Your Vatican Guided Tour begins with direct access to the Vatican Museums, meaning no waiting in line. Once inside, experience the wonders of the Pinecone and Octagonal Courtyard, and marvel at the iconic Belvedere Torso. Stroll through the Round Room and admire the Constantine coffins of the Greek Room, taking in the rich history and artistry of the Vatican.
Vatican Guided Tour Description:
Your expert guide will take you to see the Gallery of Tapestries where you will walk the halls of handcrafted tapestries by Pieter van Aelst’s School which were created from drawings by Raphael’s pupils.
Next, it is on to the Gallery of Maps, just imagine, wall-to-wall hand-painted maps from the 16th-century giving you an idea of what the geography looked like back then. From there you will visit the recently restored Raphael Rooms which are sure to take your breath away.
Admire The School of Athens, one of Raphael’s master works, and learn about the historic greats and some contemporaries he carefully placed within this painting.
After this, it’s time to head over to see one of the stars of the tour – Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel. Admire the 8,000 square feet of this masterpiece standing in its center surrounded by paintings.
After the Chapel and all its glory, your tour guide will take you towards your final stop, St. Peter’s Basilica* where you will enjoy exclusive access to the most immense and ornate Catholic church in the world.
Visit one of the most stunning pieces of art in the basilica, Michelangelo’s statue of the Pietà , depicting the Virgin Mary holding her dying child in her arms. Another must-see work of art is Bernini’s alter canopy, which is made of an astounding 100,000 pounds of gilded bronze.
This comprehensive tour will give you an idea of the grandeur of Vatican City and the artwork it holds.
To end, your guide will leave you inside Saint Peter’s Basilica, allowing you ample time to continue your exploration of the Papal Tombs, and even climbing to the top of the Dome.
When does it run? Daily (Except Sundays)
Duration: 3.5Â hours approx.
Highlights:
- Sistine Chapel
- Raphael Rooms
- Belvedere Courtyard with Apollo Belvedere & Laocoön & His Sons
- Pinecone Courtyard
- Gallery of the Candelabra
- Gallery of the Maps
- Gallery of the Tapestries
- St. Peter’s Basilica
- St. Peter’s Square
Inclusions:
- Skip-the-Line Access tickets to the Vatican Museums
- Skip-the-Line Access to St. Peter’s Basilica
- Expert Walks of Italy tour guide
- Small group
- Headsets
Exclusions:
- Hotel Pick-up & Drop Off
- Tips
Please Note:
- Please note that the opening time of the Vatican Museums may vary, we will vary the tour start time accordingly.
- St.Peter’s Basilica may not be accessible. If this occurs during your tour we will spend more time inside the Museums & Chapel and your guide will give you introduction to the church should you wish to visit this on your own at a later time
- Please remember that the Sistine Chapel is a holy place, and attire must be appropriate for the visit. Both men and women are asked to wear clothing that covers at least the shoulders and knees.
- Most travelers can participate
- While the Vatican Museums are equipped with elevators for wheelchair and stroller access, they are not conveniently located on the group tour route and only give access to specific sections of the Museums. We advise clients to contact Walks Customer Service Team to make further arrangements.
- Please note that guests may only carry small handbags inside the Vatican Museums. Larger backpacks and big pointy umbrellas etc must be left at the cloakroom. It is the responsibility of the guest to return to the Vatican Museums entrance to collect these after the tour.
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers