Book Vatican Museum Tickets & Tours
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Tickets to Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel with Escorted Entrance
- Looking to explore the Vatican Museums without committing to a guided tour? This option is for you. Meet up with a local host to redeem your ticket and enjoy a fast-track entrance into the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.
- Admire the impressive works of Carravaggio, DaVinci, and Raphael that hang in the Pinacoteca.
- Discover the best of Renaissance sculpture in the Pio Clementino Museum. Walk in the footsteps of the Pope(s) as you explore the Gallery of Maps, Gallery of Tapestries, and Raphael Rooms at your own pace.
- Make your way to the crowning jewel of the Vatican City, the Sistine Chapel, and marvel at Michelangelo’s famed frescoes.
- Experience the Vatican Museums with less crowds when you book one of our early morning slots before 9am to get a head start. Alternatively, opt for a late-night entrance (only available on Fri & Sat between Apr and Oct).
- Tip: Watch out for the only painting by Vincent Van Gogh that graces the Vatican Museums - his very own rendition of The Pieta.
- Pro Tip: Ask for a map of the Vatican Museums at the ticket office. This is free of charge.
- It is recommended to choose an early time slot to avoid the crowds.
- The entrance to the Museums is timed. Be sure to select your activity starting time when booking. Once inside the Museums, you will be free to explore at your own pace.
- Tickets need to be collected from our local operator, be sure to check the meeting point and redemption instructions on your confirmation voucher.
- Compulsory Vatican dress code: Visitors must wear clothing that covers their knees, arms, and back.
- The use of mobile phones and photography is strictly prohibited in the Sistine Chapel.
- Please note that the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel are separate sites from St Peter’s Basilica.
- For guests with documentation of disabilities and visible disabilities the entry is free along with an additional ticket for 1 companion.
- Interested in exploring St Peter’s Basilica? Why not check out our other experiences here.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Guided Tour of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica
- Enjoy a guided tour to Vatican's three gorgeous landmarks in a choice of six languages.
- Starting with the Vatican Museums, your expert historian guide will fill your tour with fascinating anecdotes about the world-famous sculptures and paintings housed in these corridors
- Serenade your senses with the timeless beauty of Raphael Rooms, Tapestries Gallery and other marvels of immense significance
- Next up is the Sistine Chapel that is home to Michelangelo’s iconic artworks, including the elaborate fresco on the ceiling
- Wind up this memorable day at the St. Peter’s Basilica, the central pilgrimage in all of Christendom and a treasure trove of Renaissance art
- Compulsory Vatican dress code: visitors must cover knees, arms, and back.
- On Wednesday mornings and afternoons, St. Peter's Basilica may be closed as the Papal Audience takes place in St. Peter’s Square. If you’re considering visiting St. Peter's Basilica, please make plans on another day.
- The Basilica is also subject to last-minute closures. In the event that it’s closed, you will be taken to see the Vatican Library instead.
- It is recommended to carry an FFP2 mask with you and wear it among large crowds.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 72 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Guided Tour of Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
- Enjoy a guided tour of two world-renowned attractions and Vatican city's pride and glory: the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel.
- Scout through the magnificent Vatican Museums and peruse the crucial collections of the 54 galleries.
- Pass by the Greek Cross Room, the Gallery of the Candelabra, the Gallery of the Muses, and more.
- The wondrous Sistine Chapel awaits you! Drink in views of the stunning frescoes at the cornerstone of Western art.
- Your tour group will be led by an expert tour guide who will share intriguing facts about each attraction as you pass them by.
This ticket has the following variants that you can choose from:
- English-Guided Tour
- Italian-Guided Tour
- Spanish-Guided Tour
- German-Guided Tour
- French-Guided Tour
- Romanian-Guided Tour
- Polish-Guided Tour
- The Vatican Museums offer free tickets for visitors with mobility impairments (with certified invalidity exceeding 74%). Additionally, in the case of visitors lacking in self-sufficiency, free entry is extended to their companions.
- Certification of invalidity must be shown before the issue of the entrance tickets either at the Reception or at the Special Permits Desk, located in the entrance hall of the Vatican Museums.
- The Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel will remain closed on Sun.
