hearing the background of all these treasures.

Search For Other Top Rated Rome Experiences You May Enjoy:

3. vatican and colosseum combo tour: don’t wait in line to see the best of rome.

• Departure Location : Check with tour operator
• Return Location : Original departure point
• Departure Time : 9am
• Estimated Duration : 10 hours
• Includes : Professional guide, reserved Skip-the-Line Access to Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & Raphael Rooms, Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, Audio headset

Early in the morning, you’ll meet at across the street from the Vatican next to the Caffè Vaticano. You will then cross the street and skip the line into the museum.

However, this not just a typical skip the line tour, you get to enter through the “Private Partner Entrance” that saves even more time!

The small group you will be with will have a guide tour by a Vatican expert who will give you insights and information that will not be found anywhere else.

You will of course see the Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel frescoes in addition to all the other treasures.

After the tour you will then have time to enjoy some of the delicious Italian food that Rome is known for. You will then meet your guide at the coliseum. Here you will again skip the lines, saving hours of waiting.

Once inside your guide will give you all the details of the Coliseum including it’s construction and use over the years.

After the coliseum you will then proceed to Palatine Hill and then finish up at The Forum. This full day tour takes you to some of the best that Rome has to offer!

Tour Information & Booking

4. entire vatican tour: treasures of the sistine chapel.

• Departure Location : Via Sebastiano Veniero, 19, 00192 Roma
• Return Location : Vatican Museums, 00120, Vatican City
• Estimated Duration : 2.5 hours
• Includes : Tour guide, Skip-the-Line Access to Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel and Rooms of Raphael

During this relatively short tour of the Vatican, your guide will take you through some of the most popular and historically significant rooms in the Museums.

You’ll also hear about the history and the many legends surrounding the Sistine Chapel as you explore its interior.

However, most of those visiting Vatican don’t have access to the Vatacombs located under the Sistine Chapel. These Catacombs are home to many former popes and other historically significant figures.

Just a few of the things you will see on your tour through the Vatican Museums are Rafael’s Rooms as well as many ancient Roman and Greek artifacts housed in the Belvedere Courtyard.

You’ll learn the history of these important buildings, from the Sistine Chapel to St. Peter’s Basilica. Your guide will also give you a lesson on the Vatican State and the Swiss Guard.

This Vatican day tour from Rome is designed to focus on the art located here and the history of that art. You’ll also learn about how the art of ancient Rome influenced Western art as well as architecture.

Your tour guide is an expert art historian and will also be able to answer questions you may have along the way.

5. Private Vatican Tour Museum and Sistine Chapel

• Departure Location : Vatican Museums
• Return Location : Vatican Museums
• Departure Time : 3:15pm
• Estimated Duration : 2-3 hours
• Includes : Expert tour guide, private tour of the Vatican museums, Sistine Chapel and Gallery of Maps

For most, a vacation to Rome is something that only happens once in a lifetime. Because of this, you may want to experience the Vatican, the Sistine Chapel, and other popular locations like no one else can.

On this VIP tour, you’ll have access to rooms in the Vatican Museums that aren’t usually available to the public.

While you’ll be able to see things inside the Vatican usually off-limits, such as the Niccoline Chapel or the Bramante Staircase, you’ll also have skip-the-line access to publicly available galleries such as Rafael’s Rooms.

However, you’ll also be able to visit the Sistine Chapel after it closes to the general public. On this private tour, you’ll be able to hear commentary from your experienced tour guide about the history and construction of the Chapel.

Commentary usually isn’t allowed in the Chapel which makes this a unique experience.

This VIP private guided Vatican tour is limited to just 15 people. This means you’ll have a personalized experience as you take in the beauty and wonders of one of the most historically significant places in the world.

After all, not very many visitors to the Vatican are able to experience the secret rooms and learn of the often-forgot history that resides in them.

6. Vatican: Early Entry to Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter’s Tour

• Duration : 3.5 hours
• Departure : Via Santamaura 14B (Office What a Life Tours)
• Departure Time :  8:00 AM
• Includes : Skip-the-ticket-line ticket to the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica, early entrance an hour before crowds, tour guide, admission and reservation fees

If I’d give any one tip to tourists going to the Vatican, it would be to book a tour that gives you skip-the-line access. The Vatican can get insanely busy, and the lines can take hours off of your day – oftentimes in the hot, humid Mediterranean heat.

The Vatican: Early Entry to Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter’s Tour helps avoid all that, giving you premium access even before the crowds think of forming! This tour lasts 3.5 hours, but all of it is exploring and learning rather than waiting around in hopes of entering these amazing museums and structures.

Start out by meeting your guide at the tour offices, which are right next to the Vatican, itself. I immediately noticed that our guide was super friendly and more than happy to answer any questions we had, along with plenty of recommendations along the way.

Not to mention, this is a completely personalized experience rather than a boring, cookie-cutter tour that you could frankly get anywhere. The guide asked us about our specific interests and tailored our tour around them, so that everyone was happy and didn’t miss anything we wanted to see.

As the groups max out at just 12 participants, it’s easy to move through the hallways and see everything without fighting through a big crowd. This VIP experience took us through all the hidden gems and biggest tourist sites inside the Vatican, with the early morning tour. This consisted of the museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica.

The Sistine Chapel was even more breathtaking in person, and we learned everything from the history of the artwork to the structure, itself.

7. Rome: Entire Vatican Museums Tour and St. Peter’s Dome Climb

• Duration : 5 hours
• Departure : Either the Tiare Fountain and the Sebastiano Veniero 19
• Departure Time : 8:00 AM
• Includes : St. Peter’s Dome entry tickets, Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel skip-the-line entry tickets, guided tour

If the last tour caught your attention but you’re looking for something even more comprehensive, I have the perfect excursion for you. Lasting 5 hours, the Entire Vatican Museums Tour and St. Peter’s Dome Climb is what I’d recommend if it’s your first time in Rome and want to see a good portion of the most popular sites in the capital.

It’s so much more than the average Vatican tour – this time, you’re getting the VIP treatment. Right across from St. Peter’s Square, we met up with your expert guide who was very friendly and seemed to know just about everything there was to know about the area.

After a quick intro, he lead us into Vatican City and St. Peter’s Basilica before it even opens to the public! This itself was worth the money, considering I saw the queues later in the day and they were there for hours!

Once inside, we got to choose to go up the elevator or walk up to the terrace level of St. Peter’s (I recommend the latter, if you can!). Here, there are countless little mosaics, which our guide also told us fascinating stories about to further enrich the experience. Next, it’s to the summit for simply the best, most beautiful views of Rome I’ve ever seen.

Next, we head down deep into the Vatacombs, where the former popes lie, and where you’ll learn some rather dramatic and interesting stories behind what’s happened here. Next, is an educational tour of St. Peter’s Basilica, covering some of the most unbelievable Renaissance masterpieces in the world.

After a short break for some food, you’ll then skip the line to enter the Vatican Museums through 1,200 or so galleries. We did spend a good portion of the Chapel, and seeing the magic touch applied by Michelangelo in person definitely warranted the extra time here.

FAQs About Vatican Tours

What can i expect on a vatican tour.

A Vatican tour usually starts with a meeting point near the entrance of the Vatican Museums or at your hotel if you have arranged a pickup service. You will meet your guide who will give you your skip-the-line ticket and your headset if needed.

Then, you will enter the Vatican Museums and follow your guide through the vast collection of artworks that span from ancient times to modern times. You will see famous sculptures, paintings, tapestries, maps, and more.

The best part of any tour is the Sistine Chapel. Here you can take in the stunning frescoes by Michelangelo that depict scenes from the Bible. You will also learn about the secrets and stories behind this masterpiece.

Finally, you will visit St. Peter’s Basilica, where you will see the largest church in the world and its magnificent dome. You will also see the tomb of St. Peter, the Pietà by Michelangelo, and other artworks by Bernini and other artists.

How long do Vatican City tours last?

Vatican tours usually last two to four hours, depending on how much of the Vatican you want to see.

Why should I go on Vatican guided tour?

Going on a Vatican tour is one of the best ways to experience the vast museums of the Vatican. The Vatican is one the largest and most impressive collections of art in the world. A Vatican tour is more than just a sightseeing trip; it’s an enlightening journey!

Do I have to have a ticket to see the Vatican?

To visit the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel you do need a ticket. They are always crowded and must buy tickets in advance. We would recommend a guided tour with skip the line tickets. To see St. Peter’s Square or St. Peter’s Basilica you don’t need a ticket but you still have to go through a security check and follow a dress code.

How can I see the Pope?

The Pope holds a general mass on Wednesdays at 10 am in St. Peter’s Square or in the Paul VI Audience Hall. Where the mass is held depends on the weather and how many people are attending. You can request a free ticket from the Prefecture of the Papal Household or join a guided tour. The Pope also delivers an Angelus prayer on Sundays at noon from his window overlooking St. Peter’s Square. You don’t need a ticket for this.

What else can I do when visiting the Vatican?

Other than the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel and St Peter’s Basilica there are some lesser-known but still interesting places in Vatican City. You can explore the Vatican Necropolis, this ancient cemetery lies below St. Peter’s Basilica and contains the tomb of St. Peter. You need to book this at least two months in advance. You can also climb up to the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica and see pretty amazing views of the city and the square. You can either take an elevator or stairs to reach the dome. There is a fee for both options.

Tips to enjoy your Vatican tour

Tip #1: dress appropriately for your visit to the vatican.

Because the Vatican Museums , as well as the Sistine Chapel, are religious places, you’ll need to dress appropriately.

Your shoulders, knees, and abdomen should be completely covered. Your clothes should not have inappropriate graphics or sayings. If security personnel believe you are dressed inappropriately, you won’t be allowed in. This is true even if you are on a private tour.

Tip #2: Plan Everything in Advance

There are millions of visitors to Rome and the Vatican every year. This means that some of the attractions you are looking forward to may be sold out or closed by the time you arrive.

The Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel are a great example of this. If you are traveling to Rome around the time of religious holidays, these attractions may be closed to the public as well as to guided tours.

While many guided tours have backup plans in the event a scheduled location is closed unexpectedly, you should research your trip to make sure the places you wish to visit should be open.

Tip #3: Choose a Tour of the Vatican

If you plan on visiting the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, and other popular places within Vatican City, purchasing a guided tour is a good idea.

The lines for general admission to many of these places can stretch for blocks and getting in may not be guaranteed. With a guided tour, like the ones we’ve reviewed above, you are guaranteed access so long as it isn’t closed for religious reasons. Plus, you will be able to skip the long lines.

Tip #4: Only Carry What You Need

While this is true wherever you are visiting within the city of Rome, it is especially true when visiting the Vatican. Large bags, umbrellas, camera tripods, and other cumbersome items aren’t allowed within the Vatican Museums and related locations.

You can store them in the cloakroom provided for free, but you may end up having to leave your tour early to retrieve them before closing time. It’s best to carry only what you need when touring the Vatican.

Tip #5: Visit on a Wednesday

If you’re looking forward to seeing the Pope and to the papal audience, you’ll want to plan your visit for a Wednesday. While there are occasional deviations from the Wednesday schedule, you’ll most likely be able to see the weekly message on that day. In fact, the Papal Audience and Vatican Museums tour we reviewed above guarantees you will see the Pope as part of the papal audience as long as he delivers his message on schedule.

What Can I See in One Day at the Vatican (A Sample Itinerary)

Of course you can’t see everything in the Vatican in a day but you can certainly hit the highlights. Lets take a look at what you can see in one day.

St. Peter’s Basilica: This stunning church is the largest in the world and is home to some amazing works of art. Check out Michelangelo’s “Pieta” and the altar before taking the elevator up to the top of the dome. Here you can get a bird’s eye view of the city. Trust me when I tell you, the view is absolutely it!

