Vatican Museums Tickets & Tours

4.3(130.6K Ratings)

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Vatican Museum Tickets






From happy customers

Loved by 35 million+
Stephanie Cordova
CA

Stephanie

Canada
Jul 2025
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Paulina was a star! In the heat and in the crowds she led our group through the Vatican museum, Sistine chapel and led us to St Peter's Basilica (where she did pre instruction as she cannot guide there. Our family learned a lot we would not know without the tour.
Kimberly Liberty
US

Kimberly

United States
Jul 2025
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Our guide Marta was very knowledgeable and nice. She was a great storyteller and gave great background throughout the tour in each area. The tour was good and I would recommend them. We had a very nice time on this tour and it went to all the spots we wanted. The description is accurate on what you get with the tour. I only have one suggestion - and that is during times with extreme crowds, it is important to ensure that all of the group is accounted for. My husband and I (and another girl we didn't know) were separated during the tour in a critical area to short cut into the Sistine Chapel. The group was given 15 minutes there, but because we were lost and took the long way, buy the time we got there, we were rushed and didn't get the time the rest of the group had. Please make sure to keep the group together. I do understand it is very hard because of the crowds, so this situation alone would not keep me from taking this tour with this tour group again as everything else in the tour was great.
Jennifer Lomas
US

Jennifer

United States
Jul 2025
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+1 more

We toured all the major areas and some of the gardens including the Sistine Chapel in about 3.5 hours. The flow through the Vatican was well thought out, some areas were more congested than others, but nothing unexpected or uncomfortable for such a popular destination.
Christine Carole White
US

Christine

United States
Jun 2025
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We had skip the line tickets so it was only 20 min wait. We saw the museum, had lunch in the garden and visited the Sistine Chapel.
Hunter Brabham
US

Hunter

United States
Jul 2025
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As someone with no base knowledge besides that the Vatican is the home of Catholicism. This was a great way for me to learn about all of Vatican City and the history of it. I would have been wandering around aimlessly without my tour
Georg Allgaier
DE

Georg

Germany
Jul 2025
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The insight into the beautiful, otherwise inaccessible Vatican Gardens was a highlight of my trip to Rome and the museums are also extremely interesting. The only thing was that the tour could have lasted a little longer / gone a little slower / possibly with getting off at exciting places. Admission to the museum was also uncomplicated and quick, without long queues. A recommendation!
Sandra Cerri
IT

Sandra

Italy
Jul 2025
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+1 more

We purchased online tour of Vatican gardens +entrance Vatican Museums (without guide). Very nice staff who greeted us and guided us until we boarded the bus......tour very nice, they provided us with earphones for a recorded guide who showed us The beautiful gardens Exciting and unique the tour inside The Vatican Museums.Definitely the "highlight" was being able to skip the endless lines for entry...especially on these particularly hot days.Experience to be repeated for sure!
ABDEL AGUILAR
PA

Abdel

Panama
Jun 2025
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I really liked the cordiality of the guides and the simplicity of the tour, along with the information provided. We started a few minutes after the agreed time, but it was still excellent.

Top things to do in Rome

Vatican Museums | Treasure trove of art and history in Vatican City

Explore the iconic Vatican Museums, home to some of the world's most famous artworks and historical artifacts. Choose from skip-the-line tickets for quick access, guided tours for in-depth exploration, combo tickets for a broader experience, or early morning and after-hour options that offer a more private visit.

Read on to find the best ticket option that will help you dive into the impressive art collection, and architecture that make the Vatican Museums a must-visit cultural landmark.

