Skip-the-line: Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St Peter’s Basilica – Lazio, Italy

EXPERIENCE:

Visit the Vatican and gain special insight into the Sistine Chapel, the Rooms of Raphael, and the Basilica of Saint Peter. Meeting at the historical center, you will get the chance to skip the long queues and have the opportunity to drop-off items, umbrellas, and large bags in lockers before the tour begins.

The tour will begin with an introduction into Ancient Greek and Roman craftsmanship, recovered from bygone days when Popes used to rule central Italy. Your learned guide will highlight the Belvedere Apollo, the Torso, the Busts of Claudius and Hadrian and the Sarcophagi of Helen and Constance, the mother and girl of Emperor Constantine. Your tour will continue into the Room of Animals and the Gallery of Candelabra before venturing through Roman mosaics. Your guide will point out the statues of Diana of Euphesus, the Muses and the celebrated Greek scholars. From here you will proceed into rooms holding Tapestries, the Sobieski Hall and the famous Rooms of Raphael. Marvel at rooms painted by Raphael and his pupils for Pope Julius II. Witness the hues and detailed imagery of the School of Athens and the Parnassus. 

Your tour will continue on to the Sistine Chapel, the most famed room in Italy. You will see Michelangelo frescoes such as the Last Judgement, the Creation of Adam and the Genesis, along with more subtle elements from the Stories of Moses and Jesus painted by Botticelli, Perugino and other Renaissance experts. Your guide will recount stories and insiders facts about the scenes adorning the walls. The final destination of the tour is Saint Peter’s Basilica, often considered the most beautiful Church in the world. Again, featuring Michelangelo’s perfected works of Pieta. See the tombs of Popes John XXIII and John Paul II. Admire the custom engineered and designed images that decorate the congregation area. Once outside, your guide will point out the gallery where the smoke turns out, and highlight the genius of design in Bernini’s square.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

Visit the Vatican with special insight into the Sistine Chapel, the Rooms of Raphael, the Basilica of Saint Peter
See Michelangelo’s frescoes
Admire Saint Peter’s Basilica
Skip the long lines to the Vatican

Discover top places to stay, exciting tours, and unforgettable events in Italy, and popular cities like Amalfi, Florence, Milan, Naples, Pompei, and Rome.