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How to Buy Tickets to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

Written by: Kate Zusmann

A visit to Vatican City and its museums is one of the “must-do” during your trip to Rome. However, since there are always many tourists in the Eternal City , it is better to buy tickets to the Vatican Museums in advance.

Important things to know before purchasing Vatican Museum tickets

Is it necessary to buy tickets to the vatican museums in advance, can i buy tickets to the vatican museums at the box office on the day of the visit, what to do if there are no more tickets on the vatican museums website, what is the best time to visit the vatican museums, how long does it take to see the most important masterpieces in the vatican museums, do i need to buy a separate ticket for the sistine chapel, how to purchase the admission ticket at the lowest price.

Here I describe how to buy tickets to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel online without endless queues and in a time-savvy way. The price of the ticket is 17 euro.  Languages in the Vatican online office are English and Italian.

You can book your ticket on the official website   www.museivaticani.va

First, you have to select the kind of ticket you want (usually “Musei e Collezioni” – Museums and Collections). If you plan to visit the Vatican Museums by yourself (without a big group tour), choose the “Singles” option. Try to plan your trip 1-2 days in advance. Moreover, if you visit Rome during the high season (May-September, Christmas holidays), there will be no slots available for your date if you don’t purchase tickets at least 1-2 weeks in advance.

Choose “Admission tickets”:

Now choose the best time appropriate for your visit. Again, the choice is huge: time slots are available every 15 minutes.

Reduced tickets info:

Fix price transfer from the Fiumicino Airport to Rome

Also, you can pre-book the audio guide (you can even do it once you are in the museums). There are ten languages available in audio guides: Italian, English, French, German, Spanish, Japanese, Russian, Korean, and Portuguese.

Now time to fill out a form with personal data:

The website only accepts Visa and Mastercard

Finally, you will have to accept the Conditions and insert the security code. Then, click on the “Accept the Estimate and Proceed with the Reservation” button.

Once you have completed your online purchase, you will receive two e-mails:

• You have to confirm the payment
• An e-mail with the voucher for your ticket to the Vatican Museums. Print the first page of each ticket you purchased or save a PDF file on your smartphone.

During the day of your visit, come on 15 minutes earlier and show your voucher at the entrance of the Vatican Museums. Once you pass through security, you have to go to the left, where you will see the “cassa” and change your voucher into an actual ticket.

Don’t forget that the Vatican Museums open its door for free on the last Sunday of every month (if it is not a religious holiday). However, it works from 9 am to 2 pm only, with the last entrance at 12.30 pm. This option is attractive just if your budget is tight, but in another case, you should better avoid such days because of a massive crowd of people. There is a chance that you will stay in a queue so long that you don’t even get in by 12.30 pm.

Some specifics about discounts for the Vatican Museums tickets:

• Everyone aged from 6 to 18 years old (including 6 y.o. and 18y.o.) pays 8 euro instead of 17 euro
• There is a 50% discount for international students (not all universities)
• Members of the clergy also pay 8 euro instead of 17 euro

Children under 6 y.o, museum directors, journalists and academics, people with disabilities, and their companions go inside for free. However, there is no discount for seniors of any age.

If you purchase a ticket at a reduced price, you will need to show proof of eligibility for the discount. And if it turns out that the evidence is not eligible, you will have to buy a new-full price ticket, while your discounted ticket will not be refunded.

You can stay inside the museums as long as you prefer, before the closing time. On average, a visit lasts from 2 to 5 hours. The basic ticket does not include the audio guide or any other tour. So that, there is another option to buy a group tour with a guide for 27 euro or to reserve a private tour at dawn for 3-4 people on our website.

• You have a chance to change the date and time of your reservation by following this link tickets.museivaticani.va/support

If you can’t visit the Vatican Museums, there is no chance to return a ticket, but in theory, you can resell or pass-on to someone your ticket because documents are checked very rarely

Vatican Museums’ collections include paintings from some of Italy’s greatest artists like Raphael, Michelangelo, and Caravaggio. Also, there is an extraordinary collection of Egyptian antiquities, including papyruses and mummies in their sarcophagi.

Many tourists visit the Vatican Museum to see only the famous Sistine Chapel without knowing what else to see there – it is a big mistake!

I urge you to read more about the Vatican Museums before attending it because there are many exciting things that you won’t see anywhere else in the world.

St. Peter’s Basilica is not included in the Vatican Museums’ ticket. It is a church, and there is no fee to go inside. It is closed on Wednesday mornings during the Papal Audience and reopens around 12-1 p.m. on that day. If you are on a group tour, there is a privileged passage directly from the Sistine Chapel to the Basilica.

Plan B – Last Minute Vatican Museums Tickets & Tours

If there are no more tickets on the official website of the Vatican Museums, you can purchase one on the website of our partners  www.tiqets.com

Undoubtedly, you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to visit the Vatican Museums. It will be one of the most impressive adventures of your life.

Author: Kate Zusmann

I have lived in the Eternal City for the past 12 years. They say every angle of Rome has its history, and I'm here to tell you about the most intriguing historical facts and city legends. :)

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Vatican Museums: Tickets

How to choose tickets for the Vatican Museums. Standard tickets, skip-the-line, with audio guide, tours and combined tickets.

Top selling tickets on ArcheoRoma

starting from 62 €

starting from 97 €

starting from 129 €

Vatican Museum Tickets: which one to choose

Visiting the Vatican Museums in the Papal State is almost a must when visiting Rome. To access the extraordinary collection of art and history kept in the Vatican Museums we have several solutions.

The standard tickets available are:

• Single entry ticket: Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
• Skip-the-line tickets with audio guide
• Early entry with breakfast
• Vatican Museums entrance with lunch

Alternative tickets

As an alternative to standard tickets, it is possible to take advantage of packages that integrate additional services such as guided tours or allow access to other archaeological sites and museums. The most purchased are:

• Guided tours of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
• Guided tours of the Vatican Museums and Vatican Gardens
• Guided tour of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica
• Vatican Museums + Colosseum entrance with audio guide
• Entrance to the Vatican Museums + Castel Sant’Angelo
• Visit the Vatican Museums + Vatican Gardens
• Omnia Card (Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica or Castel Sant’Angelo, Colosseum, Roman Forum + audio guide)
• Rome Tourist Card (Entrance to the Vatican Museums, Carcer Tullianum, Cloisters and Basilica of San Giovanni, Catacombs of San Callisto + audio guide)

For a complete overview of the tours available visit the page: Vatican Museum Tours

Standard Vatican Museums tickets

Skip-the-line tickets for the Vatican Museums guarantee priority access, avoiding the many hours of waiting in long queues with excursions to the Colosseum and St. Peter’s Basilica.

starting from 30.25 €

4.7 /5      | 24436 reviews

The best-selling tickets for access to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. Skip the line tickets with priority access.

Audio guides: Optional

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Reduced entrance fees

The Vatican Museums offer reduced rates for specific categories of visitors, with the aim of making art and culture more accessible:

• Students and Young People : Students up to 25 years of age are entitled to reduced rates by presenting a valid identity document and a document certifying their enrollment in an educational institution.
• School Groups : Special rates are available for school groups, with advance booking required.
• Religious and Members of Ecclesiastical Institutions : Priests, men and women religious, novices and novices enjoy a reduced rate, upon presentation of a document certifying their belonging to a religious congregation.</li >
• Pilgrimages : Reduced rates are also applied to diocesan and parish pilgrimages.
• Large Families : The Vatican Museums offer advantageous conditions for families with multiple children.

N.b. These reduced tickets are only available for standard entrance tickets purchased on the official website of the Vatican Museums .

Free tickets

Free vatican museums ticket for specific categories of visitors.

The Vatican Museums offer free access opportunities to specific categories of visitors, promoting cultural accessibility.

Entrance is free on the last Sunday of each month, following the museum calendar.

• Children Free entry for children under 6 years old.
• Sector professionals Directors of museums, superintendencies and heritage protection bodies have free access.
• Visitors with Disabilities Visitors with a certified disability greater than 74% enjoy free entry. In case of non-self-sufficiency, free access is also extended to a companion. Free tickets can be obtained by presenting the disability certification at the “Special Permits” and/or “Reception” desks located in the entrance hall. Furthermore, priority entry is guaranteed to avoid long waits.
• Special Card Holders Icom and Icomos card holders enjoy free entry.
• University teachers Teachers of Archaeology, Art History, Architecture and Ethnology, and Roman academies, can request access for specialist lessons.

Free entry last Sunday of the month

The Vatican Museums offer the opportunity to visit their collections for free during specific days. These free days are an exceptional opportunity to admire the works of art without any entrance fee. Usually, free access to the Vatican Museums is offered on the last Sunday of each month, allowing a wider audience to enjoy this extraordinary cult experience

Skip-the-line tickets with guided tour

From Egyptian and Etruscan art to Greek and Roman art, from the Renaissance to modern art, this is the long exhibition itinerary offered with a guided tour of the Vatican Museums, admiring masterpieces of paintings and sculptures.

This ticket guarantees skip-the-line access to the museums, as well as the opportunity to visit the extraordinary Sistine Chapel con la Ceiling frescoed by Michelangelo and Raphael’s Rooms.

starting from 50 €

4.6 /5      | 951 reviews

Official Guided Tour of 3 Hours for Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and Vatican Gardens

starting from 89 €

4.4 /5      | 1041 reviews

Tour with reserved entrance to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel to enjoy the vast collections of paintings, sculptures and monuments of one of the world's most important exhibitions.

Combined Vatican Museums tickets

These tickets offer a combined visit to the Vatican Museums and other historical places with reserved entry and guide.

4.6 /5      | 1004 reviews

A cumulative skip-the-line ticket to visit the main sights of Rome: Vatican Museums, Colosseum (including Palatine Hill and Roman Forum) and St. Peter's Basilica. Priority access and audio guide included in the price.

Tourist passes

Both the Municipality of Rome and the Vatican State have issued official passes for tourists in Rome which include visits to the Vatican Museums. These are packages that offer the possibility of saving on individual tickets and guaranteeing a complete cultural itinerary of the city.

Rome Tourist Pass

4.3 /5      | 2372 reviews

The Rome Tourist Pass is a complete package for tourists in Rome. The ticket includes visits to Colosseum, Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, St Peter's Basilica and more.

Savings up to 35%

Instant ticket delivery: Yes

Rome in one day

Ticket on smartphone: Available

This tourist pass is ideal for visiting the most popular attractions of Rome in a single day . It allows you to save on the cost of individual tickets and offers the best combination for those who want to appreciate the majesty of the history of the eternal city.

Furthermore, with this combined ticket you are entitled to a 10% discount on your next booking for any destination in the world.

Omnia Card 72h

3,2 /5      | 12 reviews

The Omnia Card is a box that includes the Roma Pass 72h and allows you to visit, in addition to the Colosseum, the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica

Audio guides: Available for download

The Opera Romana Pellegrinaggi offers tourists the Omnia Card, a complete package that includes access to various archaeological sites and museums: Colosseum , the Basilica st John Lateran , the Peter’s Basilica .

Focused on the wonders of the Vatican, it includes access to the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel and the great Basilicas of the City.

Alternative passes

4.2 /5      | 296 reviews

Visit the Vatican with the Vatican City Pass! Skip the line entrance to the Vatican Museums, Quick access to Castel Sant'Angelo and audio guide of Rome

The “Vatican City Pass” is the combined ticket that ensures priority access to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel , as well as fast access to Castel Sant’Angelo . It also offers the audio guide of Rom with over 123 points of interest, so you can travel around the eternal city in complete autonomy.

FAQ – Frequently asked questions

Where to buy tickets and why we recommend purchasing them online.

Tickets for the Vatican Museums can be purchased:

• on the official website
• at the ticket office

Buying tickets online for the Vatican Museums is advisable for several reasons. First of all, it allows you to avoid long queues at the ticket offices, saving precious time. Furthermore, purchasing online guarantees entry even on busy days, when tickets may sell out quickly. Finally, some ticket options, such as “Skip the Line” tickets or special packages, are only available online, offering a more convenient and personalized visit.

Purchasing tickets online to visit the Vatican Museums is therefore the ideal solution:

• to avoid the long lines that are generally created at the entrance
• to ensure access and prevent tickets available at the ticket office from running out

How long is the queue at the ticket office?

Waiting times can vary greatly based on different factors. During high season the queue to enter the Vatican Museums can exceed two hours, especially on weekends and on religious occasions.

What should I present at the ticket office on the day of the visit?

The confirmation voucher received via email must be presented on the day of the visit. It can be shown on digital media (smartphone or tablet) or printed but clearly legible. Attention, the presentation of only a copy of the order is not valid for entry.

Can the Roma Pass be used for the Vatican Museums?

Surely! The Vatican Museums are one of the major attractions included in the Roma Pass package . For more details, visit the Roma Pass page .

Refund Policies

Due to Vatican policies, reservations are non-refundable , nor is it possible to change the number of participants in a group. It is also possible to change the date or change the heading of the ticket.

The directives of the Vatican Museums require suitable and decorous clothing. Shorts, miniskirts and hats are not permitted.

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Vatican Museum Tickets & Tours

Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.

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

• From the world-famous Sistine Chapel to the extensive art collections of the Vatican Museums, uncover it all on this unforgettable tour.
• Discover the grandeur of St. Peter's Basilica, a sanctuary of faith and artistic beauty, with skip-the-line entry and self-guided exploration.
• Journey through centuries of history as an expert guide reveals the stories and secrets behind the art and architecture of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.
• Behold the frescoes of the Sistine Chapel, including the iconic ceiling and Last Judgment, showcasing the genius of one of history's greatest artists.
• Choose between local English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, or Portuguese-speaking guides who will regale you with intriguing anecdotes.
• Skip-the-line entry to Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
• Skip-the-line entry to St. Peter's Basilica
• Expert local English, German, French, Italian, Spanish or Portuguese-speaking guide
• Audio equipment
• Group tour of 25 or less
• Tip: Avoid booking on Wednesdays! Did you know the Pope speaks in St Peter's Square Wednesday mornings? Sometimes this results in last-min closures, so plan for another day if possible.
• The Vatican Museums offer free tickets for visitors with mobility impairments (with certified invalidity exceeding 74%). In the case of visitors lacking in self-sufficiency, free entry is extended to their companions.
• Please note: All guests must pass through airport-style security. During high season and peak hours, the wait time at the security check may be up to 30 mins.
• Compulsory Vatican dress code: Visitors must wear clothing that covers their knees, arms, and back.
• The experience is not accessible for wheelchair users, pram/stroller users, or baby carriages.
• The Basilica may be subject to last-minute closures. In the event that it is closed, the tour will be extended inside the museums.
• St. Peter’s Basilica may be closed on Wednesday mornings and afternoons as the Papal Audience takes place in St. Peter’s Square. If you’re considering visiting St. Peter's Basilica, please make plans for another day.
• These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Guided Tour

• Marvel at the stunning Renaissance and Baroque architecture of the Vatican Museums on this guided tour.
• Are you ready for the experience of a lifetime? The expert guides share stories and hidden symbolism behind artworks, adding a whole new dimension to your experience.
• With unforgettable masterpieces and exquisite art, explore a vast collection spanning centuries, from ancient artifacts to Renaissance marvels.
• Tour in the language of your comfort. Choose from English, Italian, Spanish, German, French, Portuguese, Romanian, and Polish-speaking guides.
• Discover Michelangelo's awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel frescoes, including the iconic ceiling and Last Judgment, showcasing the genius of Italy's most renowned artist.
• Guided tour of Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
• Entry to the Vatican Museums
• Entry to the Sistine Chapel
• Expert English, Spanish, French, Italian, German, Portuguese, Romanian, and Polish-speaking local guide (as per option selected)
• Group size (up to 25)
• Tip: Arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
• Please be dressed appropriately. Sleeveless blouses, miniskirts, shorts, and hats are not permitted.
• Knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women.
• It is recommended to cover tattoos and any other similarly visible distinctive personal signs.
• Photography and the use of mobile phones is strictly prohibited in the Sistine Chapel.
• Luggage and/or large bags are not allowed inside the venue. You may drop off your bags with the free cloakroom service.
• Pets and other small animals are not allowed in the venue, with the exception of guide dogs.

Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Tickets

• Discover the Vatican Museums at your leisure with options tailor-made for you! Go solo with direct entrance, or skip long queues with hosted entrance.
• Explore masterpieces by Caravaggio, Da Vinci, and Raphael in the Pinacoteca, then marvel at Renaissance sculptures in the Pio Clementino Museum
• Walk in the footsteps of the Pope(s) as you explore the Gallery of Maps, Gallery of Tapestries, and Raphael Rooms at your own pace.
• Make your way to the crowning jewel of the Vatican City, the Sistine Chapel, and marvel at Michelangelo’s famed frescoes.
• Entry to Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel
• Hosted entry to Vatican Museums (optional)
• Ticket redemption (optional)
• Booking and handling fees
• St. Peter's Basilica tickets
• Audio guide
• Tip: Watch out for the only painting by Vincent Van Gogh that graces the Vatican Museums - his very own rendition of The Pieta .
• The entrance to the Museums is timed. Be sure to select your activity starting time when booking. Once inside the Museums, you will be free to explore at your own pace.
• The use of mobile phones and photography is strictly prohibited in the Sistine Chapel.
• Please note that the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel are separate sites from St Peter’s Basilica.
• For guests with documentation of disabilities and visible disabilities, entry is free along with an additional ticket for 1 companion.
• Guests opting for the hosted entrance tickets will need to meet the host at the designated check-in location. The exact meeting point will be shared on your ticket.
• Please note that this ticket does not include a guided tour. The host will only assist you to the entrance.

Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Guided Tour with St. Peter’s Basilica Dome Climb

• Commence your tour by climbing to the terrace of St. Peter’s Basilica, where you will uncover unmatched panoramic views of Rome from atop Michelangelo’s Cupola.
• Immerse yourself in the genius of the Renaissance on VIP Vatican tour, guided by experts with skip-the-line access.
• Discover the Basilica's Barocco charm and Michelangelo's Pieta. Then, witness Bernini and Michelangelo's Renaissance masterpieces at the Papal Sarcophagi.
• Pay a visit to the beguiling Sistine Chapel, and marvel at the cherished murals here, such as the painted ceiling and The Last Judgement by Michelangelo.
• Skip-the-line VIP access to Vatican Museums
• Admission to the Sistine Chapel
• Admission to the St. Peter’s Basilica
• Expert English-speaking guide
• Dome climb and visit to the Papal Sarcophagi
• Headsets (for groups of six or more)
• Reservation fees
• Transportation
• Food and drinks
• Visit to the Necropolis / St. Peter’s Tomb / Scavi
• Tips: Don't forget to look down as you ascend the dome. Through special windows, you can catch glimpses of the basilica's interior below, offering a unique perspective.
• It's recommended to wear clothing that covers their knees, arms, and back.
• The experience is not accessible for wheelchair users.
• Note that the following are not allowed on this tour: tripod, flash photography, knives, weapons, or sharp objects.

Combo (Save 5%): Colosseum + Vatican Museums Guided Tour

• Save big with this combo ticket and visit 2 must-see spots in the Eternal City with an expert tour guide.
• Explore the Colosseum, the largest amphitheater ever built, while listening to your tour guide relay stories about its past in the language of your choice.
• Look at the most renowned Roman sculptures and paintings at Vatican Museums. Get up and close with masterpieces from the Renaissance period.
• Visit 54 galleries in the Vatican Museums and get a chance to see some of the most impressive art collections in the world.
• Guided tour of the Colosseum, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum
• Expert local English, Italian, Spanish, French or German-speaking guide
• Access to the Colosseum floors 1 and 2
• Access to Palatine Hill & Roman Forum
• Guided tour of the Vatican Museums with entry
• Expert & charismatic local guide
• Access to the Sistine Chapel
• Access to the Colosseum underground, arena floor, or upper floors
• Access to St. Peter's Basilica
• Tip: Save some time to visit ancient Rome's largest temple, located right at the eastern edge of the Roman Forum and the Colosseum – the Temple of Venus and Roma.
• For safety and security reasons, no large backpacks or pieces of luggage are allowed inside the Colosseum. No storage facility is available. You can, however, take a baby stroller into the Colosseum with you, should it be necessary.
• Tip: Keep your cameras ready to capture the dizzyingly stunning spiral Bramante Staircase in the museum.
• For visitors with mobility impairment, the Vatican Museums offer free wheelchair hire from the cloakroom.
• Strict Dress Code : Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for all guests.
• Please carry a valid ID with you and present it at the time of entry if requested. Should you fail to do so, venue authorities may deny you entry and such instances are not liable for reschedules or refunds.

Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel Premium Small Group Guided Tour

• Elevate your Vatican experience with this exclusive, small-group tour of the museums and Sistine Chapel. Personalized attention and a fun-filled day await!
• Skip the crowds and embrace VIP treatment on this small group tour. Say goodbye to long lines and the hustle of larger groups.
• Dive deeper into history with expert storytellers. They bring the Vatican and the Chapel to life with captivating stories and intriguing anecdotes.
• Imagine Michelangelo lost in his brushstrokes as you listen to interesting backstories, in English, Italian, French, Spanish, or German.
• Beauty awaits you at every turn! With the help of a local expert unveil Vatican's best-kept secrets and get ready to step into the world of Renaissance.
• 2.5 - 5 hour guided tour (as per option selected)
• Skip-the-line entry to the Vatican Museums
• Charismatic local expert
• English, Italian, French, Spanish, and German-speaking guides
• Intimate group size of 16 or less
• Tip: This tour ends inside the museums…so, why not make the most out of your visit and enjoy a coffee in the courtyard before leaving the site?
• Strict dress code: Sleeveless and/or low-cut garments, shorts above the knee, miniskirts, and hats are not permitted.
• On rare occasions, the Sistine Chapel closes without notice. If this happens, you will spend your full tour diving into the depths of the Vatican Museums.

Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Reserved Entry Tickets with Vatican Gardens Open Bus Tour

• Enjoy guaranteed access to the greatest of Vatican City attractions, spend less time waiting in ticket queues, and more time gazing at the natural and man-made treasures.
• Settle in a comfortable open-top bus and bask in the charming scenery of the Vatican Gardens which occupy roughly half the size of Vatican City.
• Enjoy the views of different landscaped gardens designed in Italian, French, and English styles as you tune into a multilingual audio guide to learn more about the beauty surrounding you.
• Later, immerse yourself in the immense collection of Renaissance masterpieces at the Vatican Museums.
• Gape at Michelangelo's incredible work on the Sistine Chapel ceiling, along with other breathtaking frescoes.
• Vatican Gardens tour by open bus
• Skip-the-line tickets to the Vatican Museums
• Entry tickets to the Sistine Chapel
• Multilingual audio guide onboard
• Free Wi-fi at the meeting point
• Audio guide for Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
• Tip: Start your visit with the Vatican Gardens aboard an open bus with an audio guide, then continue by visiting the Vatican Museums at your own pace.
• Please note the chosen time must be respected and latecomers will not be accommodated.
• The onboard audio guide is available in English, Spanish, French, Italian, German, and Portuguese.
• Strict Dress Code : Guests must wear clothing that covers the shoulders and knees.

• Combo: Vatican Museums + Borghese Gallery Tickets
• This money-saving combo ticket offers a convenient way to admire two of the greatest art collections in the world at the Vatican Museums and Borghese Gallery.
• Get priority access to Vatican Museums and see priceless works of art from the Papal collections by Michelangelo, Raphael, da Vinci, and Titian, amongst others.
• Sprawled across 54 galleries, the museums include the Gallery of Maps, Raphael’s Rooms, and more.
• The biggest highlight is the breathtaking frescoes that adorn the walls of the legendary Sistine Chapel.
• Enjoy an escorted entry to the Borghese Gallery in Rome and avoid the winding queues.
• Gasp at the amazing art collections curated by Gian Lorenzo Bernini and Scipione Cardinal Borghese.
• Admire Caravaggio's iconic masterpieces like David with the Head of Goliath and Boy with a Basket of Fruit.
• Marvel at Raphael's The Deposition and sculptures like David and Apollo and Daphne.
• Stroll through the Villa Borghese and explore the gardens dotted with vibrant flowers in bloom.
• Skip-the-line tickets to the Sistine Chapel
• Escorted entry to the Borghese Gallery
• Tickets to St. Peter's Basilica
• Audio guide for Borghese Gallery (purchasable on-site for 5 Euros)

Top things to do in Rome

Vatican Museums | Treasure trove of art and history in Vatican City

Explore the iconic Vatican Museums, home to some of the world's most famous artworks and historical artifacts. Choose from skip-the-line tickets for quick access, guided tours for in-depth exploration, combo tickets for a broader experience, or early morning and after-hour options that offer a more private visit.

Read on to find the best ticket option that will help you dive into the impressive art collection, and architecture that make the Vatican Museums a must-visit cultural landmark.

Things to know before you book your Vatican tickets

When it comes to visiting the Vatican, the experience you have can be greatly influenced by the choices you make while booking. Here are some tips to guide you in making the best decisions for a memorable visit:

• Skip-the-Line is a game-changer : The queues can be incredibly long, especially for St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums. Skip-the-line tickets can be bought at the venue for €17, while the prices start at €27 online. The premium cost of online booking, however us absolutely worth it because it will help you save anywhere between 1-3 hours of waiting time, irrespective of when you visit. That's time you can spend exploring more of Rome.
• Guided tours enhance the experience: The Vatican, with its intricate history at every corner, is one attraction where a guide can profoundly enhance the quality of your visit. Opting for a guided tour can significantly elevate your experience, offering insights into the art, architecture, and stories behind the landmarks. However, if you prefer to explore at your own pace, audio guides are a flexible alternative.
• Morning vs. afternoon: Opting for an early morning tour of the Vatican ensures a serene experience, free from the afternoon crowds. You'll enjoy unhindered views of iconic art and architecture, capturing the Vatican's beauty in the soft morning light. Plus, the cooler temperatures make for a more comfortable exploration.
• Visiting St. Peter's Basilica: While entry to St. Peter's Basilica is free, the queues can be extensive. Purchasing guided tours allows direct entry with your guide, though a mandatory security check, which can take up to 3 hours, remains.
• Timing matters:  The Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica operate on different schedules. When planning the sequence of your visit, note that the entry doors are 20 minutes apart. After touring the Vatican and Sistine Chapel, you'd need to circle back for the Basilica. A hidden door connecting the two closed during the pandemic and is expected to reopen during the Jubilee year in 2025.
• Visit Vatican Gardens: The Vatican Gardens, spanning nearly 50 acres, is a serene oasis in Rome, boasting sculptures, fountains, and lush vegetation. Opt for a guided tour or explore at your leisure before heading to the basilica. Consider the open-top bus for a comfortable journey after hours of standing in the museums and basilica.

Which Vatican Museum ticket is best for you?

If you are short on time

Go for: Skip-the-line tickets Duration: Flexible Sistine Chapel access: Yes Guide: No

• Enjoy fast-track entrance into the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, allowing you to make the most of your limited time. This is especially beneficial during peak seasons when wait times can extend for hours.
• Enjoy the freedom to focus on areas that interest you most. Whether it's the intricate frescoes of the Sistine Chapel or the vast collection of Renaissance art, you set the pace and itinerary.

Recommended tours

• Tickets to Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel with Escorted Entrance

If you are seeking the full Vatican City experience

Go for: Combos tickets Duration: 5 - 5.5 hr. Sistine Chapel access: Yes Guide: Expert local guide

• These tickets offer a comprehensive experience, covering the Vatican Gardens and St. Peter's Basilica in addition to the museums making it ideal for those who want to see all that Vatican City has to offer in one go.
• Gain deeper insights into the Vatican by opting for tickets that provide access to the  Apostolic Palace ,  Villa Barberini , and the pontifical gardens located in  Castel Gandolfo , less than 30 km from Vatican City.

Recommended Tours

• Guided Tour of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica
• Reserved Entry Tickets to Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel with Vatican Gardens Open Bus Tour
• Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo & Pontifical Villas Gardens

If you are on a budget

Go for: Skip-the-line tickets, Combo tickets Duration: Flexible Sistine Chapel access: Yes Guide: No

• Gain skip-the-line access without the cost of a guided tour and explore the museums at your own pace.
• Explore popular Roman attractions outside Vatican City, such as the Colosseum or the Borghese Gallery at a budgeted rate with combo tickets.

Explore more:

• Combo: Colosseum + Vatican Museums Tickets

If you are an art history buff

Go for: Guided tours Duration: 2.5 hr. - 5 hr. 30 min. Sistine Chapel access: Yes Guide: Expert local guide

• Delve deep into the Vatican Museums' extensive art collection, historical artifacts, and exhibits with the help of expert guides.
• If you want a more personalized and interactive experience opt for a small-size tour.
• Guided Tour of Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel

For an intimate experience:

• Early Morning or After-Hours Skip-the-Line Tour of Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
• Premium Small Group Guided Tour of Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel

Discounted Vatican Tickets

Visitors between the age of 18-25 enjoy reduced pricing on their tickets.

Cancelation Policy

Most Vatican tickets can be canceled 24-72 hours before the experience begins. However, some tickets cannot be canceled or rescheduled. Please check your ticket for details at the time of booking.

Explore the Vatican

A complex of art and historical museums situated within Vatican City, established by Pope Julius II in the early 16th century. The museums house an immense collection of art and artifacts amassed by the Roman Catholic Church over centuries.

Access included: Yes

Commissioned by Pope Sixtus IV and consecrated in 1483, the chapel is renowned for its Renaissance art, most notably the ceiling painted by Michelangelo between 1508 and 1512 depicting scenes from the Book of Genesis, including the famous Creation of Adam .

One of the most significant and revered sites in Christianity, St. Peter's Basilica stands on the traditional site where Peter, the apostle who is considered the first pope, was crucified and buried. The basilica was consecrated in 1626, replacing an earlier church that stood on the same site.

Access included: Free entry, but guided tours and dome access require separate tickets.

The official residence of the Pope, the Apostolic Palace is a complex of buildings including the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.

Access: Yes, the rooms of the Apostolic Palace that visitors are allowed to view are a part of the Vatican Museums tour.

Beautifully landscaped gardens and green spaces that cover approximately half of Vatican City's 44 hectares. Established during the Renaissance and Baroque eras, the gardens are designed with a mix of traditional Italian, French, and English styles, and feature a variety of fountains, sculptures, and grottoes set amidst lush lawns, flower beds, and tree-lined paths.

Access included: You will have to book tickets that specifically include entry into the Vatican Gardens.

The Apostolic Palace, also known as the Papal Palace, is the official residence of the Pope, the leader of the Roman Catholic Church. It is thus, a symbol of symbol of the papacy and the Catholic Church and serves as the venue for many official ceremonies, gatherings, and decisions related to the governance of the Church.

Access included: Not all Vatican tickets include access to the Vatican Necropolis . You will have to book tickets that specifically include entry into the Vatican Necropolis.

The Vatican Grottoes are a series of underground chapels and tombs located beneath St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. They serve as the final resting place for many popes and other significant figures associated with the Catholic Church.

Access included: You can plan your visit to the Vatican Grottoes as part of your visit to St. Peter’s Basilica. Once you enter St. Peter’s Basilica, you can make your way below towards the grottoes.

What To See At Vatican Museums?

The School of Athens in the Raphael Rooms

Raphael's masterpiece depicting ancient philosophers in a grand architectural setting.

Plan Your Visit to Vatican Museums

From Monday to Thursday: 9 AM to 6 PM Friday: 9 AM to 10:30 PM Saturday: 9 AM to 8 PM Last Sunday of the month: 9 AM to 2 PM

Last admission: 2 hours before closing

Closed: Sundays (except the last Sunday of each month), 1 and 6 January, 11 February, 10 April, 1 May, 29 June, 15 and 16 August, 1 November, 8, 25, 26, and 31 December.

Best time to visit: The ideal period to visit the Vatican Museums is between November to March due to fewer crowds. However, the peak season, which sees the highest number of visitors, is from April to September.

Address: Città del Vaticano, 00120 Vatican City

Find On Map

Getting There

• By metro: Line A Nearest stop: Ottaviano-S. Pietro Station
• By tram: Line 19 Nearest stop: Piazza del Risorgimento
• By bus: 40, 64, 62, 81, 32, 982, 492, 990 Nearest stops: V.Le Vaticano/Musei Vaticani
• By train: RE 12524 towards Civitavecchia or RE 4134 towards Pisa Centrale Nearest station: St. Pietro
• By car: 3.2 kilometers from Roma Termini Car parking: Options include Parking Prati on Piazza Unità, 62 – 193 & Garage San Pietro on Via di Santa Maria alle Fornaci, 26 – 165

There are two entrances to the Vatican City:

• Via Della Conciliazione Entrance: This is the primary entrance if you're starting your visit from St. Peter's Basilica. It leads directly to St. Peter's Square and the Basilica.
• Viale Vaticano Entrance: Ideal for those who wish to begin their Vatican journey with the Vatican Museums. This entrance is closer to the museums, and from here, you can easily access the Sistine Chapel and other significant sites within the museums.

• Lost & Found
• Post Office
• AED Defibrillators
• Drinking Fountains

• Large bags, suitcases, and containers must be left in the cloakroom.
• Knives, scissors, umbrellas, sticks, and metal tools must be stored in the cloakroom. The use of laser points is not allowed. Firearms and hazardous materials are not allowed, even if licensed.
• Photography is allowed in most areas except the Sistine Chapel. Flash and tripods are prohibited.
• Special authorization is needed for reproducing or drawing the displayed works.
• Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.
• The use of mobile phones is discouraged. Silent mode is required, and phones are prohibited in the Sistine Chapel.
• Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is strictly forbidden.
• On every last Sunday of the month, the museum is open to the public for free. While this might sound like a great deal, the Vatican also tends to be the most crowded on these days, so it might be better to visit on another day.
• No pets are allowed inside the museum. Service dogs are allowed if they have proper authorization.

The Vatican has a dress code , as it is a religious state and is quite stringent about it. Failure to adhere to the dress code can lead to you being denied entry. Clothes that expose your knees, including shorts, skirts, and dresses, are not allowed, as are offensive tattoos.

• For men: Shirts are preferred, however, men can sport a T-shirt as long as it doesn’t feature any offensive slogans or imagery. Sleeveless t-shirts or vests are not allowed. Shorts must level with your knees.
• For women: Women are not permitted to wear sleeveless, low-cut clothing or crop tops. The rule of thumb to follow is that the midriff and shoulders must be covered. Skirt, dress, as well as shorts, must be at least knee-length.
• For kids: There’s no specific Vatican dress code for kids. However, the same rules as adults apply to them; shoulder and midriff should be covered. Shorts/Skirts should level with the knees.

Celebrating Christmas at Vatican is a magical affair. The city decks itself in pretty lights, a Christmas tree , and a Nativity scene . However, the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel is closed on December 25 and 26.

The mass at St. Peter's Basilica, which takes place on December 24, at 9.30 PM, is one of the most viewed masses around the world. To book the Papal Audience tickets, you have to fill out a form and fax it to +39 06 698 85863 at least 2 months in advance. You’ll receive a letter that confirms that the church has received your request. However, this is not a ticket confirmation. You will have to go to the Preffetura Office 4-5 days before the mass, between 8 AM to 6 PM, to get the ticket.

• La Vittoria: A quaint trattoria offering classic Roman dishes, perfect for a hearty lunch after exploring the Vatican Museums.
• Pizzarium by Gabriele Bonci: Renowned for its gourmet pizza slices, this spot is ideal for a quick and delicious bite.
• Il Sorpasso: A rustic eatery with a diverse menu, from fresh pastas to savory meat dishes, ensuring something for everyone.
• Gelateria dei Gracchi: After a long day of sightseeing, cool down with some artisanal gelato, known for its natural ingredients and unique flavors.
• Duecento Gradi: A sandwich shop offering a wide variety of paninis made with fresh ingredients, perfect for a light meal or takeaway.

• Hotel Ferrari (5.4 km away), Taormina Hotel (7.4 km away), Hotel Dina (5.8 km away)
• Hotel Oceania (4.8 km away), Hotel Columbia (5.3 km away), Hotel Canova (5.8 km away)
• Castello della Castelluccia (15 km away)

Beyond the Vatican

Built of concrete and stone, it is the largest amphitheater ever built. It was commissioned by Emperor Vespasian in 70-72 AD and completed in 80 AD.

An ancient villa set amidst lush gardens, that dates back to the seventeenth century. It offers visitors an opportunity to experience life in this historic region and explore the beauty of its architecture and art.

Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo

The historic summer residence of the Pope, nestled in Castel Gandolfo, was built in 1596 and is home to several historical artifacts from its past use as a papal retreat. The palace gardens are also open to visitors, filled with sculptures and fountains.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vatican Tickets

The starting price for Vatican Museums tickets is €29. This typically includes skip-the-line access to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. Prices may vary based on additional features like guided tours or access to special areas.

You can purchase tickets to the Vatican Museums online or at the venue. Online purchasing allows you to avoid the long queues at the ticket office. Additionally, some tickets offer combined access to St. Peter’s Basilica , providing a more comprehensive experience.

Booking Vatican Museums tickets online offers several advantages: - Skip the lines: The Vatican Museums are a major tourist attraction, and the lines can be extensive, especially during peak seasons. By purchasing tickets in advance online, you can bypass the ticket lines and save valuable time. - Guaranteed entry: Especially during peak seasons, walk-in tickets might be sold out. By booking in advance, you ensure your entry. - Variety of options: Plan your experience by choosing from various options, such as guided tours or evening tours. Combo tours to visit other attractions in Rome are also available. - Discounts & offers: Online bookings often come with special discounts and offers not available at the ticket office. - Customer service: Benefit from 24/7 customer service via phone, email, or chat.

A standard Vatican Museums ticket includes skip-the-line access to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. Depending on the experience you choose, you may also get guided tours or special access to areas like the Raphael Rooms.

Yes, EU citizens between the ages of 18 and 25 can avail of reduced pricing on their tickets with a valid ID. EU and non-EU citizens under 18, as well as teaching staff, can enjoy free or reduced entry into the Vatican Museums.

Absolutely! You can purchase Vatican Museums skip-the-line tickets, allowing you to bypass the long queues and enter with priority access. Some popular options include: - Tickets to Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel with Escorted Entrance - Early Morning or After-Hours Skip-the-Line Tour of Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel

Standard Vatican Museums tickets grant access to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. For entry into St. Peter’s Basilica, you'll need to opt for specific combo tickets.

The cancellation policy varies based on the ticket type. Some tickets offer a full refund upon cancellation up to 48-72 hours in advance, while others might be non-refundable. Always check the specific terms before booking.

About Vatican City

History of the Vatican City

Facts About Vatican City

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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 Complete Vatican Tour with Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel

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Exclusive Vatican Gardens & Sistine Chapel tour

• Enjoy skip-the-line entry and avoid the crowds of the Vatican
• Learn about Renaissance art from your art historian guide
• See the Sistine Chapel and stunning frescoes by Michelangelo
• Enjoy an intimate experience in a group of no more than 15 people
• See itinerary
• Explore the Vatican’s splendid botanical gardens
• Marvel at Michelangelo's masterpiece on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel
• Enjoy an exclusive skip the line experience
• Entry/Admission - Vatican Gardens
• Entry/Admission - Sistine Chapel
• Guaranteed to skip the lines
• Location pick-up and drop off
• Food & drink
• Via Germanico, 16, 00192 Roma RM, Italy MEETING POINT: MAYA TOURS OFFICE - VIA GERMANICO 16 PLEASE ARRIVE TO CHECK-IN 15 MINUTES BEFORE YOUR SCHEDULED ENTRY TIME! We organize everything and we’ll escort you inside the Museums, where we will provide you with your ticket.
• St. Peter's Basilica, Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City The tour guide will leave you at the priority entrance to St. Peter's Basilica. In the event of a closure, you will be left in St. Peter's SquareThe tour will end at the exit of the Vatican Museums
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Ticket includes: The Vatican Gardens and Sistine Chapel
• The tour reservations have strict timing. To join the tour, you are required to be at the meeting point for check-in at least 15 minutes prior to your tour departure time.
• If you arrive late for the meeting time, it will not be possible to join the group or reschedule, unless you pay for the activity again. As per "No Show" rules you will not be entitled to a refund.
• Knees & Shoulders MUST be covered for both men & women to enter the Sistine Chapel!
• Please note that on the day of your visit certain areas of the monument/attraction can be closed due to either religious events or national holidays.
• Please be advised capacity regulations and security may delay the tour departure this could also influence the smooth running of the tour especially on national holidays and events.
• Cancellations, changes or issues due to weather, security and events held by the monument are beyond our control and are directly decided by their administration team. These issues will be reviewed by us and dealt with on an individual basis but are the responsibility of the monument.
• All visitors must pass through the monument/attraction security check please allow at least 20 minutes to clear security.
• Not recommended for travelers with back problems
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• The exact timings and reservations can vary, dependent on the monument/attraction’s administration offices availability and decisions on the booking day and can be subject to last minute changes. Departure time can differ up to 20 minutes from your selected time.
• Please be aware that large bags/backpacks/suitcases are not permitted in the monument/attraction.
• Students booking a reduced ticket must have a photo ID; you must bring a photo ID to be allowed into the monument.
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• You'll start at Via Germanico, 16 Via Germanico, 16, 00192 Roma RM, Italy MEETING POINT: MAYA TOURS OFFICE - VIA GERMANICO 16 PLEASE ARRIVE TO CHECK-IN 15 MINUTES BEFORE YOUR SCHEDULED ENTRY TIME! We organize everything and we’ll escort you inside the Museums, where we will provide you with your ticket. See address & details
• Pass by Maya Tours
• 1 Vatican Gardens Stop: 2 hours - Admission included See details
• 2 Sistine Chapel Stop: 30 minutes - Admission included See details
• You'll end at St. Peter's Basilica Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City The tour guide will leave you at the priority entrance to St. Peter's Basilica. In the event of a closure, you will be left in St. Peter's SquareThe tour will end at the exit of the Vatican Museums See address & details

