Vatican Private tours

• Experience the unparalleled brilliance of Michelangelo's work in the Sistine Chapel.

• Journey through the vibrant Italian Renaissance era by visiting Raphael's Rooms.

• Uncover the breathtaking collection of ancient sculptures within the Vatican.

• Set your gaze upon masterpieces crafted by renowned artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Caravaggio, and Raphael, displayed in the Pinacoteca.

• Meet-and-greet service with your driver/guide at your place of lodging.

• Professional licensed tour guide with Blue Badge certification.

• Enjoy exclusive early morning access to the Sistine Chapel before the regular crowd and marvel at Michelangelo's stunning frescoes.

• Priority access before the regular early morning crowd 

• Viewing of Michelangelo's frescoes in the famous Sistine Chapel.

• Hotel drop-off service.

• Tickets to the Vatican Museums with private tours.

• Admission to St. Peter's Basilica

Not included in the package: 

• Drinks, food and service charge

Do not miss the opportunity to embark on a Vatican private tour. Despite being the smallest country in the world, the Vatican boasts an abundance of religious and artistic treasures. The tour will take you on an exciting journey through the Pinecone Courtyard, Laocoön, Round Room, Gallery of Candelabra, Gallery of Tapestries, The Gallery of Maps, and The Raphael Rooms, allowing you to witness the architectural wonders of this magnificent place.

The Sistine Chapel

Do not miss the opportunity to embark on a Vatican private tour. Despite being the smallest country in the world, the Vatican boasts an abundance of religious and artistic treasures. The tour will take you on an exciting journey through the Pinecone Courtyard, Laocoön, Round Room, Gallery of Candelabra, Gallery of Tapestries, The Gallery of Maps, and The Raphael Rooms, allowing you to witness the architectural wonders of this magnificent place.

The Pinecone Courtyard 

Named after a colossal bronze pine cone that symbolizes fertility from the classical era, The Pinecone Courtyard is an impressive architectural marvel. This courtyard features Egyptian shrine granite lions dating back to the fourth century BC, which flank the bronze pine cone. In the centre of the courtyard lies Arnaldo Pomodoro's Sphere Within Sphere, an enormous bronze sphere of the same size as the one atop St. Peter's dome. During Vatican private tours, visitors can take a break and relax in this serene courtyard.

Laocoön

Laocoön is a circa 40 BC sculpture that depicts the Trojan priest, Laocoön, fighting valiantly against sea serpents sent by Athena and Poseidon to kill him and his two sons. The sculpture is an ode to the power of musculature and movement, and it serves as a model for many artists. The Vatican private tours take you through the intricate details of the sculpture's creation and its rich history.

The Round Room and Hall of the Muses

The Round Room and Hall of the Muses, designed after the Pantheon, are architectural marvels that visitors can explore during Vatican private tours. The Round Room is an excellent spot to showcase colossal statues like the rare, gilded-bronze Hercules statue from the classical age that was not melted down. The centre of the room boasts a massive reddish-purple basin made of precious porphyry stone that once adorned Emperor Nero's palace. On the other hand, the Hall of the Muses features sculptured maidens representing comedy, and tragedy, and an Apollo holding a lyre. The star of the hall is the Belvedere Torso, a first-century BC masterpiece depicting power and masculinity that inspired artists such as Michelangelo and Rodin. Visitors can learn about the historical significance and architectural nuances of these exceptional spaces during the tour.

The Gallery of Candelabra & Chariot Room

During Vatican private tours, visitors can explore the Gallery of Candelabra & Chariot Room, an exquisitely beautiful gallery that boasts stunning marble floors and columns, 19th-century frescoed ceilings, and ancient marble candlesticks. The frescoes in the gallery were commissioned by Pope Leo XIII to promote his vision of the Church embracing the rapidly evolving society. The gallery's light-hearted sculptures include Bacchus, featuring a rare glass eye, and the fertility goddess Artemis of Ephesus adorned with bull testicles. The room's namesake chariot and two horses have both an ancient and 18th-century pedigree, with the masterpiece created by renowned restorer Francesco Antonio Franzoni in 1788. Franzoni assembled first-century AD pieces of a horse and a chariot, then sculpted an additional horse to complete the work. Every inch of this gallery is an exceptional work of art.