- Compulsory Vatican dress code: visitors must wear clothing that covers their knees, arms, and back.
- Please note: All guests must pass through airport-style security. During high season and/or peak hours, the wait time at the security check may be up to 30 mins.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Premium Small Group Guided Tour of Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel
- When exploring the Vatican's two most sought-after attractions, the Vatican Museums & the Sistine Chapel, opt for a semi-private tour for a cozy touring experience.
- In groups of up to 10 guests, you'll follow your tour guide through a special entrance into the Vatican Museums, the first stop on your itinerary.
- Traverse through the Galleries of Tapestries, Maps, and Muses, the awe-inspiring Raphael’s Room, and other galleries while learning interesting facts about each.
- Peruse the crucial collections of 54 galleries on display here, oozing with Renaissance charm.
- Make an appearance at the world-famous Sistine Chapel, where you will spend time admiring the finer details of Michelangelo’s stunning murals.
This ticket has the following variants that you can choose from:
- English-Guided Tour
- German-Guided Tour
- French-Guided Tour
- Italian-Guided Tour
- The Vatican Museums offer free tickets for visitors with mobility impairments (with certified invalidity exceeding 74%). Additionally, in the case of visitors lacking in self-sufficiency, free entry is extended to their companions.
- Certification of invalidity must be shown before the issue of the entrance tickets either at the Reception or at the Special Permits Desk, located in the entrance hall of the Vatican Museums.
- Compulsory Vatican dress code: visitors must wear clothing that covers their knees, arms, and back.
- This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 72 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Vatican VIP: Early Morning Entrance to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
- Beat the crowds with priority access to the Vatican's most popular attractions by getting these VIP group tour tickets.
- Choose an early morning, ideal for a walk through the Vatican Museums with a group of 20 people or less.
- Upgrade your experience to include breakfast, with a delicious spread of American-style breakfast in the Pinecone Courtyard, where Popes have entertained their guests for centuries.
- Enter the Vatican Museums just before it opens, and peruse the 54 stunning galleries that flaunt the works of Renaissance artists.
- Pass by the Greek Cross Room, the Gallery of the Candelabra, the Gallery of the Muses, and more.
- Make your way to the historical Sistine Chapel and marvel at the staggering collection of artworks by Renaissance artists like Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Ghirlandaio.
This ticket has the following options that you can choose from:
- Early Morning Entrance
- Early Morning Entrance with VIP Breakfast at the Vatican
- Compulsory Vatican dress code: Visitors must wear clothing that covers their knees, arms, and back.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Rome in a Day: Guided Tour of Vatican Museums & Colosseum with Sistine Chapel
- Head to the most renowned attractions in the Eternal City – Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, Colosseum, and Roman Forum and Palatine Hill – all in one tour divided into 2 parts!
- Get skip-the-line guided access to admiring masterpieces by Renaissance maestros at the Vatican Museums followed by a visit to the Sistine Chapel.
- You also get time to explore St. Peter's Basilica at your own pace. Note: On Wednesdays, your visit to the Basilica will be replaced with a visit to the Vatican Library.
- Head to the top of Palatine Hill for spectacular views of this ancient city.
- At the Colosseum, your tour guide will offer intuitive commentary on the ancient amphitheater and the larger-than-life shows hosted here in the past.
- Finish your 9-hour tour with a walk down the ancient path of the Roman Forum along the Via Sacra.
- Fret not about hunger pangs! Enjoy a quick lunch (at your own expense) during the break between the first and second part of your tour.
This ticket has the following options that you can choose from:
- English-Guided Tour
- Italian-Guided Tour
- Spanish-Guided Tour
- German-Guided Tour
- French-Guided Tour
- Portuguese-Guided Tour
- Semi-Private English-Guided Tour
- Tip: Don't miss checking out Pietà by Michelangelo in St. Peter's Basilica – one of the most famous sculptures to exist in the world.
- Please note that in case of unexpected closures of some of the areas inside the Museums, the guide may have to modify the itinerary slightly.
- Please note that you can visit St. Peter’s Basilica on your own. Your guide will not take you inside, since direct access from Vatican Museum is not possible.