• 782vishnur 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent Definitely recommend tour for the travellers when they are in Vatican. Maya tours arranged well and guide was excellent and was specific in each facts. Booked twice , one booking was refunded by tour operator. Good responsive to customers , Keep up good work Maya tours. Read more Written May 12, 2024
• alexagS1932CW 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Lovely experience at the Vatican This tour was incredible! Our guide, Christina was so funny and engaging. She was well informed and took her time to explain everything. Would highly recommend this tour! Read more Written May 6, 2024
• 604perryk 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great tour, ask for Christina!! Tour was very well run. Christina was our guide and she was AWESOME! She was so knowledgeable and very passionate. Definitely ask for her!! Read more Written May 6, 2024
• marapH1407IR 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent! Christina made our day! Despite the fact that is was raining, she made sure everyone was happy while waiting outside. She had loads of interesting details to share and gave us all the info we needed before entering the Sistine Chapel. We really enjoyed our tour and warmly recommend booking! Read more Written May 4, 2024
• Kkanthony 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Easy. Educational. Worth the Money! We took our tour today and Christina was our guide. She was fantastic. Our tour had 8 people - a perfect number - and she did an expert job moving us efficiently through - positioning us to exactly the right spot to talk and ask questions. She knew her material very well and had in depth knowledge of art history. She was fun to listen to and had a bubbly personality which enhanced our time together. We highly recommend this tour. Well worth the money. On our way in we passed folks waiting in the “regular “ line and they indicated they had been out there for 3 hours and were not even near the front of the line. That was especially penal as today was a bit rainy and they were wet and soggy. We passed by them in the “skip” line and went right in to enjoy the sights. Read more Written May 3, 2024
• lauriew310 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Very informative! All in all an interesting day trip. Our tour guide although quiet was very helpful, especially when showing us what artwork to look out for. Read more Written May 2, 2024
• L962DEanam 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing experience Our tour guide was Tiana and she was amazing! 20 years of experience as a tour guide and it showed. Her English was great and she had lots of helpful tidbits to share. This tour was absolutely incredible. Read more Written April 29, 2024
• df462 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Worth it Alfredo was a very good tour guide. He was very knowledgeable and informative and gave us enough time to take pictures and explain in detail the different types of art Read more Written April 21, 2024
• chanyu1 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Buy a skip-the-line tour, it's worth it! Ticketing online easy. Meeting place & time clear. Check-in person's attitude indifferent. Excellent tour guide as she spoke good English without the heavy Italian accent. Due to headphones provided, hearing the tour guide is not a big issue so don't know if paying extra for a small size group is a big advantage as trying to take photos in the massive crowds and listen to the guide is nearly impossible anyway. Join this small group tour and pay the extra price if you hang with the guide closely but nevertheless, pay for a skip-the-line tour and avoid the ridiculously long lines to save time... Read more Written April 13, 2024
• PardisHejazi 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Not Maya tour Don’t take Maya tour! The guide showed up late. And you still need to wait in a long line for security check. We would have entered the museum sooner without the guide. Once we finally got in, people having the same time ticket as us had already been inside. Poor liability. Read more Written April 11, 2024
• andreapoitras 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing Tour & Guide We really had the best time and Maggie was an absolutely amazing guide! Our children are 8 &9 and were engaged the entire time. It was our daughter's birthday and Maggie had the whole group sing Happy Birthday to her in St. Peter's Square (not sure how we will top that next year!!). The booking process was seamless, found the location and got tickets easily! Worth the money!!! Read more Written March 30, 2024
• Rebecca E 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Guide was Fantastic! Cristina was fantastic. Her knowledge of the art and history was impeccable and she knew exactly where to stop the group and explain the history and artwork. Especially when showing and discussing the Sistine Chapel. She has the perfect spot to situate our group. We really enjoyed our time at the Vatican! Read more Written March 29, 2024
• 285kieranj 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Vatican City tour Went on a tour to the Vatican with the lovely Christine, she was the best. Friendly, informative and made sure she looked after each member of our group. Gave us plenty of information about every room and made our trip to the Vatican really enjoyable, would deffo recommend booking with maya tours Read more Written March 19, 2024
• Bem56 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Highly recommend We went on the Vatican, Sistine Chapel and Basilica tour. Our guide was Debora. She was wonderful. So knowledgeable and enthusiastic. She was excellent at getting us through the crowds and getting us to the right places for the best views. We would definitely have missed a lot if we hadn’t had Debora as our guide. Would highly recommend Read more Written March 12, 2024
• Marco_theDutchSaffa 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Debra with her zebra hand bag made the tour One of the best tour guides we have ever had and head and shoulders above any other tour we did in Rome. Debra was great and really made it interesting for our kids in particular. The tour itself was great and really covered the most important areas and Debra gave some interesting insights that were not covered in tours we did in the past through the Vatican. Read more Written February 24, 2024

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Exclusive Vatican Gardens & Sistine Chapel tour provided by Maya Tours

Visiting the Vatican Museums – All You Need to Know for a Perfect Tour

Visiting the Vatican Museums, one of the largest museums in Rome and also one of the most famous museums in Italy , requires some good planning. Being so popular, you will likely find a long line at the entrance. Being so old, you will definitely be overwhelmed about what to visit in the short time you can afford inside.

Being one of the main landmarks of Vatican City , this wonderful museum is pretty much always included in the private Vatican tours as well as the more generic tours of Rome .

I wrote this guide to visit the Vatican Museums to avoid as many surprises as possible and ensure a smooth tour. Here you will find important information regularly updated about visiting hours and closing times, ticket prices, and how to skip the line when visiting the Vatican Museums in Rome.

Table of Contents

Our tips and guide to visiting the Vatican Museums

Is it worth visiting the vatican museums.

The Vatican Museums enshrine five centuries of history and artwork donated to the popes by the world’s leaders, kings, and queens, as well as the pieces purchased and commissioned by the popes themselves throughout history.

Historical pieces like clothes and carriages and historical areas like the different popes’ apartments sit side by side with immortal artwork such as Michelangelo’s Last Judgment in the Sistine Chapel and the frescoes of Raphael’s Rooms.

First and foremost, you need to accept the idea that you can’t just show up at the entrance of the Vatican Museums and get in straight away. There will be a long queue or it might even be closed, so if you haven’t done a minimum of planning, you might end up wasting time and missing one of the best places to visit in Rome .

Tickets for the Vatican Museums

From January 1st, 2024, the tickets for the Vatican Museums will be more expensive, priced at 20€ instead of the current 17€.

To fight the phenomenon of unauthorized ticket resales, the Vatican Museums will introduce nominative tickets and will start checking IDs at the entrance.

Skip the line

Nobody likes standing in line for hours on end, especially when there is an easy way to avoid this. While you can just turn up and buy your ticket, this is no guarantee that you will do it as easily as you think.

In Rome’s most famous landmarks , it’s of paramount importance to arrive with your ticket already purchased. There are many websites where you can buy your ticket to the Vatican Museums online, one of the most popular is Get Your Guide .

Join a tour

Alternatively, instead of just booking your entrance, you can join a private tour of the Vatican Museums. Along with the admission, a private tour includes a guide who will take you directly to the most famous spots you would probably miss if you were on your own or that you would have to look for.

A guided tour is more expensive than a single admission ticket but has the perks of saving you time and making your visit more complete with historical facts and anecdotes. We recently took a very exclusive private tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel and loved it.

Check closing time…

Even though an art gallery, the Vatican Museums are closed on Sunday, except if it’s the last Sunday of the month when there is free entrance. The Vatican Museums also close on the main religious holidays when other museums are actually open, such as Easter Sunday and Monday, November 1st (All Saints’ Day), December 8th (Immaculate Conception), Christmas and Boxing Day, and New Year’s Eve, December 31st.

… and the new opening hours

Starting January 1st, 2024, the Vatican Museums announced that they are going to extend their visiting time by two hours, one extra in the morning and one extra in the evening. So instead of opening at 9 am, it will open at 8 am, and instead of closing at 6 pm, the Vatican Museums will close at 7 pm. This applies to every day from Monday to Saturday.

From the beginning of March 2024 when the high season starts, the Vatican Museums will extend an extra hour on Friday and Saturday, closing at 8 pm only on these two days.

Follow the dress code

Again, even though visiting the Vatican Museums might just seem like entering an art exhibition, you need to keep in mind that they are located inside Vatican City. This means that you are expected to follow the Vatican dress code you would follow when visiting the Basilica of Saint Peter and its underground Roman necropolis .

What is not allowed in the Vatican Museums?

Large bags, backpacks, and suitcases are not allowed in the Vatican Museums and you will need to leave them in the cloakroom. Apart from these types of bags, among the obvious objects that are not allowed in the Vatican Museums are firearms, knives, scissors, and any sharp and dangerous object.

Are photos allowed in the Vatican Museums?

You can snap your pictures without using the flash everywhere in the Vatican Museums except for the Sistine Chapel and the frescoes of Michelangelo. It’s also not allowed to take videos, use selfie sticks, or use professional photo and video gear, including a tripod. Anyone visiting the Vatican Museums should be aware of these rules as there are staff and guards everywhere who will ask you to delete your photos.

Be mindful of the noise

This doesn’t apply to all the areas when visiting the Vatican Museums but only when you are inside the Sistine Chapel. Here, in fact, you will be asked to be silent or to speak by whispering so that the experience of your fellow visitors won’t be ruined when admiring Michelangelo’s masterpieces.

Check out our guide to eating near the Vatican!

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About The Author: Angela Corrias

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The 12 Best Vatican Tours and Tips for Visiting the Holy City (2024)

By: Author Kate O'Malley

Posted on Last updated: March 3, 2024

Home >> Europe >> Italy Travel Guide >> The 12 Best Vatican Tours and Tips for Visiting the Holy City (2024)

Are you looking for an immersive day trip to the holy city? We have gathered some of the best Vatican tours available to help you make the most of your visit to one of Italy’s most famous attractions.

Exploring the Vatican is an incredible experience and an essential thing to do on any Rome Itinerary . From the magnificent artworks in the Vatican Museums to the stunning Apostolic Palace in the scenic Castel Gandolfo, a guided tour can be an unforgettable journey into history and culture.

We had an incredible experience on a guided day tour of the Vatican Museum, including the Vatican Gardens, and on the Vatican train to the Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo. It was a unique experience that cemented the value of pre-booking a tour of such a complex and vast attraction as the Vatican.

From learning about Michelangelo’s frescoes in St Peter’s Basilica to discovering ancient artifacts in the Vatican Museums and seeing the Sistine Chapel in person- there is something for everyone on a Vatican tour. And you don’t have to battle the crowds to enjoy one of Italy’s most famous sites.

You Might Also Like: Discover Rome’s culinary heritage on one of these incredible Roman Food Tours or a Cooking Class in Rome . Rome is also a fantastic base for exploring more of Italy – see our top pick for day trips from Rome , from Tuscan villages to islands, palaces, and fascinating archeological sites.

Table of Contents

12 Best Tours of the Vatican

Here are our top 12 picks for Vatican tours that will give you a unique insight into one of Italy’s most iconic destinations.

This diverse selection of tours has been chosen based on our experience visiting the Vatican and where we believe the tour offers good value for money, a quality or unique experience.

Vatican Tour Tip : Tickets for the various Vatican attractions can book out weeks in advance. We recommend booking as early as possible to avoid missing the days or times you want – even for skip the line entry. Some booking calendars will only show 2 or 3-month blocks of availability, so keep checking for your dates if they don’t show yet.

1. Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel Entrance Ticket

This Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Ticket is an entry ticket only. It enables you to skip the line and visit the highlights of the Vatican at your own pace.

No tour is included with this ticket but is a worthwhile time saver if you plan to visit the Vatican independently.

See the priceless Papal art collections in the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. Learn about the magnificent masterpieces from antiquity and Michelangelo’s legendary frescoes.

The Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Entrance Ticket is the best way to explore one of the world’s busiest museums at your own pace and skip waiting in line.

This ticket provides skip-the-ticket-line entry to museums and chapels with a dedicated ticket collection and entry and optional audio guides. A 20% discount on items from the Vatican online store and the option to add a 45-minute bus tour of the Vatican Gardens.

This skip-the-line ticket will give you an unforgettable experience of learning about the history and culture within the Vatican while visiting at your own pace.

See Full Details for This Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Ticket or Reserve Your Ticket

2. Vatican Museums and St Peters Basilica, including the Papal Tombs

Duration 3 – 3.5 hours

For a unique and unforgettable Vatican highlights experience, look no further than the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and Papal Tombs Tour .

The Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Papal Tombs are some of the most famous cultural sites within the walls of Vatican City – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These attractions provide visitors with a look into centuries-old history and artistry.

This informative guided tour will take you through all three locations, giving you unparalleled access to what the holy city offers.

You’ll get fast-track, skip-the-line access to masterpieces by Michelangelo, Raphael, Caravaggio, and many more. You’ll also explore one of the holiest places on Earth – The Sistine Chapel – where Pope Francis himself goes to pray. You’ll also have an exclusive chance to visit the Papal Tombs – the final resting place of many popes and royals throughout history.

• Skip-the-ticket-line entry to the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica
• Guided tour of the Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel, and Papal Tombs
• Wi-Fi at the meeting point with a recharging station for your mobile devices

Note : Entrance to the Papal Tombs is not included in the evening tour option.

See Full Details for this Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and Papal Tombs Tour or Reserve.

3. St Peters Basilica Dome and Underground Grottoes Tour

Duration 105 minutes

Explore the beauty of Rome’s Vatican City and St. Peter’s Basilica on this St. Peter’s Basilica Dome, and Underground Grottoes guided walking tour . A highlight of this tour is visiting the top of the majestic ST Peter’s Basilica Dome for extraordinary views of the Roman skyline.

With a professional guide, you can admire an array of impressive marble and mosaic artwork in the Basilica, then visit St. Peter’s tomb and explore underground grottoes and ancient frescoes.

Entry fees to the top of the Dome by elevator are included in this 105-minute tour, making it an excellent choice for those interested in learning more about one of Italy’s most iconic landmarks and the city of Rome.

You can choose between a small group or a private tour with this tour.

Things to Note : This tour is unsuitable for people with claustrophobia or vertigo due to its height and enclosed spaces.

The meeting point is outside the Basilica before entering St. Peter’s square. Do not go through the metal detectors before meeting the guide.

• Professional guide
• Entry fees to the top of the Dome by elevator
• Headsets to hear your guide better

Not Included

• Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, or Vatican Necropolis entry

See Full Details for this St. Peter’s Basilica Dome and Underground Grottoes Tour or Make a Reservation .

4. Entire Vatican Tour and St Peters Dome Climb

Duration 5 hours

The Entire Vatican Tour and St. Peter’s Dome Climb Tour is a 5-hour tour that provides an immersive experience of the culture and history within Vatican City.

Start your day with an awe-inspiring morning experience in Vatican City by climbing to the top of St. Peter’s Basilica Dome for unparalleled views of Rome, then return for a fully immersive guided tour of the Basilica, the Papal Crypts, and the Catacombs.

Then enjoy a live guided tour around the Vatican’s renowned museums and Sistine Chapel on this exciting morning Vatican City experience.

This tour includes fast-track skip-the-line access to masterpieces by Michelangelo, Raphael, Caravaggio, and many more within the Vatican Museums and exclusive access to the Papal Tombs in St. Peter’s Basilica.

The highlight of this tour is a climb up Michelangelo’s Cupola for breathtaking views over Rome from atop one of Italy’s most iconic landmarks.

Note : this tour is not suitable for people with mobility problems, vertigo, or claustrophobia due to the nature of the St Peter’s Dome climb.

• Skip-the-line entry to St. Peter’s Basilica Dome elevator ride part-way to the summit.
• Live guided tour around St. Peter’s Basilica.
• Skip-the-line entry to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel entry
• Live guided tour around the Vatican Museums

Get Full Details of This Entire Vatican Tour & St. Peter’s Dome Climb Tour , or Make a Reservation .

5. Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and Basilica

Duration 3 hrs

Explore the beauty and history of Vatican City on this guided tour of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St Peter’s Basilica .

See art by Renaissance masters like Botticelli, Perugino, and Raphael, marvel at Michelangelo’s masterpiece in the Sistine Chapel, and learn more about the legendary works from an expert guide.

Enjoy skip-the-line access to some of Italy’s most iconic landmarks on this 3-hour tour – a great half-day tour for those interested in learning more about one of Europe’s most important religious sites.

Tours leave morning and afternoon.

Note : Rafael Rooms will be visited instead if St. Peter’s Basilica is closed. Tours starting from 15:30 will not visit St. Peter’s Basilica.

Tour Tip : Try to catch the morning tour to explore the Vatican further on your own. After the Guided tour, you can spend more time inside St. Peter’s Basilica and St Peter’s Square.

• Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel Guided Tour
• St. Peter’s Basilica Guided Tour
• Skip the Line Tickets

See Full Details of This Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and Basilica Tour or Make a Reservation

6. Vatican Museums, Gardens and Castel Gandolfo Papal Summer Residence Day Trip

Duration 11 hours – Starts at 7.30 am

Are you looking for an unforgettable experience in Rome? Follow the footsteps of Pope Francis and discover the best of both worlds – Vatican City and Castel Gandolfo. It’s the Vatican and a day trip from Rome in one tour.

This all-inclusive Early Vatican and Sistine Chapel with Castel Gandolfo group tour with a professional guide is perfect for those who want to visit two important sites in one day and enjoy a mix of a guided tour and free time. This tour is one of our most incredible experiences in Rome – one we have recommended without hesitation many times.

Enjoy skip-the-line early admission to the Vatican Museum – 45 minutes before the general public . Explore the Sistine Chapel before the crowds, and take an exclusive guided walking tour through the beautiful Vatican Gardens – only special groups are allowed to visit the Vatican Gardens.

You will board the train from Vatican City’s only train station to the town of Castel Gandolfo, overlooking the immaculate Lake Albano. Train tickets are included in the price.

Take a self-guided tour of the Papal Palace of Castel Gandolfo, the Pope’s summer residence, and a ride through the marvelous Barberini Gardens. Enjoy a buffet lunch at the Pope’s summer village made with locally sourced ingredients before exploring the picturesque town of Castel Gandolfo and returning by train to Rome.

This is an incredible all-inclusive, exclusive access tour of Vatican City and the papal residences. Enjoy access to parts of the Vatican often missed by the general public.

Note : This tour is only available from early spring to late autumn and has a maximum of 15 people .

• Skip the line Vatican tour
• Vatican Gardens tour
• Buffet lunch at the Pope’s summer village
• Train to and from Castel Gandolfo
• Bus transfer from the train station to Castel Gandolfo
• Headsets to hear the guide clearly
• English-speaking professional guide

See Full Details of this Early Vatican and Sistine Chapel with Castel Gandolfo group tour or Make a Reservation.

7. Vatican Early Entrance

Duration 2-3 hrs 08.00 Start

On this exclusive before-hours Vatican Early Entrance Tour , be amongst the day’s first visitors beating the crowds to enjoy exclusive early-morning entry to the Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel before public opening hours. (We had the privilege of being the first people in the Sistine Chapel using early entry tour tickets, it was the highlight of our visit to the Vatican – worth getting up early for).

You’ll be welcomed with a tranquil atmosphere where you can discover the museum’s masterpieces with your private expert guide before the crowds.

You’ll learn interesting facts about some of the greatest artists in history, such as in the Raphael Rooms and the breathtaking experiences of Michelangelo’s acclaimed ceiling. The best part is the unique ambiance of early morning serenity without standing in a long line for tickets.

If you crave a unique experience combining culture and tranquility, the Vatican Early Entrance Tour is the perfect experience.

• Before opening Skip-the-ticket-line entry to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
• Tour Guide and headsets
• Small group tour

See Full Details for This Vatican Early Entrance Tour or make a Reservation .

8. Vatican, St Peters, and Colosseum Full-Day Tour

Duration 7 hours

Take a full-day Italian adventure and cross the top Rome attractions off your bucket list on this Vatican, St. Peter’s, and Colosseum Full-Day Tour . See the Colosseum and Roman Forum, St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and Sistine Chapel.

The Vatican, St. Peter’s, and Colosseum Full-Day Tour is a great value combo tour of the highlights of Rome and the Vatican. Perfect if you are short on time.

Visit the iconic sights of Vatican City, the Colosseum, and Rome’s historic heart with no fuss – skip the ticket lines and benefit from priority access.

Start your day by crossing into Vatican City and heading to the exclusive Partner Entrance to the Vatican Museums. Your guide will take you on an exciting journey around the historically significant Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica.

After exploring the stunning sights of Vatican City, you’ll head to the Colosseum and Roman Forum (Palatine Hill) for even more incredible views and stories about ancient Roman culture & history.

This tour offers an intimate environment that allows for maximum sightseeing pleasure. You won’t waste precious time with small groups of 24 people max. From Ancient Rome to Religious Rome, this tour will surely be an unforgettable highlight of your Italy itinerary.

• Skip-the-ticket-line entrance to the Vatican Museums
• Access to the Sistine Chapel and St Peter’s Basilica
• Skip-the-ticket-line access to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill
• Expert English-speaking guide

Get All the Details for this Vatican, St. Peter’s, and Colosseum Full-Day Tour or Book Your Spot .

9. Vatican Gardens Minibus Tour and Vatican Museums Ticket

Valid for 1 Day

See a different side of the Vatican that many visitors miss on an eco-friendly open bus tour of the gorgeous Vatican Gardens. The Vatican Gardens Minibus Tour & Vatican Museums Ticket is a great value combo ticket to see the highlights of the Vatican and enjoy the stunning, historical Vatican Gardens on a 45-minute tour.

Admire the greenery of the private urban gardens and parks, which cover more than half of the Vatican country. You can learn about how the gardens and parks were established, see the Vatican Gardens fountains and sculptures, and pass Radio Vatican and the Governor’s Palace for stunning photo opportunities.

After your Vatican gardens tour, explore the stunning works of art on display inside the renowned Vatican Museums and behold Michelangelo’s majestic Sistine Chapel ceiling paintings.

A perfect way to spend an afternoon in Rome – enriching your cultural knowledge while taking in one of the world’s most beautiful and historical gardens.

• Vatican Gardens on Minibus with audioguide
• Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel entrance ticket

Get Details for the Vatican Gardens Minibus Tour & Vatican Museums Ticket or Reserve Your Spot .

10. Leonardo Da Vinci Experience Entry Ticket

Valid one day

Take a journey through 500 years of history and discover the genius of Leonardo da Vinci at the fantastic Leonardo da Vinci Experience . Connect with the iconic man – artist, engineer, sculptor, architect, and scientist in the five interactive exhibition halls.

Get a close-up view of The Last Supper and discover the mystery behind this incredibly controversial painting featured in Dan Brown’s novel, The Da Vinci Code.

Marvel at over 50 distinctive inventions by Da Vinci – ideas that seemed impossible, such as flying machines, robots, submarines, and underwater breathing equipment, solved by this Renaissance Man centuries ago.

Unlock the secrets of Leonardo da Vinci’s groundbreaking designs, many we still use today, including excavators and hoists, sewing machines, bicycles, water skis, and even a machine gun. Step into his Room of Mirrors to see how he studied light reflection, eventually leading to photography and projection. Snap a photo beside one of his iconic inventions – like the helicopter or armored tank for an unforgettable experience.

Investigate how he created such complex pieces at a time before modern science and technology and witness his dream come true as you enter each exhibit.

See Details for the Leonardo da Vinci Experience or Book Your Ticket .

11. Papal Audience Experience Tickets with Expert Guide

Duration 3.5 hours

Are you looking for a chance to see Pope Francis up close and personal? The Papal Audience Experience Ticket is for those who want to attend the Holy Father’s audience without the stress of navigating independently and ensuring an optimal seat at an event that attracts thousands.

