Vatican Museums & St. Peter's Basilica Skip the line Private Tour

based on 19 reviews

Duration:3 hours to 4 hours (approx.)
Location: Rome, Italy

From $318.46

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Skip the line for fast-track entry to the world-famous Vatican Museums complex, comprised of Galleries boasting an impressive array of artwork and masterpieces.
During your visit, you'll have the opportunity to witness one of the world's most exquisite collections of sculptures, carvings, frescoes, and paintings. Take a leisurely stroll through some of the most captivating rooms, including the Gallery of Tapestries and the Gallery of Maps. Be stunned by Michelangelo's masterpiece inside the Sistine Chapel.
Finally, venture into the splendid St. Peter's Church, home to the renowned Baldachin by Bernini. You will also have the privilege of admiring Michelangelo's incredible sculpture, "La Pietà."

Don't miss the exceptional chance to elevate your experience with our RENAISSANCE or DOME Options. These options offer you a unique opportunity to explore the exquisite and fine Raphael Rooms or ascend St. Peter's Dome, where you'll be treated to a breathtaking panoramic view of the city.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

WHAT TO EXPECT

1. Vatican Museums
With this Tour, we get you inside the Museums. we will visit together the Vatican Museum Galleries and halls
2. Cortile della Pigna
The Courtyard of the “Pigna”, created from the 16th-century area of the “Belvedere”
3. Sphere within a Sphere
The Sphere within a Sphere" by Arnaldo Pomodoro at the Vatican Museums is a striking sculptural masterpiece that graces the Cortile della Pigna. This captivating artwork features a large bronze sphere with a textured, fractured surface, revealing a smaller sphere within. The interplay of light and shadow on the intricate patterns adds to its mesmerizing allure. Symbolizing themes of complexity and inner depth, Pomodoro's sculpture at the Vatican Museums stands as a testament to the convergence of art, spirituality, and profound meaning in the heart of one of the world's most renowned cultural institutions.
4. Gallery of the Maps
The Gallery of Maps, inside the Vatican Museums, displays a stunning collection of topographical maps of Italy. Created in the 16th century under Pope Gregory XIII, these beautifully painted maps span 120 meters, offering a unique geographical snapshot of the Italy of the past.
5.
The Vatican Museums' Gallery of Tapestries showcases stunning 15th and 16th-century tapestries, intricately woven with scenes from biblical and historical narratives. Inspired by designs from Raphael’s school, this gallery highlights the artistic sophistication and storytelling of the Renaissance.
6.
The Gallery of the Candelabra is a part of the Vatican Museums, showcasing a rich collection of Greek and Roman statues, sarcophagi, and reliefs. It is named for the grand marble candelabra that decorate it, dividing the gallery into thematic sections. Set up in the late 18th century, the gallery merges ancient art with stunning architectural details, providing visitors a journey through history and beauty.
7. Stanze di Raffaello
If RENAISSANCE OPTION SELECTED: the tour will include the Rooms of Raphael. Each room offers a vibrant tableau of Renaissance ideals—harmony, intellect, faith, and history. The interplay of art and history takes visitors on an unforgettable journey through one of the most remarkable periods in Western art and culture.
8. Sistine Chapel
The Sistine Chapel takes its name from Pope Sixtus IV della Rovere (pontiff from 1471 to 1484) who had the old Cappella Magna restored between 1477 and 1480. It is known throughout the world both for being the place where the conclave and other official ceremonies of the Pope are held (in the past also some papal coronations), and for being decorated with one of the most famous and celebrated works of art of artistic civilization the frescoes by Michelangelo.
9. St. Peter's Basilica
Enjoy the breathtaking Saint Peter's Basilica, shrine of Christianity and Art. You will marvel at the Priceless Pietà, by Michelangelo, and stop by the venerable tomb of Saint John Paul II & Pope Karol Wojtyla. The Pietà (1498–1499) is a work of Renaissance sculpture by Michelangelo Buonarroti, housed in St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City.
10. La Pieta
The Pietà is a work of Renaissance sculpture by Michelangelo Buonarroti, housed in St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City. It is the first of a number of works of the same theme by the artist. The statue was commissioned for the French Cardinal Jean de Bilhères, who was a representative in Rome. The sculpture, in Carrara marble, was made for the cardinal's funeral monument, but was moved to its current location, the first chapel on the right as one enters the basilica, in the 18th century. It is the only piece Michelangelo ever signed.
11.
The Baldachin in St. Peter's Basilica is a breathtaking masterpiece of art and architecture. Designed by the renowned Baroque sculptor and architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini, it stands as a magnificent bronze canopy over the high altar of the basilica. This ornate structure, adorned with intricate details and towering over 90 feet tall, serves as a symbol of the grandeur of the Catholic Church and a focal point of the basilica's interior. It is a true marvel that captivates visitors with its beauty and historical significance.
12.
The Pietà (1498–1499) is a work of Renaissance sculpture by Michelangelo Buonarroti, housed in St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City.
13. Cupola di San Pietro
If St. PETER'S DOME OPTION SELECTED: you'll have the unique opportunity to climb the Dome and experience a breathtaking view of the city. The journey to the apex of this architectural marvel is an ascent through history, art, and spirituality. Emerging onto the roof of St. Peter's, you are greeted with a 360-degree panorama of Rome. The city's iconic landmarks stretch as far as the eye can see, from the Colosseum to the Tiber River, creating a visual feast that combines ancient and modern elements. The sensation of being both humbled and uplifted by the grandeur of the Vatican, the artistry of the Basilica, and the stunning views of Rome is a memory that will linger in your heart and mind for years to come.
14. Cupola di San Pietro
IF DOME OPTION IS SELECTED: The dome of St. Peter's Basilica, a masterpiece designed by Michelangelo, stands as a defining symbol of the Vatican and Rome. As one of the largest and most iconic domes in the world, it offers breathtaking views both from the ground and its viewing gallery. Dominating the skyline, it reflects the architectural brilliance of the Renaissance.
15. St. Peter's Square
This monumental elliptical space, enclosed by 284 Doric columns four rows deep (196m wide and 148m long), is the masterpiece of Gian Lorenzo Bernini, who laid it out during the pontificates of Alexander VII and of Clement IX.

ADDITIONAL INFO

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• St. Peter's Basilica may close at the last minute for ceremonies or masses without warning
• A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements
• A moderate amount of walking is involved - comfortable shoes are recommended
• Please advise in case of mobility issues - wheelchair partly accessible
• For ST. PETER'S DOME OPTION: wheelchairs not accessible
• For ST. PETER'S DOME OPTION: don’t attempt to visit the dome if you can’t physically climb steps or if you’re claustrophobic. A lift takes you some of the way, but then you still have to tackle 320 steps (and space is a bit tight in places).
• In the case of visitors using wheelchairs and mobility scooters, please note that the Museums are partially accessible, and the Basilica won't be included
• All visitors must pass through the monument/attraction security check please allow at least 20 minutes to clear security
• The exact timings and reservations can vary depending on the availability and decisions of the monument/attraction's administration offices on the booking day and may be subject to last-minute changes
• St Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel are subject to last-minute closures for religious ceremonies. When this occurs, we're happy to offer customers an extended tour of the Vatican Museums. While we endeavor to inform our guests ahead of time about any planned disruptions to the opening hours, this is not always possible. In these cases, we are unable to provide refunds or discounts
• A current valid passport or ID document is required on the day of the tour for children under 18 years old as proof of their age
• Please review the confirmation message that we send one day prior to the tour date, which confirms the final details of the service
• For ST. PETER'S DOME OPTION: not recommended for guests with mobility issues or claustrophobic

CANCELLATION POLICY

Posted By : cynthia_w
Our guide was great, The Sistine Chapel was awe inspiring. An absolute must see while you are in Rome!
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2023-10-19 03:33:47

Posted By : John_M
The one on one personal interaction with the guide was amazing. She was so knowledgeable and took the time to explain in great detail the enormity of the Vatican, St Peter’s Basilica, the Rafael rooms and museum. The extra bonus of a private hotel pick up and drop off was exactly what we wanted. We also got a restaurant recommendation La Pollorama and the best caffe in the city Sant Eustachio.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2023-09-05 13:03:18

Posted By : vomGimpelwald
Today we did a private tour with Marco through St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums. Marco did a great job, we skipped all the queues. That saved us several hours of waiting. He is a real expert, an archaeologist and knows these sights very well. He also responded really well to our questions and challenges. We can only recommend him.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2023-08-18 10:49:40

