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- Vatican Museums
- Sistine Chapel
- Vatican Grottoes
- Apostolic Palace
- Castel Gandolfo Papal Palace
- Raphael Rooms
- Villa Barberini
- Basilica of St. Mary Major
- Vatican Library
- Castle Gondolfo
- Vatican Archives
- History
- Inside
- Paintings
- St. Peter's Basilica
- Vatican Easter Mass
- Tours in Italian
- Vatican Necropolis
- Christmas Tree
- Vatican City
- Nativity Scene
- Secrets of Vatican
- Plan Your Visit
- Skip the Line Tours
- Guided Tours
- Night Tours
- Timings
- Directions
- Rules
- Entrances
- Facts
- Map
- Papal Audience
- Private Tours
- Omnia Card
- Information at a glance
- Vatican Mass
- Dress Code
- Colosseum
- St. Peter's Basilica
- Rome Pantheon
- Castel Sant Angelo
- Musei Capitolini
- Roman Catacombs Tour
- Borghese Gallery
- Altare della Patria
- Doria Pamphilj Gallery
- Rome To Amalfi Coast Tours
- Rome To Tuscany Tours
- Bioparco Rome
- Big Bus Rome Hop-on Hop-off Tours
- Palazzo Barberini
- Leonardo da Vinci Museum
- Trevi Fountain Tours
Vatican Garden tickets & tours
Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.
Exclusive guided tour of Vatican Gardens with access to Sistine Chapel & chosen Vatican Museum galleries.
- Skip long ticketing queues and tour the exclusive Vatican Gardens, usually reserved for select visitors, before entering the Sistine Chapel.
- Unravel centuries of Vatican history with an expert guide as you stroll past manicured gardens, historic fountains, and sacred grottoes, including the replica of the Lourdes Grotto.
- Admire Renaissance masterpieces inside the select Vatican Museum galleries, including the Gallery of Maps and Tapestries.
- Learn the stories behind Michelangelo’s genius before stepping into the Sistine Chapel to see The Last Judgment and the breathtaking ceiling frescoes.
Exclusive guided tour of Vatican Gardens with access to Sistine Chapel & chosen Vatican Museum galleries.
- Skip long ticketing queues and tour the exclusive Vatican Gardens, usually reserved for select visitors, before entering the Sistine Chapel.
- Unravel centuries of Vatican history with an expert guide as you stroll past manicured gardens, historic fountains, and sacred grottoes, including the replica of the Lourdes Grotto.
- Admire Renaissance masterpieces inside the select Vatican Museum galleries, including the Gallery of Maps and Tapestries.
- Learn the stories behind Michelangelo’s genius before stepping into the Sistine Chapel to see The Last Judgment and the breathtaking ceiling frescoes.
Inclusions
- Guided tour of the Vatican Gardens, Sistine Chapel & select Vatican Museum galleries
- Entry to the Vatican Gardens, Sistine Chapel & galleries (Gallery of Candelabras, Gallery of Maps, Gallery of Tapestries)
- Expert guide
Exclusions
- Access to the full Vatican Museums (only the mentioned galleries are included)
- St. Peter’s Basilica entry
- Audio guide
- Hotel transfers & meals
- Your ticket includes a specific entry time. Arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your chosen slot. Late arrivals will be considered a no-show.
- This tour is not accessible to wheelchair users. The Vatican Museums offer free wheelchair hire and free entry for visitors with mobility impairments (certified invalidity exceeding 74%) and a companion if required. However, the Vatican Gardens tour follows a fixed itinerary that is not wheelchair accessible.
- Dress modestly. Cover your shoulders, knees, and backs—this applies to all visitors.
- Expect a considerable wait at the security line. Patience is key, as security checks can take up to an hour during peak times.
- Silence and no photography in the Sistine Chapel. Guides will provide all essential details before entry.
- Vatican Gardens access is exclusive and follows a set route. Deviations or separate explorations are not permitted.
- No re-entry is allowed. Once you exit, you cannot return to the Vatican Museums or Gardens.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Tickets
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Reserved Entry Tickets with Vatican Gardens Open Bus Tour
A scenic Vatican Gardens tour by open bus, followed by fast-track access to the museums.
- Experience the Vatican City in two parts—an open-top bus tour of its lush gardens, followed by a self-guided visit to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.
- Glide through the Vatican Gardens, where Italian, French, and English-style landscapes cover nearly half of Vatican City, all with a multilingual audio guide.
- Skip lengthy ticket lines at the Vatican Museums and see its vast collection, from the Raphael Rooms to classical sculptures and Renaissance masterpieces.
- End at the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s breathtaking Last Judgment and Creation of Adam await.
A scenic Vatican Gardens tour by open bus, followed by fast-track access to the museums.
- Experience the Vatican City in two parts—an open-top bus tour of its lush gardens, followed by a self-guided visit to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.
- Glide through the Vatican Gardens, where Italian, French, and English-style landscapes cover nearly half of Vatican City, all with a multilingual audio guide.
- Skip lengthy ticket lines at the Vatican Museums and see its vast collection, from the Raphael Rooms to classical sculptures and Renaissance masterpieces.
- End at the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s breathtaking Last Judgment and Creation of Adam await.
Inclusions
- Vatican Gardens tour by open bus with a multilingual audio guide
- Entry tickets to the Vatican Museums
- Entry tickets to the Sistine Chapel
Exclusions
- Audio guide for Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
- Live guide
- Hotel transfers
- Food & drinks
- Arrive 30 minutes before the scheduled time at the Vatican Museums entrance on Viale Vaticano.
- Please note the chosen time must be respected and latecomers will not be accommodated.
- The onboard audio guide is available in English, Spanish, French, Italian, German, and Portuguese.
- There are no stops during the open bus tour of the Vatican Gardens.
- There's a strict dress code for the museums. Guests must wear clothing that covers the shoulders and knees.
- The tour is not wheelchair accessible.
- No children under 7 years old are allowed.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Reviews
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4.0
530 ratings
248
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Guests from United States, France, Spain and over 48 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Iker
Jun 2025Verified booking
The visit to the Vatican Gardens has been a unique experience, I went with my fiancée and we wanted to return once again and do it walking now because it is such a beautiful place that makes you want to spend more time observing every detail, the trip in the open bus is super good if you have an agenda to visit more things in Rome, because you can tour the gardens with ease, plus with the guide in multiple hate to choose the experience becomes more dynamic. We recommend it 100%
View original review in Spanish
linda
Jun 2025Verified booking
We had a good time. Thank you ... The wonderful works of Art ... 3 hours is not enough to admire them all ... but neither are months ....
View original review in Italian
Leonor
May 2025Verified booking
At the beginning of the street at the entrance to the Vatican Museum, signs should be put up saying : A sign: "Visits without a ticket" A sign: "Visits with a ticket" It's the best museum I've ever visited I find this museum very rich in works of art, clean and well organized. The Vatican gardens are beautiful. CONGRATULATIONS!
View original review in Portuguese
Sonnard
Apr 2025Verified booking
Magnificent experience. Visit to the sublime gardens. The museum is a sight to behold, paintings, sculptures waoooo. And the Sistine Chapel 🤩😍 What happiness. ROME IS A MAGNIFICENT CITY 🌟💖
View original review in French
Fudencia
Mar 2025Verified booking
Everything was fantastic, a little less people would have been nicer but I loved it, I don't think I got to see everything but it was incredible.
View original review in Portuguese
María
Jun 2025Verified booking
We waited in line but it was very fast. Interesting visit and we loved all the roofs, each one more beautiful than the other.
View original review in Spanish
Thomas
Jun 2025Verified booking
Everything was cool, of course the magnificent Sistine Chapel
View original review in German
Bruno
May 2025Verified booking
Visit to the gardens and direct entrance to the museum
View original review in French
MILE
Jun 2025Verified booking
When I got my student card, it wasn't stated anywhere until what age the student card is valid.I had to pay an additional 20 euros for a regular ticket.