Vatican Museums : This gigantic collection of art galleries is the home to the most famous art in the world. Starting with the Sistine Chapel and the Raphael Rooms. You need to spend a few hours here as there is so much to see. Some of this time is going to be spent waiting, so factor that in.

Pro tip : Buy your tickets online well in advance so you can skip the long lines!

Lunch : By the time you are done with the Basilica and Sistine Chapel it will be time take a break from the crowds and have lunch at one of the local cafes or restaurant. Enjoy some Italian cuisine while admiring the architecture around you.

Papal Audience :  This weekly event is every Wednesday and gives you a chance to see the Pope and receive his blessing. This is something you won’t forget!

Pro tip : Be sure to arrive early to secure a spot, it’s one of the most popular things to do at the Vatican.

Further explore : After seeing the Pope, take time to explore some of the lesser known areas of the Vatican. Some of these areas are the Vatican Gardens or the Necropolis. These hidden gems will give you a glimpse of the history and culture of the city.

Tour Guides

The Private Tour of Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel is our Editors Choice with its combination of sites seen, tours guides and value.

Krysha Thayer

Related articles, the 5 best stonehenge tours from london [2024 reviews], the 5 best wine tours from florence [2024 reviews], the 5 best seine river dinner cruises [2024 reviews], the 7 best paris walking tours [2024 reviews].

Vatican City tours & vacations

It’s the smallest country on the planet yet holds many of the Catholic world’s most significant sites.

St Peter’s Basilica, The Sistine Chapel, Piazza San Pietro… these famous places and more are all contained in the 44-hectare, independent state within Rome known as Vatican City. Explore this unique destination presided over by the Pope, visiting a range of religious sites and museums that contain some of Europe 's most stunning artworks and historical relics. After a few hours, you might like to relax with an authentic Italian espresso or slice of pizza , as you soak up the centuries of history and culture that surround you.

Vatican City at a glance

Capital city.

Vatican City

1,000 people

(GMT+01:00) Amsterdam, Berlin, Bern, Rome, Stockholm, Vienna

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth) Type L (Italian 3-pin)

Learn more about Vatican City

Culture and customs, catholicism.

Vatican City is ruled by the Pope who is the head of the Roman Catholic Church. The rest of the leaders of the Vatican are made up of Catholic clergy of various nationalities. Catholicism shares some beliefs with other Christian practices, but key Catholic beliefs are that the Bible is the inspired, error-free, and revealed word of God and that baptism, the rite of becoming a Christian, is essential for eternal salvation.

Geography and environment

Vatican City is located in the centre of the city of Rome. It’s the smallest country in the world, with an area of 44 hectares.

Best time to visit Vatican City

Vatican City enjoys a temperate climate most of the year, with June, July and August being the warmest months. Popular tourist spots can get very busy and crowded during the European summer, but the sun is shining and the weather is hot so it's still a great time to go.

April to May and September to October (while not as hot) still offer great conditions for travel, with milder temperatures and fewer crowds. It can get quite cold in the winter months of December and January.

Eating and drinking

If you take food or drinks when you visit the Vatican Museum you will need to leave them in the cloakroom for the duration of your visit. The museum has a cafeteria and pizzeria, and there are several other cafes and vending machines that can be found throughout the Vatican.

Vatican City travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to Vatican City?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality. Check the Essential Trip Information section of the itinerary for more information.

Is tipping customary in Vatican City?

If you visit the Vatican Museum as part of a guided tour, a tip for the guide will be appreciated. Apart from this, tipping isn't expected.

What is the internet access like in Vatican City?

For security reasons the Vatican Museum does not provide Wi-Fi access, however in open areas and in Piazza San Pietro, you may be able to pick up the regular mobile phone signal from the neighboring city of Rome.

Can I use my mobile phone while in Vatican City?

In open areas within the Vatican Museum and in Piazza San Pietro, you may be able to pick up the regular mobile phone signal from the neighboring city of Rome. Make sure that global roaming is activated with your service provider before leaving home. 

The Vatican Museum strongly discourages the use of mobile phones inside the exhibition spaces and using your phone inside St Peter’s Basilica is frowned upon, as with most working churches. At a minimum, you should switch your phone on to silent. Mobile phones are strictly forbidden inside the Sistine Chapel.

What are the restrooms like in Vatican City?

Restrooms can be found within St Peter’s Basilica and in the Vatican Museum, however there are none in Piazza San Pietro. The best option in this area is to leave the square and find a local café.

What will it cost for a…?

• Cup of coffee = 2 Euro
• A glass of beer = 5 Euro 
• Bottle of wine in a restaurant = 16 Euro
• Small gelato cone = 3 Euro

Can I drink the water in Vatican City?

Drinking water from taps in Vatican City is considered safe. For environmental reasons, try to use a refillable water bottle rather than buying bottled water.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Vatican City?

Major credit cards are accepted at the ticket office for the Vatican Museum. Cafes and shops within the museum will also accept credit cards. Small souvenir shops within St Peter’s Basilica or in the square will only accept cash.

What is ATM access like in Vatican City?

There are only a few ATMs in Vatican City, so it’s easier to withdraw cash in the neighboring city of Rome before you enter.

Is Vatican City open to the public every day of the year?

The Vatican is closed on Wednesday mornings for papal audiences, which is when Piazza San Pietro is busiest. The Vatican Museum is closed on Sundays, except on the last Sunday of each month when entry is free, however, on these days you can expect to find large crowds. St Peter’s Basilica is open every day, but it may be especially busy on Sundays and special religious days such as Easter. Masses are held in St Peter’s Basilica frequently throughout each day.

Is Vatican City a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

Homosexuality is legal in Vatican City, but it is a much-discussed topic in the Roman Catholic Church. The Vatican sees same-sex relationships as a sin and for this reason, LGBTQIA+ travelers may attract unwanted attention and officials, such as police, may not be sympathetic if anti-social behaviour is reported. For this reason, we encourage our travelers to exercise discretion when in the Vatican.

Is there a dress code for Vatican City?

Modest clothing is recommended for travelers who wish to visit the Vatican. If you are wearing low-cut or sleeveless tops, shorts, miniskirts or a hat, you may be refused entry.

Are you allowed to take photos inside Vatican City?

You are permitted to take photos for personal use only, in all areas of the Vatican Museums, apart from the Sistine Chapel. The use of tripods, stands, selfie sticks and any professional photography equipment must be authorized in advance by the Directorate of the Vatican Museums. Flash photography is not allowed at any time.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

Vatican Tours

Exclusive access and expert guides.

Experience the wonders of Vatican City with our expert-guided Vatican Tours. Discover the history, art, and culture of the world's smallest country through our exclusive access and skip-the-line privileges. Book your Vatican Tour today and make your visit to Rome unforgettable.

Get In Faster

Get in earlier, our best selling vatican tours.

Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica Small Group Tour

Enjoy the Vatican Museums with an expert, local guide and Reserved Entrance. Experience the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica and more on this signature tour.

Explore More of the Vatican City with Our Range of Guided Tours

Exclusive Breakfast at the Vatican with Tour of the Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica

Semi-Private Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica Tour

Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Skip-the-line Entrance Tickets with Optional Audio Guide

St. Peter’s Basilica Tour with Dome Climb & Papal Crypts

Sistine Chapel First Entry Experience with Vatican Museums

Papal Audience Experience with Pope Francis

Our guests at the vatican.

Tag us on social media or use #citywonderstours to showcase your Vatican experience!

Experience the Best of Vatican City with Our Award-Winning Guided Tours

With almost 20 years of experience and 2 million guests hosted, we have developed a reputation for providing top-of-the-line services to our guests. In fact, in 2019, TripAdvisor awarded our Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter’s Basilica Tour as the Number One Traveler Choice Tour in the world.

Our passionate team of expert guides, including art-historians, sculpture-lovers, and history buffs, will take you through the countless masterpieces of this living museum. Our mission is to ensure that you benefit from their inside knowledge and make the most of your once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Choose from our specially designed private tour, exclusive after-hours tour, or early morning Vatican Museums tour to make the memories you want. All of our tours are renowned for their stories and the hidden details we find to create something extra for our guests.

Explore the Vatican with our guided tours, or use Vatican City tickets to tour around at your own pace. Let us make your Vatican dream come to life.

Small Groups Discover the Vatican with our expert guides who will easily wisk you around the Museums avoiding the crowds thanks to our small groups.

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The best 6 Vatican City tours

Home / Blog / The best 6 Vatican City tours

As you pass the tall, looming walls in Rome that hold the Vatican City on the other side, you can practically feel the effects of stepping into another city.

The buildings and monuments shine with a pearly sheen, glittering under the sun.

The gaze is met with the most sacred of art and Catholic architecture, with St. Peter’s basilica standing in all it grandeur on St. Peter’s square designed by Bernini, and with the nearby Vatican Museums with which is attached the sublime Sistine Chapel.

This article gives you suggestions for  the best guided tours of Vatican City. Read ahead to determine which ones seem to be the best fit for you, or that capture your imagination the most.

Early morning Vatican tour

The symphony of the chirping birds has just started as you step into Vatican City after the dawn breaks. The expansive collections held within the famed museums are for you to enjoy alone, without masses of crowds bustling all around you, dampening your experience. The crisp morning air welcomes you as you stand before St Peter’s Basilica on an incredibly designed square by Bernini. You enter the basilica to marvel at all its splendour; all of this is done during the early rays of the day.

This tour is for you if: You would prefer to visit Vatican City  in total tranquility.

Early Morning Vatican Tour | Private

Sistine chapel and vatican museum express tour.

You have reached one of your dream destinations, and you can hardly believe it! Here in Rome there is so much to see. With the few days you have available, you want to make sure you can extract the most potential out of your trip. Visiting Vatican City is a non-negotiable, but you want to determine that you can visit the other wonders of Rome as well.

Our guides are aware of such desires and can tailor your Vatican tour to expertly guide you through the museums and the glorious Sistine Chapel . They would omit entrance into St. Peter’s Basilica to shave some time off your tour, but will end on the square so you still have a chance to marvel at the exterior of the basilica.

This tour is for you if: You would like to optimize your time in Rome.

Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums Express Tour | Private

Vatican gardens tour

Although much less opted for, the combination of  visiting the Vatican gardens as well as the museums is an electrifying experience! Imagine wandering around winding paths to discover English, French and Italian-style gardens , accentuated with the soundscapes of murmuring fountains and breezes swifting through leaves.

There are a myriad of focal points in the Vatican gardens such as Lourde’s Grotto , Tower of St. John , Casino Pio IV , the Vatican heliport and the Rose Garden . After your guide has fully immersed you in the histories of the landscape design of these grounds, you will then have entrance into the Vatican Museums .

This tour is for you if: You would like to immerse yourself in both the art and the nature of the sacred Vatican City.

Vatican Gardens Tour | Private

Treasure hunt at the vatican (for kids).

The reality of exploring Rome is underway, and behind ancient walls lies the Vatican City which is another dream within a dream. However, you are worried about whether the entire family will be able to enjoy the sacredness of the city-state. Will the children get bored during the extensive stretch that exploring the Vatican is?

We have devised an approach to the Vatican for the kids. Our expert guides will accompany them through a treasure hunt with enthralling gamified activities ! With clues and riddles to follow and solve, your younger ones will gallop toward discovering art and artifacts, hence getting familiarized with some of the most iconic symbols of Vatican history.

This tour includes making a stop at the Sistine Chapel as well as putting a fun, educational spin on St. Peter’s Basilica .

