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Offered languages
- English
If you're looking for a Vatican tour that goes beyond the usual offerings, our combination tour has got you covered. With this tour, you'll bypass the line at St. Peter's, climb to the top of the dome for a stunning panoramic view of the Vatican and Rome, enjoy free time in the Basilica, and then skip the line at the Vatican to see the Sistine Chapel.
Your tour begins with an exciting elevator ride to the top of St. Peter's iconic dome, where you'll take in an unforgettable view of the city. From there, you'll join your expert Vatican guide for a comprehensive exploration of the art, history, and famous landmarks of this sacred city concluding in the Sistine Chapel. The tour is designed to provide a deep dive into the Vatican's rich cultural heritage, allowing you to fully appreciate the art and architecture that make this place so special.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Please arrive 10 minutes early. Meet your guide at Largo Del Colonnato. This is the area just outside of the St. Peters Square colonnades, on the right side when looking at St. Peter’s Basilica. Our staff will be there holding a “The Tour Guy” sign standing between the fountain and the green kiosk.
This tour concludes inside of the Vatican Museums
Itinerary
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1St. Peter's Square
Ready for the ultimate Vatican exploration? Your day will start meeting our staff just outside of St Peter's Square at an indicated meeting point. From there we'll pass over iconic St. Peter's Square home to the Sunday Mass, on our way in to the Basilica.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2Cupola di San Pietro
To kick start your top to bottom experience, we’ll take your Vatican discovery to new heights climbing the Dome of St Peter's alongside your expert guide. A combo of elevator and stairs (231 steps) a medium level of fitness is required for the dome climb, but the panoramic views of Rome and the Vatican State, will stay with you for a long time.
40 minutes • Admission ticket included -
3St. Peter's Basilica
Following your climb, descend to the Basilica. Considered the epicentre of the Catholic faith, the St Peter's Basilica is a must-see destination for millions of tourists annually. Enjoy free time to discover all its unique features including the Holy door, Michelangelo's Pietà, Bernini's Baldacchino and plenty more!
1 hour • Admission ticket included -
4Sphere within a Sphere
Before exploring the Vatican Museums alongside your guide, you'll enjoy a quick stroll through the Pinecone Courtyard. Here you'll find Alnaldo Pomodoro's famous Sphere within a Sphere, symbolising how Christianity struggles against the chaos of the world.
5 minutes • Admission ticket included -
5Vatican Museums
Experience the best of the Vatican City with our Highlights of the Vatican Museums tour. Skip the line and delve into the treasures of this holy place, guided by an expert who will reveal the secrets behind the stunning artworks and artifacts. Follow your guide through the Candelabra Gallery, Gallery of the Tapestries, and Gallery of Maps, marvelling at the ancient Greek and Roman statues, Flemish tapestries, and detailed maps of Italy. In the Pio-Clementino Museum, home to some of the world's most famous sculptures, you'll see Laocoön and His Sons, the Belvedere Torso, and the magnificent sarcophagus of St. Helen, mother of Constantine. Next, enter the Raphael Rooms and immerse yourself in the Renaissance era of amazing art and literature. See the rooms frescoed by Raphael and admire his most famous work, The School of Athens, as your guide shares insights into the artist's life and influences.
2 hours 25 minutes • Admission ticket included -
6Sistine Chapel
Experience the grandeur of Michelangelo's most celebrated masterpiece at the world-renowned Sistine Chapel. With over 600 figures, the frescoes depicting biblical stories from Genesis to Revelations are awe-inspiring and truly a sight to behold. From the iconic Creation of Man to the powerful Last Judgement, every inch of the chapel's ceiling and walls is covered in captivating imagery. Please note that speaking inside the chapel is forbidden due to its religious significance. However, your guide will provide an overview before entering and we'll also provide you with a map/handout to help you identify each fresco you'll see.
20 minutes • Admission ticket included
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Not recommended for travellers with claustrophobia and/or vertigo
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Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Not recommended for travellers with claustrophobia and/or vertigo
- Please note there is no skip the line service at the St Peter's Basilica, though due to our early start we are able to avoid most of the day time crowds.
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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