Things to know before you book your Vatican tickets

  • You can buy tickets at the Vatican Museums for €25, but online prices start at €34. The extra cost is worth it since online tickets save you between 1-3 hours of waiting time by skipping the on-site ticket queue. However, you may still need to go through a ticket redemption line and security check, which could take additional time.
  • Vatican tickets are in high demand and often sell out well in advance. It’s highly recommended that you book your tickets 3-4 weeks in advance during peak seasons and at least 1 week early in the off season.
  • A hosted entry is a great option if you want to avoid waiting altogether! You'll skip the ticket redemption queue, and your host will meet you at the entrance with your validated tickets, ready to go at your scheduled time.
  • The Vatican, with its intricate history at every corner, is one attraction where a guide can profoundly enhance the quality of your visit. Opting for a guided tour also comes with priority access and valuable insights into the art, architecture, and stories behind the landmarks. However, audio guides are a flexible alternative if you prefer to explore at your own pace.
  • While standard tours are more budget-friendly, small group tours (up to 15 guests) provide a more intimate and personalized experience. These tours are perfect for those who want more interaction with their guide and a closer look at Vatican highlights.
  • If you want to avoid the crowds, early morning or after-hours tours of the Vatican are perfect. The cooler temperatures and quieter atmosphere make for a serene setting to enjoy the art and architecture. These slots are limited, especially during summer, so book at least two weeks early.
  • Many tickets don’t include entry to certain areas of the Vatican, like the Necropolis, St. Peter’s Tomb, or Scavi are generally not included. Always review what’s excluded to avoid surprises.
  • The Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica are wheelchair-friendly; however, guided tours are not suitable for those with disabilities due to the specific routes they follow.
  • TheVatican Gardens are a popular rest stop for visitors, especially for families with kids and couples. Offering a peaceful retreat amid fountains, sculptures, and greenery, the Gardens are wheelchair-friendly and a wonderful place to unwind after touring the Vatican.
  • The Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica operate on different schedules, and the entry points are about 20 minutes apart. After visiting the Sistine Chapel, you’ll need to exit and make your way back to St. Peter’s Basilica, unless you're on a guided tour that allows access through the connecting door (which was closed during the pandemic but has since reopened).

Which Vatican Museum ticket is best for you?

Skip-the-line tickets - Vatican Museums

Standard tickets

Duration: Flexible (self-paced)
Vatican Museum access: Yes
Sistine Chapel access: Yes
St. Peter's Basilica access: No
Guide: No
Why go for it?

  • Ideal for budget travelers looking to explore on their own. Skip long queues at the ticket office, maximizing your time inside.
  • Option to avail local assistance with ticket redemption, ensuring a smooth entry process without confusion.
  • Upgrade to include an exclusive minibus tour of the beautiful Vatican Gardens with audio guide. 

Recommended tickets:

  • Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Tickets
Vatican Museum Combo tickets

Guided tours

Duration: 2-3 hrs.
Vatican Museum access: Yes, with skip-the-line entry
Sistine Chapel access: Yes
St. Peter's Basilica access: Optional
Guide: Yes
Why go for it?

  • Skip-the-line access to top Vatican attractions. Learn fascinating insights from expert guides about centuries of art, history, and culture.
  • Well-organized tours so you can see all highlights without missing key attractions.
  • Choose early morning or after-hours options for a more peaceful experience, away from thick crowds. Especially popular during the Italian summer season. 

Recommended tickets:

  • Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica Guided Tour
  • Early Morning Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Guided Tour
  • Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Guided Tour
Budget Vatican Tickets

Exclusive tours

Duration: 3 hrs.
Vatican Museum access: Yes, with skip-the-line entry
Sistine Chapel access: Yes
St. Peter's Basilica access: Optional
Guide: Yes
Why go for it?

  • Complete flexibility to tailor your Vatican experience to your interests.
  • Small group sizes for better interaction and attention from the guide.
  • Skip-the-line access and private tours make this a premium experience.

Recommended tickets:

  • Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica Guided Tour
Art and history buffs on a Guided Vatican tour

Combo tickets

Duration: Full day (approx.)
Vatican Museum access: Yes
Sistine Chapel access: Yes
St. Peter's Basilica access: No
Guide: Yes
Why go for it?

  • Value for money with combined attractions, saving both time and cost compared to buying separate tickets.
  • A comprehensive experience of two of Rome’s most iconic attractions in one day. 
  • Expert guides bring both ancient and religious history to life.

Recommended tickets:

Discounted Vatican Tickets

Visitors between the age of 18-25 enjoy reduced pricing on their tickets.

