cool shore excursions®
Language $Currency
Port schedule
Login / Sign up
Bookings
Bookings
Wallet
$0.00
Wishlists
Wishlists
Cool Rewards Rewards
Gift cards
Profile
Help Center
Language
Log out
Gift Cards Gift Cards Rewards Rewards Specials Specials Group Travel Group Travel Contact Contact
Start your search
Change your search
Place or activity
Select Dates
You booked this experience
You're departing on
Google Calendar
Apple Calendar
Microsoft Outlook
Make your trip unforgettable

Best of Vatican City Complete Full-day Private Tour & Pick-up

2 Reviews 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 2 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and TripAdvisor |
Recommended by 100% of reviewers
100% of reviewers gave this experience a rating of 4 or higher.
| Rome, Italy
Book online or call us

from $169.14 per person

Lowest Price Guarantee
Best of Vatican City Complete Full-day Private Tour & Pick-up Image 1
The Sistine Chapel
Best of Vatican City Complete Full-day Private Tour & Pick-up Image 3
Saint Peter Basilica
Best of Vatican City Complete Full-day Private Tour & Pick-up Image 5
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 28 (0) days in advance.
6 hours (approx.)
Hotel pickup offered
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

Overview

Skip the line and join to an extended your of the Vatican to see not only the highlights but much more besides.  Most of the tours take you to see the Gallery of Tapestries, the Gallery of Maps, the Gallery of Candelabra with it famous sculpture of Lacoon and Sons and the splendid Raphael’s Rooms.  On this tour you will see all of these but amongst the amazing artwork and sculptures you will also on this tour see many things you never knew existed. The tour includes hotel pick up.

What's Included

  • Pick-up from your accommodation
  • Guaranteed to skip the long lines
  • Local taxes
  • Gratuities
  • Drop-off to your accommodation
See 1 moreSee 2 more

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup point
Pickup details

Please provide correct Hotel Address

OR
Meeting point

viale
Viale Vaticano, 100, 00192 Roma RM, Italy

Show on Google Maps

Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

Piazza San Pietro
00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City

Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation.
Read more

Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

Vatican Museums

With over nine miles of galleries it is difficult to gain a real appreciation of all the treasures that the Vatican has to offer.  In the company of a very knowledgeable English-speaking guide we will ensure you see the highlights but also get to see some of the wonderful artwork that is generally overlooked.   One of the stops on this extended tour is however the Borgia Apartments. In the 15th century these rooms were where the Spanish cardinal Rodrigo Borgia, Pope Alexander VI and his family lived. You will be shown some exceptional family portraits and be told something of the history behind the paintings’ religious content. This papal family has become infamous over the centuries; there are many stories and secrets to be told about the Pope and his beautiful daughter Lucretia and son Cesare.
Read more

4 hours Admission Ticket Included

Cortile della Pigna

The famous Fountain of the Pine is located in the Courtyard of the Pine. Designed by genius architect Bramante, it is one of the few Ancient Roman fountains that survives to this day.
Read more

30 minutes Admission Ticket Included

Sistine Chapel

The real highlight of any Vatican tour is of course the Sistine Chapel. There is no talking allowed inside so before you enter your guide will give you a comprehensive insight into all you will see once you enter. There are the magnificent ceiling frescoes which took Michelangelo over eight years to paint as well as other wonderful frescoes that adorn the chapel walls painted by Botticelli and other Renaissance artists. You will fall in love with this magnificent chapel
Read more

30 minutes Admission Ticket Included

St. Peter's Basilica

It is then time for a tour of St. Peter’s Basilica where you will explore the numerous side chapels with their hidden crypts. You will see Michelangelo’s Pietà and your guide will explain why this is the only work that he signed. You will gain an appreciation of the mastery that went into the creation of Bernini’s altarpiece and learn how Michelangelo triumphed over his contemporaries for the honour to paint St. Peter’s magnificent dome.There is still more to see though below ground level. You guide will lead you below ground to the papal crypt where, over the centuries, many of the Popes have been interred. This special place is a site of pilgrimage for many Catholics
Read more

30 minutes Admission Ticket Included

St. Peter's Square

Your tour will end in Saint Peter's Square next to the taxi rank and bus station.
Read more

30 minutes Admission Ticket Included

Show 4 more stops

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • 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
  • READ CAREFULLY: Because of the growing popularity of the current pope Francis and his intense activity in organising mass events in the Vatican some areas might get closed last minute without previous notice. This has already happened this year and can happen again during you Vatican tour. In case of such events our tour guide will provide you with a valuable alternative focusing the tour inside the Vatican museums.
  • PLEASE NOTE: Due to the Jubilee the Basilica might not be accessible as part of the tour. Unfortunately, we know that very last minute. In any case, you can go there after the tour, queuing.

