Private Tour(120 tours)
Small group(5 tours)
Transfer(13 tours)
Package tour(2 tours)
Private tour of the Vatican led by an art historian. See the highlights of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and Saint Peter's Basilica. Skip the line tickets included
See all the highlights of the Vatican Museums- Enter inside the Sistine Chapel
- Discover the magnificent Saint Peter's Basilica
- End the tour at Saint Peter's Square
- Friendly and knowledgeable private guide included
- Skip the line tickets included
- Extend the duration for a more indepth visit (optional at additional price)
- Add private transfers from/to your hotel (optional at additional price)
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Description:
This private guided tour of the Vatican is designed to turn one of the world’s greatest art collections into a deeply personal experience.
With skip-the-line access, an expert art historian guide, and a pace entirely tailored to you, this private tour allows you to explore the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica without stress, groups, or rushed explanations.
The Vatican may be the smallest state in the world, but it holds some of the most powerful artistic, religious, and historical masterpieces ever created—and this experience is about understanding them, not just seeing them.
Itinerary
Optional Hotel Pickup with Private Driver
For maximum comfort, your experience can begin with an optional hotel pickup by private driver. You’ll be transferred directly to the Vatican Museums entrance, avoiding taxis, public transportation, and logistical stress—an ideal solution especially for early morning visits or families.
Vatican Museums – Skip-the-Line Entrance
Your private Vatican tour officially begins at the Vatican Museums, where entry will be quick and smooth thanks to pre-reserved skip-the-line tickets. Once inside, your licensed KissFromItaly art historian introduces the Vatican not just as a museum, but as a living archive of power, faith, and artistic genius.
The visit starts in the Pio Clementino Museum, home to one of the world’s finest collections of Greek and Roman sculpture, including the dramatic Laocoön Group, a masterpiece that deeply influenced Renaissance artists.
Gallery of Maps & Raphael Rooms
Walking through the vast Papal Palace, you’ll reach the stunning Gallery of Maps, a long frescoed corridor depicting Italy as it was imagined in the 16th century.
The tour continues into the Raphael Rooms, once the private apartments of Pope Julius II. Here, Raphael’s frescoes unfold stories of philosophy, religion, and Renaissance ideals, explained clearly and engagingly by your guide.
Sistine Chapel – Michelangelo’s Masterpiece
The highlight of the tour is the Sistine Chapel. Standing beneath Michelangelo’s ceiling and the powerful Last Judgment, your guide reveals the hidden details, symbolism, and historical context behind what is widely considered the greatest masterpiece of Western art. Works by Michelangelo, Raphael, Ghirlandaio, and Perugino come together in a space that leaves a lasting impression.
St. Peter’s Basilica & St. Peter’s Square
Thanks to a direct internal passage, you’ll enter St. Peter’s Basilica without exiting the Vatican Museums. Inside the largest and most important church in the Catholic world, your guide focuses on its most significant artistic and spiritual treasures, including Michelangelo’s Pietà.
The tour naturally concludes in St. Peter’s Square, framed by Bernini’s iconic colonnade.
Optional Private Transfer at the End of the Tour
At the end of the visit, you may also choose to add a private transfer to return comfortably to your hotel or continue to your next destination in Rome—an easy and seamless way to end your Vatican experience.
Why Choose This Tour
- Private experience with an officially licensed Vatican art historian
- Skip-the-line tickets to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
- Flexible pace and customizable starting time
- Direct access from the Sistine Chapel to St. Peter’s Basilica
- Clear, engaging explanations tailored to your interests
- Option to extend the tour for a deeper Vatican experience
- Optional hotel pick-up with private driver for maximum comfort
Who Is This Tour For
- First-time visitors who want a clear, stress-free Vatican experience
- Art and history lovers seeking deeper insight, not surface-level facts
- Couples and families who prefer a private, flexible pace
- Travelers with limited time who want to see the Vatican highlights efficiently
- Visitors looking for skip-the-line Vatican access with expert guidance
Book Your Private Vatican Experience
Book your private Vatican tour online in just a few clicks, or contact us to customize the experience—add extra time, arrange hotel pick-up, or tailor the visit to special interests. Our team is happy to help you design the perfect Vatican experience.
FAQs – Private Vatican Tour
How long is the tour?
The standard duration is 3 hours, covering all Vatican highlights. You can add an extra hour for a more in-depth visit.
Is this a skip-the-line Vatican tour?
Yes, skip-the-line tickets to the Vatican Museums are included.
Does the tour include St. Peter’s Basilica?
Yes, with direct access from the Sistine Chapel whenever available.
Is this tour suitable for families and children?
Absolutely. The guide adapts the explanation style to suit adults and children.
Is the Vatican accessible for people with limited mobility?
Yes, most areas are accessible, though advance notice is recommended.
What happens in bad weather?
The tour runs rain or shine. The visit is indoors.
What should I wear?
Dress code applies for Saint Peter’s Basilica: shoulders and knees must be covered.
How far in advance should I book?
We strongly recommend booking early, especially during peak seasons, as Vatican tickets are limited.
Included:
- Private guide officially licensed
- Skip the line tickets
Not included:
- Food
- Drinks
- Transportation (optional)
Languages:
Italian, English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Mandarin, Russian
Meeting point:
Near the Vatican. Detailed instructions and map will be emailed
Duration:
3 Hours
Dress code:
Vatican authorities require a proper attire for the visit: women should have legs covered to the knees, shoulders must be covered, men must wear long pants
Conditions:
A valid photograph ID is required at the entrance for security check
Options:
Private Transfer (one way)
Private Transfer (two ways)
Extended Visit
Alternative tours:
You can also see the Vatican as part of our Rome in One Day private tour
