Immerse yourself in the art and history of the Vatican with our full-day guided tour!

Tour Features

Local Guide

Certified Official Guide

Tour Languages

English, Italian, Spanish, French, German

Duration

5 hours

Tour Size Options

Private

Itinerary

The tour features the Gallery of Maps, the Gallery of Tapestries, the Gallery of the Candelabra, and the famous sculpture of Laocoön and his sons. Additionally, you’ll experience a highlight of the Vatican Museums - the stunning Raphael Rooms. One of the tour's highlights is the Borgia Apartments. In the 15th century, these spaces were the residence of the notorious former cardinal Rodrigo Borgia, who later became Pope Alexander VI. As your guide shares some of the secrets of one of the most famous and controversial papal families, you'll observe family portraits. There is an abundance of history concealed within the religious themes of the paintings, providing insight into the scandalous life of the Pope’s enchanting daughter Lucretia and his son Cesare.
Next, you'll visit the renowned Sistine Chapel, created by Michelangelo. Your guide will provide you with in-depth insights into Michelangelo’s frescoes, covering their meanings and importance. Michelangelo dedicated eight years of his life to create these magnificent frescoes – a remarkable feat. Once you step inside, you'll have the opportunity to fully admire the grandeur of this historic chapel.
The tour will also include a visit to St. Peter’s Basilica, which is a significant landmark in the Christian faith. It is the largest basilica in the world, and its immense size and architectural grandeur will leave you speechless. Its construction took more than 120 years and involved many of the most talented and revered artisans and craftsmen from the Renaissance era. Built on the site of St. Peter's tomb, inside you can admire Michelangelo’s “La Pietà,” Bernini’s renowned altar, and the chair of St. Peter, along with many other remarkable artifacts.
The tour ends in St. Peter’s Square, where you can admire the stunning colonnade designed by Bernini and the impressive architecture of the Vatican’s exterior.

Tour Details

Full Description

With over nine miles of galleries, the Vatican Museums house one of the world’s most remarkable art collections. Without a proper guide, much of this breathtaking artwork can be easily overlooked. Join our Extended Vatican Tour and delve into the highlights and hidden treasures of the Vatican Art Gallery, the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, and St. Peter’s Square. Led by an expert English-speaking guide, this tour ensures you experience the very best of the Vatican while uncovering fascinating stories behind its masterpieces.

Our thoughtfully curated itinerary guarantees you won’t miss any of the iconic landmarks, from Michelangelo’s awe-inspiring frescoes in the Sistine Chapel to the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica, home to his famous Pietà. Beyond these renowned sights, the tour also introduces you to lesser-known gems—hidden corridors, intricate mosaics, and captivating sculptures—that bring the Vatican’s history and culture to life. You'll gain insight into the symbolic significance of each artwork and its contribution to the spiritual and artistic legacy of the Catholic Church.

The journey concludes in St. Peter’s Square, where you’ll marvel at Bernini’s magnificent colonnade and the architectural splendor of the Vatican’s exterior. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply eager to explore one of the world’s most spiritual locations, this skip-the-line full-day tour offers an immersive and enriching experience that captures the essence of Vatican City. Let us guide you through this once-in-a-lifetime journey!

What is Included

Included:

Included: Local Guide
Included: Skip-the-Line Tickets

Important Information

A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements