Skip-the-Line Vatican Tour: Sistine Chapel, Museums & Basilica with Expert Guide

What's included

Itinerary

1. 1

   Vatican Museums

   1h

   Visit the Vatican with special insight into the Sistine Chapel, the Rooms of Raphael, . Meeting at the historical centers, you will be able to skip the long queues and have a chance to drop off items, umbrellas large bags in lockers before the tour begins. The tour will begin by visiting the Ancient Greek and Roman craftsmanship, recovered from old days when the Popes used to be the leaders of Central Italy. The learned guide will highlight the Belvedere Apollo, the Torso, the Busts of Claudius and Hadrian and the Sarcophagi of Helen and Constance, the mother and girl of Emperor Constantine. Continuing into the Room of Animals and the Gallery of Candelabra, then venturing through Roman mosaics. Your guide will point out the statues of Diana of Euphesus, the Muses and the celebrated greek scholars.

2. 2

   Stanze di Raffaello

   30min

   Following on to the rooms holding Tapestries, the Sobieski Hall and the famous Rooms of Raphael. These rooms were painted by Raphael and his pupils for the Pope Julius II. Marvel at the hues and detailed imagery of the School of Athens and the Parnassus.

3. 3

   Sistine Chapel

   15min

   Getting on to the Sistine Chapel, the most famed room in Italy. You will see Michelangelo's frescoes particularly the Last Judgement, the Creation of Adam and the Genesis. Along with more subtle elements from the Stories of Moses and Jesus painted by Botticelli, Perugino and other Renaissance experts. Your guide will recount stories and insiders facts about the scenes adorning the walls.

4. 4

   St. Peter's Basilica

   30min

   It is then time for a tour of St. Peter’s Basilica where you will explore the numerous side chapels with their hidden crypts. You will see Michelangelo’s Pietà and your guide will explain why this is the only work that he signed. You will gain an appreciation of the mastery that went into the creation of Bernini’s altarpiece and learn how Michelangelo triumphed over his contemporaries for the honour to paint St. Peter’s magnificent dome.

5. 5

   St. Peter's Square

   15min

   The tour ends in the Magnificent Saint Peter's Square.

Before you go

Location