cool shore excursions®
Top activities
Top landmarks
Trip ideas
Nearby places
  • Tours by category
  • Tours by accessibility
  • Tours by feature
  • Tours by time
  • Tours by the numbers
  • Top attractions
  • Rome travel guides
  • Rome travel calendar
  • Tours in nearby places
  • Explore Italy tours
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
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

Guided tour of the Vatican Museums - VIP service

6 Reviews 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 6 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 $1,123.84 per group (up to 7)

Lowest Price Guarantee
Guided tour of the Vatican Museums - VIP service Image 1
Guided tour of the Vatican Museums - VIP service Image 2
Guided tour of the Vatican Museums - VIP service Image 3
Guided tour of the Vatican Museums - VIP service Image 4
Guided tour of the Vatican Museums - VIP service Image 5
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 31 (0) days in advance.
3 hours (approx.)
Hotel pickup offered
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
and 2 more
Italian, Portuguese
Instant confirmation

Overview

Unraveling among the immense collection of Vatican museums is practically impossible for those who enter for the first time.
The amount of paintings, frescoes, statues is frightening and at first impact among the crowd and the confusion can intimidates and stuns.
I mention it because that is exactly what happened to me, in the early 1970s, the first time I crossed the monumental entrance to the Vatican museums inaugurated on 7 December 1932 by Pope Pius XI.
Already climbing the helical staircase I was seized by a kind of vertigo, which was immediately overwhelmed by the wonder of the immense collection. When at the end of the College I was following a course, to be able to obtain the qualification of tourist guide issued by the Holy See I felt the same sensation, and I remembered that first time.
This Museum can be visited with a group, alone, with an audio guide, but nothing can replace the emotional and sensory contact that you can have with a private guide

What's Included

  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Entrance tickets
See 1 more

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup point

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
Read more

Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

St. Peter's Square

the large plaza located directly in front of St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, the papal enclave inside Rome, named after Saint Peter, an apostle of Jesus considered by Catholics to be the first Pope.At the centre of the square is an ancient Egyptian obelisk, erected at the current site in 1586. Gian Lorenzo Bernini designed the square almost 100 years later, including the massive Doric colonnades, four columns deep, which embrace visitors in "the maternal arms of Mother Church". A granite fountain constructed by Bernini in 1675 matches another fountain designed by Carlo Maderno in 1613.
Read more

10 minutes Admission Ticket Included

Vatican Museums

The Vatican Museums are the public museums of the Vatican City. They display works from the immense collection amassed by the Catholic Church and the papacy throughout the centuries, including several of the most renowned Roman sculptures and most important masterpieces of Renaissance art in the world. The museums contain roughly 70,000 works, of which 20,000 are on display,and currently employ 640 people who work in 40 different administrative, scholarly, and restoration departments.Pope Julius II founded the museums in the early 16th century.[The Sistine Chapel, with its ceiling and altar wall decorated by Michelangelo, and the Stanze di Raffaello (decorated by Raphael) are on the visitor route through the Vatican Museums.
Read more

1 hour 30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Sistine Chapel

The Sistine Chapel is a chapel in the Apostolic Palace, the chapel takes its name from Pope Sixtus IV, who had it built between 1473 and 1481. Today, it is the site of the papal conclave, the process by which a new pope is selected. The fame of the Sistine Chapel lies mainly in the frescoes that decorate the interior, most particularly the Sistine Chapel ceiling and The Last Judgment, both by Michelangelo.During the reign of Sixtus IV Sandro Botticelli, Pietro Perugino, Pinturicchio, Domenico Ghirlandaio and Cosimo Rosselli, created a series of frescos depicting the Life of Moses and the Life of Christ,Between 1508 and 1512, under the reign of Pope Julius II, Michelangelo painted the chapel's ceiling, a project which changed the course of Western art and is one of the major artistic accomplishments of human civilization. In a different political climate, after the Sack of Rome, he returned and, between 1535 and 1541, painted The Last Judgment for Popes Clement VII and Paul III..
Read more

20 minutes Admission Ticket Free

St. Peter's Basilica

The Papal Basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican is a church built in the Renaissance style located in Vatican City, the papal enclave that is within the city of Rome. Construction of the present basilica began on 18 April 1506 and was completed on 18 November 1626.Designed principally by Donato Bramante, Michelangelo, Carlo Maderno and Gian Lorenzo Bernini, St. Peter's is the most renowned work of Renaissance architecture and the largest church in the world by interior measure. It has been described as "holding a unique position in the Christian world"[4] and as "the greatest of all churches of Christendom.
Read more

20 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Show 3 more stops

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Guided tour of the Vatican Museums – VIP service?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (CET). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-323695P8

Traveler Photos

Reviews

5.00
6 reviews

Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 6 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
6
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 31 (0) days in advance.
Rome Tours
Attractions
Guides
Calendar
View more

Similar Tours & Activities

Enjoy Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel : guided tour
4.3 (72)

Enjoy Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel : guided tour

Enjoy a fascinating tour of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel. Don't miss any of the highlights of the massive Vatican Museums collection before admiring some...