The Gallery of the Tapestries

The Gallery of the Tapestries is another must-see attraction in the Vatican Museums. Here, visitors can marvel at the massive 16th-century tapestries that once hung on the Sistine Chapel’s walls. The masterpieces of the High Renaissance highlight the work of two experts - the designs created by Raphael's school and the weaving carried out by the workshop of Pieter van Aelst from Belgium. The remarkable tapestries portray the life of Christ and showcase incredible optical illusions. For further examples, one may look up the Ornate Trompe d'Oeil vault.

The Gallery of Maps

Visitors on Vatican private tours can explore the Gallery of Maps, an awe-inspiring 120-meter-long gallery displaying 40 massive, brightly-coloured frescoed maps that take you on a journey through Italy's regions and papal states of the late 16th century. The gallery is a spectacular sight to behold. Be sure to capture a snapshot of the Venice map and compare it to the modern-day Google Maps version—the level of accuracy is astounding.

The Raphael Rooms

Art enthusiasts on Vatican private tours should not miss the Raphael Rooms, a breathtaking collection of masterpieces commissioned by Pope Julius II in the early 16th century. The rooms were once the papal apartment and private offices, but they were revitalized by the brilliant Tuscan artist, Raphael. Visitors can view some of Raphael's most magnificent works, such as the School of Athens, which portrays philosophers such as Plato and Aristotle as if they were moving within the interior of St. Peter's Basilica, which was under construction at that time.

Vatican private tours are an excellent way to see the best of the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel, Pinecone Courtyard, Laocoön, Round Room and Gallery of the Candelabra and Chariot Room, Hall of the Muses, the Raphael Rooms. Gallery of the Tapestries, With a private tour, visitors can experience the Vatican's glories in a more personalized and meaningful way, creating unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

• You will receive confirmation of your booking to secure your place on the Vatican private tours.

• Appropriate attire is required as the Vatican is a place of worship, meaning sleeveless tops and shorts are not permitted, and shoulders and knees should be covered.

• Comfortable footwear is advised as the tour involves moderate walking.

• Notify our tour guide ahead of time of any mobility limitations, as the Vatican has limited wheelchair accessibility but arrangements can be made for your comfort.

• Private tours are open to travellers of all ages and physical abilities.

• Private tours mean that only your group will participate, providing a personalized experience with the ability to ask questions and enjoy the Vatican at your own pace.

To receive a complete refund for your Vatican private tours, it is necessary to cancel the experience at least 24 hours before its scheduled start date.

Which attractions will I visit with Early Bird Vatican private tours?

Vatican private tours that take place early in the morning usually involve a visit to some of the Vatican Museums' most renowned attractions, including the Sistine Chapel, Raphael Rooms, Gallery of Maps, Pinacoteca, and St. Peter's Basilica. The exact tour itinerary may vary based on the tour's duration and the tour company.

How much is the Early Bird Vatican Tour?

The price of Early Bird Vatican private tours can differ based on several variables, including the provider of Vatican private tours, the length of the tour, the group size, and any extra services or facilities provided. A private tour generally costs more than a group tour. The cost of Early Bird Vatican private tours typically falls between 150 to 300 euros per person. To get an exact quote according to your requirements and preferences, it's advisable to check with various tour providers.

What is the Early Bird Vatican Tour cancellation policy?

The cancellation policy for private Early Bird Vatican tours may differ among tour operators. Some tour companies offer a flexible cancellation policy that allows you to cancel or reschedule the tour without penalty up to a certain time before the tour starts. It's important to carefully review the cancellation policy of the chosen tour provider before booking to ensure that you are aware of any conditions or fees associated with cancelling or rescheduling the tour.

Which company provides Early Bird Vatican Tour?

• The travel website "Things to Do In" provides an option to book Early Bird Vatican private tours through its website, partnering with various tour providers. However, it's important to note that other travel companies and tour operators may also offer this type of tour.

• Familiarize yourself with the cancellation policy and any potential fees before making your reservation.

• To adhere to the Vatican's dress code, ensure that your shoulders and knees are covered appropriately.

• To avoid being late, make sure to arrive at the designated meeting point at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start time.

• Bring comfortable walking shoes as the tour involves significant walking and standing.

• Stay hydrated by bringing a water bottle with you on the tour.

• Show respect and attentiveness towards our tour guide and feel free to ask any questions or request further clarification.

• Don't forget to bring a camera to capture the breathtaking artwork and architecture inside the Vatican Museums.

• A Vatican Museum private tour provides an exclusive and intimate way to explore one of the world's most renowned museums.

• Private tours are typically more flexible and personalized, allowing visitors to customize their itinerary and spend more time in areas that interest them.

• With a private guide, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the artwork, history, and culture of the Vatican and its collections.