Cancelation Policy

Most Vatican tickets can be canceled 24-72 hours before the experience begins. However, some tickets cannot be canceled or rescheduled. Please check your ticket for details at the time of booking.

Explore the Vatican

Vatican Museums

A complex of art and historical museums situated within Vatican City, established by Pope Julius II in the early 16th century. The museums house an immense collection of art and artifacts amassed by the Roman Catholic Church over centuries.

Access included: Yes

Highlights & history of Vatican Museum
Visitors at the Sistine Chapel

Commissioned by Pope Sixtus IV and consecrated in 1483, the chapel is renowned for its Renaissance art, most notably the ceiling painted by Michelangelo between 1508 and 1512 depicting scenes from the Book of Genesis, including the famous Creation of Adam.

Access included: Yes

Book Tickets to Sistine Chapel
St. Peter's Basilica Interiors

One of the most significant and revered sites in Christianity, St. Peter's Basilica stands on the traditional site where Peter, the apostle who is considered the first pope, was crucified and buried. The basilica was consecrated in 1626, replacing an earlier church that stood on the same site.

Access included: Free entry, but guided tours and dome access require separate tickets.

Book St. Peter's Basilica Tours
Apostolic Palace

The official residence of the Pope, the Apostolic Palace is a complex of buildings including the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.

Access: Yes, the rooms of the ​Apostolic Palace that visitors are allowed to view are a part of the Vatican Museums tour.

What's the Apostolic Palace?
Vatican Gardens

Beautifully landscaped gardens and green spaces that cover approximately half of Vatican City's 44 hectares. Established during the Renaissance and Baroque eras, the gardens are designed with a mix of traditional Italian, French, and English styles, and feature a variety of fountains, sculptures, and grottoes set amidst lush lawns, flower beds, and tree-lined paths.

Access included: You will have to book tickets that specifically include entry into the Vatican Gardens.

Vatican Gardens Tour Options
Vatican Necropolis

The Apostolic Palace, also known as the Papal Palace, is the official residence of the Pope, the leader of the Roman Catholic Church. It is thus, a symbol of symbol of the papacy and the Catholic Church and serves as the venue for many official ceremonies, gatherings, and decisions related to the governance of the Church.

Access included: Not all Vatican tickets include access to the ​Vatican Necropolis. You will have to book tickets that specifically include entry into the Vatican Necropolis.

Vatican Grottoes

The Vatican Grottoes are a series of underground chapels and tombs located beneath St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. They serve as the final resting place for many popes and other significant figures associated with the Catholic Church.

Access included: You can plan your visit to the ​Vatican Grottoes as part of your visit to St. Peter’s Basilica. Once you enter St. Peter’s Basilica, you can make your way below towards the grottoes.

What To See At Vatican Museums?

The School of Athens in the Raphael Rooms

The School of Athens in the Raphael Rooms

Raphael's masterpiece depicting ancient philosophers in a grand architectural setting.

The Laocoön sculpture at the Vatican
The Transfiguration
The Gallery of Maps
The Belvedere Torso

Celebrate a once-in-a-lifetime Jubilee!

Every 25 years, a monumental celebration unfolds—a time when history, tradition, and faith converge. The Jubilee is not just an event; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that renews hope and inspires millions.

  • Originating from centuries-old traditions, the Jubilee marks a period of renewal, forgiveness, and spiritual rejuvenation.

  • Beyond festivities, it’s a time for reflection, redemption, and community unity—a moment to reconnect with what truly matters.

  • With this event occurring only once every 25 years, the Jubilee offers unique experiences and exclusive celebrations that you simply can’t miss.

Know more about this celebration that only comes around every quarter-century.

Plan Your Visit to Vatican Museums

Vatican Museum Timings

From Monday to Thursday: 9 AM to 6 PM
Friday: 9 AM to 10:30 PM
Saturday: 9 AM to 8 PM
Last Sunday of the month: 9 AM to 2 PM

Last admission: 2 hours before closing

Closed: Sundays (except the last Sunday of each month), 1 and 6 January, 11 February, 10 April, 1 May, 29 June, 15 and 16 August, 1 November,
8, 25, 26, and 31 December.

