Vatican Museums Private Tour: Raphael Rooms & Sistine Chapel

Highlights

• Skip-the-Line Access
• Expert Private Guide
• Must-See Masterpieces

What's included

Itinerary

1. 1

   Vatican Museums

   1h

   Begin your tour at the entrance of the Vatican Museums, where you’ll embark on a journey through centuries of art and history. Your exploration starts amidst an impressive collection of classical sculptures, Renaissance masterpieces, and intricate artworks that set the stage for the marvels to come

2. 2

   Stop 2

   Pass by

   Next, you’ll pass through the Cortile della Pigna, an enchanting courtyard dominated by an ancient giant pinecone sculpture. This open-air space connects different sections of the museum and offers a moment of calm before you delve deeper into the exhibits.

3. 3

   Sphere within a Sphere

   Pass by

   Continuing along your route, you’ll encounter the Tomato Sphere, a surprising modern installation that playfully contrasts with the classical ambiance of the museum. This unexpected piece provides a brief, yet memorable interlude that piques your curiosity for what lies ahead.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   15min

   Soon after, your guide will lead you to the celebrated Laocoön Group, a dramatic ancient sculpture renowned for its intense portrayal of mythological suffering. This masterpiece invites you to appreciate the raw emotion and skill of ancient sculptors.

5. 5

   Stop 5

   10min

   Your itinerary then brings you to the Gallery of Tapestries, where elaborate woven artworks illustrate tales from bygone eras with intricate detail and vibrant color. The gallery’s rich textures and historical narratives serve as a prelude to the next highlight of your journey.

6. 6

   Stop 6

   15min

   Step into the Gallery of Maps, where a series of beautifully painted maps provides a visual tour of Italy’s evolving landscape. This gallery not only highlights the artistic talents of its creators but also offers fascinating insights into the region’s geographical history.

7. 7

   Stanze di Raffaello

   15min

   The journey reaches a crescendo in the Raphael Rooms, where you’ll be immersed in the genius of Renaissance art. The rooms, adorned with Raphael’s exquisite frescoes, reveal intimate stories of the era’s cultural and artistic brilliance, leaving you with a deep appreciation for this transformative period.

8. 8

   Sistine Chapel

   20min

   Finally, the tour culminates in the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel. Here, the breathtaking ceiling painted by Michelangelo and the solemn beauty of the Last Judgment offer a transcendent finale to your experience, making this journey through the Vatican Museums truly unforgettable.

Before you go

Location