It is free to attend a Papal Audience by reservation. This tour offers to reserve your ticket and ensure you get in a privileged front-row seat during the ceremony to appreciate this fantastic event.

A local guide is included to help you navigate the entry and seating and to answer questions about the papacy. All guides are educated and experienced in the Catholic faith, meaning you’ll gain incredible insight into this moving ceremony regardless of your religion.

Your seating will ensure when His Holiness Pope Francis comes by on his route around St. Peter’s Square, he passes right by your specially chosen viewpoint – unique only to these Papal Audience Experience Tickets. Pope Francis is known for connecting more with his audience than any Pope before, making this experience even more personal.

• Escorted visit and presentation
• Ticket reservation service and ticket pick-up (Tickets are free of charge but must be reserved)
• Headsets to hear your guide (when necessary)
• Small groups of 20 people or less
• Confirmed invitation and attendance to Papal Audience with Pope Francis

See Details for The Papal Audience Experience Ticket or Reserve Your Place .

12. Rome City Highlights, Vatican Pass, and Free Transport

Valid for 3 Days

Treat yourself to an extraordinary self-guided journey in Rome with the 3-day OMNIA Vatican Card & Roma Pass .

A city pass is a great way to explore some of the world’s most famous sights and save money, but this is two city passes wrapped up into one spectacular package.

With this fantastic combo package, you’ll get the best of both worlds – see all the historical and religious sights in Vatican City PLUS experience Rome using the 3-day hop-on hop-off bus tour.

Enjoy free entry to two of five top attractions with Roma Pass and discounts at 30 dazzling destinations. On top of that, OMNIA Vatican Card allows access to all holy sites in Vatican City for three days.

Enjoy Skip the line with free admission to the Colosseum, the Vatican Museums, and Michelangelo’s miraculous ceiling at the Sistine Chapel and experience the divine wonder of St. Peter’s Basilica without having to wait in line. Plus, enjoy special offers from both passes and breezy cardless access with unlimited rides on public transport included.

Some Inclusions

• 72-hour travel card
• Skip the line access to top attractions in Rome and Vatican City
• Entrance to Vatican Museums
• Open-top bus tour
• City guide app
• Discounts to attractions and museums
• Entry to your choice of 2 top attractions
• Entrance to Basilica of St. John
• Entrance to St Peter’s Prison

See Full Details for the Rome City Highlights, Vatican Pass, and Free Transport or Book Your Pass.

Vatican FAQs -Things to Know About Visiting the Vatican

These tips for visiting the Vatican will ensure your day runs smoothly without surprises.

No, you do not. However, I can highly recommend a guide for the museums (or a pre-booked early entry tour). A guide will help you navigate the crowds and ensure you see the highlights (the museums are very big and insanely crowded in peak times). A guide will also give you a better understanding of the immense history and art within the Vatican.

In short – Yes. The Vatican is one of the most popular things to do when visiting Rome. Whether it’s simply a pre-booked skip-the-line access with early entry to the Sistine Chapel, a guided tour of the Vatican Museum, or an extended day tour like adding a trip to the Papal summer residence in Castel Gandolfo, taking a guided tour of the Vatican is far superior to visiting independently. A guided tour led by an expert guide provides visitors with greater insight and understanding into this iconic destination’s history, culture, and art. Walking through the museums and gardens of the Vatican can be overwhelming, but a knowledgeable guide can provide clear explanations that bring each area to life. A guide will help you find the highlights (the Vatican Museum is huge) to maximize your time, and a pre-booked tour will usually give you fast-track entry. Tours can also give you exclusive access to areas not normally open to the public.

Again, the answer is yes. Even if you plan to visit the Vatican independently, the earlier you get there, the better. The Vatican attracts millions of visitors each year and is notoriously busy. The earlier you get there, the better the experience and less waiting in lines – even just to clear security.

The time you spend in Vatican City is determined by the attractions you want to experience. If your itinerary includes visiting the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and the Basilica, I highly recommend devoting a whole day to this visit. If you only want to visit St Peter’s Square and Basilica, plan a half-day (either morning or afternoon). Most tours run between 3 -5 hours, depending on which areas are included.

Yes, you can. However, I don’t recommend it. The lines are notoriously long. This is why I give details on pre-booking tickets to the Vatican Museums online so you can skip the line and save time.

As far in advance as possible, especially in peak season. It is not unusual for tickets to be sold out weeks in advance, especially if you want exclusive access or tours to other areas that only take small groups, such as the gardens or the Papal summer residence.

There is no dress code to enter St Peter’s Square, but a conservative dress code is required in the sacred areas, including the Basilica, Sistine Chapel, and the museums. The dress code applies to both men and women. Shoulders and knees should be covered – long trousers and below-the-knee skirts. Avoid showing cleavage or bare backs. Hats are also not allowed in these areas.

The Sistine Chapel is inside the Vatican museums, so you will require a ticket to the Museum to visit the Sistine Chapel. The chapel is usually visited at the end of the museum visit. However, some early entry tickets allow visitors to see the chapel first, which gives an incredibly exclusive experience. Check your tour or ticket to see if this is possible. You can see recommendations for this above.

Information About Accessing the Vatican and Visiting the Basilica

• All visitors must pass through airport-style security on arrival at the Vatican. During high season the wait at security may be up to 30 minutes or more. Factor this if you have to meet a tour within the Vatican walls. Backpacks and luggage are not allowed in the Vatican .
• The Vatican can get very crowded all year round. June, July, and August are particularly busy. We recommend arriving as early as possible, even if you have skip-the-line tickets.
• St Peter’s Basilica, the Papal Tombs, or the Sistine Chapel may be closed anytime – even with short notice. St. Peter’s Basilica is closed on Wednesdays: 8:00 am-12:00 pm, December 24 and 31. During these times – tours will visit other parts of the museums.
• Parts or all of St Peter’s Square may be closed during a Papal Audience. You can check the Vatican Calendar for events, Papal Audience, and Mass information.
• Entry to St. Peter’s Basilica is always free of charge, but access may vary due to crowd control. If you only want to visit St Peter’s Square and the Basilica, it’s one of the best free things to do in Rome . Tickets are only required to enter Vatican Museums, gardens, the Basilica Dome, etc. You can visit the Basilica and St Peter’s Square for as long as you like outside of tours.

Whether to dodge the crowds or to get a better appreciation of the immense history, art, and architecture, anyone visiting the Vatican should seriously consider taking a tour.

As you can see, there is such a wide range of tours so you can pick which one best fits your desires and interests. Whether that’s a daytime tour with exclusive access to some of the most famous and historical areas of the Vatican or exploring at leisure with a self-guided tour, whichever you decide, be sure to leave plenty of time to fully explore the majesty of the Vatican.

So which tour will you take?

Best Vatican Tours Quick Guide

• Museums & Sistine Chapel Entrance Ticket
• Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and Papal Tombs Tour
• St. Peter’s Basilica Dome and Underground Grottoes Tour
• Entire Vatican Tour & St. Peter’s Dome Climb
• Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and Basilica Tour
• Vatican Museums, Gardens & Castel Gandolfo Pope’s Summer Residence Day Trip
• Vatican Early Entrance Tour
• The Vatican, St. Peter’s, and Colosseum Full-Day Tour
• Vatican Gardens Minibus Tour & Vatican Museums Ticket
• Leonardo da Vinci Experience Museum
• The Papal Audience Experience Ticket
• Rome City Highlights, Vatican Pass, and Free Transport

• Pilgrimages
• Rome Day Tours
• In the Media

Request tickets for the Scavi Tour

The Catholic Traveler’s Guide to Rome is offered completely free to be sure you have the best pilgrimage experience – and is only possible because of my generous supporters. Please consider supporting my work through Patreon or Substack , or a one time tip through Venmo . 🤍

The Vatican Scavi Tour that goes through the excavations below Saint Peter’s Basilica is one of the most exclusive tours in all of Rome. Only 250 people are allowed through each day – compare that to the 30,000 that visit the Vatican Museums!

Your tour will be in a small group with a maximum of about 12 people and last around 90 minutes. The grand finale is a visit to the actual tomb of Saint Peter, where, by peering around a corner, you will see the bones of the Prince of the Apostles.

Reservations should be made well in advance of your visit to Rome, in fact, it should be the first thing you do!

The process is quite simple, however, it’s best to list a range of dates that you can visit and stay flexible.

How to request tickets to the Scavi

To request tickets, email the Scavi office at [email protected] Don’t email me , I can’t help you.

In your email, please provide:

• The exact number of participants;
• The name of each participant;
• Your preferred language;
• All possible dates you are available – spell out the month: 01 January 2021;
• Provide an email address for the main contact.

They don’t care about any fluff, like how badly you want the tour or how you only just found out about it or that you’ve heard how great it is.

If your request is granted, you’ll be required to pay by credit card within 10 days. The Scavi office will send a link to pay online.

Important to note

A visit to the Scavi below Saint Peter’s Basilica not only takes you into a very sacred place, but also a highly secure area. As such, there are rules.

Only ages 15 and up are allowed.

Appropriate dress is required. No shorts. No short skirts. Shoulders covered. Even in the summer heat, don’t risk it.

No large bags. Normal sized backpacks and purses will go through security screening, but are allowed – usually.

You should bring your Passport in case they check ID. It’s never happened for me, but it’s better to be safe.

You should arrive 10-15 minutes early. No exceptions.

Once inside, no photos are allowed.

It is warm, humid, and cramped in the Scavi. If you are claustrophobic, well, you should visit anyway. Just know it might be a bit uncomfortable.

Tickets for the Scavi can sell out many months in advance. If you are unable to get tickets, and you are flexible, you can show up the day you want to go and ask if there are any cancellations.

Also watch for groups. Groups pay way in advance and often have cancellations. If the group leader is nice, you may be able to join. It happens. Stay positive.

Price Tickets are €13. Price includes your guide.

Opening times Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday from 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Wednesday from 1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. (due to the Papal Audience ) Saturday from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Scavi is closed on Sundays, Wednesday mornings until 1 PM, and the usually the following Vatican holidays:

January: 1 and 6 (Epiphany)

February: 11 (Lateran Treaty)

March: 13 (Election of the Holy Father), 19 (Saint Joseph’s Feast Day)

April: 23 (Name-day of the Holy Father)

May: 1 (Saint Joseph the Carpenter)

June: 15 (Corpus Domini), 29 (Feast Day of SS. Peter and Paul)

August: 14, 15, 16 (Ferragosto)

November: 1 (All Saints), 2 (All Soul’s Day)

December: 8 (Immaculate Conception), 24, 25, 26, 27 (Christmas) and 31 (Te Deum)

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How to get tickets to the Vatican and avoid the lines: 4 best ways

Learn how to get tickets to the Vatican and avoid long lines: four tried and tested ways to buy Vatican tickets for all budgets, with or without a tour.

Vatican City is one of the most visited attractions in Rome , its spiritual significance and magnificent art beckoning over 5M visitors per year.

Visiting the Vatican is easy and you can easily plan a day in Vatican City as part of a short stay in Rome.

however, as the name suggests, Vatican City is not one attraction but a city or, more precisely, a State, with several attractions, each with different access rules.