Posted By : kristinsK5718MG
We had an outstanding tour of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St Peter's with Gianluca. He was such a treasure of information, knowledge and passion. And a great sense of humor. Our tour was on our travel day and although my teens were tired, he kept them engaged and interested. Highly recommend the tour and Eyes of Rome. And it was truly skip the line! Which was so greatly appreciated given the heat and that the regular line was more than 90 minutes long.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2023-07-06 15:31:12

Posted By : 831davido
Rosey was an exceptional guide for me and my daughter through the Vatican Museum and the Basilica. She was extremely personable, knowledgeable and felt like we were being shown around by a friend. I would definitely book the climb to the top of the dome for awesome views of the skyline of Rome. Excellent communication from the day we booked to reminders up to tour day. Highly recommend Eyes of Rome and Rosey!
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2023-07-05 13:42:11

Posted By : Dick D
Outstanding, professional tour with Katie Farrah; five hours of information sprinkled with a personal touch and some humor. Katie knows the inside, in-depth Vatican and three of us had a wonderful time.

Grazie, Katie
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2022-12-26 13:22:01

Posted By : fitzsmith
We’re putting our feet up after a wonderful afternoon visiting the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and Raphael Rooms…our tour guide (storyteller) Alessandro inspired us with his knowledge and warmth….he navigated us though the awe inspiring collections, always offering to stop for a photo while continuing to captivate us with his fantastic narrative…it was a magical afternoon..one we will not soon forget. His breadth of knowledge of Roman Antiquities, Baroque art and sculpture, the Renaissance, papal everything and architecture was truly inspiring!
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2022-12-07 13:17:20

Posted By : Ryan5511
Second tour with this company. This tour was with the gift or Marta as a guide. She's brilliant, and a great story teller. We couldn't have asked for a more perfect first morning in Rome activity. Being almost alone in the Vatican to start was an experience not to be missed, and if Marta is available...book with her!

Thank you Marta!!! 10 stars!
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2022-11-23 10:46:47

Posted By : JAJK66
I have used Eyes of Rome before, so it was easy decision to return. Our pick up was prompt 07:45 from the hotel, and we were inside the Vatican museums just after 8am. Our guide, Marta, was truly excellent. Not only is she a wealth of knowledge and information, but in the end she kindly provided us with further recommendations what else to see in Rome and where to eat.

I have done this same tour some years ago, and some things have unfortunately changed. Before you were able to go straight into the Sistine Chapel and then return to the museums. Back then this meant us and 40-50 other people at the Chapel. Now it was 3-4x that by the time we got there. Also, before it was only small groups during the early entry. Now you are battling with groups of 20 and up.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2022-10-31 16:12:02

Posted By : Paul L
My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed our tour with Marta. She was incredible: knowledgeable, patient and fun! We highly recommend this tour. We avoided all lines and even were able to take some “special” stairwells to avoid crowds during the tour.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2022-10-03 09:58:32

Retrieving available

Tickets

Vatican Museums & St. Peter's Basilica Skip the line Private Tour

WHAT'S INCLUDED

WHAT TO EXPECT

1. Vatican Museums

2. Cortile della Pigna

3. Sphere within a Sphere

4. Gallery of the Maps

5.

6.

7. Stanze di Raffaello

8. Sistine Chapel

9. St. Peter's Basilica

10. La Pieta

11.

12.

13. Cupola di San Pietro

14. Cupola di San Pietro

15. St. Peter's Square

ADDITIONAL INFO

CANCELLATION POLICY

Partner Resources

How it works

Travel

Insurance

Adventure

Contact

Retrieving available

Tickets

Vatican Museums & St. Peter's Basilica Skip the line Private Tour

WHAT'S INCLUDED ⟱

WHAT TO EXPECT ⟱

1. Vatican Museums

2. Cortile della Pigna

3. Sphere within a Sphere

4. Gallery of the Maps

5.

6.

7. Stanze di Raffaello

8. Sistine Chapel

9. St. Peter's Basilica

10. La Pieta

11.

12.

13. Cupola di San Pietro

14. Cupola di San Pietro

15. St. Peter's Square

ADDITIONAL INFO ⟱

CANCELLATION POLICY ⟱

Partner Resources

How it works

Travel

Insurance

Adventure

Contact

WHAT'S INCLUDED

WHAT TO EXPECT

ADDITIONAL INFO

CANCELLATION POLICY