Rubén
Jun 2025Verified booking
Without a doubt, the Sistine Chapel and not waiting in line to get in. I wish it wasn't mandatory to go through the whole museum to get to the chapel.
View original review in Spanish
Marta
Jun 2025Verified booking
In advertising of the tour was told that it's forbided for children under 6 years old to take part on it. But when we came to entrance guide told that my son is not able to go inside. In general under 6th years old it's under 6 years 11 months and 30 days. It's totally uncorrect. That's why I should to.stau with my smaller son and wait for the end of bus tour.
Gremeaux
Jun 2025Verified booking
THE Egyptian part of the museum is impressive, perhaps even better than the Louvre. Not having to queue is really a big plus. And the visit of the garden by bus was very beautiful and interesting.
View original review in French
Anastasio
Jun 2025Verified booking
The experience itself was wonderful, since the place deserves it. We arrived a while before the established time, tried to enter, without success. When the entrance to the site was allowed, the directions were followed, but in the site they gave different and changing directions (up to 4 counters were visited), this resulted in losing the agreed visiting hours, access to bus and guide (could not see the gardens), the audio guide had to be paid again. They were not very polite and did not give correct explanations to get access on time and without incident.
View original review in Spanish
concetta
Jun 2025Verified booking
We enjoyed the infinite historical and cultural heritage that the museum contains beginning with a beautiful bus tour x the enchanting Vatican gardens and ending the visit in the enchanting Sistine Chapel. There were endless people but the reservation system used allowed us to arrive and enter. Excellent service. Arriving early as suggested is essential.
View original review in Italian
Jolanta
Jun 2025Verified booking
The trip to the Vatican gardens and museum was wonderful. First of all, because I mistook the time of reservation and we came too early, a very nice lady took us right away and we didn't have to wait. The ride through the Vatican gardens was wonderful, while the tour of the museum and the Sistine Chapel would also have been amazing if not for the crowds of people. Nevertheless, we enjoyed everything very much.
This review is translated. Show original review.
Donna
May 2025Verified booking
They would not let us enter in time to meet our 1.00 time so we missed our guide, luckily we could join the 1.30 tour. Really difficult to get inside to join the tour we were turned back to the end of the queue 3 times as they told us we were too early. So much for beating the queues
LERMA
May 2025Verified booking
Everything went smoothly, as per directions received we arrived over 30 minutes early because we feared bedlam, once inside we went to the Vatican gardens desk, at the appointed time we were escorted to the bus then museums and finally Sistine chapel. Everything was perfect
View original review in Italian
Sharon
May 2025Verified booking
We were queuing like everyone else,got to the end & was told to go somewhere else pointing with her finger. Ran around like stupid people trying to find where to go. Eventually after asking at least 5 people a lovely lady showed us where we should of been with about 1 min to spare before the guide left! Phew never ever again!!
Mary
May 2025Verified booking
An excellent and unforgettable experience was the visit to the Vatican Gardens. Beautiful. VERY COMFORTABLE VISIT IN AN OPEN BUS AND EVERYTHING VERY WELL EXPLAINED. WITH THE TICKETS FROM THE HEADOUT WEBSITE WE SKIPPED THE LONG QUEUES. THE SISTINE CHAPEL WAS ALSO BEAUTIFUL.
View original review in Portuguese
MARIA
May 2025Verified booking
Impossible, rainy day. Too many people inside. They sent me to 3 different entrances, I walked back and forth. I managed to get in, thanks to the lady at the reception who took me to the group.
View original review in Spanish
Monica
May 2025Verified booking
It was a spectacular experience, the tour of the Vatican gardens was a great addition to the museums. Highly recommended!
View original review in Spanish
Samuel
May 2025Verified booking
General lack of directions on where to go next. The guide on the bus ride said nothing. Well he talked to the bus driver the entire time.
Cyril
May 2025Verified booking
The perfect welcome from the person at the guided tour reception who was able to direct us to the next bus, as the meeting point was almost inaccessible, with a 30-minute delay to get there in view of the crowds and unclear information. Many thanks to her. Then a superb walk in the gardens with a good audio guide. For the visit to the Vatican and the Sistine Chapel, in book mode, very nice but the groups go past, not paying attention to the people taking pictures. The restaurant is rather expensive, considering the items on offer.
View original review in French
Sandras
Apr 2025Verified booking
Some of the exhibition rooms were very crowded. A very fine array of works of art from all civilizations.
View original review in French
Christopher
Jun 2025Verified booking
It was most knowledgeable
Save 1–2 hours by skipping ticketing lines and explore the Vatican’s treasures on your schedule.
- Everything you get: Enter the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel at your selected time—no waiting at ticket counters. Stroll through iconic galleries, from ancient Roman sculptures to Renaissance masterpieces in the Gallery of Maps, before arriving at the Sistine Chapel to see Michelangelo’s legendary frescoes.
- Why choose this: Most visitors spend hours in line—this ticket gets you inside fast, so you can spend that time with the art. Once inside, explore at your own pace with no fixed route or guide schedule.
- Upgrades: Skip all logistics with hosted entry—a local rep meets you, validates your ticket, and walks you in. Once inside, explore freely or add an audio guide with expert commentary in 12 languages for deeper insights without joining a tour. Want to elevate your visit? Include a scenic open-bus tour of the Vatican Gardens—normally off-limits to the public.
Save 1–2 hours by skipping ticketing lines and explore the Vatican’s treasures on your schedule.
- Everything you get: Enter the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel at your selected time—no waiting at ticket counters. Stroll through iconic galleries, from ancient Roman sculptures to Renaissance masterpieces in the Gallery of Maps, before arriving at the Sistine Chapel to see Michelangelo’s legendary frescoes.
- Why choose this: Most visitors spend hours in line—this ticket gets you inside fast, so you can spend that time with the art. Once inside, explore at your own pace with no fixed route or guide schedule.
- Upgrades: Skip all logistics with hosted entry—a local rep meets you, validates your ticket, and walks you in. Once inside, explore freely or add an audio guide with expert commentary in 12 languages for deeper insights without joining a tour. Want to elevate your visit? Include a scenic open-bus tour of the Vatican Gardens—normally off-limits to the public.
Inclusions
- Entry to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
- Hosted entry to Vatican Museums with ticket redemption (as per option selected)
- Vatican Garden open bus tour (as per option selected)
- Booking and service charges
Exclusions
- Live guide
- Entry to St. Peter's Basilica
- Gratuities
- Names on tickets must match a valid photo ID. Double-check the details at checkout for a smooth entry.
- Your ticket includes a specific entry time. Arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your chosen slot as delays might lead to denied entry.
- If you've chosen the Vatican Gardens open-bus tour, your visit will begin with the garden tour starting at the museum entrance, followed by entry to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.
- The Vatican Museums has free wheelchair hire and free entry for visitors with mobility impairments (certified invalidity exceeding 74%) and a companion if required. Click here for the accessible route.
- Cover your shoulders, knees, and backs—this applies to all visitors.
- When in Sistine Chapel, silence is mandatory and photography is prohibited.
- Expect a considerable wait at the security line, especially during peak times. Patience is key, it could take up to an hour.
- The Sistine Chapel is located at the end of the Vatican Museums tour, so expect to pass through the iconic galleries before reaching it.
- Please note that the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel are separate sites from St. Peter’s Basilica.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Reviews
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4.4
34,753 ratings
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13.0K
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Guests from France, United States, Spain and over 110 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Iker
Jun 2025Verified booking
The visit to the Vatican Gardens has been a unique experience, I went with my fiancée and we wanted to return once again and do it walking now because it is such a beautiful place that makes you want to spend more time observing every detail, the trip in the open bus is super good if you have an agenda to visit more things in Rome, because you can tour the gardens with ease, plus with the guide in multiple hate to choose the experience becomes more dynamic. We recommend it 100%
View original review in Spanish
Irma
Jun 2025Verified booking
We bought the tickets the same day and they had availability, it was super easy to arrive and check in, the super friendly guides explain everything you need to know and accompany you to the entrance door ahhh and you avoid the long lines.... In the end we were able to see the whole museum and also the Sistine Chapel everything was amazing thanks and greetings from Mexico.