2 hours 30 minutes Free Cancellation
4.3 (72)
from
$133
1-Day Rome: Vatican & Colosseum Tour
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.6 (105)

1-Day Rome: Vatican & Colosseum Tour

Discover the very best of Rome in a single, full-day experience that brings together the city’s most iconic ancient and Renaissance landmarks. Begin your journey...

7 to 9 hours Free Cancellation
4.6 (105)
from
$407
Rome: Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon & Navona Tour
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.9 (121)

Rome: Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon & Navona Tour

Experience the charm and history of Rome on our relaxing walking tour, featuring some of the city's most famous areas. Immerse yourself in the vibrant...

2 hours 30 minutes Free Cancellation
4.9 (121)
from
$56
Private Shore Excursion from Civitavecchia Rome Port to Rome and Vatican City
5.0 (18)

Private Shore Excursion from Civitavecchia Rome Port to Rome and Vatican City

This private shore excursion to Rome is to take you on a journey through the history and art, for you to admire Rome and it...

9 hours
5.0 (18)
from
$365
Enjoy Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel : guided tour

Enjoy a fascinating tour of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel. Don't miss any of the highlights of the massive Vatican Museums collection before admiring some …More

4.3 (72)

Enjoy Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel : guided tour

4.3 (72)

Enjoy a fascinating tour of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel. Don't miss any of the highlights of the massive Vatican Museums collection before admiring some...

2 hours 30 minutes Free Cancellation
4.3 (72)
from
$133
1-Day Rome: Vatican & Colosseum Tour

Discover the very best of Rome in a single, full-day experience that brings together the city’s most iconic ancient and Renaissance landmarks. Begin your journey …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.6 (105)

1-Day Rome: Vatican & Colosseum Tour

4.6 (105)

Discover the very best of Rome in a single, full-day experience that brings together the city’s most iconic ancient and Renaissance landmarks. Begin your journey...

7 to 9 hours Free Cancellation
4.6 (105)
from
$407
Rome: Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon & Navona Tour

Experience the charm and history of Rome on our relaxing walking tour, featuring some of the city's most famous areas. Immerse yourself in the vibrant …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.9 (121)

Rome: Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon & Navona Tour

4.9 (121)

Experience the charm and history of Rome on our relaxing walking tour, featuring some of the city's most famous areas. Immerse yourself in the vibrant...

2 hours 30 minutes Free Cancellation
4.9 (121)
from
$56
Private Shore Excursion from Civitavecchia Rome Port to Rome and Vatican City

This private shore excursion to Rome is to take you on a journey through the history and art, for you to admire Rome and it …More

5.0 (18)

Private Shore Excursion from Civitavecchia Rome Port to Rome and Vatican City

5.0 (18)

This private shore excursion to Rome is to take you on a journey through the history and art, for you to admire Rome and it...

9 hours
5.0 (18)
from
$365

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 (14,686)

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 (14,686)
from
$21
Rome Pasta and Tiramisu Class: Ravioli, Fettuccine & Fine Wine 5*
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
5.0 (4,148)

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 (4,148)
from
$33
Learn to Make Pasta & Tiramisu with Wine and Limoncello Included
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.9 (3,170)

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 (3,170)
from
$56
Skip the Line: Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Tour + Basilica
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.8 (6,053)

Skip the Line: Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Tour + Basilica

Save time and energy at the Vatican Museums with skip-the-line, timed entry that lets you bypass long queues and head straight inside. Explore the highlights...

1 to 3 hours Free Cancellation
4.8 (6,053)
from
$39
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 (14,686)

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

4.8 (14,686)

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 (14,686)
from
$21
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 (4,148)

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

5.0 (4,148)

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 (4,148)
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 (3,170)

Learn to Make Pasta & Tiramisu with Wine and Limoncello Included

4.9 (3,170)

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 (3,170)
from
$56
Skip the Line: Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Tour + Basilica

Save time and energy at the Vatican Museums with skip-the-line, timed entry that lets you bypass long queues and head straight inside. Explore the highlights …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.8 (6,053)

Skip the Line: Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Tour + Basilica

4.8 (6,053)

Save time and energy at the Vatican Museums with skip-the-line, timed entry that lets you bypass long queues and head straight inside. Explore the highlights...

1 to 3 hours Free Cancellation
4.8 (6,053)
from
$39

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 Guided tour of the Vatican Museums – VIP service?
A:
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.
  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (CET).
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • Air-conditioned vehicle.
The following is NOT included:
  • entrance tickets.
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..

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 Guided tour of the Vatican Museums - VIP service is as follows:

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • 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 Guided tour of the Vatican Museums – VIP service 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

  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Entrance tickets

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Report Product Issue

Activity name