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Best of Vatican City Complete Full-day Private Tour & Pick-up?

A: This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded. Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-102294P5

Traveler Photos

Reviews

5.00
2 reviews

Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 2 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
2
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 28 (0) days in advance.
Rome Tours
Attractions
Guides
Calendar
View more

Similar Tours & Activities

Rome: Campo de' Fiori, Trastevere and Jewish Ghetto Private Tour
5.0 (3)

Rome: Campo de' Fiori, Trastevere and Jewish Ghetto Private Tour

Welcome to the beating heart of Rome! Discover the Hidden Corners of the Eternal City. The private tour will begin with a nice stroll around...

3 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (3)
from
$108
Unforgettable Private Tour: Rome’s Top Sights & Colosseum
5.0 (5)

Unforgettable Private Tour: Rome’s Top Sights & Colosseum

Experience the magic of Rome’s most iconic sights on this exclusive 4-hour private tour, designed for those who want to explore the Eternal City in...

4 hours Hotel pickup offered
5.0 (5)
from
$296
Trajan's Markets & Imperial Forums Private Tour with Special Pass & PhD Guide
5.0 (3)

Trajan's Markets & Imperial Forums Private Tour with Special Pass & PhD Guide

Don't miss this 2.5-hour private tour, which includes a Forum Pass that allows access to the archaeological sites of the Imperial Forums. Be in awe...

2 hours 30 minutes
5.0 (3)
from
$102
Private Walk Through the Jewish Ghetto in Rome
4.9 (19)

Private Walk Through the Jewish Ghetto in Rome

Discover the beauty, mystery and history of the world’s oldest Jewish Ghetto and find the hidden treasures of Rome that most tourists never see. This...

2 hours Free Cancellation
4.9 (19)
from
$91
Rome: Campo de' Fiori, Trastevere and Jewish Ghetto Private Tour

Welcome to the beating heart of Rome! Discover the Hidden Corners of the Eternal City. The private tour will begin with a nice stroll around …More

5.0 (3)

Rome: Campo de' Fiori, Trastevere and Jewish Ghetto Private Tour

5.0 (3)

Welcome to the beating heart of Rome! Discover the Hidden Corners of the Eternal City. The private tour will begin with a nice stroll around...

3 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (3)
from
$108
Unforgettable Private Tour: Rome’s Top Sights & Colosseum

Experience the magic of Rome’s most iconic sights on this exclusive 4-hour private tour, designed for those who want to explore the Eternal City in …More

5.0 (5)

Unforgettable Private Tour: Rome’s Top Sights & Colosseum

5.0 (5)

Experience the magic of Rome’s most iconic sights on this exclusive 4-hour private tour, designed for those who want to explore the Eternal City in...

4 hours Hotel pickup offered
5.0 (5)
from
$296
Trajan's Markets & Imperial Forums Private Tour with Special Pass & PhD Guide

Don't miss this 2.5-hour private tour, which includes a Forum Pass that allows access to the archaeological sites of the Imperial Forums. Be in awe …More

5.0 (3)

Trajan's Markets & Imperial Forums Private Tour with Special Pass & PhD Guide

5.0 (3)

Don't miss this 2.5-hour private tour, which includes a Forum Pass that allows access to the archaeological sites of the Imperial Forums. Be in awe...

2 hours 30 minutes
5.0 (3)
from
$102
Private Walk Through the Jewish Ghetto in Rome

Discover the beauty, mystery and history of the world’s oldest Jewish Ghetto and find the hidden treasures of Rome that most tourists never see. This …More

4.9 (19)

Private Walk Through the Jewish Ghetto in Rome

4.9 (19)

Discover the beauty, mystery and history of the world’s oldest Jewish Ghetto and find the hidden treasures of Rome that most tourists never see. This...

2 hours Free Cancellation
4.9 (19)
from
$91

Travelers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought

Skip-the-Line Group Tour of the Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.8 (14,708)

Skip-the-Line Group Tour of the Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica

A holiday in Rome without visiting the Vatican is like a day at the beach without swimming in the sea. See the best of the...

3 hours Free Cancellation
4.8 (14,708)
from
$22
Rome Pasta and Tiramisu Class: Ravioli, Fettuccine & Fine Wine 5*
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
5.0 (4,156)

Rome Pasta and Tiramisu Class: Ravioli, Fettuccine & Fine Wine 5*

Begin with learning how make tiramisù, following traditional recipes using all ingredients- mascarpone, eggs, coffee sugar and cocoa powder and tools needed. Following this, learn...