Best time to visit: The ideal period to visit the Vatican Museums is between November to March due to fewer crowds. However, the peak season, which sees the highest number of visitors, is from April to September.

Detailed Vatican Museum Timings

Address: Città del Vaticano, 00120 Vatican City

Getting there

  • By metro: Line A
    Nearest stop: Ottaviano-S. Pietro Station
  • By tram: Line 19
    Nearest stop: Piazza del Risorgimento
  • By bus: 40, 64, 62, 81, 32, 982, 492, 990
    Nearest stops: V.Le Vaticano/Musei Vaticani
  • By train: RE 12524 towards Civitavecchia or RE 4134 towards Pisa Centrale
    Nearest station: St. Pietro
  • By car: 3.2 kilometers from Roma Termini
    Car parking: Options include Parking Prati on Piazza Unità, 62 – 193 & Garage San Pietro on Via di Santa Maria alle Fornaci, 26 – 165
  • By Hop-on Hop-off Bus:
    Big Bus Tours:
    Nearest Stop: "Vatican Museums"
    Route: Red Route

City Sightseeing Rome:
Nearest Stop: "Vatican Museums"
Route: Red Route

I Love Rome:
Nearest Stop: "Vatican Museums"
Route: Red Route

Green Line Tours:
Nearest Stop: "Vatican Museums"
Route: Green Route

Step-by-step directions to the Vatican
Viale Vaticano Entrance

There are two entrances to the Vatican City:

  • Via Della Conciliazione Entrance: This is the primary entrance if you're starting your visit from St. Peter's Basilica. It leads directly to St. Peter's Square and the Basilica.
  • Viale Vaticano Entrance: Ideal for those who wish to begin their Vatican journey with the Vatican Museums. This entrance is closer to the museums, and from here, you can easily access the Sistine Chapel and other significant sites within the museums.
Detailed guide to all Vatican entrances
Drinking Fountain Facility in the Vatican
  • Cloakroom
  • Audioguide
  • Lost & Found
  • Post Office
  • Bookshops
  • First aid
  • Restrooms
  • AED Defibrillators
  • Drinking Fountains
Plan your visit to Vatican City
Vatican Museum Rules & Regulations
  • Large bags, suitcases, and containers must be left in the cloakroom.
  • Knives, scissors, umbrellas, sticks, and metal tools must be stored in the cloakroom. The use of laser points is not allowed. Firearms and hazardous materials are not allowed, even if licensed.
  • Photography is allowed in most areas except the Sistine Chapel. Flash and tripods are prohibited.
  • Special authorization is needed for reproducing or drawing the displayed works.
  • Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.
  • The use of mobile phones is discouraged. Silent mode is required, and phones are prohibited in the Sistine Chapel.
  • Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is strictly forbidden.
  • On every last Sunday of the month, the museum is open to the public for free. While this might sound like a great deal, the Vatican also tends to be the most crowded on these days, so it might be better to visit on another day.
  • No pets are allowed inside the museum. Service dogs are allowed if they have proper authorization.
Detailed Rules & Regulations
Dress Code at the Vatican

The 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.

  • For men: 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.
  • For women: 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.
  • For kids: 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.
What to Wear at the Vatican?
Christmas at Vatican

Celebrating ​Christmas at Vatican is a magical affair. The city decks itself in pretty lights, a ​Christmas tree, and a ​Nativity scene. However, the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel is closed on December 25 and 26.

The Mass

The mass at St. Peter's Basilica, which takes place on December 24, at 9.30 PM, is one of the most viewed masses around the world. 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.