This tour is for you if: You are traveling as a family and would like to have a different experience while also involving your children in an active way.

Treasure Hunt at the Vatican for Kids Tour | Private

Vatican tour for kids with mummies and popemobile

This tour is an alternative to the treasure hunt, yet it holds a lot of the same qualites: Gripping and fast-paced through the use of gamified activities to make the Vatican all the more memorable!

Your guide will sprinkle in fun facts throughout as they lead your children in and out of the doors of the world’s most famous Catholic site. There will be special emphasis on the mummies in the Egyptian Museum , as they always seem to capture the imagination. Other important stops will consist of the Gallery of the Candelabra , Gallery of the Maps and of course, the magnificent Sistine Chapel .

The most unique aspect of this tour however is showing the children the popemobile , which is a motor vehicle that is specifically designed to be used by the pope for special public appearances! With the popemobile being likened to the Batmobile, your little ones will be enthralled by its unique look and uses.

This tour is for you if: You are looking for a family-friendly option for journeying Vatican City.

Vatican Tour for Kids with Mummies & Popemobile | Private

Vatican tour by night.

The Vatican at night creates an atmosphere that is undeniably steeped in serenity. The torchlit ambiance lends even more allure to the experience of drifting from hall to hall in the museums to see the Catholic Church’s  extraordinary art collection. With St. Peter’s Basilica being closed in the evenings, your tour guide will indulge you in extensively answering all your curiosities about the galleries. You will also get to spend more undisturbed time to gaze at Michelangeloe’s wondrous frescoes in the Sistine Chapel.

If you wish to do so, an aperitivo can be arranged in the museum’s Courtyard of the Pine . You can enjoy some drinks under a dark, inky sky and all the while be surrounded by the architecture of the Vatican.

This tour is for you if: You would like to discover the Vatican and its architecture under a new perspective.

Vatican Tour by Night | Private

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Italy Travel Experts Tours and Vacations

How To Visit the Vatican City: Tickets, Hours, Tours, and More

Sean Finelli Last Updated: August 28, 2023

Did you know that approximately 19,000 people visit the Vatican every day? It can get hectic inside these museums, but there are some ways to get around the crowds. We’ll explain everything you need to know to visit Vatican City from how to get tickets to when to go, the best Vatican tours to take, and more .

Pro Tip:  Planning can be tough, but it’s easier to organize your trip when you have all your resources in one place. Create a browser folder and bookmark this post along with our dedicated guide to planning your visit to the Vatican , where you’ll find everything you need. Also, check out our article on the  best Vatican tours .

Visiting the Vatican City: What We’ll Cover

Vatican City is the seat of the Roman Catholic Church and the smallest independent country in the world. No matter your religious affiliation, it welcomes all who want to visit—around 19,000 people per day! It is home to some of the greatest works of art in the world.

Visiting the Vatican is an unforgettable experience not only for lovers of art but also of history, culture, and architecture. In this guide, you’ll find information on how to visit Vatican City, the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, and more. Here’s what we’ll cover:

• Facts and History of the Vatican City
• Opening hours and tickets
• How long to budget for your visit
• How to get to Vatican City
• What to see at Vatican City
• Guided tour options
• Visiting the Vatican with kids
• Where To Eat Nearby and Inside

Facts and History of Vatican City

Constantine’s Vatican 

The early establishment of the Vatican began with Constantine’s St. Peter’s Basilica, which stood where the current Basilica stands today. Jesus gave Simon the name Peter when he first met him and said, “You’re the stone upon which I will build my church.” After Constantine legalized Christianity in A.D. 313 with the Edict of Milan, he quickly began building that church. For Constantine, Jesus would have been as old as George Washington is in relative history to us.

The Vatican’s Name

I have read many versions of how the Vatican got its name. The most likely is that the Etruscan society living in this area referred to it as Vatica   prior to Roman settlement. It was a marshy area called Ager Vaticanus. There are a lot of other theories which may well be correct. It is an old word with many possible roots.

The Leonine City

In A.D. 846, Pope Leo IV commissioned a 39-foot wall to be constructed around the old St. Peter’s Basilica and other areas used by the clergy as a protective measure. The Saracens attacked Rome and caused significant damage to St. Peter’s Basilica, which motivated the pope to build out defenses. The area, which was larger than the current Vatican City, was proclaimed the Leonine City and stayed that way for some time.

Sottopassaggio

In 1277, there was a half-mile-long underground passageway and wall that connected the papal residence adjacent to St. Peter’s Basilica to the Castel Sant’Angelo. This was a major fortification for the pope in case of attack.

Vatican Museums

The Vatican Museums have residents. You won’t see the pope walking around as you visit, but he’s there. The collection of art is a mix of ancient and Renaissance or Baroque. There is even a modern religious art section.

St. Peter’s Basilica and Tomb

The Basilica of St. Peter is basically the largest and most beautiful gravestone ever built. According to Vatican dogma, it was built on the grave of St. Peter, which you can visit with special Scavi tickets. The Basilica, built during the 16th and 17th centuries, was completed in 1615 with contributions by almost every great Italian artist.

Sovereignty

In 1870, Italy was unified under the leadership of Italian-American Giuseppe Garibaldi. The government of the newly-defined Italy allowed the pope to keep a small area under sovereignty. Pope Pius IX would not agree to the terms until 1929, when the Lateran Treaty was signed under Benito Mussolini, which granted the Vatican sovereignty. This sovereignty extends beyond the Vatican City to other churches, including the Basilica of St. John Lateran in Rome.

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a Vatican tour is worth it .

Vatican Opening Hours and Tickets

Vatican Museum Ticket Prices:

• Adult (18+): €17
• Children (ages 6 – 18): €8
• Students (ages 19 – 26): €8
• Members of the clergy: €8

Be prepared to show proof of eligibility at the door. Without that, they’ll either make you pay more or disallow entrance without a refund. Tickets include access to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. If you are looking for solo-visit Vatican tickets , you can check our website for all types of entrance times to suit your preferences.

The Vatican Museum Hours:

• Monday to Saturday: 9 am to 6 pm (last entry at 4 pm).
• Extended Opening Hours: April 14th to 30th, Friday and Saturday, open until 10:30 pm (last entry 8:30 pm); May 5th to October 28th, Fridays open until 10:30 pm (last entry 8:30 pm), Saturdays open until 8 pm(last entry 6 pm).
• Closed: Sundays except for the last Sunday of every month, Jan 1st and 6th, Feb 11th, Apr 10th, May 1st, June 29th, Aug 15th and 16th, Nov 1st, Dec 8th, 25th, 26th, and 31st.
• Free the last Sunday of every month: 9 am – 2 pm (last entry 12:30 pm). Not recommended if you don’t like crowds.
• Most tour companies can enter at 8 am, an hour before it opens.
• The Tour Guy/The Roman Guy can enter as early as 7:30 am, before most tour companies.

St. Peter’s Basilica Ticket Prices:

• Free for all.
• Climbing the dome costs €8 if you take the stairs or €10 if you take the elevator. I recommend the elevator. Find out more about climbing St. Peter’s Dome .
• The Basilica of St. Peter is free to enter but does not include entry to the Sistine Chapel.

St. Peter’s Basilica Hours: 

• From April to September: 7 am – 7 pm
• From October to March: 7 am – 6:30 pm
• Closed Wednesday mornings for the papal audience

St. Peter’s Dome Climb Hours:

• From April to September: 7:30 am – 5 pm
• From October to March: 7:30 am – 5 pm

Tours: 

We sell top-rated Vatican tours  enjoyed by thousands of customers. The Vatican Museums is a bucket-list place you absolutely should visit at least once with a tour guide.

Vatican Dress Code:

To gain access, you’ll have to abide by the Vatican dress code. Cover your shoulders and avoid shorts and short dresses and skirts. We know that Rome gets hot in the summer, we suggest bringing a light scarf to wrap around yourself when you need to. Hats, food, and metal tools like knives and scissors are also not allowed.

How Long To Spend at Vatican City

Short Answer:  3 to 5 hours

This is a great question! The Vatican is an immense complex of artwork. You could spend a few hours inside and see a lot of art or you could spend 3 – 5 hours and really learn the history. It depends on your level of interest.

Most people visiting the Vatican for the first time, without an art-history background, will follow the signs for the Capella Sistina or Sistine Chapel until they get there, snap their photo, and leave. Our goal is to help you have a more enriching experience. Here is a proposed Itinerary:

• Spiral Staircase
• Pinecone Courtyard
• Pio Clementino Gallery
• Gallery of Candelabra, Tapestries, and Maps
• Raphael Rooms
• Sistine Chapel
• St. Peter’s Basilica

If you’re an art aficionado, also visit the Pinacoteca. Further on in this article, you’ll see a more comprehensive list of Vatican must-see artwork . If you’re going to go it alone, be well prepared. Check out our top things to see at the Vatican .

How To Get To Vatican City

Luckily, getting to Vatican City is really easy. Depending on your preferences, you can take the metro, a bus, catch a cab, or just walk.

Metro (about 20 minutes):

There are two metro stops located near the Vatican Museums entrance: Ottaviano and Cipro. These stops are located on the A-line (orange line). So, if you jump on near the Spanish Steps (Spagna) or Termini train station, make sure you catch the A-line going towards Battistini and get off at either Ottaviano or Cipro.

The entrance to the Vatican Museums is a 5-minute walk from either of these stops. Of course, you can also catch the A-line from many other stops, just check the Rome Metro schedule. You can buy tickets at the metro station or a corner store, but not from the driver.

Pro Tip:  Always budget an extra 10 to 20 minutes if you have a scheduled event like a Vatican Tour . This way you don’t have to rush and it’ll give you time for that quintessential morning espresso.  

Bus (about 20 minutes):

From the Termini train station, head outside and get on bus number 64. The bus ride will take about 20 minutes and your stop is the last one on the route: P.za Stazione S. Pietro. Getting to the Vatican Museums’ entrance is about a 15-minute walk from the bus station.

You can also take the number 81 bus from the Colosseum area (the bus stop is located right outside of the metro station—B-line). The 81 bus route ends in Piazza Risorgimento, which is a five-minute walk to the Vatican Museums’ entrance.

Taxi (depends on the departure point):

 A taxi ride should cost no more than €20 if you’re staying in the historic center of Rome. When you get in the taxi, tell the driver to take you to the Vatican Museums’ entrance, otherwise, they’ll probably take you to St. Peter’s Basilica.

The most typical way to get a taxi in Rome is to go to a taxi stand. These are located near every major tourist attraction. If you aren’t located near one, you can always order a coffee and pastry at a café and ask the people working there to call you one.

Walking (about 20 minutes):

You can easily walk to the Vatican Museums if you’re staying near Piazza Navona or in Campo de’ Fiori. Prati is also within walking distance. Technically, you can walk to the Vatican from basically anywhere in Rome, depending on your level of fitness.

It’s important to take into consideration that you’ll be on your feet for 3 hours or more as you visit the Vatican. I would recommend taking public transport because you’ll be on your feet plenty in Rome.

Pro Tip:  A neat trick for using your map app on your phone is to set your course while you’re on wifi on airplane mode. GPS will still show your location while you’re on airplane mode—it won’t reroute you if you go off the route but it will show you where you are.

Popular Vatican Tours

Best Selling Tour

Privileged Entrance Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel

This our most popular and longest-running Vatican tour to date. It enters the Vatican Museums an hour before the general public and visits the Sistine Chapel before heading to St. Peter’s Basilica. Our English-speaking guides will amaze you with how they bring the museums to life!