- Strict Dress Code: In order to enter St. Peter's Basilica, one must abide by a dress code. Sleeveless blouses, miniskirts, shorts, and hats are not permitted. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. Comfortable shoes are recommended
- You can cancel these tickets up to 72 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Combo (Save 4%): Tickets to Colosseum & Vatican Museums with Sistine Chapel
- Don't miss the chance to get access to multiple iconic Roman treasures with one pocket-friendly ticket!
- At the Vatican Museums, spend your time browsing through epoch-defining masterpieces by Michelangelo, Raphael, da Vinci, and Titian, amongst others.
- Gasp at the stunning frescoes that adorn the walls of the world-famous Sistine Chapel.
- Enjoy access to the Colosseum, a landmark synonymous with Rome itself.
- Also get access to the Roman Forum, the hub of socio-economic life in Ancient Rome, as well as the Palatine Hill, from where you can take in spectacular views of the city.
- Tune in to a digital audio guide with introductory commentary about Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum.
- Tip: Bring along snacks and a water bottle to your visit to the Vatican Museums – exploring 4.5 miles of distinguished art is no cakewalk!
- Strict Dress Code: Sleeveless blouses, miniskirts, shorts, and hats are not permitted. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. Comfortable shoes are recommended.
- You MUST carry a valid ID with you and present it at the time of entry if requested. Should you fail to do so, venue authorities may deny you entry and such instances are not liable for reschedules or refunds.
- For visitors with mobility impairment, the Vatican Museums offer free wheelchair hire from the cloakroom.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
St Peter's Basilica Dome Climb with Tour of Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
- Commence your tour by climbing to the terrace of St. Peter’s Basilica, where you will uncover unmatched panoramic views of Rome from atop Michelangelo’s Cupola.
- Make your way to the other parts of the Basilica, marvel at its unique Barocco style, and cultural artifacts like Michelangelo's Pieta.
- Head next to the fantastic Papal Sarcophagi, where you will witness Renaissance masterpieces of Bernini and Michelangelo.
- Enjoy fast-track entry into the glorious Vatican Museums, and tour around its many alluring galleries, such as the Chandelier’s Gallery, the Galleries of Tapestries and Maps, the Raphael Rooms, and many others.
- Continue your tour by paying a visit to the beguiling Sistine Chapel, and marvel at the cherished murals here, such as the painted ceiling and The Last Judgement by Michelangelo.
This ticket has the following variants that you can choose from:
- English-Guided Tour
- French-Guided Tour
- Spanish-Guided Tour
- Italian-Guided Tour
Note: The Spanish tour only runs on Mondays and Saturdays.
- Compulsory Vatican dress code - visitors must cover knees, arms, and back.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Combo (Save 4%): Vatican Museums + Borghese Gallery Tickets
- This money-saving combo ticket offers a convenient way to admire two of the greatest art collections in the world at the Vatican Museums and Borghese Gallery.
- Get priority access to Vatican Museums and see priceless works of art from the Papal collections by Michelangelo, Raphael, da Vinci, and Titian, amongst others.
- Sprawled across 54 galleries, the museums include the Gallery of Maps, Raphael’s Rooms, and more.
- The biggest highlight is the breathtaking frescoes that adorn the walls of the legendary Sistine Chapel.
- Enjoy a skip-the-line entry to the Borghese Gallery in Rome and avoid the winding queues.
- Gasp at the amazing art collections curated by Gian Lorenzo Bernini and Scipione Cardinal Borghese.
- Admire Caravaggio's iconic masterpieces like David with the Head of Goliath and Boy with a Basket of Fruit.
- Marvel at Raphael's The Deposition and sculptures like David and Apollo and Daphne.
- Stroll through the Villa Borghese and explore the gardens dotted with vibrant flowers in bloom.
- Skip-the-line tickets to the Vatican Museums
- Skip-the-line tickets to the Sistine Chapel
- Audio guide (optional)
- Skip-the-line tickets to the Borghese Gallery
- Booking fee
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Combo: Vatican Museums + 48-Hr Rome Pass Tickets
- With one practical combo, see the best of what Rome has to offer. Get escorted entry to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, and a 48-hour Roma Pass.
- Unparalleled pieces of classical and Renaissance art adorn the Vatican Museums, complemented by beautiful Baroque architecture.