View original review in Spanish
linda
Jun 2025Verified booking
We had a good time. Thank you ... The wonderful works of Art ... 3 hours is not enough to admire them all ... but neither are months ....
View original review in Italian
HARISOLOFO
Jun 2025Verified booking
The queue-cutting tickets for the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel: a real added value for the visit and an invaluable time-saver for enjoying the place to the full, and the guide who welcomed us and accompanied us to the entrance was friendly and very clear - a much appreciated plus. I'd definitely recommend it!
View original review in French
Ivana
Jun 2025Verified booking
This was our first visit so we had big expectations. Our guide Silvia fulfilled them and even more. She explained every detail and answered all our questions which made this journey unforgerable. Silvia is high experienced and very pleasant guide. Our 7 Years old son enjoyed during all time if visit.
José
May 2025Verified booking
Buying through the agency was very important. It avoided a huge queue to get in! Not to mention the professionalism and cordiality we received. Visiting the Vatican Museum and the Sistine Chapel was like living a dream! It's worth it and I recommend it!
View original review in Portuguese
Leonor
May 2025Verified booking
At the beginning of the street at the entrance to the Vatican Museum, signs should be put up saying : A sign: "Visits without a ticket" A sign: "Visits with a ticket" It's the best museum I've ever visited I find this museum very rich in works of art, clean and well organized. The Vatican gardens are beautiful. CONGRATULATIONS!
View original review in Portuguese
Anne
May 2025Verified booking
It was great to get in fairly quickly and explore at our own speed. We found the group tour guides annoying as they kept stopping g in the middle of the passage ways blocking everyone else!!
Mehmet
May 2025Verified booking
Visiting Vatikan Museums was one of best my experiences. I expected more crowds . But Maybe it was about time . I visited there at 4 pm and when I was out, it was 8 pm. I had researched paintings, fresks, statues in museum. So I got happy when I saw them. Best museum in the World!
Gerrit
May 2025Verified booking
Skipping the long lines was great. Everything neatly arranged. The Sistine Chapel was unfortunately closed because of the conclave but things like that cannot be planned.
View original review in Dutch
Aleksei
Apr 2025Verified booking
The exciting sightseeing. So many beautiful works of art. If you are interested in the history of Rome, this trip tells you something new or explain you something what you knew before.
GOLISANO
Apr 2025Verified booking
Coming to Rome without visiting the Vatican Museums is just not possible!!! The spiral staircase, a true wonder! Raphael's rooms not to be missed! The Gallery of Maps is also without a doubt a must see. Excellent organization through online booking of tickets.
View original review in Italian
LALANDE
Apr 2025Verified booking
Antonio was great, with clear and precise explanations of the history of the monuments. Lots of humor, which made the visit very enjoyable!
View original review in French
Jason
Apr 2025Verified booking
It was an exceptional experience! The super friendly and efficient guide at the entrance to the Vatican! He was right at the meeting point and I called him in 2 minutes and he returned my call quickly! I recommend it! We loved the experience!
View original review in Portuguese
Gianfranco
Apr 2025Verified booking
Dario the guide who took us inside the Vatican museums was very kind as well as knowledgeable in giving information let's say the Top
View original review in Italian
MARCHE
Mar 2025Verified booking
I came in 2017 ans now 2025 but still the same surprise. Everything was so beautiful, museums, paints, monuments... I was with my mother 79 years old and I would to congragulate the Vatican organization, specially for the people with reduce mobility. We appreciate Grazie Mille !!!!
Antonella
Mar 2025Verified booking
Everything. I didn't believe in the power of culture. I didn't believe in the majesty and depth of the message. Now I am different. Aware and deeply grateful.
View original review in Italian
Fudencia
Mar 2025Verified booking
Everything was fantastic, a little less people would have been nicer but I loved it, I don't think I got to see everything but it was incredible.
View original review in Portuguese
FIGUCCIO
Mar 2025Verified booking
The works you can admire are unique in the world. The only thing that can be improved is the management of lines to enter.
View original review in Italian
Rhonda
Mar 2025Verified booking
So glad we bought the skip the line tickets! We would have been waiting in line for hours without it! With Headout we were inside and through all the right checks in a few minutes The Vatican Museums are fantastic, with many beautiful paintings and decorative ceilings. The Sistine Chapel is especially impressive. The crowds did not really hold us up while walking around inside. There's so much to see you really need about 3 hours to see it all.
Nelly
Mar 2025Verified booking
The visit to the Vatican Museum and the Sistine Chapel is a must do if you want to visit .... we loved everything wonderful, spectacular !!!!
View original review in Spanish
CHEN
Mar 2025Verified booking
Not on time. I thought this was from official web but turns out there's a "host" so they charged extra fee. The vatican itself 10/10 I would recommend to hire a tour guide to explain better about the history behind it
Cécile
Mar 2025Verified booking
Pleasant visit with a very correct queue and on time thanks to the queue-cutting ticket, the place is magnificent and the visit pleasant despite the crowd, in 1h30 max the circuit is done and the audioguide is very useful.
View original review in French
Tetiana
Mar 2025Verified booking
This is my second time in the meze, and this time it made a very strong impression on me. Maybe because I looked at everything calmly, without rushing anywhere. A pleasant surprise were the benches for rest. Thank you for your concern! In general, there is not much to say here. Because this is a truly fascinating journey through the world of art.
Martiradonna
Mar 2025Verified booking
Despite the line it was all smooth, an unforgettable experience. Buying from the site is all faster and safer.
View original review in Italian
Guided Tours
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Guided Tour with St. Peter's Basilica
Explore all three Vatican highlights with skip-the-line access to the Museums and exclusive entry to the basilica via a hidden passage.
- Everything you get: Skip the ticketing queues and follow your expert guide through the Vatican Museums, including the Gallery of Maps, Raphael Rooms, and more. Get all the context you need before stepping into the Sistine Chapel to admire Michelangelo’s masterpieces. Enter St. Peter’s Basilica directly—skipping the 2-hour queue—through a special passageway from the Chapel.
- Why choose this: This shortcut takes you straight from the Sistine Chapel into St. Peter’s Basilica, saving you hours of waiting. With over a millennium of history, St. Peter’s is packed with must-see treasures, and your guide ensures you don’t miss the iconic rooms and hidden stories you'd likely miss on your own.
- Upgrade: Choose a semi-private tour with a small group (max 10) for a deeper, more exclusive experience across all three Vatican sites. Or start your day in a serene setting with early access—beat the crowds and reach the Dome’s summit for spectacular views.
Explore all three Vatican highlights with skip-the-line access to the Museums and exclusive entry to the basilica via a hidden passage.
- Everything you get: Skip the ticketing queues and follow your expert guide through the Vatican Museums, including the Gallery of Maps, Raphael Rooms, and more. Get all the context you need before stepping into the Sistine Chapel to admire Michelangelo’s masterpieces. Enter St. Peter’s Basilica directly—skipping the 2-hour queue—through a special passageway from the Chapel.
- Why choose this: This shortcut takes you straight from the Sistine Chapel into St. Peter’s Basilica, saving you hours of waiting. With over a millennium of history, St. Peter’s is packed with must-see treasures, and your guide ensures you don’t miss the iconic rooms and hidden stories you'd likely miss on your own.
- Upgrade: Choose a semi-private tour with a small group (max 10) for a deeper, more exclusive experience across all three Vatican sites. Or start your day in a serene setting with early access—beat the crowds and reach the Dome’s summit for spectacular views.
Inclusions
- Guided tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel with skip-the-line entry
- St. Peter's Basilica Access
- Expert English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, or Portuguese-speaking guide
- Semi private tour with a max group of 10 (as per option selected)
- Early morning tour with St. Peter's Basilica and Dome climb (as per option selected)
- Headphones
Exclusions
- Gratuities
- Entry to St. Peter's Basilica Dome
- Names on tickets must match a valid photo ID. Double-check the details at checkout for a smooth entry.
- Your ticket includes a specific entry time. Arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your chosen slot.
- Knees, shoulders, and back must be covered for all guests.
- While the tour is not accessible to wheelchair users, the Vatican Museums offer free wheelchair hire and free entry for visitors with mobility impairments (certified invalidity exceeding 74%) and a companion if required.
- When in Sistine Chapel, silence is mandatory and photography is prohibited. Guides will provide all necessary and interesting details before entry.
- Expect a considerable wait at the security line, especially during peak times. Patience is key, it could take up to an hour!
- Please be aware that during the Jubilee Year, certain areas of the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel, may be inaccessible due to religious ceremonies or unforeseen circumstances. St. Peter's Basilica may also experience unannounced closures. The closure of any museum section does not entitle visitors to any refund.
- St. Peter’s Basilica may be closed on Wednesday mornings and afternoons due to the Papal Audience in St. Peter’s Square. If you’d like to attend, book an exclusive invitation with guaranteed seating.
- With the Jubilee underway, all entrances to St. Peter's Basilica are restricted. Therefore, in order to secure access, it will be necessary to complete the reservation no later than 5 days before the experience.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Reviews
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4.4
18,576 ratings
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Guests from United States, France, United Kingdom and over 94 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Christine
Jun 2025Verified booking
The crowds were very heavy for the jubilee but our guide was wonderful in directing us and keeping us focused on the important details on the museum and Basilica!
Annett
May 2025Verified booking
The tour guide was very well organized, punctual, very entertaining and in addition to his technical and historical knowledge also liked to have a humorous joke along the way. The group was very pleasant with 10 people, it always moved quickly so that we could see everything and also ask what we wanted from this tour. Thank you very much. We are very happy to recommend this tour.
View original review in German
Stephen
May 2025Verified booking
Everything that was mentioned in the tour we saw. Our guide Olga explained so much to the in-depth knowledge & history of The Vatican & sacred places. The crowds were overwhelming but Olga was able to guide us safely to the best vantage points
Felipe
May 2025Verified booking
Very complete visit, the meeting point very easy to locate. I would have liked to have been able to enjoy a little more of the Sistine Chapel, but there were many people and we passed quickly. Otherwise everything was great !!!!
View original review in Spanish
Tiffany
May 2025Verified booking
Absolutely loved our guide, Antonio that also speaks Japanese. He was knowledgeable and passionate about his tours. He knew the end and outs making it unforgettable.
Chloé
May 2025Verified booking
Very good guide bravo! However, we didn't have time to go to St Peter's Basilica, even though it was included in the ticket.
View original review in French
Anna
May 2025Verified booking
We visited the Vatican Museums with an exceptional guide named Marco and we were really thrilled with the experience. Marco was very well prepared, clear in his explanations and very passionate: he was able to convey to us the importance and beauty of the works of art in an engaging and never boring way. Thanks to him we were able to better appreciate the richness of the Vatican Museums, and the whole tour. We highly recommend this guided tour, especially with Marco: he made our day unforgettable!
View original review in Italian
Lori
May 2025Verified booking
Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable about both the history of all sites but also about how to effectively navigate the journey through the spaces during such an extremely crowded time. Due to the jubilee crowds we had some delays, and our tour ran long. She did not rush through the museums, nd gave us the complete tour anyway. Seeing that some on the group were getting tired, she sought out places to sit and rest, and was more concerned with everyone's health and happiness than ending on time. A native Roman, the depth of her knowledge, her personal perspectives, and her passion were amazing! Since the sistene chapel was closed, she spent 20 minutes using picture handouts to talk through the meaning of the art inside. The climb to the dome was my favorite part - to be inside seeing the mosaics and the perspective of such a grand church from above were incredible!
Vanessa
Apr 2025Verified booking
Our guide Theresa was simply great! She told and explained everything so well. The whole tour was super nice and absolutely recommendable.
View original review in German
Harriet
Apr 2025Verified booking
Fantastic tour! It's worth it to skip the queues and have a guided tour with a small group. Wonderful experience which I would reccomend to anyone and will absolutely do it again.
Helen
Apr 2025Verified booking
Our guide, Francesca, was funny and easy to listen to. She brought the history to life with her stories and kept us all interested at what was a very busy time in the Vatican. The Vatican museums and gardens were stunning, the Sistine Chapel was breathtaking and St Peter's Basilicia was beautiful. Francesca's stories about the art in the Sistine Chapel and Michelangelo's antics were the highlight for me.
Erin
Apr 2025Verified booking
Our tour of the Vatican museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's basilica was amazing. The crowds were crazy but our tour guide kept us together and helped us get where we wanted to go. Her information was great and she was entertaining.
Harry
Apr 2025Verified booking
The guide was phenomenal !!! So knowledgeable, so invested in the history, and importing that to the group. Her timing, for ingress and egress to specific areas was so beneficial to the whole experience.
Anthony
Mar 2025Verified booking
I love the entire surreal experience with Vatican Museum,Sistine Chapel and St Peter's Basilica self guided tour. She was an excellent tour guide on everything she talks about. I would highly recommend her and tour company. It was very easy to meet up and how organize it was. Thank you for the wonderful experience. #firsttimeinItaly!!!!
Yulia
Mar 2025Verified booking
Great visit with guide Paola, we didn't have to hear to get into the museums and we learned so much!
View original review in French
stacie
Mar 2025Verified booking
Fred was amazing. Our group was small which was even better. He was super informative without being boring or too lengthy. He moved us through swiftly without rushing and was super joyful.
Rafael
Mar 2025Verified booking
It was a great success to have booked the guided tour of the Vatican, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica with Headout. I did not know you but I trusted the comments and I was right. Alessandro (our guide) was very experienced in getting around the Vatican and very knowledgeable in explaining each part of the Vatican. It is definitely worth your guided tour and I have to say that it is perfect value for money. Thank you.
View original review in Spanish
Yasmin
Mar 2025Verified booking
The highlight of our visit to th Vatican was going through the holy door, the crowd was not as bad as I thought they would be. Our host was great she took her time explaining and giving us the history behind the painting/structures/rooms. We spent most of our time in St. Peter basilica, we where able to go underground to see the tomb of the pope's. The we did some shopping in the Vatican store, it was a great experience.
Liguori
May 2025Verified booking
Knowledgeable guide, very attentive and helpful.
View original review in Italian
Ayvazyan
May 2025Verified booking
Our guide, Federico Grande was great. We pass the line in about 5 min. We saw and heard a lot of interesting.
EVELYN
May 2025Verified booking
Very interesting tour we did, it allowed us to take pictures and explore the beautiful place.
View original review in Spanish
Robert
May 2025Verified booking
Our guide was awesome. Skip the line was great
Tamara
May 2025Verified booking
Our tour guide was patient and extremely knowledgeable. She interacted with guests pleasantly and was very sincere.
Lorena
Apr 2025Verified booking
the guide was super qualified! excellent, entertaining, didactic. Impeccable
View original review in Spanish
Favre
Apr 2025Verified booking
The guide Liliane at the Vatican was great and the Colosseum guide was also very good.
View original review in French
Gain deeper insight into the museums' treasures and Michelangelo’s frescoes with an expert guide.
- Everything you get: Skip the long ticketing lines—saving 1–2 hours—and explore the Vatican Museums with your expert guide. Visit iconic galleries like the Gallery of Maps and the Raphael Rooms, then step into the Sistine Chapel with the context that brings Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes and The Last Judgment to life.
- Why choose this: The Vatican collection is so extensive it could take 48 days to see it all. In a group of just 20 people, this tour helps you discover the most important works in just a few hours, with expert insights that make them unforgettable.