Pizzarium by Gabriele Bonci - Dining in the Vatican
  • La Vittoria: A quaint trattoria offering classic Roman dishes, perfect for a hearty lunch after exploring the Vatican Museums.
  • Pizzarium by Gabriele Bonci: Renowned for its gourmet pizza slices, this spot is ideal for a quick and delicious bite.
  • Il Sorpasso: A rustic eatery with a diverse menu, from fresh pastas to savory meat dishes, ensuring something for everyone.
  • Gelateria dei Gracchi: After a long day of sightseeing, cool down with some artisanal gelato, known for its natural ingredients and unique flavors.
  • Duecento Gradi: A sandwich shop offering a wide variety of paninis made with fresh ingredients, perfect for a light meal or takeaway.
Accomodation options in Vatican

Budget

  • Hotel Ferrari (5.4 km away), Taormina Hotel (7.4 km away), Hotel Dina (5.8 km away)

Mid-Range

  • Hotel Oceania (4.8 km away), Hotel Columbia (5.3 km away), Hotel Canova (5.8 km away)

Luxury

  • Castello della Castelluccia (15 km away)
SIT Shuttle Bus

The Vatican doesn't have its own airport, so tourists arrive or depart from the Rome airports. Book Rome airport transfer services for a smooth connection from and to Rome's city center, the Vatican, and the airport.

International airports near the Vatican:

Some popular operators like SIT Shuttle Bus provide airport transfer services directly to and from Vatican and Rome Airports. Check out ​Rome Fiumicino Airport to the Vatican for more information.

Rome Airport Transfers

Beyond the Vatican

Roman Colosseum

Colosseum

Built of concrete and stone, it is the largest amphitheater ever built. It was commissioned by Emperor Vespasian in 70-72 AD and completed in 80 AD.

Colosseum Tickets
Villa Barberini

Villa Barberini

An ancient villa set amidst lush gardens, that dates back to the seventeenth century. It offers visitors an opportunity to experience life in this historic region and explore the beauty of its architecture and art.

Visit Villa Barberini
Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo

Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo

The historic summer residence of the Pope, nestled in Castel Gandolfo, was built in 1596 and is home to several historical artifacts from its past use as a papal retreat. The palace gardens are also open to visitors, filled with sculptures and fountains.

Explore Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo

Frequently asked questions about Vatican Tickets

How much is a ticket to the Vatican Museums?

The starting price for Vatican Museums tickets is €29. This typically includes skip-the-line access to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. Prices may vary based on additional features like guided tours or access to special areas.

How to book tickets to the Vatican Museums?

You can purchase tickets to the Vatican Museums online or at the venue. Online purchasing allows you to avoid the long queues at the ticket office. Additionally, some tickets offer combined access to ​St. Peter’s Basilica, providing a more comprehensive experience.

Why should I book Vatican Museums tickets online?

Booking Vatican Museums tickets online offers several advantages:

  • Skip the lines: The Vatican Museums are a major tourist attraction, and the lines can be extensive, especially during peak seasons. By purchasing tickets in advance online, you can bypass the ticket lines and save valuable time.
  • Guaranteed entry: Especially during peak seasons, walk-in tickets might be sold out. By booking in advance, you ensure your entry.
  • Variety of options: Plan your experience by choosing from various options, such as guided tours or evening tours. Combo tours to visit other attractions in Rome are also available.
  • Discounts & offers: Online bookings often come with special discounts and offers not available at the ticket office.
  • Customer service: Benefit from 24/7 customer service via phone, email, or chat.
What do Vatican Museums tickets include?

A standard Vatican Museums ticket includes skip-the-line access to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. Depending on the experience you choose, you may also get guided tours or special access to areas like the Raphael Rooms.

Are discounts available on Vatican Museums tickets?

Yes, EU citizens between the ages of 18 and 25 can avail of reduced pricing on their tickets with a valid ID. EU and non-EU citizens under 18, as well as teaching staff, can enjoy free or reduced entry into the Vatican Museums.

Can I get skip-the-line tickets for the Vatican Museums?

Absolutely! You can purchase Vatican Museums skip-the-line tickets, allowing you to bypass the long queues and enter with priority access. Some popular options include:

Do Vatican Museums tickets allow entry into St. Peter’s Basilica?

Standard Vatican Museums tickets grant access to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. For entry into St. Peter’s Basilica, you'll need to opt for specific combo tickets.

What is the cancellation policy for Vatican Museums tickets?

The cancellation policy varies based on the ticket type. Some tickets offer a full refund upon cancellation up to 48-72 hours in advance, while others might be non-refundable. Always check the specific terms before booking.

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Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.