- At the serene Sistine Chapel, marvel at Michaelangelo’s world-famous fresco and try to identify the 300-plus characters within it.
- The Roma Pass gives you free entry to one landmark of your choosing and access to the city’s public transport system.
- Avail discounted entry to unmissable landmarks, including the Colosseum, Borghese Gallery, and much more!
Vatican Museums
- Escorted entry into Vatican Museums
Roma Pass
- 48-hour pass
- Free access to the first museum/archaeological site/experience
- Access to Rome’s public transport network
- Discount on exhibitions, attractions, & tourist services
- Free access to toilets services of the P.Stop network
Vatican Museums
- Tip: To see the genesis of the Vatican Museum art collection, head to the Courtyard of Statues to see the marble sculpture Laocoön and His Sons, bought by Pope Julius II in the 16th century.
- Pro Tip: Ask for a map of the Vatican Museums at the ticket office, available free of charge.
- Please find your host at the meeting point specified on the voucher. They will assist you with the check-in process. Do not head to the entrance of the Vatican Museum directly before meeting your host.
- It is recommended to choose an early time slot to avoid crowds.
- Entrance to the Museums is timed. Please note the chosen time must be respected and latecomers will not be accommodated.
- For guests with documentation of disabilities and visible disabilities entry is free along with an additional ticket for 1 companion.
- Wheelchairs are available for rent in the lobby.
- Compulsory Vatican Dress Code: Visitors must wear clothing that covers their knees, arms, and back.
- The use of mobile phones and photography is strictly prohibited in the Sistine Chapel.
Roma Pass
- Tip: Choose to embark on a 40-minute immersive AR/VR experience at Circus Maximus, and watch history come to life!
- Pro Tip: At the national museums and archaeological sites (Colosseum included) on the first Sunday of the month, admission is free for all.
- The pass must be activated on the first journey on public transport even if it has already been started at the first entrance to a museum.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Visiting the Vatican in Rome
Michelangelo, Renaissance-era art and architecture, the Sistine Chapel, and the eternal seat of Roman Catholicism, are perhaps the best phrases to describe Vatican City. The beating heart of riveting history and culture, Vatican City is a paradise for art lovers around the world. From admiring stunning paintings like Raphael’s ‘The School of Athens’ and Caravaggio’s ‘The Entombment of Christ’ to exploring St. Peter’s Square and the immaculately-maintained Vatican Gardens, there’s plenty to soak in during a visit to Vatican City.
Your Vatican Tickets allow you access to the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel, allowing you to explore and discover the rich culture and heritage of the world’s smallest country.
All Vatican Ticket Options Explained
Skip the lines
All Vatican tickets include skip-the-line access, allowing you to bypass long queues. Your ticket includes access to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. Depending on what you opt for, your ticket may also include a guided tour or a multilingual audioguide.
How to Skip The Line at Vatican?
Guided Tours
The best way to explore all major and minor aspects of the Vatican is by opting for a guided tour. While a standard Vatican ticket might not include a guided tour, you can opt for one that does include the services of a professional tour guide. A Vatican tour will guide you past the priority entrance into the different landmarks in Vatican City, and enlighten you with interesting trivia and facts. The alternative option is opting for a ticket that includes an audio guide, which you can carry along while you tour the Vatican.
Book Vatican Guided Tours
Entry to St. Peter’s Basilica
A standard Vatican ticket does not include entry to St. Peter’s Basilica. You can opt for tours that specifically provide access to this landmark. Your professional tour guide will accompany you while you explore the historic church. If you would like to avoid long lines outside St. Peter’s Basilica, opt for a guided tour of the Vatican; this allows you to use the entrance that goes directly from within the Sistine Chapel into the basilica. Only with a tour guide can you access this entrance.
Book Tickets to St. Peter's Basilica
Early Morning Tour of Vatican
Visiting the Vatican is an experience in itself, but what if you could explore this popular attraction outside the opening hours? Go on a VIP tour where you can explore the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel without having to deal with the huge crowds. You will be accompanied by an English-speaking guide, who will fill you in with all the information about the history of the Vatican, the Popes, and artists whose works have been showcased here.