Exclusive Value

Vatican Night Tour with Sistine Chapel

You’ve heard about the crowds at the Vatican, but did you know that the museums are almost empty in the evening? This night tour of the Vatican is perfect for those who prefer to explore Rome later at night. You’ll have 2 hours of a guided tour to key areas in the Vatican, plus the Sistine Chapel. And you’re welcome to stay on your own until the museums close at 10 pm!

What To See at Vatican City

This is a list of the top things to see at the Vatican—an excerpt from our much more elaborate mega-guide on the top things to see at the Vatican Museums written by a Vatican guide. Check it out for more in-depth descriptions, history, and images.

1. Spiral Staircase 

The staircase was built by the famous architect Giuseppe Momo in 1932. It was commissioned by Pope Pius XI and was to be created for the new entrance to the Vatican Museums.

2. The Terrace with a view of the Basilica and Vatican Gardens

3. the pinacoteca (for art lovers).

Pinacoteca means “painting gallery” in Italian and, considering that all the popes have historically been the main patron of the arts for centuries, they don’t disappoint. Be sure to see:

• Transfiguration (Raphael)
• The Annunciation (Raphael)
• Crowning of the Virgin (Raphael)
• St. Jerome (Da Vinci)
• St Matthew (Guido Reni)
• Deposition (Caravaggio)
• The Crucifixion of Saint Peter (Guido Reni)
• Martyrdom of St. Erasmus (Nicolas Poussin)
• Astronomical Observations (Donato Creti)
• Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden (Wenzel Peter)

4. The Pinecone Courtyard 

The pinecone courtyard is a massive courtyard that connects the main galleries leading to the Sistine Chapel with the Pio Clementino and Braccio Nuovo Galleries. Reports have been written of jousting tournaments and bullfights taking place under the Borgia Pope AlexanderVI in the 15th century and supposedly Pope Leo X housed his pet elephant, Hanno, here in the 16th century. Be sure to see:

• Colossal Statue of Augustus
• Sphere within a Sphere
• The Pinecone

5. The Pio Clementino Gallery 

The collection of classical statues you will see in these galleries was started at the beginning of the 16th century by Pope Julius II. The gallery is named, however, for popes from a much later date: Clement XIV(1769-1774) and Pius VI (1775-1799), who created the current galleries you’ll walk through. Much of the artwork here was taken by Napoleon and returned to the Museum after his defeat. Be sure to see:

• Apoxyomenos
• Apollo Belvedere
• Laocoön Group
• The Belvedere Torso
• The Bath of Nero
• Statue of Hercules in Bronze
• Sarcophagus of Saint Helena

6. The Candelabra Gallery 

As the name suggests, this gallery owes its name to the enormous marble candlesticks that you’ll find in each section as you walk down the hallway. The gallery was completely renovated during the pontificate of Pope Leo XIII Pecci (1878-1903), which is what you see today. It was meant to be built so that each piece is like a furnishing for the house. Be sure to see:

• Artemis of Ephesus
• Lapus Lazuli Mosaic
• The Persian Warrior

7. The Gallery of Tapestries

As you walk through the gallery, you will see tapestries on the right-hand side dedicated to stories of the life of the Barberini Pope Urban VIII (17th century). On the left-hand side, are stories from the Bible whose original drawings were executed by the school of Raphael, then woven in Flanders.

• Resurrection of Christ

8. The Gallery of the Maps 

By far one of the most over-the-top galleries as far as decor goes, this room is literally a gigantic mural with frescoes on both sides of maps depicting Italy. Pope Gregory XIII, also known as the calendar pope, commissioned this room to be painted so he could accurately study the lands in which he lived and the surrounding areas.

• The Grotesques
• The Ceiling
• Map of Sicily
• Map of Lazio
• Vatican Radio Station (Out of the window to your right)

9. Raphael Rooms

The four rooms known as the Raphael rooms were painted by Raphael and his students between 1508 and 1524. They were commissioned first by Pope Julius II (1503 to 1513), supposedly because he refused to live in the Borgia apartments on the floor below due to his hatred for the man. These rooms were also used by his successors, specifically Leo X the Medici Pope (1512-1521). Be sure to see:

• Room of Constantine
• Vision of the Cross
• Battle of Constantine against Maxentius
• The Victory of Christianity over Paganism (Ceiling)
• Room of Heliodorus
• Liberation of St.Peter
• Encounter of Leo the Great with Attila
• Room of the Segnatura
• The School of Athens
• Room of the Fire in the Borgo
• Fire in the Borgo

10. The Sistine Chapel

This chapel needs no introduction. Originally named Capella Magna (Great Chapel), it was restored by Pope Sixtus IV (pontiff from 1471 to 1484) in 1480. Sixtus IV had famous early Renaissance artists, who lived a generation before Michelangelo and Raphael, paint the fake draperies, the life of Moses and Christ (side walls), and the Pope (above the windows) Sixtus’ nephew. Julius II had Michelangelo paint the ceiling in 1508. Be sure to see:

• The Central Panels
• The Side Panels
• The Stories of Moses
• The Stories of Jesus
• The Last Judgment

11. St. Peter’s Basilica

For me personally, there is no church that compares in beauty. It is the ultimate expression of space, beauty, and monumental grandeur. It also happens to have an amazing history to it as well. When you’re there, be sure to see:

• La Baldacchino
• St. Peter’s Square

Vatican Tour Options

Not sure if a Vatican tour is worth it ? Beyond the explanations and local insight, a major advantage of a tour is that it provides you special access to many sites like St. Peter’s Basilica.

Without a tour guide, you will have to exit the Vatican Museums from the entrance where you came in, which means about a mile of additional walking. Many of our tours provide direct access from the Sistine Chapel to St. Peter’s Basilica. Here are our best Vatican tours:

Colosseum, Roman Forum & Vatican Highlights Combo Tour (8 hours)

This tour is for the art-history buff, visiting the majority of the Vatican Museums including the Pinacoteca, Sistine Chapel, and more. You’ll even have time in the Cabinet of Masks which is an area reserved specifically for guided tours. Your guide will share plenty of stories and information to engage and inspire even novice art lovers.

See tour itinerary, price, and description

Privileged Entrance Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel (3.5 hours) 

This is our most popular Vatican tour. It covers all the must-see sights for visitors including the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. It’s good for art lovers and anyone that wants to see a ton but doesn’t want to be too mentally exhausted by the end of the visit. A major benefit of this tour is that we have an 8 am entrance time, which is an hour prior to general admission and gets you in when it’s less crowded.

Skip the Line Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel (3 hours)  

This is a great low-price Vatican tour that covers most of the main attractions including the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. It features a large selection of start times throughout the day, so you can fit your visit into the rest of your plans. The price is also hard to beat from a top-quality tour company.

Exclusive After Hours Sistine Chapel Tour with Aperitivo (3.5 hours)

If you want to see the main sites and understand them but don’t want to get caught up in every detail, this is for you. We have an 8 am option that beats the crowds, along with other start times. It’s a small group tour and great value that’s also our fastest way to see the best of the Vatican Museums.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  best Vatican tours to take and why.

Visiting the Vatican With Kids

If you want to visit the Vatican Museums with your kids, you’re in luck. The museums are happy to welcome families with children and strollers in tow.

As you explore the collections, there are also plenty of restrooms with changing tables and places to sit and rest. There’s even a private room for mothers to nurse in complete privacy. For a more private experience truly geared toward a younger audience, consider our family-friendly Vatican tour .

Popular Rome Tours

Best-Selling Tour

Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum and Vatican Museums

Our “in a day” tour is best way to get your bearings all in one day. Visit the Sistine Chapel, Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and more with a licensed, fun English-speaking tour guide. They’ll add tons of insights and make the entire experience so much more memorable. Also, you’ll get a feel for the city, so it’s a great option on one of your first days in Rome. Bring your walking shoes and water bottle!

Best Price!

Skip the Line Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel

One of our most popular Vatican tours since it is such an amazing value. Skip the line to get inside with a super-knowledgeable, English-speaking guide who will bring the museum to life with stories of the artists, popes, conspiracy, love, and even tragedy! This tour has start times throughout the day so you can choose when to visit based on your schedule!

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  best Rome tours to take and why .

Places To Eat Inside and Nearby

Like all great Italian museums, you can get coffee and food inside the Vatican Museums. Here are a few recommendations for getting a bite to eat and some refreshments inside and nearby the Vatican.

Inside the Vatican

Caffetteria Centrale : €€ | Coffee Shop —With sub-par reviews that you would expect in a cafeteria-style eatery, this coffee shop and light eatery will get the job done if you want to spend more than 4 or 5 hours inside the Vatican Museums. To find it, look for signs near the Pinacoteca.

Bar: €€ | Quick Snacks —There is a small bar for coffee and pastries located near the Sistine Chapel. Look for the signs as you get close.

St. Peter’s Dome Bar: €€ | Coffee Shop —Yep, you can get coffee on top of St. Peter’s Dome. There is a little bar open basically whenever they want to be open. But if it’s open, stop for a coffee and enjoy the view.

Near the Vatican

Hostaria Dino e Toni : € | Roman Restaurant —Somehow this owner-operated and authentic Roman restaurant has yet to get touristy. They make good food with relatively friendly service, and they may just order for you. Come here for pizza, pasta, and apps.

200 Gradi : €€ | Sandwich Shop —Have a big day of sightseeing planned after your Vatican visit? This sandwich shop is perfect. You can get really tasty to-go sandwiches or sit down inside. Super reasonably priced.

La Zanzara : €€ | Bistro —A bit more cool and trendy with a modern spin on Italian classics, this place feels like a French bistro but the food is definitely Italian. It’s great for a cocktail and sit-down lunch.

Where To Stay in Rome

Rome has a rich cultural history and many iconic landmarks to explore. Plan where to stay in the magnificent Eternal City in the best neighborhoods.

Reader Interactions

Comments (16).

March 6, 2019

It’s best to visit this enthralling withing the country charm

March 8, 2019

Hey Eric! Thanks for reading our blog. We’re so glad you enjoyed reading!

June 5, 2019

It was great reading your blog, very nicely executed. You obviously put a lot of effort into it. Keep it up!

June 6, 2019

Grazie! We’re so glad to hear that you enjoy the blog. Come to Rome soon and join us on tour !

July 11, 2019

I, being a native of Italy, wasn’t aware of these facts and the way it has been stated is interesting as well as hugely informative. Thanks for the post man… Would be waiting in for more.

July 12, 2019

Ciao Daniel! We’re thrilled to hear that you enjoyed reading this post. We offer tons of useful content on travel in Italy! Check out another one of our useful Vatican blogs here, about our best Vatican tours .

September 19, 2019

Thank you for this informative post! With regards to your Vatican tours, which tour will be the one to get the most out of Vatican City? Solo traveler by the way. Looking forward to hearing from you soon!

September 20, 2019

Ciao Darryl! Thanks for checking out our blog. For the most in-depth Vatican City experience, I recommend our Complete Vatican Combo Tour with Sistine Chapel & Dome Climb . This climbs St. Peter’s Dome and provides an excellent skip the line Vatican tour. Hope this helps!

September 29, 2019

Thank your these tips Tawny. Very helpful and detailed. I will definitely look up in your travel guide and tours next time I come in Rome.

October 1, 2019

Ciao Sophia! Thanks for reading our blog! Happy to supply helpful information to you. We’d love to welcome you on tour when you come to Rome!

October 6, 2019

Hello, We have planned a day visit to Rome on 25th Dec. Please suggest if all attractions will be open that day especially the St. Peter’s basilica and the Vatican museum.

October 11, 2019

Ciao Anu! The Vatican Museums are closed on Christmas. We recommend visiting the Vatican a different day during your stay.

December 10, 2019

Hello! It was great reading your blog, very nicely executed. You obviously put a lot of effort into it. Keep it up! Thanks

January 13, 2020

My daughter and I are going to our first trip to the Vatican this summer. I wanted to find out if there is a mandatory dress code when visiting. In our country, for example, women in trousers and bare-headed cannot go to Orthodox churches. Thanks for such detailed details.

January 21, 2020

Hi Tori! Thanks for reading. Yes, there is a dress code – knees and shoulders must be covered.

April 19, 2020

The Tour Guy always does a great job. Had a trip planned for the Vatican this week but of course it was cancelled due to COVID-19. Anyways, this made it feel like I still went.

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The Best Vatican Tours

Discover rome’s wonders with our vatican tours.

Are you seeking an unforgettable journey through the heart of Rome and the iconic Vatican City? Look no further than our Vatican Tours ! Why choose us for your exploration? We offer a diverse range of excursions and private tours designed to cater to every traveler’s preferences and requirements.

We pride ourselves on providing expertly guided tours led by professional, multilingual guides. Immerse yourself in the captivating history and culture of the Vatican with our knowledgeable guides who speak various languages, ensuring a truly immersive experience for all visitors.

We understand the value of affordability without compromising quality. Hence, our tours boast competitive pricing , with an exclusive discount available for students . Unveil the treasures of the Vatican while staying within your budget.

Flexibility is key, and that’s why we offer both private tours for those desiring an intimate exploration and group tours accommodating a maximum of 20 participants. Whether you prefer a more personal journey or the vibrant energy of group exploration, we have the perfect option for you.

Additionally, to enhance your convenience, we offer transfer services upon request. From private cars for a more exclusive experience to spacious coaches for larger groups, our transfer services guarantee a seamless transition to and from your tour, making your visit hassle-free.

Choose our Vatican tours for an enriching, effortless adventure, where every detail is meticulously crafted to ensure your journey through Rome and the Vatican City is nothing short of extraordinary.

Our Best Vatican Tours 2023-2024

Let's delve into some of our top Vatican tours this year. Each one offers unique insights into the Vatican's cultural treasures and rich history!

Private Vatican Tours

For those dreaming an intimate journey through the Vatican, we offer an abundance of distinctive options tailored just for you. Delve into the heart of Vatican City with our private tours , each promising a unique and unforgettable experience.

Discover the Private Experience: Sistine Chapel, Vatican Museums & St. Peter's Basilica where our knowledgeable guides unravel the tales behind the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel . Marvel at Michelangelo’s masterpieces while immersing yourself in the Vatican's profound history. Engage with the works of other esteemed artists like Raphael and uncover the opulent Vatican palaces. Conclude your expedition at St. Peter’s Basilica , a testament to unparalleled grandeur and spiritual significance.

Alternatively, choose our Private Vatican Night Tour . This exclusive evening exploration offers a serene ambiance as you explore the Vatican Museums , embracing Michelangelo’s frescoes bathed in the golden hues of twilight. With fewer visitors, relish an unhindered view of the Sistine Chapel and the museum's treasures.

For an extravagant journey through millennia of art and history, embark on our Private Vatican Tour: VIP Experience . Delve into the Renaissance narrative, and savor the exquisite Vatican collections. Customize your visit and bypass lines at St. Peter’s Basilica, where iconic artworks like Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s celestial canopy await.

Opt for the distinctive Private Early Morning Sistine Chapel with Vatican Tour and explore the tranquil Vatican Museums in the early morning. Admire Michelangelo's masterpieces in the serene Sistine Chapel setting, delve into the Raphael Rooms, and conclude your experience at St. Peter’s Basilica, where you'll encounter renowned masterpieces and the world's largest dome on this unforgettable private tour!

Book your exclusive Vatican private tour today and unravel the secrets of this historic enclave!

Group Vatican Tours

If you are looking for a vibrant group exploration through the Vatican, we offer diverse tour options to suit every preference. Dive into the heart of Vatican City with our carefully curated group tours , each promising a unique and immersive experience.

Embark on our Early Morning Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel , an exclusive VIP entry allowing you to savor the Vatican Museums at their calmest. Marvel at Michelangelo’s breathtaking works and relish the lesser-crowded spectacle of the Sistine Chapel.

Short on time? Opt for our Essential Sistine Chapel Tour , a concise journey through the Vatican’s highlights. Witness Michelangelo’s transcendent Sistine Chapel's ceiling, delve into Raphael’s masterpieces, and skip the lines at St. Peter’s Basilica, encountering Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s awe-inspiring baldachin.

Looking for an in-depth experience? Choose our VIP Vatican In a Day Tour , an immersive exploration of the Vatican's art and history. Engage with expert guides, decipher Renaissance marvels, and discover hidden gems like Leonardo's artwork .

Instead, explore the Vatican after hours with our Vatican Museum Night Tour . Admire the Vatican's splendor bathed in the soft evening light and experience an intimate atmosphere at its most mesmerizing hour.

Can't miss Rome's essentials? Try our Rome in a Day Group Tour with Colosseum and Vatican . Uncover ancient Rome's legacy at the Colosseum and Roman Forum and explore Rome's Baroque marvels. Then complete your day at the Vatican Museums.

Book Our Vatican Tours Packages Today

Discover the allure of Vatican City with our exclusive tours. Immerse yourself in history, art, and culture effortlessly by booking one of our tours in Rome. The process is simple: visit the tour page and click " Book online " to secure your spot.

Need further assistance or have specific requests? Our live chat feature, located at the bottom right of your screen, is available for instant support.

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Don’t miss this chance to experience the wonders of Vatican tours hassle-free. Book your spot now and embark on an unforgettable journey through the Vatican's timeless marvels!

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4 Days in Rome: Locals Reveal the Best Way to Spend a Long Weekend in the Eternal City

Zip around on the back of a vespa, feast on reimagined cacio e pepe , and visit an ancient archaeological site that most tourists skip..

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The Temple of Aesculapius, in the gardens of the Villa Borghese, dates back to the late 18th century.

Photo by Laura Itzkowitz

Baroque churches containing artistic masterpieces, gurgling fountains, cocktails clinking on rooftop terraces, freshly baked pizza bianca —these are some of the sights, sounds, and scents that await you in Rome. You could explore ancient ruins in the morning, eat spaghetti carbonara at a trattoria for lunch, and sip creative cocktails at one of the city’s coolest bars at night. Now, thanks to an influx of hip new hotels and restaurants, plus reopened archaeological sites, Rome is definitely having a moment . After nearly five years of living here and more than a decade of visiting prior to that, I’ve gotten to know the best of the old and the new. This itinerary, designed for a Thursday to Sunday, reveals my insider intel as well as that of a few local experts.

Thursday: Get your bearings with a Vespa tour and dive deep into Trastevere

Trastevere, home to the Piazza di Santa Maria, is still one of Rome’s buzziest neighborhoods.

Whenever my family and friends come to Rome, I tell them to do a Vespa tour with Scooteroma and everyone raves about it. Hop on the back for a three-hour tour and feel the wind in your hair as one of their professional drivers-guides shows you the sights. Its classic tour is perfect for first-time visitors, but it also has several themed tours, including a street art tour, cinema tour, and foodie tour.

The tour will end just in time for lunch, so ask your guide to drop you off in Trastevere, one of the most quintessential Roman neighborhoods . Once a working-class area, it has gentrified over the years, but is still characterized by narrow cobblestone lanes draped with ivy and laundry hanging from the windows of apartments. Maria Pasquale, an award-winning Italian Australian journalist and author of several books, including Eternal City: Recipes & Stories from Rome , has called the neighborhood home for more than a decade. For a quick lunch she recommends the take-out spot Supplì , saying it offers “a taste of true Roman street fare.” In addition to the supplì (fried rice balls with a breadcrumb crust), she recommends the marinara pizza, which she calls “thin, crispy, and super saucy, with just the right balance of garlic, herbs, and tomato.” Bring your food a couple of blocks to the Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere and take a seat on the steps of the fountain, which is like the neighborhood’s living room, where locals and tourists hang out, enjoy the sunshine, and perhaps smoke a cigarette surrounded by bustling sidewalk cafés.

Afterwards, if you need a pick-me-up, pop into Bar San Calisto , an authentic no-frills spot where you’re as likely to spot a group of old men playing cards as a young musician drinking a beer in the sunshine. Join the Romans having a quick espresso at the bar or take a seat at the tables out front for some prime people-watching. From there, you’re only a 10-minute walk to Villa Farnesina , one of Rome’s best and most underrated sites. Commissioned by the wealthy banker Agostino Chigi on the occasion of his marriage, the villa contains incredible ceiling frescoes painted by Raphael in 1518, which depict the marriage of Cupid and Psyche.

For dinner, Giorgia Tozzi, the general manager of Soho House Rome , and Maria Pasquale both recommend Pianostrada , which recently moved from its location near the Jewish Ghetto to Via della Luce in Trastevere. “Experience a Roman culinary revolution at Pianostrada, a local hot spot owned by a visionary team of women,” says Pasquale. For the four partners—autodidact chef Paola Colucci, her daughters Flaminia and Alice Spognetta, and their friend Chiara Magliocchetti—the move is actually a homecoming, as Pianostrada originally opened as a gourmet street food spot in Trastevere in 2014. “From tempura-fried zucchini flowers to artisanal focaccia topped with prosciutto and figs, each dish is a masterpiece of innovation and tradition,” Pasquale says.

Friday: Delve into Rome’s baroque glory in the historic center

Entry to the Pantheon is free on the first Sunday of the month.

Today you’ll set out on foot to see Rome’s most famous monuments and piazzas. Start early in the morning at the Trevi Fountain, since that tends to attract the most crowds during the day. From there, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Pantheon , which is Rome’s best-preserved ancient monument because it was converted into a Catholic church in 609 C.E. If you’re ready for breakfast, head around the corner to the Caffè Tazza d’Oro for a cappuccino.

Continue walking west and you’ll come to Piazza Navona, the city’s most beautiful baroque piazza, where you can admire Bernini’s majestic Fountain of the Four Rivers. The streets surrounding it are lined with shops, restaurants, and cafés as well as under-the-radar museums like Palazzo Altemps , which is one of the seats of the Museo Nazionale Romano housed inside a noble palace containing magnificent 16th-century grotesque (i.e., inspired by decorations found in ancient Roman grottoes) frescoes. (Definitely pop in if you have time!)

Head north on Via della Scrofa, which becomes Via di Ripetta, and you’ll find yourself in the posh area around the Spanish Steps, where designer stores vie for shoppers’ attention. Turn onto Via Tomacelli, then Via dei Condotti and in a few minutes’ you’ll arrive at Piazza di Spagna. Bernini’s boat-shaped fountain at the bottom of the steps is another eye-catching masterpiece worth noting before turning your attention to the steps themselves.

Take Via del Babuino and walk north toward Piazza del Popolo, the large round piazza with an Egyptian obelisk flanked by sphinxes spouting water. This was once the northern gateway to Rome, and it’s another fine spot for people-watching, as fashionable locals cross the square on their way to bustling Via del Corso. Get a table at Canova , which was famed filmmaker Federico Fellini’s haunt, and have a salad or panino there or duck into the swanky Hotel de Russie for a plate of ravioli cacio e pepe at Le Jardin de Russie, a favorite of modern-day movie stars and VIPs.

In the afternoon, head up into Villa Borghese—the green heart-shaped park just up the hill from Piazza del Popolo. Inside the park, you’ll find a small lake with rowboats, a replica of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, and a handful of museums, including the spectacular Galleria Borghese (make sure you book in advance, as timed tickets are required). Afterwards, head over to the Pincio Terrace to catch the sunset with spectacular views of the city.