- Upgrades: Prefer a more personal, engaging experience? Choose a small-group tour with fewer than 15 guests. You can also add an open-bus tour of the Vatican Gardens for exclusive access to the sprawling green spaces hidden behind the museums.
Gain deeper insight into the museums' treasures and Michelangelo’s frescoes with an expert guide.
- Everything you get: Skip the long ticketing lines—saving 1–2 hours—and explore the Vatican Museums with your expert guide. Visit iconic galleries like the Gallery of Maps and the Raphael Rooms, then step into the Sistine Chapel with the context that brings Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes and The Last Judgment to life.
- Why choose this: The Vatican collection is so extensive it could take 48 days to see it all. In a group of just 20 people, this tour helps you discover the most important works in just a few hours, with expert insights that make them unforgettable.
- Upgrades: Prefer a more personal, engaging experience? Choose a small-group tour with fewer than 15 guests. You can also add an open-bus tour of the Vatican Gardens for exclusive access to the sprawling green spaces hidden behind the museums.
Inclusions
- Guided tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel with skip-the-line entry
- Expert English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, or Portuguese-speaking guide
- Explore with a group of up to 20 people
- Guided tour of Vatican Gardens (as per option selected)
- Small group tour (as per option selected)
- Nighttime tour (as per option selected)
Exclusions
- Gratuities
- Entry to St. Peter's Basilica and/or guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica
- Names on tickets must match a valid photo ID. Double-check the details at checkout for a smooth entry.
- Your ticket includes a specific entry time and delays might lead to denied entry. Arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your chosen slot.
- Knees, shoulders, and back must be covered for all guests.
- While the tour is not accessible to wheelchair users, the Vatican Museums offer free wheelchair hire and free entry for visitors with mobility impairments (certified invalidity exceeding 74%) and a companion if required.
- When in Sistine Chapel, silence is mandatory and photography is prohibited. Guides will provide all necessary and interesting details before entry.
- If you've chosen the tour with Vatican Gardens, note that it includes access to only select Museum galleries (Gallery of Candelabras, Gallery of Maps, and Gallery of Tapestries).
- Please be aware that during the Jubilee Year, certain areas of the Vatican Museums may be inaccessible due to religious ceremonies. Additionally, entrance to St. Peter's Basilica may also experience unannounced closures.
- The Vatican Museums reserve the right to close any section, including the Sistine Chapel, due to unforeseen circumstances. The closure of any museum section does not entitle visitors to any refund.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
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Guests from United States, United Kingdom, Spain and over 91 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Timothy
May 2025Verified booking
Maurizio was an amazing tour guide. His knowledge about every piece of art was sensational. 100% would do this tour again! Very seamless pickup at meeting location and walking us into Vatican City, guiding us through security. Only feedback is not on tour guide but the headsets used. The system is a bit finicky. The headphones are a bit uncomfortable. I'd say the vox or similar wired headphone systems are superior.
Julie
May 2025Verified booking
I am glad that I bought tickets ahead of time to avoid the long lines. It was very crowded, but we made it through. To see the Vatican museum in person was breathtaking!
Andrea
May 2025Verified booking
The guide was knowledgeable and personable. I loved it! However, I think it should have been written somewhere anyway since the ticket bought also covered the Sistine Chapel, which would be closed as of April 28.This was not indicated anywhere.
View original review in Italian
Agostino
Apr 2025Verified booking
Due to indisposition of the guide for the Vatican Museums, we had our booked visit varied to include the Vatican gardens. Still, it was a good experience, expertly illustrated by the lady who guided us. The presence of a very large audience somewhat marred our expectations so we will repeat the experience in quieter times. Thank you.
View original review in Italian
Lynn
Apr 2025Verified booking
Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and friendly! She taught us so much about the Vatican and explained the most important aspects of what we were seeing. We were able to skip the long lines. It was easy to find our meeting point. I would highly recommend booking with them. Worth every penny!!
Paul
Apr 2025Verified booking
Absolutely amazing seeing all of those incredible works of art. It would take a lifetime to see and hear the history behind all of the priceless works.
Judith
Mar 2025Verified booking
The service was exceptional. We arrived late, quite upset as our plans had not worked out as we hoped, expecting to be told that we'd missed our tour. Alex (or Alec?) quickly took us to the Vatican entrance where he was able to locate our guide and your group. We couldn't be more thankful for him for that. Lucia, our guide, was informative and helpful, offering to take photos of group members at different points on the tour. We will use this company again and highly recommend them to other tourists.
Doriano
Mar 2025Verified booking
Acceptance and entrance to museums very fast,assistants very professional and kind,guide very good and engaging;I highly recommend this experience.
View original review in Italian
DERLY
Mar 2025Verified booking
Carmelo, our guide was exceptional! He explained everything very well and in a very pleasant way! Please note that this tour is only VATICAN MUSEUMS and SIXTINE CHAPEL, it does not include entrance to St. Peter's Basilica. We loved everything we saw and heard!
View original review in Spanish
Elaine
Jun 2025Verified booking
The tour started to late because a miscommunication of the guide and the organisation. This was also discussed in front of the tour group. This gave people an uncomfortable feeling . The guide and the tour were amazing
Richard
Jun 2025Verified booking
Very efficient staff at meeting point. Absolutely brilliant guide( Frederica) who was exceptionally knowledgeable. She gave us a lot of information naturally as opposed to parrot fashion. We had time to ask questions too. She was friendly and helpful. The tour lasted almost three hours and the time passed so quickly. This is a fantastic tour which we recommend 100%.
zuurbier
Jun 2025Verified booking
we were fortunate to be accompanied by a very kind and very knowledgeable guide who made the visit interesting in the delirium of a bewildering overcrowding . without the guide so comprehensive would have been an " ordeal " devoid of interest in a unique place in the world . congratulations to the guide , and to Vs organization .
View original review in Italian
Laura
Jun 2025Verified booking
Reservations allow you to skip the line. The staff giving directions was very nice. Our guide very kind and knowledgeable. We really enjoyed the walk to the gardens and museums.
View original review in Italian
LUCCA
Jun 2025Verified booking
Very good experience, very good guide, super nice tour, however, there was no queue-free access. We queued for 1 hour and 15 minutes in the sun
View original review in Portuguese
Nadine
Jun 2025Verified booking
The guide was very friendly and easy to understand. He led us through the museums with joy and enthusiasm.
View original review in German
Hiesinger,
Jun 2025Verified booking
The tour guide Theresa!!! Incredible amount of knowledge, told with wit and charm, very interesting and entertaining tour!!!
View original review in German
Roberto
Jun 2025Verified booking
We took the guided tour with Juan Miguel Ortiz and it was really fantastic. His concrete explanations, fluid, full of knowledge and his kindness was the perfect complement to this unforgettable visit. We would definitely repeat. Thank you
View original review in Spanish
Sally
Jun 2025Verified booking
The vending machines didn't take big notes or cards so we didn't have a chance to get water and it wasn't made clear to us that we wouldn't have access to water once inside the gardens, this unfortunately made it difficult to enjoy. We also thought it was a bus tour around the garden. There are way too many people going through the museums and the Sistine chapel, it was uncomfortable and overpriced to be packed in like sardines. Would not recommend d.
Raquel
Jun 2025Verified booking
The guide was pleasant and knowledgeable; however, I was expecting more in-depth information about the artworks displayed in the museum. Some of the explanations felt a bit superficial.
Don
Jun 2025Verified booking
Seeing The Vatican, was a highlight however there was such large crowds and lines. It was difficult to manage. Our Tour got started late because of change in meeting location and some of the other group was quite late. The headset was not working most of the time and our guide was difficult to understand. We felt like we were just in line for hours and being moved around like cattle. What we did get to see was fabulous, but it was not worth the tour. I would definitely do it another way next time.