Explore Vatican at Night
Necropolis Tours
Enjoy an extremely unique experience by going on the Vatican Necropolis tour. Under the Vatican City, or more accurately, between 5 and 12 meters below St. Peter's Basilica, is a former burial ground, which is also believed to be the resting place of St. Peter. On this tour, which only allows a maximum of 250 people each day, you will be accompanied an expert guide (English, Spanish, French, or Italian) who will fill you in with interesting information about the Vatican Necropolis.
More About the Vatican Necropolis
Beyond the Vatican
There’s plenty more to see outside of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. If you would like to further explore, opt for Vatican tickets that provide access to the Apostolic Palace, Villa Barberini, and the pontifical gardens, all located in Castel Gandolfo, less than 30 km from Vatican city. The Palace served as the summer residence of Popes throughout history, making it a must-visit away from the crowds of Rome.
Castel Gandolfo ToursDiscounted Vatican Tickets
Visitors between the age of 18-25 enjoy reduced pricing on their tickets.
Vatican audioguides
Guests can rent audio guides at the Vatican Museums directly. Alternatively, they can book audio guides with their online reservations.
Which Vatican Ticket Should You Choose?
1. If you would like to save time
The best way to save time during your visit is by opting for skip-the-line Vatican tickets. They allow you to bypass the long waiting lines and get fast-track access to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.
2. If you’re on a budget
Opt for standard skip-the-line Vatican tickets if you’re traveling on a budget. These tickets give you access to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. You can rent an audio guide to help make your tour a more informative one.
3. If you’re looking for a guided tour
If you’re looking to explore in-depth, opt for a guided Vatican tour. Your professional tour guide will lead you to all major attractions in the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel while enlightening you with interesting facts and historical trivia. An added bonus is that you get direct access to St. Peter’s Basilica via the Sistine Chapel entrance by opting for a guided tour.
4. If you’re looking to explore further
You can explore beyond the Vatican by opting for a combo tour. Travelers can now visit the Pope’s summer residence — the Papal Villas, also known as the Apostolic Palace at Castel Gandolfo. Visitors can explore the Palace, the pontifical gardens, Villa Barberini, and more with these tickets.
Explore the Vatican
Yes. All your Vatican tickets include skip-the-line entry, allowing you to bypass the long lines.
The best way to explore all the attractions in Vatican City is by opting for a guided Vatican tour. Not only do you get skip-the-line access with your Vatican tour, but you also get early bird access to the museums in the morning, before the general crowd fills in.
A standard Vatican ticket gives you skip-the-line access to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.
Not all Vatican tickets include entry to St. Peter’s Basilica. You would have to purchase tickets that specifically offer admission into the basilica.
Yes. Your Vatican ticket includes skip-the-line entry into the Sistine Chapel as well.
Yes, only if you opt for a guided Vatican tour; your ticket will also include a guided tour of the Sistine Chapel as well. Please note that all visitors are expected to observe absolute silence while inside the Sistine Chapel. Your guide will provide you with all the information that you would need before you enter the chapel.
Since the Sistine Chapel is part of the Vatican Museums, it can only be accessed by going through the Museums and not via a separate entry.
No, you do not need an additional ticket to enter the Sistine Chapel. Your Vatican ticket includes entry into the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.
Entry into St. Peter’s Basilica is free and does not require a ticket. However, if you would like to skip-the-lines and opt for a guided tour, a Vatican ticket with entry into St. Peter’s Basilica allows you to do so. If you opt for a Vatican tour, you can enter St. Peter’s Basilica directly from within the Sistine Chapel.
Not all Vatican tickets include entry into St. Peter’s Basilica. You will have to purchase specific tickets that offer entry into the basilica.
If you opt for Vatican tickets that provide entry into St. Peter’s Basilica, you are by default eligible for skip-the-line access into the attractions.
Not all Vatican tickets include guided tours into St. Peter’s Basilica. Ensure that you book tickets that specifically offer entry and guided tours of St. Peter’s Basilica.
You can view some parts of the Apostolic Palace’s stunning rooms, such as the Sistine Chapel, Raphael Rooms, and Borgia Apartments.
Yes, your Vatican tickets include skip-the-line entry, allowing you to bypass the long lines.
Going on a guided tour of the Apostolic Palace will allow you to gain a deeper insight into the purpose and history attached to each room.
Yes, the rooms of the Apostolic Palace that visitors are allowed to view are a part of the Vatican Museums tour.
Yes, your Vatican Gardens tour includes skip-the-line access.
No. Not all Vatican tickets include access to the Vatican Gardens. You will have to book tickets that specifically include entry into the Vatican Gardens.
The availability of Vatican Gardens Guided tours is often limited. You can opt for an audio guide, instead.
Yes, your Vatican Necropolis tour includes skip-the-line access.
No, not all Vatican tickets include access to the Vatican Necropolis. You will have to book tickets that specifically include entry into the Vatican Necropolis.
Yes, the Scavi institution provides a licensed guide to accompany visitors on their Necropolis tours. It is best to go on a guided tour of the Necropolis to understand the historical significance of Necropolis.
No, You do not need separate tickets. Once you enter St. Peter’s Basilica, you can make your way below towards the Vatican Grottoes.
You have to choose tickets that offer skip the line access to St. Peter's Basilica, to enjoy skip the line entry to the Vatican Grottoes.
You can plan your visit to the Vatican Grottoes as part of your visit to St. Peter’s Basilica. Just head to Grottoes towards the end of your tour.
Beyond the Vatican
Castel Gandolfo
Located about 29 kilometers away from Vatican City is a quaint little town called Castel Gandolfo that looks like it was taken right out of a postcard. Situated on a rocky perch above Lake Albano, Castel Gandolfo is home to the Pope’s summer palace, the Barberini Gardens, Church of St. Thomas of Villanova and world's first postbox! You can also enjoy a quiet picnic by the beautiful lake and enjoy breathtaking views of the lush countryside.
Know MoreApostolic Palace
A visit to the Apostolic Palace — located in the charming little town of Castel Gandolfo — is the day trip from Vatican City you never knew you needed. Dating back to the 13th Century, the Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo was the summer palace of the Pope. The beautiful palace overlooks Lake Albano. On a tour of the Apostolic Palace, visitors get a glimpse of papal history through time; from religious attire, furniture, and art dating back centuries to black-and-white photographs and a beautiful landscape adorned with lush greenery.
Know More
Villa Barberini
Prepare for a landscape unlike anything seen before: umbrella-shaped pines, patches of fresh fruits and vegetables, brightly-colored flowers, sculptures and more await you at Villa Barberini. First built during Emperor Domitian’s reign, the serene Villa Barberini and its gardens are the perfect escape from the crowds and sweltering heat of Rome and Vatican City. Opt for a guided tour of Villa Barberini and the pontifical gardens to soak in its architecture, rich history and a delightful variety of immaculately-maintained foliage.
Know MorePlan Your Visit
The Vatican City sees close to 5 million visitors a year, so the smartest thing to do would be to plan ahead so you can enjoy a hassle-free trip.
The opening hours are now open from 9 AM to 6 PM from Monday to Saturday. The last entry into the museums will be at 4 PM. Every last Sunday of the month provided that Easter Sunday, 29 June, 25 December, 26 December, and 31 December, don't coincide, the museum will be open from 9 AM to 2 PM, with the final entry at 12:30 PM.
The Vatican Museums are closed every Sunday, and on 8 and 25 December.
You can expect the lowest crowd between November to March, making it the best time to visit the Vatican Museums. April to September is considered to be the busiest time of the year.
Getting to the Vatican is easy with multiple transport options available. You can take the Metro, a train, bus, or simply walk to Vatican City.
Yes. The Ottaviano-S. Pietro metro station is located right outside Vatican City. You can take Line A of Rome Metro to reach this station; from there, it’s just a 5-minute walk to the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Square.
Yes. You can take buses 40, 64, 62 and 81 to reach Vatican City. Buses 40 and 64 can be taken directly from Roma Termini.
No, you do not have to pay to enter Vatican City; however, you do have to purchase a ticket to enter landmarks like the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica.
There are two entrances to the Vatican City: Via Della Conciliazione and Via Vaticano.
If you’re planning on starting your tour at St. Peter’s Basilica, then you should enter Vatican from Via Della Conciliazione.