Ready for dinner? Hop on the metro at the Flaminio stop and take it to Re di Roma to try slightly elevated takes on Roman classics at Santo Palato run by young chef Sarah Cicolini. “I head to this trattoria with a twist for my favorite carbonara in Rome,” says Zoe Shapiro, founder of Stellavision Travel , a boutique feminist travel company that organizes size-inclusive tours in Italy . “The menu changes each day depending on fresh and seasonal ingredients, but stand-outs [including carbonara and oxtail meatball with peanut sauce and cacao] remain consistent and are paired with a wine list that highlights the next generation of Italian winemakers,” says Shapiro.

Saturday: See the treasures of the Vatican

There are a range of tours on offer at the Vatican Museums, including special itineraries for deaf and blind visitors.

The best way to see the Vatican Museums without the crowds is on an exclusive 6 a.m. tour with the key keeper, but barring that the next best thing is to go when the museum opens at 8 a.m. Home to some of the greatest works of art ever created by human hands, the Vatican Museums actually comprise 24 museums, plus various galleries and chapels. It would take all day to see the whole thing, but stick to the highlights (the Sistine Chapel, Raphael Rooms, the Statues Courtyard, and the Gallery of Maps) and you can get out in time for lunch.

Most people make a beeline to Bonci Pizzarium , which has a reputation as the best place for pizza al taglio (by the slice) in Rome, but pizzaiolo/baker Gabriele Bonci also has an eponymous bakery in the neighborhood that’s a bit of a local secret. There aren’t as many different toppings on the pizza, but it’s the same recipe.

Spend the afternoon exploring Prati, the neighborhood adjacent to the Vatican. Developed in the early 20th century, it may lack the cobblestone charm of the historic center, but it’s a busy business and shopping area where Romans hang out. Bustling Via Cola di Rienzo is the neighborhood’s main thoroughfare, where you’ll find midtier stores like Benetton for apparel, Geox for shoes, Castroni for gourmet foods, and the department store Coin. In Prati, Tozzi recommends visiting Casa Balla , the home of futurist artist Giacomo Balla (tours must be booked in advance).

Sunday: Follow the footsteps of Rome’s ancient emperors

The Court bar offers enviable views of the Colosseum.

By now you’ve learned that Romans start their day with breakfast at a bar, but aside from the ubiquitous cornetti , the most Roman pastry is a maritozzo . Try one at the historic Pasticceria Regoli near Piazza Vittorio, one of the city’s most diverse ethnic enclaves, where many Asian immigrants have opened shops and restaurants. You can find goods imported from the Middle East, Africa, Asia, South America, and beyond at the Nuovo Mercato Esquilino . From there it’s a quick walk to the Colosseum . New for 2024 is the ability to visit the attic level, featuring panoramic views and the Colosseum’s water management system (but make sure you book a ticket that includes it in advance). The same ticket grants you access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. You’ll need about half a day to visit them all.

Give your feet a rest at La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali , a family-run restaurant located on the edge of Monti, the charming neighborhood just uphill from the Forum. Try one of the quartet of Roman pastas ( carbonara , cacio e pepe , amatriciana , and gricia ) or a twist on them, like its version of la gricia with seasonal fruit.

Then for an alternative take on Roman history, join Stellavision’s Women and Secrets of Ancient Rome tour. “This walking tour showcases Rome’s Jewish Ghetto, Capitoline Hill, and Forum while centering the stories omitted by most tour companies and pulling important historical figures from the margins of history books,” says Shapiro. Or head over to Largo di Torre Argentina (the archaeological site where Julius Caesar was assassinated), which is now accessible thanks to new walkways.

If you’re ready to splurge on a fabulous aperitivo , book a table at the Court , one of the city’s most creative cocktail bars, which happens to boast head-on views of the Colosseum. Afterwards, take a taxi to up-and-coming San Lorenzo to check out a restaurant suggested by Tozzi and Shapiro. “ Mazzo shuttered five years ago and recently reopened in a new location with a menu that modernizes classic Roman ingredients and honors the city’s ‘ cucina povera ’ history,” Shapiro notes.

Where to stay

Soho House Rome is a hub for creatives in the artsy, up-and-coming neighborhood of San Lorenzo with a rooftop pool, an outpost of Cecconi’s, a screening room, and a gym with yoga and Pilates classes. Guests who book a room can access the private club’s amenities.

For a tried-and-true stalwart, check into the Hotel de Russie , a Rocco Forte Hotel, which is home to the aforementioned Le Jardin de Russie restaurant in the “secret garden” as well as the chic Stravinskij Bar, which is set to reveal a refresh this spring.

Or check into one of these 15 hotels we love in Rome , such as Hotel de la Ville (sister to Hotel de Russie) or newcomers like the Rome Edition or Six Senses Rome.

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Visiting the Vatican - Top tips you need to know!

By Elyssa Bernard

November 21, 2023

Planning on visiting the Vatican when you come to Rome?

Here's everything you need to know!

Visiting the Vatican - everything you need to know

Here is what you really need to know about visiting the Vatican:

• When to go ? (what time of year and time of day)
• What to see ? (St. Peters Basilica and the Vatican Museums, and much more!)
• Which should you visit first, the Vatican Museums (Sistine Chapel) or Saint Peter's Basilica ?
• How to skip the lines for Saint Peter's Basilica ?
• How to get tickets/skip the line to the Vatican museums ?
• Can you just visit the Sistine Chapel ? 
• Can you see the Sistine Chapel without crowds ?
• How do you visit the Vatican Gardens ?
• How do you visit St Peter's tomb ?
• How to plan all your Vatican visits for your trip ?
• How to get to the Vatican ?
• Where to eat near the Vatican ?

The first time I came to Rome as an adult, I missed seeing the Sistine Chapel because I had no idea the Vatican Museums closed at 2pm (long before smartphones and Google, ahem.) 

It must have been a Free Sunday, when the Vatican Museums are open and free but with reduced hours.

Now that I live here, I go often to Saint Peter's Basilica , Saint Peter's Square , and the Vatican Museums .

I also helped thousands of our guests plan their visits in the 17 years we ran our B&B .

Based on years of first-hand experience, I know how to tell you what to do and what not to do.

You can avoid a stressful visit to the Vatican by reading my tips first!

QUICK FACTS ABOUT VISITING VATICAN CITY

• You don't need a passport.
• Vatican City is a separate state from Italy, with just over 500 residents.
• The two main places to visit are Saint Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums (where the Sistine Chapel is.)
• The pope is head of Vatican City.
• The pope's church is not Saint Peter's Basilica. It is Saint John in Lateran.
• You can visit the Vatican, and you can stay nearby, but you cannot sleep inside the Vatican.

Visiting the Vatican - When to go

• There really is no "best day" for visiting Vatican City, i.e. when there are fewer people. The Vatican is Rome's most popular tourist destination and is pretty much always busy. You might consider Tuesday or Thursday as your best bets. Dates around a weekend can be a bit busier, and on Wednesday there is (usually) the Papal Audience , meaning even more crowds.
• In the mornings, many tour groups show up, including those offering early skip-the-line access. Also, people in general come early to try to "beat the line," so you may find the Vatican Museums much more crowded in the early morning than you expect, and  slightly less crowded in mid-afternoon.
• St Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums tend to be even more crowded on Saturdays , when Rome fills up with weekend visitors.
• The Vatican Museum is closed Sundays, except for the last Sunday of every month , when they are free . This is the most crowded day you can imagine for visiting the Vatican Museums .
• On Wednesdays (except for  July , when the pope generally takes a break ), the pope holds an audience at St Peter's Basilica . In warmer months, it will be in Saint Peter's Square . In colder months, or if it's raining , it will be in an auditorium-type hall just to the left of the basilica. This means that the whole area will be packed due to all the people who attend the papal audience , many of whom visit the Vatican Museums after the audience.
• If you do visit Vatican City on a Wednesday , know that St Peter's Basilica will be closed until the papal audience is over (around 12-1pm.)
• As for time of year, winter low season months are best if you want to be more relaxed and find smaller crowds . This means most of December ( except  December 8 , and Christmas through the Epiphany, January 6 ), January and February . Believe it or not, it's just as crowded at to visit Vatican City between Christmas and January 6 as it is during summer.
• Here's  how and when to include visiting the Vatican in a 3-day itinerary in Rome .

IMPORTANT TIP :

To visit St Peters Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, you must be properly dressed : no bare knees, midriffs or shoulders.

Sandals and jeans are fine.

Be careful when wearing knee-length shorts and skirts; the opinions of the Vatican guards as to what is acceptable may vary.

You may wish to bring a sarong or wear the kinds of shorts that have attachable legs, such as hiking trousers .

In a pinch, you will find plenty of vendors just outside the Vatican, who sell t-shirts or scarves.

No matter what season you visit Rome, here are 4 things never to leave at home:

Disclosure: If you make a purchase through a link on this page, I may receive a small commission - at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my site!

Visiting the Vatican - What to see?

The main things to see when visiting the Vatican are  Saint Peter’s Basilica  and the  Vatican Museums .

You can see one and not the other, although v isiting both in a single day is very do-able.

Looking for Michelangelo's masterpieces?

Michelangelo’s Pietà is inside Saint Peter's Basilica.

Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel is inside the Vatican Museums.

Just try not to plan any other big visit like another museum or archeological site like the Coloseum  for the day you visit the Vatican, as you will be pretty exhausted.

Do you really want to visit the Vatican and Colosseum in one day? Here's how!

Or take the stress out of it by taking this "Rome in a Day" Tour with Vatican, Colosseum & Historic Center.

To get the most out of your visit to the Colosseum, take a VIP Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill.

St Peter's Basilica

Saint Peter’s Basilica  is a Renaissance-era church and by many standards, the world’s largest. 

The Vatican is a basilica but not a cathedral, as it does not have its own bishop.

The main cathedral of the “Bishop of Rome”, as the pope is called, is San Giovanni in Laterano , or Saint John in Lateran .

But the pope is head of Vatican City , where he resides.

It's a little confusing isn't it?

Anyway, just think of the Vatican as a huge church, with a lot to see inside.

Click here to read more about what exactly the Vatican is.

Click here to visit my dedicated page all about Saint Peter's Basilica and its history, and things to see and do there.

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St Peter's Dome

It's very much worth  visiting the basilica's dome , but you should know it can get a little crowded up there, and there are a LOT of steps.

The first level is 231 steps, but there is an elevator option. ( Someone in a wheelchair or with walking difficulties can take the lift to this first level.)

The second portion is another 320 steps, with no elevator option.

The dome gets narrower as you go up, so you will be climbing this part single file, and with the roof slanting over your head.

I say this as someone with a close relative with vertigo: you may want to avoid climbing the dome at the Vatican if you suffer from vertigo or claustrophobia.

But if none of that is an issue, then do it!

You'll love the views from up there, both of the church and of the surrounding city.

Visit my dedicated page all about Saint Peter's dome and how to climb it.

Michelangelo’s Pieta

My favorite piece of art inside of  St Peter's Basilica  is Michelangelo’s Pietà .

Actually, it may be my favorite piece of art in the world.

An exaggeration?

I can't help it...just look at it:

It’s on your right as soon as you walk inside Saint Peter's Basilica.

When I visited it with my mom, she cried, saying “look at her face, it’s just about a mother’s love for her child."

Unfortunately, someone wielding an axe once attacked it, and it’s now behind glass.

But you can still see it very well.

And take note of Mary’s face.

It’s really special when you see it in person.

Michelangelo Tidbit :

This was one of Michelangelo’s first major works.

He made it when he was only 22.

He was not sure people would know he did it, so he snuck in late one night and carved his name (Michelangelo Buonarroti) on Mary’s sash.

The Pietà is the only sculpture Michelangelo ever signed (or needed to sign.)

Vatican Grottoes - The Tombs of the Popes

Inside Saint Peter's Basilica, you can go down one level and see the area where some of the popes are buried.

Saint Peter is said to be entombed just underneath the church .

This is why many popes are also buried here. 

It's quite interesting to visit the popes' tombs , called the Vatican Grottoes   - there is a lot of history down there.

Don't worry, it's not dark or claustrophobic.

On the contrary, it's a huge open space full of light and lots to see (no photos allowed.)

To visit the Vatican Grottoes, get up close to Bernini's Baldachin and look for the entrance nearby.

It's free to visit the Vatican Grottoes.

You should make sure you are done visiting the basilica or have a plan to go back up, because the normal route through the grottoes has you exit the basilica entirely.

Not to be confused with St. Peter's tomb

When people talk about visiting the Vatican grottoes, they are referring to a place where you can see the tombs of many popes (as I wrote above.)

But this is not the same as visiting the  Vatican Necropolis , where St. Peter is said to be buried.

A  visit to Saint Peter’s tomb , also referred to as a scavi  visit, is a special and wonderful thing to do, and I highly recommend it. (" Scavi " means "excavations".)

It is a delicate archeological site, and they only take 250 people in per day, in 12-person tours at a time, so you must  book way in advance . (No photos allowed.)

NEW FOR 2024!

The archeological area of the Vatican Necropolis of Via Triumphalis is now open for visitors.

This is an ancient Roman burial site that is within the Vatican walls and before now was very difficult to get access to.

You can only enter as part of an official Vatican tour group, and tickets need to be purchased through the official website .

This is an entirely separate visit, so you will not have access to either St Peter's Basilica or the Vatican Museums.

Click here to watch my YouTube video about it and see what it's like!

The Vatican Museums

The second major site to visit at the Vatican is the Vatican Museums.

This is the part about Vatican City that will take most of your time and energy.

The Vatican Museum contains the world’s largest private art collection (and just imagine that much of the art they own is not even on display!)

They are called "museums" and not just singular "museum" because the museums were started in 1506 and have been added to many times over the centuries.

They now occupy many different buildings all connected to on another.

That's one reason there is so much to see!

You will see a lot of art inside the Vatican Museums, including paintings, sculptures, ancient artifacts, and much more.

I think the number one thing people want to see when they visit is the Sistine Chapel.

For more about the Vatican Museums and Sistine chapel, visit my dedicated pages:

• Visiting the Sistine Chapel
• Michelangelo and the Sistine Chapel
• Visiting the Vatican Museums
• Vatican Museums Must Sees
• Vatican Museums Tickets
• Vatican Museums Tours
• Vatican Secret Rooms

More things you will see at the Vatican:

Besides the two main sites - the museums (Sistine Chapel) and the basilica, there are more things you will see when you visit Vatican City.

Look for these as you walk around:

St. Peter's Square

It would be easy to take Saint Peter's Square, Piazza San Pietro in Italian, for granted.

After all, if you're beelining to get into the basilica, you might be focused on the security queues and wondering how long you will have to wait.

But St. Peter's Square, also called Vatican Square, is worth visiting and enjoying by itself.

It's the only part of Vatican City you can visit without any tickets or queuing.

If you have very limited time , you may even decide that this is about as much as you want to see of Vatican City, since everything else involves queues and/or tickets plus an involved visit inside.

Click here to visit my page all about St. Peter's Square, its history, and what to see.

The Swiss Guard

You might spy one or more of the Swiss Guard at the gate to Vatican City.

The Swiss Guard wear different outfits depending on their duties, but they are all dressed in costumes originally designed in the early 1500s (although not by Michelangelo, an urban myth.)

The Swiss Guard have a specific duty to guard the pope's life and Saint Peter's Basilica.

They are the world's smallest army and they are very well trained.

You will not see the Swiss Guard at the Vatican Museums.

There, you will see Vatican Museums guards who dress in more modern attire.

The Leonine Walls

In the 9th century, Pope Leo IV had defensive walls built around Vatican City following the sacking by raiders of Old St. Peter's Basilica in 846.

You can still see those walls today in and around the Vatican, especially if you visit the Vatican Gardens .

You can also see parts of these walls surrounding Saint Peter's Square on the side where the security gates are, and along the way from the Vatican to nearby Castel Sant'Angelo .

Click here to read a more detailed yet brief history of the Vatican.

For more Vatican history, check out these dedicated pages:

The Vatican Post Office

Don't miss a visit to the Vatican Post Office if you want to mail any postcards. 

It's easier and more efficient than going to the Italian Post Office, and your mail will get there faster!

There is also a Vatican mailbox up on the roof ( Saint Peter's Dome ), and usually another post office in Saint Peter's Square .

More sites you can visit in Vatican City

Besides Saint Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums, there are some more sites you can visit in Vatican City.

You have to pay for these (and for the scavi and gardens, you must book in advance.)

You will find more details about each one on their respective dedicated pages:

• Saint Peter's Tomb (Vatican Necropolis or Scavi )
• Saint Peter's Dome
• Vatican Gardens

Which to see first - The Vatican Museums/Sistine Chapel, or St. Peter's Basilica?

If you book a tour of the Vatican, usually this means taking a guided tour of the Vatican Museums , which ends with the Sistine Chapel .

Some tours include taking the shortcut from the Sistine Chapel into St Peters Basilica.

There has been some back and forth recently about whether the shortcut is available or not, but for now, it is once again the case that  you can only take the shortcut  from the Sistine Chapel to  St Peter's Basilica  if you are on a tour that  INCLUDES  the basilica.

The Vatican can, and does, change their mind frequently on this matter, so if it is important to you to be able to take this shortcut, I recommend booking a tour that ends in St Peter's Basilica to be on the safe side.

If you are on a tour that ends in the Basilica the decision is made for you.

But if you are taking a Vatican Museums tour that does not include the Basilica, or if you are visiting the Vatican Museums on your own, you'll have to decide what order to visit the museums and the basilica in, assuming you want to visit both on the same day, which many people do.

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How long does it take to visit the Vatican Museums?

To  visit the Vatican Museums  (where the Sistine Chapel is),  you need a purchase a ticket  (unless you  come on the Free Sunday .)

Once inside, even if you go quickly, you will need about 2 hours for this this visit.

If you are not able to take the shortcut from the Sistine Chapel to Saint Peter's basilica, you will exit the museums where you entered them.

This is about a 15-20 minute walk from Saint Peter's Square and the entrance to the basilica.

Click here to see a map of Vatican City and how far apart the entrances of the Museums and the Basilica are  (it opens in a new window.)

St Peter's Basilica Shortcut

You can only take the shortcut from the Sistine Chapel to St Peter's Basilica if you are on a tour that INCLUDES the basilica.

The shortcut is open from 9:30 am - 5 or 5:30PM, and it's ONLY accessible to tour companies or private guides that you book OUTSIDE the Vatican Museums website.

The Vatican Museums does not have any ticket or tour that includes the shortcut.

This means that you won't have access to the shortcut during the  KeyMaster tour , the  Extra Time tour , or any other tour that does not specifically include the basilica.

If you book any tour of the Vatican Museums, you can check the details to see if it finishes in the  Sistine Chapel  or the basilica.

Click here to view a map of Vatican City  (it will open in a new page.)

How long does it take to visit Saint Peter's Basilica?

A visit inside Saint Peter's Basilica could take anywhere from 1-2 hours, not including the time you spend in line waiting to go through security (assuming you go through security in the front and do not take the shortcut from the Sistine Chapel.)

To visit Saint Peter's Basilica, you do not need (nor can you buy) tickets, as it's free to go inside.

But you do have to wait in the line for security, which is airport-style - there is an x-ray machine to put your items in and you will walk through a metal detector.

And that can cause the queues to get pretty long.

Lately, the lines to get into Saint Peter's Basilica have been so long, they are looping back again around the square.

Wondering which tour to take of the Vatican Museums?

Visit my page about Vatican Museum tours to find out all the options!

If you book a Vatican Museums tour that does not allow you access to the Basilica, and/or you want to visit the Basilica separately, even on a different day, I'd suggest getting to Saint Peter's Basilica when it opens at 7 AM (if you want to avoid the line).

The lines are longest from about 10 AM - 5 PM, and in high season can be long throughout the day, even from 7 AM until closing!

Skipping the lines at Saint Peter's Basilica

The easiest way to skip the lines at Saint Peter's Basilica is to visit it using the shortcut from the Sistine Chapel (which currently is only available on booked museum tours that end in Saint Peter's Basilica).

There has been some back and forth recently about whether the shortcut is available or not, but for now, it is once again the case that  you can only take the shortcut  from  the Sistine Chapel to  St Peter's Basilica  if you are on a tour that  INCLUDES  the basilica.

As of now, you cannot do this  unless you are on a tour .

If you only plan to visit Saint Peter's Basilica , and not the museums, or you decide to visit these two sites separately, you can avoid the queues by following the tips in my video above:

• Come when it opens at 7 AM
• Come in Low Season
• Book a visit to Saint Peter's tomb
• Use the Pilgrims' entrance - reserved for prayer or attending mass or confession

Wondering where the bathrooms are at the Vatican?

Find out here .

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Topics covered include:

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Skipping the line to get into the Vatican Museums

This may be the number 1 question I get about visiting Rome - How to skip the line for the Vatican Museums?

It's quite simple:

• You can pre-purchase tickets to the Vatican Museums through the Vatican's website . This means that you will not have to stand in the line waiting to buy tickets. You will, however, have to wait in a very short line of others like you, who have pre-booked tickets and have to pick them up. (The tickets you purchase in advance are more of a voucher, and they must be converted into physical paper tickets to enter the museums.) You also still need to go through security as everyone does. So you do not entirely skip the line, but your line will be much shorter.
• You can pre-purchase tickets to the Vatican Museums through a ticket reseller . There is usually a small surcharge for this but it can be worth it due to 1) Ease of use and/or 2) the possibility of finding tickets available here when tickets are not available on the Vatican Museums' website.
• You can purchase an Omnia Pass  or Turbo Pass .  These will also get you a tour with a guide from the Vatican Museums, as above. It’s not as simple as it sounds and you will need to be careful to understand what you are getting into. Click here to go to my page about the Roma Pass and Omnia Pass  or to this page about other Rome City Passes for more details about these passes.
• You can  book a tour of the Vatican Museums , either with a tour company or with the Vatican Museums themselves.  Your entry tickets are included in the tour, so you only have to go through the security line.
• If you book a visit to the Vatican Gardens , skip-the-line tickets to the Vatican Museums are included!
• I do not recommend this at all, but if you have not booked tickets, and they are sold out online, and you find yourself arriving at the Vatican Museums, you will ALWAYS find touts selling you a skip-the-line ticket or tour. I don't recommend it because you cannot be sure they are legit, and if they are, you have no idea what kind of tour you are getting. I also just can't stand, in principle, to be so bombarded by these guys every time I am within a mile of Vatican City. But it can be a good option if it's your last recourse and the lines are crazy long. Just be aware that  only licensed tour guides may give tours inside Vatican City .

Visiting the Vatican Museums with a Guide

Most Vatican City tourism consists primarily of a visit inside the Vatican Museums, which always includes  the Sistine Chapel .

Some tours also include a visit or even a tour inside Saint Peter's Basilica.

You may expect a guided tour of the Vatican Museums and Basilica to last roughly three hours total.

To find out about the many different kinds of tours you can book, visit my page about Vatican Museum Tours , which breaks down your options between group tours, early access tours, semi-private tours and more.

Can you just see the Sistine Chapel?