Luca
Jun 2025Verified booking
Vatican Museums unique in the world ,Sistine Chapel to be breathless , a synonym of true beauty ? Being able to admire the frescoes of the Sistine Chapel and my compliments to the very good Carolina our guide who accompanied us on this journey immersed in beauty
View original review in Italian
MARCO
May 2025Verified booking
Punctuality, clear detailed explanation of the guide, mastery of the topics related to the tour, good treatment to people. Faster and direct access to the different museums. Well organized.
View original review in Spanish
Kishor
May 2025Verified booking
We attended the guided tour as a family and had a wonderful experience exploring the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. The guide was knowledgeable , bringing the rich history and incredible art to life. The collection is vast and truly awe-inspiring — a must-see in Rome
Myrna
May 2025Verified booking
We did actually "Skip-the-line". The process was easy and communication from the tour company was great! Our tour guide, Mauricio, was very knowledgeable and gave detailed information. He was even funny.:) Worth every euro I paid!
Jane
May 2025Verified booking
The Guide was excellent. After the tour, he offered to bring us to St. Peter's Square. It just so happened we were there when the Pope Leo was elected. It was brilliant.
Witness Pope Leo XIV’s first public audiences with exclusive, reserved seating in St. Peter’s Square.
- Everything you get: Experience one of the Vatican’s most moving traditions as Pope Leo XIV addresses pilgrims from around the world. With guaranteed seating in St. Peter’s Square, you’ll join hymns, prayers, and reflections in the heart of Catholicism. A guide will help you understand the ceremony, its history, and its spiritual meaning.
- Why choose this: A rare chance to witness the Pope live—something most visitors only dream of. With reserved seating, skip the stress and soak in this once-in-a-lifetime moment, experiencing a centuries-old tradition up close.
- Upgrades: After the gathering, explore the Basilica’s chapels, tombs, and masterpieces with a guided tour that adds meaning to your morning.
Witness Pope Leo XIV’s first public audiences with exclusive, reserved seating in St. Peter’s Square.
- Everything you get: Experience one of the Vatican’s most moving traditions as Pope Leo XIV addresses pilgrims from around the world. With guaranteed seating in St. Peter’s Square, you’ll join hymns, prayers, and reflections in the heart of Catholicism. A guide will help you understand the ceremony, its history, and its spiritual meaning.
- Why choose this: A rare chance to witness the Pope live—something most visitors only dream of. With reserved seating, skip the stress and soak in this once-in-a-lifetime moment, experiencing a centuries-old tradition up close.
- Upgrades: After the gathering, explore the Basilica’s chapels, tombs, and masterpieces with a guided tour that adds meaning to your morning.
Inclusions
- Invitation to the Vatican Papal Audience & guaranteed seating
- Guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica or the Papal Audience (as per option selected)
- Expert English or Spanish-speaking guide (as per option selected)
- Expect mandatory security screening before accessing St. Peter’s Square. Wait times may vary from 30-60 minutes during peak seasons.
- Bring a printed or digital copy of your invitation. Also, a valid ID matching the name on your reservation.
- Large bags or backpacks aren't allowed; storage facilities are not available.
- Flash photography or recording during the audience is prohibited.
- Seating tip: Aisle seats offer the best chance for a close-up view of the Pope as he moves through the audience.
- Knees and shoulders must be covered for all attendees.
- Wheelchair & stroller-accessible routes available. Ramp access is provided on the right semicircle of St. Peter’s Square.
- The Papal Audience schedule may change; check the Vatican’s official calendar for updates.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
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760 ratings
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Guests from United States, Colombia, Mexico and over 25 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Stacy
May 2025Verified booking
Initially we weren't on "the list" perhaps due to booking a day prior to the event. We were told to wait until everyone was checked in and was escorted over to a guide. She was amazing. I wish I knew her name to give her an A++ review she deserved. She got us to the front of the line and the best aisle seats to view Pope Leo. Memories to last a lifetime!!
Marilyn
Jun 2025Verified booking
Our guide worked very hard to get his small group up close to the viewing - he had an asssociate who was working with him steering him to front row seats! Along the way he explained the up-coming Papal procession, the Vatican state, the Swiss guards and general history. Well Done!
Rachel
Jun 2025Verified booking
Moreyfel
Jun 2025Verified booking
Tanja
Jun 2025Verified booking
SUSANNE
Jun 2025Verified booking
Gianpiero
Jun 2025Verified booking
Joseph
May 2025Verified booking
Eliane
May 2025Verified booking
Maryann
May 2025Verified booking
The process of locating the guide was extremely stressful - I arrived at 630am and still by 715 it was a chaos with tour guides shouting at each other and no one offering helpful service. Only after I had to be very forceful to a staff member to say I'm not a late no show I have a ticket did they allow me to join.
Alisa
Jun 2025Verified booking
The organizer on site was very disorganized and we waited almost an hour before we went on our tour to St. Peter's Basilica. There we were not let in via the fast track entrance, but had to stand in the blazing sun again for over an hour with the others. All in all, I spent the money for nothing. I could have done it all for free.
View original review in German
Jennifer
May 2025Verified booking
We were on our own for the Papal Audience, she simply gave us the yellow invitation and sticker and showed us where to go for security check, which was a huge line the figure ourselves out once inline looking for seats on our own in huge lines. We were then supposed to go back to meet her at McDonalds after Pope audience, but the crowds were huge and hard to walk back in the heat so it was harder to go back in the heat so we went into St. Peter on our own. It was harder to go back looking for her once we were there than to just go ahead and look around own our own. Very inconveniencing
Ivan
May 2025Verified booking
First, No one was holding up an orange umbrella, it was leaning against the wall and couldn't be seen. The guide for the tour, had us wait an hour and another guide made us get out our. Tickets again to split up group. Unorganized. The flag she was holding didn't say "English' but a.small ribbon with a tiny bear. Guide Maria walked us around for 30 minutes not being able to get in. The tour didn't even start and by 12:30 pm we were still in line. Twice we were told by guide to turn around and walk back through crowds to different locations. I video tape me giving back my radio to Maria as others were doing as well. We would have never gotten into Basillica by time it was supposed to be over. Extremely disappointed and I would like a refund I never have bad experiences but every single person in the group was complaining as well about what they said was "a rip off" . I chose to leave this unhealthy experience and all the negative energy. Please refund my money. TY
Melanie
May 2025Verified booking
HORRIBLE EXPERIENCE!!! There was no one at the meeting spot and no other tour guides knew about Headout . We wasted ovwr $100 for no ticket . I would NOT recommend Headout !!
Mark
Jun 2025Verified booking
tthe place to meet was a restricted are, so I never meet anyone. You guys should reinverse my money.
Adrian
Apr 2025Verified booking
Alejandra
Jan 2025Verified booking
Highly recommended! We booked online from Mexico and had a great experience. The guide in Spanish made us vibrate with her way of telling the story. The only thing I would suggest is to put a little flag or some sign at the meeting point because when you arrive there are so many people that it is a little confusing with other tours.
View original review in Spanish
Margaret
Jan 2025Verified booking
Our tour guide to get us in was fabulous with fantastic historical knowledge of the Vatican and surrounding areas. very well done.
Maria
Dec 2024Verified booking
The guide Bridgette was excellent in her tour of St Peter's basilica, she was very knowledgeable and attentive of her group The papal audience was made very easy to access for us
Laura
Feb 2025Verified booking
Jana
Feb 2025Verified booking
Jorge
Feb 2025Verified booking
Maria
Feb 2025Verified booking
Robin
Feb 2025Verified booking
Bruna
Feb 2025Verified booking
Tour the Vatican on your terms with a private, customizable experience and exclusive Basilica access.
- Everything you get: Skip ticketing lines and explore the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel with just your group and a dedicated guide. Your guide tailors the visit to your interests—whether that's the Borgia Apartments, Braccio Nuovo, or hidden corners most tours miss. After the Chapel, use a special passage to enter St. Peter’s Basilica, where you can explore on your own at your own pace.