If you plan to start your trip of Vatican with the Vatican Museums, then enter from Viale Vaticano.
No, you don't need a passport or Visa to enter Vatican City. However, if you wish to enter the attractions inside, such as the Vatican Museums or the Sistine Chapel, you would need to buy tickets.
Your Vatican ticket includes skip-the-line access to Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, allowing you to bypass the long waiting lines. You should also consider visiting during the early hours, when the crowds are lesser.
Not all Vatican tickets include guided tours. You will have to opt for tickets that specifically provided a guided Vatican tour.
Your Vatican tickets include access to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.
Not all skip-the-line Vatican tickets include access to St. Peter’s Basilica. You will have to purchase tickets that specifically provide entry into St. Peter’s Basilica.
Vatican rules and regulations state that visitors must dress modestly during their visit. Low cut clothing, shorts, skirts, etc., are not permitted.
Mobile phone usage is allowed on the premises of Vatican City. However, Vatican rules and regulations state that it is discouraged in the Vatican Museums and completely restricted in the Sistine Chapel.
No. Outside food and drinks is strictly prohibited inside the Vatican Museums. If you are carrying any edible items, you can check it into the cloakrooms.
Yes, Vatican has a dress code, as it is a religious state and is quite stringent about it. Failure to adhere to the dress code can lead to you being denied entry. Clothes that expose your knees, including shorts, skirts, and dresses, are not allowed, as are offensive tattoos.
Shirts are preferred, however, men can sport a T-shirt as long as it doesn’t feature any offensive slogans or imagery. Sleeveless t-shirts or vests are not allowed. Shorts must level with your knees.
Women are not permitted to wear sleeveless, low-cut clothing or crop tops. The rule of thumb to follow is that the midriff and shoulders must be covered. Skirt, dress, as well as shorts, must be at least knee-length.
There’s no specific Vatican dress code for kids. However, the same rules as adults apply to them; shoulder and midriff should be covered. Shorts/Skirts should level with the knees.
Celebrating Christmas at Vatican is a magical affair. The city decks itself in pretty lights, a Christmas tree, and a Nativity scene. The mass at St. Peter's Basilica is one of the most viewed masses around the world. However, the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel is closed on December 25 and 26.
To book the Papal Audience tickets, you have to fill out a form and fax it to +39 06 698 85863 at least 2 months in advance. You’ll receive a letter that confirms that the church has received your request. However, this is not a ticket confirmation. You will have to go to the Preffetura Office 4-5 days before the mass, between 8 AM to 6 PM, to get the ticket.
The Christmas mass at Vatican takes place on December 24, at 9.30 PM.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vatican Tickets
Yes. The Vatican Museum is only accepting online reservations now. You can book your Vatican tickets online.
It depends on the ticket you choose to book. While some tickets offer a full refund on canceling tickets up to 48-72 hours in advance, for others there may be no refund available on cancelation. Please check before you make your reservation.
While the Vatican is accepting reservations for guided tours, it has placed a cap on the maximum number of visitors in a group. Each guided tour group can comprise up to 30 visitors.
The opening hours are now open from 9 AM to 6 PM from Monday to Saturday. The last entry into the museums will be at 4 PM. Every last Sunday of the month provided that Easter Sunday, 29 June, 25 December, 26 December, and 31 December, don't coincide, the museum will be open from 9 AM to 2 PM, with the final entry at 12:30 PM.
Entry to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel requires you to purchase tickets. On the other hand, entry to St. Peter’s Basilica is free. However, if you wish to skip the long lines at St. Peter’s Basilica, it is advised that you purchase a skip the line ticket as the queue can easily be up to 60 minutes long.
Yes, your Vatican tickets do include skip-the-line-access. With this, you get fast-track access to Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel without having to wait in long lines.
Yes, guided Vatican tours do include skip-the-line access. Your professional tour guide will escort you pass the long lines.
Not all Vatican tickets include access to St. Peter's Basilica. You will have to purchase tickets that specifically include access to the basilica.
Yes, the Vatican Museums are wheelchair accessible. In fact, the Vatican offers free entry to all disabled visitors with certified invalidity of more than 74%.