No, you cannot just see the Sistine Chapel .

To see the Sistine Chapel , you must go through the entire Vatican Museums, which can take at least 2 hours if you tour it and see the highlights .

The Sistine Chapel is at the very end. 

That said, if you are interested in an "Express Tour" of the Sistine Chapel, you can book this tour that skips the line then beelines to the Sistine Chapel and finishes in Saint Peter's Basilica .

This tour is only 1 hour and 45 minutes and does not include a tour of the rest of the Vatican Museums.

You do still have to walk through them, but the focus of the tour will be the Sistine Chapel and Saint Peter's Basilica.

(If you are really pressed for time, you could peel off once you get to the basilica and just not finish the tour.)

is it worth taking the time to explore the museums?

I really do believe that visiting the Vatican museums  is absolutely worth doing in its entirety, even if you really only wanted to see the Sistine Chapel.

The  rest of the museums   are truly wonderful.

You have the Raphael rooms, the maps gallery, the floor-to-ceiling tapestries, papal apartments, Etruscan art, and  so much more.

Click here to visit my page about the top 10 Vatican Museums must-sees.

I highly suggest  taking a tour  to visit the museums. 

They will take care of getting your tickets.

But if you go your own without a tour, you could get the audio guide, or follow my instructions here for the best way to visit the Vatican Museums .

And you will have to book your tickets on your own .

If you are heading to the Vatican in the morning, as I said above, I suggest you visit Saint Peter’s Basilica first, and the museums later, because the queues for Saint Peter's Basilica have gotten so long (sometimes it's a 1-2 hour wait to get in!)

If you decide to go to the Vatican Museums first, just make sure to leave enough time to stand in line to visit Saint Peter's so that you get inside while there is still some daylight, so you can enjoy the sun coming through all the stained glass.

Here's a great Vatican Highlights Tour with St. Peter’s Dome Climb

Can you see the Sistine Chapel without the crowds?

Perhaps the easiest way to see the Sistine Chapel with fewer crowds is to come in really low season .

But we hardly have a low season anymore in Rome, and even when we do, somehow the Vatican is always still crowded.

So how can you see the Sistine Chapel without the crowds?

It is possible!

With the below tours, you will have a VIP, exclusive experience, and you'll get to enjoy the Sistine Chapel almost alone :

Open the Vatican Museums with the Key Master

On this exclusive tour with Walks of Italy , you will have true VIP access to the Vatican museums - literally accompanying the guard who opens all the doors to get the museums ready for visits.

You will accompany the Vatican Museums Key Master as you walk through the museums, turning on the lights, even inside the Sistine Chapel!

Watch my video to see what it's like:

How to plan all your Vatican trips during your stay

The typical way of visiting the Vatican is to spend half a day seeing the  Vatican Museums  and  Saint Peter's Basilica .

These are both easy to fit into a typical  3-day visit to Rome .

The perfect 3-day itinerary in Rome

Trying to figure out how to organize your visit to Rome? I've got the perfect 3-day itinerary for first-time visitors (or those who have not been here in a while.) It works for a 2.5 day visit as well.

In my 3-day itinerary, you'll see all the major must-see Rome attractions like the Vatican , Colosseum , Trevi Fountain , Pantheon , Piazza Navona , Spanish Steps , Castel Sant'Angelo , and much more.

And if you have more time, or want suggestions for extra/other things to do, you'll find that there too.

Visit my page with the best 3-day itinerary in Rome for first-timers .

I have found that often when people can get tickets to special things at the Vatican, like St Peters tomb (the Vatican Necropolis, or scavi ), the Papal Audience , or the Vatican Gardens , they often want to also visit the Vatican Museums on the same day.

Here's my advice for visiting Vatican City when you want to see more than just the Vatican Museums:

Including the Papal Audience

How to visit the vatican museums and attend the papal audience.

Papal Audience tickets  are not difficult to come by, and since it's "in the morning", many visitors assume it would be a good idea to go to the Vatican Museums right after the audience.

I don't agree.

If you are really short on time, then, you CAN go to the Vatican Museums after the Papal Audience.

It's just that this is going to make for a pretty exhausting day.

To go to the Papal audience, you need to get there by 8am to get a decent spot, let alone a seat.

The audience begins around 9:30 AM and finishes around noon.

You'll probably want to grab at least a snack or lunch somewhere in there .

This means going inside the museums from about 2 PM once you have made your way to the Vatican Museum entrance.

If you also visit St. Peter's Basilica after the museums (which is typical), that is a 3-4 hour visit.

And a very long day. (Also, if you want to climb the dome , you likely won't get there in time.)

My suggestion?

If you can break these visits up over two days, I would.

Attend the Papal Audience and then go inside Saint Peter's Basilica (and climb the dome if you want.)

Then on a separate day, visit the Vatican Museums and see the Sistine Chapel.

Including a visit to the Scavi (St Peter's tomb)

How to visit the vatican museums and also take a scavi tour.

At the end of the  scavi  tour (St. Peter's tomb), you wind up inside  Saint Peter's basilica .

So you will already see that.

You could also  climb St. Peter's dome  if you have time and energy.

Visiting the Vatican Museums takes easily 2.5 - 3 hours, and that does not include the time it takes GETTING there once you leave the basilica.

If you are coming to the museums from St. Peter's basilica, you need to factor in about 15-20 minutes' walk to the Vatican museums entrance.

This is after you've already done a 1.5 hour scavi tour, and spent time walking around one of the largest churches in the world.

So as you can see, adding the Vatican Museums makes it a pretty exhausting day.

If you need to do it all in one day, make sure to book your scavi tour first, then book your museums visit with at least 4 hours between visits.

Break this up over two days.

Book the scavi tour.

You have no control over when they will grant you tickets, so if you are lucky enough to get them, you can then book other things around that. 

Plan to see St. Peter's basilica (and climb the dome) on this day.

Then, book your Vatican Museums visit for another day. 

HOW TO VISIT ST PETERS TOMB, THE VATICAN MUSEUMS (SISTINE CHAPEL), AND ATTEND THE PAPAL AUDIENCE

You are definitely going to need two days.

First book the scavi visit  which is never on a Wednesday mornings anyway (the Papal Audience is on Wednesdays.)

Plan to  visit St Peter's Basilica  after that, since you will come out into the basilica after the tour anyway.

If you want to  climb St Peter's dome , you will do it on this day.

This is a pretty long and full day by itself.

Then, once you get your  Papal Audience tickets , book your tickets or tour of the Vatican Museums for after the audience (even if I said above I discourage doing all this in one day, at least if you don't include the basilica it's a little less tiring).

This will be a very full and long day also.

Ready to plan your trip?

Including a visit to the Vatican Gardens

If you want to visit the vatican gardens and visit the scavi (st. peter's tomb).

TWO Vatican Gardens

On this page, I'm referring to the gardens inside Vatican City , i.e. directly behind Saint Peter's Basilica.

There are ALSO papal gardens at the Pope's summer residence, the Apostolic palace at Castel Gandolfo.

To learn more about the gardens at Castel Gandolfo and how to visit them (it's easy!), visit my dedicated page here.

If you are able to get tickets to St. Peter's tomb ( scavi ) and also the Vatican Gardens , congratulations!

Here's how to include visiting the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's basilica as well.

First book the scavi visit .

Then book the Vatican Gardens tour on a different day, and plan to visit the Vatican Museums right after the gardens, as it's included in your ticket price with the gardens.

Visit St. Peter's Basilica after the scavi, again, on a different day from the Gardens/Museums.

If you want to do it all - visit the Vatican Museums, vatican gardens, papal audience, scavi tour and st peter's basilica and dome

How you plan your days fitting in these visits will depend on two things  - the Papal audience , which is always Wednesday morning 10am - 12pm (although you need to get there by no later than 8am); and the time of your scavi booking (which depends on the scavi office - you cannot control this).

Once you get those two bookings, the next difficult booking to get is for the Vatican Gardens . 

So book that one around the Papal Audience and scavi tour.

Note that tours of the Vatican Gardens are at 9am or 11am.

They are also not held on the morning of the Papal Audience.

I'd suggest you spread this over 3 days.

Or, to fit this into two (intense) days, try to do the scavi tour after the Papal audience, if you can get scavi tickets for the afternoon.

Then book the Vatican Gardens, Vatican Museums , and St. Peter's Basilica on a separate day.

(And climb St. Peter's dome once you are inside St. Peter's basilica if you like.)

How to Get to Vatican City

You have several options for how to get to the Vatican.

But the most important factor to consider is what you are visiting first.

Click here to see a Google map showing where the different entrances are for the Vatican Museums, Saint Peter's Square, and the scavi entrance . It will open in a new window.

How to get to the Vatican Museums

The Vatican Museums entrance is on Viale Vaticano .

If you plan to take a taxi , just tell the driver "Vatican Museums".

Visiting the Vatican Museums and arriving by Metro

Otherwise, the most common way to get there is by Metro.

Rome's metro red line A has two stops, equidistant from the entrance to the museums (about a 10-12 minute walk): Ottaviano and Cipro .

The Ottaviano metro stop is the first one you will come to if you are coming from Rome's center.

When you emerge from the metro station, you just need to follow the crowd towards Vatican City.

Once you see Michelangelo's bastions (walls), follow them to the right and you will come to the entrance of the Vatican Museums.

If you are visiting the Vatican museums from the opposite direction, or if you forget to get off at Ottaviano, or, better yet, if you want to get off at the next stop to get some fabulous pizza by the slice from Bonci's Pizzarium, then you will get off at Cipro stop. 

However, from this stop, you cannot see the same stream of people, nor can you immediately see the Vatican City walls, so you will need to navigate a little bit to find the walls.

Once you see the walls, follow them until you come to the entrance.

Visiting the Vatican Museums and Arriving by Bus

Another option for arriving at the entrance of the Vatican museums is to take a bus or buses.

Many buses will get you pretty close to the entrance of the Vatican museums.

These include the 492, 49, 23, and the 81.

How to Get to Saint Peter's Basilica and Square

The entrance to St. Peter's Basilica is on Saint Peter's Square .

This is about a 15-20 minute walk from the Vatican Museums, so if you are not visiting the Vatican Museums (or not visiting them first), and want to go directly to the basilica, you can still take the metro, but make sure to get off at Ottaviano, not Cipro.

From Ottaviano metro stop, St. Peter's Square is about a 10-15 minute walk .

Follow the crowds, but at the walls, do not make a right towards the museums, just keep going straight. 

Buses that arrive closest to St. Peter's Square include the 40 and the 64.

How to get to the Scavi/St Peter's Tomb

If you are visiting the Vatican for an appointment to see St. Peter's tomb, the fastest and easiest way to arrive is by taxi .

They can drop you right in front of the entrance where you need to go, which is at the Swiss Guard, to the left of the basilica as you face it.

If you take a bus, get the 64, as it drops you about a block away.

To take the metro , make sure to get off at Ottaviano, and give yourself about 20 minutes' walking time from there to get the the entrance of St. Peter's tomb.

Where to Eat Near the Vatican

There is no place to eat inside St Peter's Basilica or in St Peter's Square (there is a tiny snack bar on the roof of the basilica, which you can only access if you climb the dome .)

There are some cafés and fast-food options inside the Vatican Museums.

There are also fun dining options you can book, and combine with your visit to the Museums.

Otherwise, visit my page about lots of options for eating breakfast, lunch, dinner and aperitivo near the Vatican . 

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Top attractions and tours

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• Vatican Museums - This is where the Sistine Chapel is
• Pantheon - Book ahead and skip the line
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• Castel Sant'Angelo - See Rome's history through its architecture
• Rome City Pass - A great way to make your Rome visits easier

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