- Why choose this: It’s just you, your group, and an expert guide—no crowds, no distractions. Go deeper into the art and history that interest you most, and move at a pace that’s fully yours.
- Upgrades: Add a fully guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica to uncover the stories behind its most iconic features—like Michelangelo’s Pietà, Bernini’s altar, and the dome’s breathtaking interior.
Tour the Vatican on your terms with a private, customizable experience and exclusive Basilica access.
- Everything you get: Skip ticketing lines and explore the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel with just your group and a dedicated guide. Your guide tailors the visit to your interests—whether that's the Borgia Apartments, Braccio Nuovo, or hidden corners most tours miss. After the Chapel, use a special passage to enter St. Peter’s Basilica, where you can explore on your own at your own pace.
- Why choose this: It’s just you, your group, and an expert guide—no crowds, no distractions. Go deeper into the art and history that interest you most, and move at a pace that’s fully yours.
- Upgrades: Add a fully guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica to uncover the stories behind its most iconic features—like Michelangelo’s Pietà, Bernini’s altar, and the dome’s breathtaking interior.
Inclusions
- Private guided tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel with skip-the-line access
- Reserved entry and private guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica (as per option selected)
- Expert English/Spanish/French/German/Italian-speaking guide
- Headsets
- The price displayed is for two people and increases as you add more participants.
- Names on tickets must match a valid photo ID. Double-check the details at checkout for a smooth entry.
- Your tour includes a specific entry time and delays entry might result in denied entry. Arrive punctually to maximize your experience.
- Cover your shoulders, knees, and backs—this applies to all visitors.
- While the tour is not accessible to wheelchair users, the Vatican Museums offer free wheelchair hire and free entry for visitors with mobility impairments (certified invalidity exceeding 74%) and a companion if required.
- When in Sistine Chapel, silence is mandatory and photography is prohibited. Guides will provide all necessary and interesting details before entry.
- Security checks are mandatory for all visitors and may result in wait times, especially during peak season they might stretch to an hour.
- The Vatican Museums reserve the right to close any section, including the Sistine Chapel, due to unforeseen circumstances. The closure of any museum section does not entitle visitors to any refund.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
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4.4
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Guests from United States, Mexico, France and over 10 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Patricia
May 2025Verified booking
This experience is perfect for our guide Laura was knowledgeable and pleasant.. She made the tour so interesting. We are so grateful for Laura!!
Dirk
May 2025Verified booking
Nunzia had incredible knowledge and an extremely pleasant feeling for us. In addition to the tour, she gave us lots of tips for the days and evenings. We would be happy to book with you again; I can only recommend you.
View original review in German
sarah
Apr 2025Verified booking
AnnaMaria was an absolutely brilliant tour guide. Very knowledgeable and a true Roman. Thank you for the great experience
Laura
Jun 2025Verified booking
Loved our guide! Maggie was knowledgeable and very capable. We were extremely please with her guidance.
Tobias
May 2025Verified booking
Good guide and good highlights on the tour.
View original review in German
Randi
Apr 2025Verified booking
Valentina is fantastic! Reccomend 100%
Jorge
May 2025Verified booking
Donna
May 2025Verified booking
MARTHA
Apr 2025Verified booking
Ruth
Apr 2025Verified booking
Mariel
Apr 2025Verified booking
Stefania
May 2025Verified booking
Gregory
Jan 2025Verified booking
Great Italian guide who speaks French fluently and knows all the guards. We passed through Vatican security in few minutes and the tour was really interesting. We have a great memory of this morning. Thank you very much.
MARIO
Feb 2025Verified booking
Noelle Exceptional, very happy with our guide and the knowledge she has of all the details during the tour, very attentive and respectful with all my family. Visit, very attentive and respectful with all my family, super recommended!
View original review in Spanish
Dolores
Dec 2024Verified booking
Our guide Alexandra led us through the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel with such naturalness that we felt like we were in Roman times and enjoyed our visit ! Grazzie mile
View original review in Spanish
Pamela
Jan 2025Verified booking
Very knowledgeable and very accommodation to my husnads use of a cane. We had a great time
THEILLAUD
Feb 2025Verified booking
ANTONIO
Feb 2025Verified booking
Martin
Feb 2025Verified booking
Jutta
Jan 2025Verified booking
Franck
Jan 2025Verified booking
Mayet
Oct 2024Verified booking
cassandra
Oct 2024Verified booking
Saúl
Oct 2024Verified booking
Lisbeth
Oct 2024Verified booking
There was FAR too many people - you should reduce the number of people entering. The greatness dissapear I was there 40 years ago with a totally different experience
Vatican TicketsVatican Gardens
Make the most of Rome
Why visit Vatican Gardens?
- Different landscaping styles: The Vatican Gardens are landscaped in three distinct architectural styles-Italian, French, and English. Italian sections boast precise geometrical patterns and Renaissance elegance, French areas dazzle with baroque artistry and water features, while the English gardens offer a whimsical mix of natural and artificial elements.
- Discover the Papal past: Pope Nicholas III's historic relocation to the Vatican in 1279 marked the inception of the Vatican Gardens. Initially an exclusive papal space with an orchard, meadow, and garden enclosed by walls, these gardens now welcome the public, offering a rare glimpse into the papal state's serene and verdant retreat.
- Exclusive and intimate experience: Given that the Pope regularly visits the Vatican Gardens, access to the garden is limited to only a small number of visitors each day, ensuring an exclusive and uncrowded experience. This exclusivity adds to the allure, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city.
- Vast green expanse: Covering over 57 hectares, more than half of Vatican City, the gardens are an expansive green haven. This vast area allows for an immersive experience, away from the urban sprawl, where nature and artifice harmoniously coexist.
- Artistic and cultural treasure trove: Home to ancient sculptures, fountains, and monuments dating back to the 6th century, the gardens are a living museum. Each step unveils a piece of history, art, and culture, making it a paradise for history buffs and art enthusiasts.
- Experience Papal life: Visiting the Vatican Gardens is not just about appreciating their visual splendor. It's also an opportunity to connect with the daily life of the Papal State, offering insights into a world often unseen by the public.
- Spectacular views: There are a series of vantage points in the Vatican Gardens that offer spectacular views of Vatican City. These spots are perfect for capturing the beauty of the gardens against the backdrop of iconic structures like St. Peter’s Basilica.
Explore Vatican Gardens
Italian Garden
French Garden
English Garden
A splendid example of Renaissance landscape design, characterized by its formal and geometric features, the gardens boast a diverse array of vegetation, with trees blooming for three-quarters of the year. The flowers in the Italian Garden evoke a sense of wonder and beauty, enhancing the overall mood of visitors with their unusual associations and colors.
Admire the classic Baroque artistry with elegant statues and playful water features.
A harmonious blend of natural and artificial elements, featuring caves, streams, and a variety of flora.
What to see inside the Vatican Gardens?
Fountain of the Eagle
The fountains, monuments, and sculptures in the Vatican gardens are synonymous with their different landscaping styles. The Fountain of the Eagle is one of the most stunning fountains in the Vatican Gardens and symbolizes the return of water to the Vatican from the Acqua Paola.
Lourdes Grotto
The Lourdes Grotto is an artificial cave that has been created in the French garden of the Vatican Gardens. It is modeled after the famous French Grotto of Massabielle, where a young girl called Bernadette Soubirous saw a vision of the Madonna.
Saint John’s Tower
Originally built by Pope Nicholas III in the 16th century, the tower has been the site for important events over the years, including Pope Benedict XVI’s meeting with former U.S. President George W. Bush in 2008. Today, this tower space is mainly used today as papal apartments.
Governor’s Palace
Overlooking St. Peter’s Basilica, the Governor’s Palace, with its peach-colored facade, is the administrative heart of Vatican City. It provides insights into the governance of this unique city-state.