• Private tours may also offer early access or after-hours access to the museum, providing a unique and unforgettable experience.

• Visitors should be aware of the Vatican's dress code and ensure they are appropriately dressed before the tour.

• It's recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes since the tour involves significant walking and standing.

• To secure your preferred date and time for the tour, it's crucial to book in advance and understand the cancellation policy.

• Visitors should bring a water bottle to stay hydrated and a camera to capture the stunning artwork and architecture.

A private tour of the Vatican and Sistine Chapel offers a unique and exclusive way to experience these world-renowned attractions. With a private tour, you can enjoy personalized attention from an expert guide, who will lead you through the museum's vast collection of art, including the magnificent frescoes of the Sistine Chapel. 

You'll also have the flexibility to tailor the tour to your interests, with the ability to skip certain sections or spend more time in others. With no crowds to navigate, you can take your time to appreciate the intricate details of the art and architecture. A private tour of the Vatican and Sistine Chapel is an unforgettable experience that's sure to leave a lasting impression.

• VIP tours of the Vatican offer privileged entry to the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica.

• These tours usually include fast-track access, enabling visitors to bypass the lengthy lines.

• Our expert guides with extensive knowledge of the artwork and architecture typically lead VIP tours and offer informative commentary.

• Visitors can customize the itinerary to their interests and preferences, allowing for a personalized experience.

• VIP tours offer access to exclusive areas of the Vatican that are not open to the public, such as the Bramante Staircase.

• The cost of a Vatican VIP tour is typically higher but offers a more personalized and exclusive experience.

• Expert guides provide commentary and background information on the artwork and architecture.

• VIP tours may include additional amenities like transportation or refreshments.

If you're planning a trip to Rome, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Vatican - a must-see destination that attracts millions of visitors every year with its impressive art and architecture, rich historical significance, and religious importance. Navigating through the crowds and making the most of your time there can be a daunting task, but opting for a private tour of the Vatican is a great way to ensure a seamless experience. This article will provide an overview of the best private tours of the Vatican to help you optimize your visit.

Early Morning Vatican Tour

1. One of the biggest challenges of visiting the Vatican is dealing with the crowds. The Early Morning Vatican Tour allows you to beat the crowds and explore the Vatican before it opens to the public. This tour gives you exclusive access to the Vatican's galleries and allows you to admire the artwork and architecture without the distraction of crowds. You'll also have the opportunity to visit the Sistine Chapel before it becomes crowded, providing a unique and memorable experience.

Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel Tour

2. For those with limited time, the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel Tour is an ideal choice. This tour offers a glimpse of the most notable sections of the Vatican Museums, such as the Gallery of Maps, the Gallery of Tapestries, and the Raphael Rooms. The highlight of the tour is the visit to the Sistine Chapel, where you can appreciate the stunning frescoes crafted by Michelangelo.

Private Vatican Gardens Tour

3. The Vatican Gardens are a hidden gem in the heart of Rome. This private tour allows you to explore the beautiful gardens at your own pace and take in the stunning views of the city. You'll also have the opportunity to visit the Vatican's historic farm, which has been in operation since the Renaissance.

St. Peter's Basilica Tour

4. St. Peter's Basilica is one of the most important churches in the world, and a visit to the Vatican would not be complete without a tour of this magnificent building. This private tour takes you through the basilica's impressive architecture and artwork, including Michelangelo's Pieta and Bernini's Baldacchino. You'll also get the chance to explore the crypt, which is the final resting place of numerous popes.

Private Vatican Art Workshop Tour

5. If you're interested in the art and architecture of the Vatican, the Private Vatican Art Workshop Tour is a unique and exciting option. This tour allows you to go behind the scenes and learn about the techniques used by the artists who created the Vatican's stunning art and architecture. You'll have the opportunity to visit the Vatican's art restoration workshop and see how the experts preserve and restore the Vatican's priceless artwork.

The Vatican is a captivating destination renowned for its remarkable history, art, and architecture. To optimize your visit, a private tour is highly recommended. Regardless of whether you're drawn to the Vatican's magnificent artwork, verdant gardens, or compelling history, there's a private tour to suit your preferences. The tours mentioned above are merely a handful of the numerous choices accessible, so it's important to conduct thorough research and select the ideal tour based on your interests and itinerary. With the top private Vatican tours, you can anticipate an unforgettable and rewarding experience.

