Vatican Museums Private Tour: Sistine Chapel and Necropolis Scavi
Description
Your guide will escort you into the Vatican Museums while skipping the mass queues waiting outside. Marvel in the spectacular museum galleries & bask in the breathtaking Sistine Chapel. After being within such breathtaking surroundings, you might think at this point you’ve seen all that is on offer, but with our Ultimate Express Vatican experience, we will also guide you through the Scavi (Underground) area of the Vatican. With many myths and secrets, your guide will open up a new mysterious world.
Tour Options
Itinerary
With our Prime Tour, we get you inside the Museums at its first access. Watch the Vatican Museum Galleries slowly come to life.
The Courtyard of the “Pigna”, created from the 16th century area of the “Belvedere”
The Vatican Museums' Gallery of Tapestries showcases stunning 15th and 16th-century tapestries, intricately woven with scenes from biblical and historical narratives. Inspired by designs from Raphael’s school, this gallery highlights the artistic sophistication and storytelling of the Renaissance.
The Gallery of Maps, inside the Vatican Museums, displays a stunning collection of topographical maps of Italy. Created in the 16th century under Pope Gregory XIII, these beautifully painted maps span 120 meters, offering a unique geographical snapshot of the Italy of the past.
The Gallery of the Candelabra is a part of the Vatican Museums, showcasing a rich collection of Greek and Roman statues, sarcophagi, and reliefs. It is named for the grand marble candelabra that decorate it, dividing the gallery into thematic sections. Set up in the late 18th century, the gallery merges ancient art with stunning architectural details, providing visitors a journey through history and beauty.
The Sistine Chapel takes its name from Pope Sixtus IV della Rovere (pontiff from 1471 to 1484) who had the old Cappella Magna restored between 1477 and 1480. It is known throughout the world both for being the place where the conclave and other official ceremonies of the Pope are held (in the past also some papal coronations), and for being decorated with one of the most famous and celebrated works of art of artistic civilization the frescoes by Michelangelo.
Enjoy the breathtaking Saint Peter's Basilica, shrine of Christianity and Art. You will marvel at the Priceless Pietà, by Michelangelo, and stop by the venerable tomb of Saint John Paul II & Pope Karol Wojtyla. The Pietà (1498–1499) is a work of Renaissance sculpture by Michelangelo Buonarroti, housed in St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City.
The Vatican Necropolis, beneath St. Peter's Basilica, is an ancient cemetery from the 1st century AD, believed to house St. Peter's tomb. It's a significant archaeological site, accessible only by guided tour.
This monumental elliptical space, enclosed by 284 Doric columns four rows deep (196m wide and 148m long), is the masterpiece of Gian Lorenzo Bernini, who laid it out during the pontificates of Alexander VII and of Clement IX.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
Centrally located hotel/accommodation in Rome (within the Aurelian Walls)
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements
- A moderate amount of walking is involved - comfortable shoes are recommended
- Minimum age is 15 years
- During the Scavi visit, visitors may be affected by the altered environmental conditions of temperature and humidity. Those who have special physical problems, subject to increase under these conditions, including claustrophobia, are advised not to access the site
- St. Peter's Basilica may close at the last minute for ceremonies or masses without warning
- Due to the Jubilee, some monuments may be under restoration or closed due to extraordinary celebrations. Please pay attention to any messages we may send regarding potential changes
- Please advise if anyone in your group has mobility issues
- To ensure the safety and well-being of all our guests, every reservation that includes minors (under 18) must be accompanied by at least one adult. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept bookings made exclusively by unaccompanied minors.