Of the several attractions in Vatican city, some are ticketed and some are not.

Today, we look at: the top attractions in Vatican City and the best ways to get tickets for the Vatican.

See also: is the Vatican a country? Fun and interesting facts about Vatican City

Please note: this post contains affiliate links, marked with a * Should you make a purchase through them, we might make a small commission.

Table of Contents

Top Vatican City attractions at a glance

The Vatican is not one attraction but a city,  albeit small, with a cluster of landmarks, with different access rules. 

The landmarks are close to one another but they are not all in the same place – to see them all, plan a the best part of a day.

There is no border control to enter the Vatican. You however need ID to enter the museums.

The main attractions in Vatican City are:

>>> Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel (the Chapel is inside) – ticketed (see below for options)

>>> St Peter Square – free to enter, no ticket

>>> St Peter’s Basilica – ticketed, tickets on site

>>> Vatican Gardens – ticketed, see below

>>> Vatican excavations -ticketed, see below

How to get skip the line tickets to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel: 4 best ways

There are four ways to get admission tickets without / with a tour to the Vatican Museums:

The Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel are the main attraction at the Vatican for many and what most visitors have in mind when they say they want to visit the Vatican.

The Vatican Museums are a stunning and huge art museums and includes the Sistine Chapel which is part of them.

Need to know! The Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel are together ! The chapel is inside the museums so you cross the museums to get them.  You cannot get a ticket for the chapel only (but you can get express tours that focus on it, see below) .

>>> All Vatican Museum tickets are timed. You select date and time and go straight to the door, so ALL TICKETS ARE SKIP THE LINE   as you don’t have to line up to buy them.

Don’t pay more to skip the line, you don’t need to! Skip the line is another way of saying you can get tickets in advance so you don’t need to stand in line at the ticket window: it is not a priority line that give advantage vs other ticket holders.

>>> All visitors need to pass airport style security . This line cannot be skipped.

>>> You must abide by the Vatican Dress code to enter the museum. You can find all info here >>> Vatican dress code and tips for getting ready for your visit.

Need to know : Vatican dress code rules are strict. The fact that some visitors report to have been allowed entrance with more revealing clothing or shorts doesn’t make this a rule: anything that doesn’t match the Vatican rules make you run the risk of being turned away. The rules apply to the Museums as well as the Basilica as they are the access route to the Sistine Chapel, which is a holy to the Catholic religion. The decision of the person at the door about the suitability of your attire is final and no reimbursement it foreseen if you are turned away. Best to stay as close to the letter of the rule as possible

How to get Vatican Admission tickets, entrance only, from the official site

The cheapest way to get skip the line entrance tickets to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel is by buying tickets from the Museums website directly.

Tickets come out 60 days before and go fast, therefore I recommend checking the site around the 60 day mark and secure them when they come out, especially if coming to Rome at a busy time (which is always, with the exception of late January and mid-November usually)

Kids under 6 are free, children 6-18 pay a reduced fee and there are concessions for specific categories listed on the website.

If you fall into one of the categories entitled to a discount, make sure you have proof with you as they will ask for it.

Buying Vatican Museum tickets from the museum website direct if is the cheapest option as you deal directly with the museums: no agency, no affiliates, no intermediaries.

Tickets sell out rather fast, so it is best book early.

Book direct >>> Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel Ticket office

How to get Vatican admission tickets when the official site is sold out using GetYourGuide

If the official site is sold out, you can usually find additional availability on third party ticketing platforms such as GetYourGuide.

Despite the name, GetYourGuide also sells entrance tickets with no tour and while the cost is higher than going direct, it often have tickets before and after the official site, making it a very useful, easy to way to secure tickets fast.

You can get tickets at this link or you can use the calendar below which show availability. The calendar is live and powered by GetYourGuide so you have an instant idea of what is available right now.

How to get Vatican admission tickets when the official site is sold out using Tiqets

Another way to get skip the line admissions tickets for the Vatican Museum is by buying on ticketing platforms such as Tiqets.

Tiqets is more expensive than buying direct; however, they tend to sell out less quickly and they are a reliable ticket provider. A very good option if you want to get Vatican entry tickets without a tour guide.

Click here for >>> Vatican Tickets From Tiqets *

How to buy Vatican museum and sistine chapel ticket with a tour

Other Vatican ticket options are attached to tours.

There is an almost infinite list if tour provides offering Vatican Museum tours.

Out of the many, there are two I trust and recommend, LivTours and MariaclaudiaTours. In particular:

Early morning tour by LivTour  – this is a small group morning tour allowing you to enter the Museums and the Sistine Chapel before the general public so you get lower crowds.

Book via aff. link >>>  LivTour semi private Vatican morning tour*

Private Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel express tour by LivTours

The peculiarity of this tour is that it focuses on the Sistine Chapel rather than other parts of the museums and it is therefore perfect for visitors who want to get in and out quickly yet still enjoy the Chapel.

Good to know : while this tour is not for families as such, it is family friendly. Being private, your guide can adapt it to the pace of a family with a young child and this is why I recommend it to families visiting the Vatican with a baby or toddler as well as visitors with no children.

Book via aff. link >>  Private Vatican Museum and Sistine chapel express tour*

Kids’ tour by Mariaclaudia tours  – this is an excellent tour for families with kids age 6 to 11 and that can be adapted to teens. Game based, it is perfect for kids who do better with a scavenger hunt/play approach.

The tour is not suitable for kids under 6. Book via Facebook @mariaclaudiaTours or by email: mariaclaudiatours @ gmail.com

Tell her you found her on MamaLovesRome!

Kids’ Tour by LivTour – this is another perfect Vatican tour for families with kids, different to Mariaclaudia’s for the areas covered, which include the Egyptian wing of the Museum (usually a hit with kids!).

Most suitable for families with kids of primary school age and up but if you tell LivTours the age of your kids, they can adapt it to different ages.

Book via aff. link >>> Family Tour Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel by LivTours*

Last but not least, you can get a guided tour offered by the Vatican Museums themselves .

Guided Tours by the Vatican Museums are a good option of you are looking for a group tour and do not need any customisation.

There are several options including also early morning and after hour tour.

To see what is availabe on your date, go onto the museum ticket page >>  https://tickets.museivaticani.va/home  select desired date and number of participants >> see options.

Need to know:  these Vatican museum tours tend not to be accessible nor stroller friendly as they do not follow the accessible path.

I hope you found this quick guide about how to get tickets to the Vatican useful and got some good tips!

Remember: Additional info and lots of tips to visit the Vatican with kids are in my  Rome with kids ebook available on Amazon CLICK HERE  (also with tons more info and ideas to enjoy Rome with kids)

How to visit St Peter’s square (Piazza San Pietro) 

Piazza San Pietro / St Peter’s square is free: you do not need tickets to enter, you just walk in like any other square. 

The square is famous for being one of the most beautiful squares in Rome and for the stunning colonnade designed by master architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini.

You can read here >> all about St Peter’s Square in Rome

How to visit St Peter’s Basilica main floor (the church, where you also find Michelangelo’s Pieta’ and Bernini’s altar piece) 

At Peter’s Basilica is the main church in the Vatican and the biggest and most significant papal basilica, home to outstanding art and archtesture as well place of rest of Popes,

Access to St Peter’s Basilica’s main floor is free, no ticket needed.

Need to know: To enter the basilica you need to pass airport style security. This cannot be skipped, not even with a guided tour that promises you can ‘skip the line’. There is no such thing skipping security!

Read here >> all you need to know about visiting St Peter’s Basilica (including dress code)

See also: how to see Michelangelo’s Pieta’ in Rome

How to get access to St Peter’s Dome 

Climbing to the top of St Peter’s dome is not form the faint of heart, with those stairs and those height; however, it is one of the most popular things to do in teh Vatican and can be great fun.

The views from the top are among the best views of Rome !

The climb to the dome is ticketed and tickets available on the day and in person only. No skip the line option. Usually it is at its least busy early in the morning

How to visit the Vatican necropolis (Scavi)

The Vatican necropolis is a limited access underground area where St peter’s is believed to be buries.

Only accessible in small numbers, this is an archaeological area you can visit by getting a permit and the guide from the ‘excavation’ office directly.

The necropolis is not not part of the standard tours. Request access here >>>  http://www.scavi.va/content/scavi/en/prenotazione.html

Good to know : the necropolis is different from the so called grottoes, where the Popes are buries. The grotto is part of the Basic and accessible from it. The Necropolis is an ancient site below the basilica and accessible from a different entrance.

How to visit the Vatican gardens

The Vatican Gardens are beautiful, landscaped gardens developing on the slopes of the Vatican Hill, at the back of the Basilica.

Open by reservation and guided tour only, they are open to visitors age 6 and up.

You can read here >> our experience visiting the Vatican Gardens

only at the time of writing, they are at the back of the basilica and ticketed separatley. Book direct >>  https://tickets.museivaticani.va/home

What to see nearby

As well as on this MamaLovesRome website:

• How to visit the Vatican
• How to visit the Vatican with kids
• Visiting the Vatican at Christmas

How to get tickets for the Vatican: pin this!

My name is Marta, I am a travel-loving mama born and bred in that messy, wonderful, infuriating, awe-inspiring unbelievably beautiful city that is Rome. A classics graduate and professional travel blogger, on this site I share my insider tips to help you plan your dream trip to Rome, Italy.

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The Scavi Office has made a huge effort to streamline their process. They now send you a receipt of your email request right away and then shortly thereafter (with a few days) you will get an answer.

Frequently Asked Questions

When and Where to go? Shortly before your tour begins, go to the Sant' Uffizio entrance to the left/south side of St Peter's Square. There is a special security station set up there. Bring your confirmation letter from the Office

What is it like inside the Scavi? It's a little claustophobic inside the Scavi. The air is humid and warm, but the ground is dry. The lighting is dim, and you walk on uneven ground as you look inside the various tombs. Some of the objects can only be viewed one at a time. A person with a physical disability may have some problems.

What can I Bring? You're not supposed to bring any cameras, recording devices, or large objects. Purses and small handbags are permitted. It you need to check items beforehand, you must do this at the free baggage check on the right side of St Peter's, which requires going through security.

What are the Age Limits? The Vatican website says that only persons over 15 years old are admitted.

What do I Wear? Dress appropriately for a religious site; sholders covered, no shorts. Comfortable shoes are recommended since the ground is uneven.

What times are the tours? Tours run continually from 9:00AM until 4:15PM, Monday - Saturday. The tours last about one hour.

Where does the tour end? The Scavi website states that the tour ends back at the Excavations Office. The tour is actually finished when you enter the Clementine Chapel in the grottoes. Your guide might allow you to then visit the grottoes (tomb of the popes).

Where can I find more Information? The Vatican website now has a virtual tour of the Necropolis at: http://www.vatican.va/various/basiliche/necropoli/scavi_english.html If you want to purchase information, the Vatican bookstore offers a magazine titled, 'Roma Sacra - The Vatican Necropolis'. More detailed info can be found in the online books here. An online article to read is: The Scavi of St. Peter's and the Grittiness of Catholicism by George Weigel.