Papal Coat of Arms
Made from hedges, this Papal Coat of Arms features a crown and the keys of St. Peter planted in colorful perennials.
Palazza di Leone XIII
Erected in honor of Pope Leo XIII, the building contains two fountains, green hedges, arches of climbing roses, and the last exotic tree planted by the Pope before his death in 1903.
Images of Mary
In 1902, with the Our Lady of Lourdes the Vatican Gardens started a collection of the different images of Mary. Today, the Vatican Gardens have 17 “Maria” images, symbolizing prayers for the Virgin Mary in various languages and cultures.
Plan your visit to Vatican Gardens
Timings
Location
Facilities
Tips
Eat
Stay
Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays: 9 AM to 6 PM
Closed: Wednesdays and Sundays
Best time to visit: Plan your visit to Vatican Gardens on Tuesdays, Thursdays, or Fridays. Avoid visiting the gardens on Saturdays since the attraction sees maximum crowds on this day.
Address: Via Paolo VI, 29, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City.
Find on maps.
Getting there
- By metro: Line A
Nearest stop: Ottaviano-S. Pietro Station - By bus: 49, 40, 64
Nearest stop: Musei Vaticani - By train: RE 12524 towards Civitavecchia or RE 4134 towards Pisa Centrale
Nearest Stop: St. Pietro - By Tram: 19
Nearest stop: Piazza del Risorgimento - By car: 29.4 km from Leonardo Da Vince-Fiumicino Airport
Car parking: You will not be permitted to enter Vatican City in a car unless it is for official business.
- Free Wifi
- Multilingual audio guide
- Limited wheelchair accessibility
- Elevators and ramps for people with reduced mobility
- Visitors have to adhere to a strict dress code when visiting the Vatican Gardens. Both men and women have to ensure that their shoulders and knees are covered.
- Ensure that you reach on time on the day of your visit. Latecomers are not permitted at Vatican Gardens.
- Since you’ll be walking a lot during your Vatican Gardens tours, it is a good idea to wear comfortable footwear.
- Photography and mobile phones are prohibited during the Vatican Gardens tour.
- Bags no larger than 40X30X20 cm are allowed at the Vatican Gardens. The bags must be carried on the front or held at your side.
- Pets and other small animals, except guide dogs, are not permitted at the Vatican Gardens.
- Ristorante dei Musei: Just a few steps away from the Vatican Gardens, is the Ristorante dei Musei. The restaurant is an authentic Roman eatery that serves delicious pasta.
- Angelo’s: Angelo’s restaurant serves yummy pasta, seafood, and other classic Italian dishes in a warm and friendly atmosphere. The restaurant also has sidewalk seating for its visitors.
- La Vittoria: Indulge authentic Italian cuisine at La Vittoria. The restaurant has comfy seating, a brick-vault ceiling, and delicious dishes.
- Ristorante Pizzeria Castello: Ristorante Pizzeria Castello has patio seating, and offers a range of dishes such as pizza and pasta. You can also enjoy coffee and wine at the restaurant.
Budget: Vatican City Guesthouse (2.2 km), Hotel Paolo II (1.8 km), Pratinn Vatican (2.4 km).
Mid-range: Vatican Relais Rome (1.4 km), Vatican Style Rome (1.5 km), Hotel Della Conciliazione (1.9 km).
Luxury: Residenza Paolo VI Hotel (1.8 km), Relais Clivo Vaticano (2.3 km), B&b Lunaria Suites Rome (1.4 km).
Frequently asked questions about Vatican Gardens tickets
How much is a ticket to the Vatican Gardens?
Tickets to the Vatican Gardens start from €49 and go up to €75.05. Ticket prices vary according to the type of ticket you have purchased.
How to book tickets to the Vatican Gardens?
It is mandatory to book tickets to the Vatican Gardens online. The Vatican Gardens take only a small number of reservations every day, and walk-in visitors are not accommodated at the attraction.
Why should I book Vatican Gardens tickets online?
- Cheaper rates: Online tickets for the Vatican Gardens are comparatively cheaper to buy.
- Discounts and offers: Many discounts and offers are available online for the Vatican Gardens. You can enjoy significant time and cost savings by purchasing your Vatican Gardens tickets online.
- Multiple options: You can choose from different Vatican Gardens tickets online. Be it combo tours or entry tickets, you can choose the option that works best for you.
- Guaranteed entry: Booking your Vatican Gardens tickets online guarantees you entry to the gardens on the day of your visit, irrespective of the peak or off-peak season.
What do Vatican Gardens tickets include?
Your Vatican Gardens tickets include an open-bus tour of the Gardens and access to the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums. If you opt for the combo tour tickets, you get additional entry access to the Catacombs of St. Callixtus and the St. John Lateran complex.
Can I get skip-the-line tickets for the Vatican Gardens?
You cannot get skip-the-line tickets for the Vatican Gardens. However, your Vatican Gardens tickets include skip-the-line access to the Vatican museums.
How do I access the Gardens, Sistine Chapel, Vatican Museums, and St. Peter’s Basilica?
Your Vatican Gardens tickets include entry access to the Gardens, Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums. Entry access to the St. Peter’s Basilica is not included with your tickets, but it is worth knowing that entry to the Basilica is free all year round.
What is the cancellation policy for Vatican Gardens tickets?
You cannot cancel or reschedule your Vatican Gardens tickets.
How long does it take to complete a Vatican Gardens tour?
It will take you around 3 hours to complete a Vatican Gardens tour.
From happy customers
Christine
United StatesJun, 2025
+ 4 more
The crowds were very heavy for the jubilee but our guide was wonderful in directing us and keeping us focused on the important details on the museum and Basilica!
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Guided Tour with St. Peter's Basilica
Iker
SpainJun, 2025
The visit to the Vatican Gardens has been a unique experience, I went with my fiancée and we wanted to return once again and do it walking now because it is such a beautiful place that makes you want to spend more time observing every detail, the trip in the open bus is super good if you have an agenda to visit more things in Rome, because you can tour the gardens with ease, plus with the guide in multiple hate to choose the experience becomes more dynamic. We recommend it 100%
View original review in Spanish
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Reserved Entry Tickets with Vatican Gardens Open Bus Tour
Linda
Czech RepublicJun, 2025
We had a good time. Thank you ... The wonderful works of Art ... 3 hours is not enough to admire them all ... but neither are months ....
View original review in Italian
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Reserved Entry Tickets with Vatican Gardens Open Bus Tour
Irma
MexicoJun, 2025
We bought the tickets the same day and they had availability, it was super easy to arrive and check in, the super friendly guides explain everything you need to know and accompany you to the entrance door ahhh and you avoid the long lines.... In the end we were able to see the whole museum and also the Sistine Chapel everything was amazing thanks and greetings from Mexico.
View original review in Spanish
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Skip-the-Line Tickets
Harisolofo
BelgiumJun, 2025
The queue-cutting tickets for the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel: a real added value for the visit and an invaluable time-saver for enjoying the place to the full, and the guide who welcomed us and accompanied us to the entrance was friendly and very clear - a much appreciated plus.
I'd definitely recommend it!
View original review in French
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Skip-the-Line Tickets
Ruth
Jun, 2025
The lady who gave us a lot of information about St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican State was very knowledgeable and extremely friendly and never tired of answering even the last interesting question.
A "feel-good tour"!
View original review in German
St. Peter’s Basilica Guided Tour
Irzi
Jun, 2025
+ 2 more
Super-friendly guide, to the point in her explanations and full of anecdotes.
Mastered her subject and was extremely efficient.
Remarkable VAV in all aspects of the tour.
View original review in French
St. Peter’s Basilica Guided Tour
Nicoletta
United StatesJun, 2025
Siamo stati contenti della guida. Ha spiegato tutto-la storia, i capolavori d'arte-bene in inglese.
We were very happy with the knowledgeable guide. He explained the artworks and history very well in English.
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Early Morning or After-Hours Skip-the-Line Tour