Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel Tour with Basilica Access

Experience the heart of the Catholic world on a fully guided journey through the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel, followed by exclusive direct access to St. Peter’s Basilica. Your tour begins in the Vatican Museums, where an expert guide will lead you through one of the most remarkable art collections in history. You will walk through the expansive Pinecone Courtyard, admire the ancient Roman marble work in the Gallery of Candelabra, marvel at the illusionary 16th-century Flemish tapestries in the Gallery of Tapestries, and walk under the painted ceilings of the Gallery of Maps. Along the route, you will also take in the monumental Renaissance frescoes of the Raphael Rooms, including the world-famous School of Athens. The guided portion of your tour culminates inside the breathtaking Sistine Chapel, the sacred space where Papal conclaves are held. Here, you will behold Michelangelo’s legendary ceiling frescoes, including The Creation of Adam, alongside his towering masterpiece behind the altar, The Last Judgment. Following your time in the chapel, your guide will escort you through a reserved passage directly into St. Peter’s Basilica, allowing you to bypass the long general admission queues outside in St. Peter’s Square. Please note that guided tours are not permitted inside the Basilica via this direct route. Before you enter, your guide will provide a detailed overview of the cathedral's history and highlights. Once inside, your guide will bid you farewell, leaving you free to explore St. Peter’s Basilica—including Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s massive bronze Baldacchino—entirely at your own pace

Not suitable for

• Wheelchair users

What to bring

• Driver's license
• ID card, copy accepted
• Passport or ID card
• Passport or ID card for children
• Water

Not allowed

• Alcohol and drugs
• Bare feet
• Drones
• Explosive substances
• Feeding animals
• Firework
• Flashlight
• Food
• Littering
• Making fire
• Shorts
• Sleeveless shirts
• Smoking
• Vaping
• Weapons or sharp objects

Know before you go

• All visitors must pass through mandatory security screening before entering the Vatican Museums.
• Appropriate clothing is required for all religious sites; shoulders and knees must be covered.
• Reserved entry allows access at your scheduled time but does not bypass security checks.