The Vatican is one of the most visited attractions in Rome, but it's also one of the most crowded. Long lines and packed galleries can make it challenging to appreciate the Vatican's vast collection of art and architecture. However, there is a way to experience the Vatican more exclusively and intimately – with a private after-hours tour. In this article, we will explore the benefits of a Vatican private tour after hours and what you can expect on this exclusive tour.

Benefits of a Vatican Private Tour After Hours:

One of the most significant benefits of a Vatican private tour after hours is the opportunity to skip the long lines and enjoy exclusive access to the Vatican's museums and the Sistine Chapel. Explore one of the world's most magnificent art collections without having to deal with the crowds with this three-hour tour. You can enjoy the Vatican's masterpieces in a quiet, stress-free environment, and learn about them from your expert guide.

During this tour, you'll have access to the papal palaces and explore highlights such as the Greek statues of the Lacoon and the magnificent Raphael Rooms. You'll also have the opportunity to experience the peaceful and calm atmosphere of the Sistine Chapel, free from the usual daytime crowds. This is a rare chance to see Michelangelo's famous frescoes in a more intimate setting, without the midday heat and the hustle and bustle of the daytime crowds.

Tour Details:

The tour starts with an exclusive after-hours entrance to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, where you'll have the opportunity to explore one of the richest collections of art in the world. Your expert guide will take you through the papal palaces and highlight the most significant masterpieces along the way.

The tour concludes with a stroll to St. Peter's Square, where you'll have an orientation tour of the Basilica. This is a rare opportunity to see the square devoid of people, providing a unique and peaceful atmosphere.

Please note that availability for this tour may vary depending on the Museum's availability. The provided calendar aligns with the official schedule released by the Vatican for this particular occasion. As a result, it may not be accessible every Friday of each month.

Booking and Cancellation Policy:

Availability for this tour is limited, and tours take place just once a week, departing each Friday at 19:30. To prevent any potential disappointment, it is advisable to make reservations in advance.

In the event of a tour cancellation four days before the scheduled date, a refund of 50% will be issued. If a tour is cancelled within 72 hours of the scheduled date, there will be no refund offered. Similarly, if an individual misses the tour, it will be deemed a late cancellation and no refund will be provided.

Dress Code:

Please note that the Vatican has a strict dress code, and visitors are required to ensure that their knees and shoulders remain covered throughout the tour. Failing to meet the dress code requirements can result in denied entry to the Vatican.

A Vatican private tour after hours is an exceptional way to experience one of the most significant art collections in the world without crowds. This exclusive tour allows you to skip the lines, explore the papal palaces, and experience the peaceful and calm atmosphere of the Sistine Chapel. Availability for this tour is limited, so be sure to book early. Allow our expert guide to lead the way and provide you with a distinctive and unforgettable Vatican experience.

Vatican City is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in the world, with its stunning art and architecture attracting millions of visitors each year. But with so many people visiting the Vatican every day, it can be overwhelming to navigate through the crowds and truly appreciate everything the city offers. That's where private Vatican tours early morning come in, providing visitors with a unique and peaceful way to explore the Vatican's treasures.

Skip the Lines with Early Morning Admission

One of the biggest advantages of booking a private Vatican tour early in the morning is the ability to skip the long lines that can stretch for hours during peak visiting hours. With early morning admission tickets, visitors can access the Vatican without the stress and hassle of dealing with large crowds.

Envision strolling through the Vatican museums and marvelling at priceless masterpieces such as Michelangelo's "Pietà" and Raphael's "School of Athens," all while avoiding being jostled by throngs of tourists. During early morning tours, visitors can enjoy the magnificently adorned halls in peace, with only 10% of the usual crowds present. It's like having the Vatican to yourself!

A Personalized Tour Experience

Booking a private Vatican tour early in the morning allows visitors to enjoy a personalised tour experience tailored to their interests. With a private guide, visitors can explore the Vatican at their own pace, spending more time in areas that interest them and skipping over sections that may be less appealing.

Private tours also allow for more flexibility in the itinerary, allowing visitors to see specific artworks or areas of the Vatican that they may have missed on a traditional guided tour. The tour guides are experts in the Vatican's history and art, providing visitors with a wealth of knowledge and interesting anecdotes that they may not have heard otherwise.

Highlights of the Private Vatican Tour Early Morning

Commencing with a complimentary pick-up service from the visitors' accommodation, the early morning private Vatican tour offers expedited entry to the Vatican with the early admission ticket, allowing guests to bypass the queues and proceed through the metal detector control.

The tour begins with a picturesque view of the Vatican gardens and St. Peter's dome from a scenic terrace, providing an excellent opportunity for a family photo. Subsequently, an experienced guide will lead visitors through the museum's most noteworthy sites, including the Pio Clementine Museum, the extensive Tapestry Hall, and the Hall of the Painted Maps.

The Sistine Chapel, a marvel of history, religion, and art, is the tour's crowning jewel. Visitors will have the opportunity to appreciate Michelangelo's masterpiece without feeling overwhelmed by the crowds that typically inhabit the space.

The tour ends at St. Peter's Square, where visitors can appreciate Bernini's colonnade and the stunning facade of the basilica. The tour guide will then guide visitors to the official Vatican gift shop and the nearest taxi station or subway station for their return journey to the hotel.

Things to Keep in Mind

When booking a private Vatican tour early in the morning, visitors should keep a few things in mind. To begin with, it is essential to carry a passport or ID card and wear appropriate and comfortable footwear. Visitors should also be aware that shorts, sleeveless shirts, short skirts, luggage, large bags, food, and umbrellas are not allowed in the Vatican.

Additionally, visitors should note that on Wednesdays, it is not possible to enter the Basilica from the Sistine Chapel due to the Papal audience. Instead, visitors will see the Basilica from outside.

A private Vatican tour in the early morning is an incredible experience that allows you to fully appreciate the beauty and magnificence of the Vatican Museums, without the usual crowds and hustle and bustle of peak visiting hours. With VIP skip-the-line tickets, a private guide, and complimentary pick-up from your accommodation, this tour is the ultimate way to explore one of Rome's most popular attractions.

Experience an exclusive opportunity to explore the Vatican Museums in a rare and intimate private tour of Sistine Chapel after hours. Skip the hustle and bustle of the daytime crowds and discover the world-renowned galleries by night, as they are closed to the public. Admire exquisite Renaissance-era artworks, including the famous Raphael Rooms and the iconic Sistine Chapel.

Snap summary

Duration: 2h 40m

English

Ages 0-99, max of 12 per group

Start time: Check availability

Mobile ticket

Included:

• Skip-the-Line tickets for Vatican Museums

• Headsets to hear the tour guide clearly

• All fees and taxes

• Small group size of 12 or less

• Convenient meeting point close to the entrance

• A glass of Prosecco and snacks

• Entry to Vatican Museums, Stanze di Raffaello, and Sistine Chapel

• Guaranteed to skip the lines

Not Included:

• Pick-up and drop-off services

What to Expect 

Experience a once-in-a-lifetime private tour of the Sistine Chapel after hours, which promises to be an unforgettable journey. The itinerary of this unique tour includes various stops that showcase the magnificent history and culture of the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel.

1. Upon arrival, guests will be welcomed at the tour office, where they will be offered a glass of Prosecco to kick-start their experience cheerfully and memorably. This is followed by a visit to the Vatican Museums, where visitors can indulge in the truly unique atmosphere of the place as night falls. This VIP Vatican after-hours tour is intimate, with a maximum of 12 guests, and is led by an expert insider guide. As the doors are closed to the general public, guests have the opportunity to notice details that are often overlooked during normal visiting hours.

2. The tour then proceeds to the Gallery of Maps, a stupendous hallway where geography and history are intertwined, showcasing customized maps displaying the whole of Italy. This is a unique chance to breeze through this colossal masterpiece, which is brightly frescoed and enriched by stucco insertions. The visit is made more special as visitors can experience the Gallery in the same way that Popes used to do centuries ago.

3. Next up is the Stanze di Raffaello, the former Papal Apartments from the 16th and 17th centuries. These are often overlooked during ordinary visits due to time constraints, but with this after-hours tour, guests can take their time to fully appreciate the beauty of the graceful chromatic balancing that stands out in these four rooms. Guests can keep their eyes peeled for Raphael's most captivating works, the most famous of which is his iconic "School of Athens."

4. The final stop is the highlight of the tour, the Sistine Chapel. Guests can see the rare magic of the Vatican Museums in the evening after the crowds have gone home. They can marvel at this religious and artistic jewel, over five centuries old, and safeguards some of the world's greatest frescoes.

The private tour of the Sistine Chapel after hours promises a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors, showcasing the history and culture of the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel intimately and exclusively.

Additional Information

• The confirmation for the private tour of the Sistine Chapel after hours will be received upon booking. 

• The tour is open to most travellers. 

• The private tour of the Sistine Chapel can accommodate a maximum of 12 participants.

Cancellation Policy

To receive a complete refund, it is necessary to cancel the experience at least 24 hours before the start date.