3 hours Free Cancellation
5.0 (4,156)
from
$33
Learn to Make Pasta & Tiramisu with Wine and Limoncello Included
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.9 (3,175)

Learn to Make Pasta & Tiramisu with Wine and Limoncello Included

Enjoy Fettuccine and Tiramisu cooking class in the heart of Rome! During this class you will learn how to make Fettuccine pasta from scratch and...

2 hours Free Cancellation
4.9 (3,175)
from
$56
Pizza Cooking Class in Rome - Near Piazza Navona
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.9 (1,482)

Pizza Cooking Class in Rome - Near Piazza Navona

Who can say no to Pizza? Especially for Italian pizza? We definitely can't! If you're like us, joining a pizza class in Rome should be...

2 hours Free Cancellation
4.9 (1,482)
from
$44
Skip-the-Line Group Tour of the Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica

A holiday in Rome without visiting the Vatican is like a day at the beach without swimming in the sea. See the best of the …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.8 (14,708)

Skip-the-Line Group Tour of the Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica

4.8 (14,708)

A holiday in Rome without visiting the Vatican is like a day at the beach without swimming in the sea. See the best of the...

3 hours Free Cancellation
4.8 (14,708)
from
$22
Rome Pasta and Tiramisu Class: Ravioli, Fettuccine & Fine Wine 5*

Begin with learning how make tiramisù, following traditional recipes using all ingredients- mascarpone, eggs, coffee sugar and cocoa powder and tools needed. Following this, learn …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
5.0 (4,156)

Rome Pasta and Tiramisu Class: Ravioli, Fettuccine & Fine Wine 5*

5.0 (4,156)

Begin with learning how make tiramisù, following traditional recipes using all ingredients- mascarpone, eggs, coffee sugar and cocoa powder and tools needed. Following this, learn...

3 hours Free Cancellation
5.0 (4,156)
from
$33
Learn to Make Pasta & Tiramisu with Wine and Limoncello Included

Enjoy Fettuccine and Tiramisu cooking class in the heart of Rome! During this class you will learn how to make Fettuccine pasta from scratch and …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.9 (3,175)

Learn to Make Pasta & Tiramisu with Wine and Limoncello Included

4.9 (3,175)

Enjoy Fettuccine and Tiramisu cooking class in the heart of Rome! During this class you will learn how to make Fettuccine pasta from scratch and...

2 hours Free Cancellation
4.9 (3,175)
from
$56
Pizza Cooking Class in Rome - Near Piazza Navona

Who can say no to Pizza? Especially for Italian pizza? We definitely can't! If you're like us, joining a pizza class in Rome should be …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.9 (1,482)

Pizza Cooking Class in Rome - Near Piazza Navona

4.9 (1,482)

Who can say no to Pizza? Especially for Italian pizza? We definitely can't! If you're like us, joining a pizza class in Rome should be...

2 hours Free Cancellation
4.9 (1,482)
from
$44

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Activity name

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool Shore Excursions customers.

Filter by:

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Best of Vatican City Complete Full-day Private Tour & Pick-up?
A:
This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • Pick-up from your accommodation.
  • Guaranteed to skip the long lines.
  • Local taxes.
  • Professional art historian guide.
The following is NOT included:
  • Gratuities.
  • Drop-off to your accommodation.
Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:

There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..

Apr 2025
Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025
Q: Is this an accessible tour?
A:

Accessibility information for the Best of Vatican City Complete Full-day Private Tour & Pick-up is as follows:

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Apr 2025
Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Best of Vatican City Complete Full-day Private Tour & Pick-up will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Shore Excursions. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

 

 

Mar 2024
Q: How long does a refund take to reach my card, and can I get it faster?
A:

Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.

Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.

If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.

Oct 2026

What's Included

Activity name

  • Pick-up from your accommodation
  • Guaranteed to skip the long lines
  • Local taxes
  • Professional art historian guide
  • Gratuities
  • Drop-off to your accommodation

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • 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
  • READ CAREFULLY: Because of the growing popularity of the current pope Francis and his intense activity in organising mass events in the Vatican some areas might get closed last minute without previous notice. This has already happened this year and can happen again during you Vatican tour. In case of such events our tour guide will provide you with a valuable alternative focusing the tour inside the Vatican museums.
  • PLEASE NOTE: Due to the Jubilee the Basilica might not be accessible as part of the tour. Unfortunately, we know that very last minute. In any case, you can go there after the tour, queuing.

Report Product Issue

Activity name