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
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

Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & Bramante Staircase Private Tour

1 Review 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 1 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 $1,239.88 per person

Lowest Price Guarantee
Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & Bramante Staircase Private Tour Image 1
Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & Bramante Staircase Private Tour Image 2
Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & Bramante Staircase Private Tour Image 3
Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & Bramante Staircase Private Tour Image 4
Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & Bramante Staircase Private Tour Image 5
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 28 (0) days in advance.
4 hours (approx.)
Hotel pickup offered
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
and 5 more
French, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese
Instant confirmation

Overview

The highlight of this special guided tour is the magnificent helical staircase designed by Bramante for Pope Julius II in 1505. This architectural gem, inaccessible until now, will be the special focus of a visit that will also explore the principal masterpieces of the Pope's Museums. The tour is conducted by an educational guide authorised by Vatican City State and includes : Vatican Museums, Pio Clementino Museum, Bramante Staircase, Gallery of the Candelabra, Gallery of the Tapestries, Gallery of the Geographical Maps, Raphael’s Rooms, Sistine Chapel.

What's Included

  • Pio Clementino's Museum
  • "Skip the line" entrance tickets in the Vatican Museums
  • Private tour leader at your disposal (choose the language on the checkout)
  • Entrance in St. Peter's Basilica
  • Food and Beverages
  • Gratuities. If you are satisfied with the service, a gratuity is customary.
See 6 moreSee 7 more

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup point
Pickup details

Pick up at your accomodation (hotel, B&B, apartment). Please confirm us the pick up address. N.B.: If your accomodation is not in the area indicated on the above map, send us a message to arrange your pick up.

What To Expect

Book Online

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

Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

Vatican Museums

Designed by the famous architect of Tuscany, Donato Bramante, the original staircase was commissioned by Pope Julius II in the early 16th century. The staircase features herringbone paving and has granite columns lining the innermost side of the spirals. It also allowed Pope Julius II to travel directly to his private residence by carriage. The reason this was possible is because the original staircase doesn’t have stairs but is more of a paved ramp. What’s more is that this fascinating architectural marvel displays the double helix shape. This is the shape we most commonly relate to a strand of DNA today. It allowed traffic to travel up on one path and down on the other to ensure that there were never any interruptions. The original staircase is an exclusive destination which makes it very difficult to visit.
Read more

3 hours Admission Ticket Included

Sistine Chapel

Regarded as Michelangelo’s masterpiece, the Sistine Chapel is a jaw-dropping attraction you must see at least once in your lifetime.The Sistine Chapel is one of the greatest treasures of the Vatican City, of Rome and of the world in general. It is known as much for its decoration, as for being the temple in which popes are chosen and crowned.The construction of the building was between 1473 and 1481 during the mandate of Pope Sixtus IV, to whom it owes its current name. What grabs the attention in the Sistine are the frescoes that completely cover the walls and the ceiling. Some of the most important artists who worked in the chapel are Botticelli, Perugino, Luca and Michelangelo.Without any doubt, The Creation of Adam is the best-known image from the Sistine Chapel. It is located in the central part of the vault and represents the story from Genesis in which God gives life to Adam.Located over the high altar Michelangelo’s other masterpiece, The Final Judgment.
Read more

1 hour Admission Ticket Included

Show 1 more stop

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
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Dress code required for the Sistine Chapel: knees and shoulders must be covered

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & Bramante Staircase Private Tour?

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-120696P105

Traveler Photos

Reviews

5.00
1 reviews

Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 1 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
1
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

Colosseum and Roman Forum Guided Tour
4.5 (101)

Colosseum and Roman Forum Guided Tour

This incredible tour goes to the very heart of ancient Rome and takes in the Empire’s most iconic monuments. Our experienced guide will take you...

2 hours 30 minutes
4.5 (101)
from
$68
Private Vatican Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets
4.8 (5)

Private Vatican Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets

This three hour private tour allows you to see the very best of the Vatican City in three hours, accompanied by an expert guide. With...

3 hours
4.8 (5)
from
$137
Rome VIP Private Walking Tour
5.0 (1)

Rome VIP Private Walking Tour

Visit Rome in a day and experience this fascinating Eternal City with our tour! Licensed guides will lead you through the most spectacular attractions and must...

2 to 3 hours Free Cancellation
5.0 (1)
from
$80
Off the Beaten Path: Semi Private Rome Food and Wine Walking Tour in Testaccio
4.4 (26)

Off the Beaten Path: Semi Private Rome Food and Wine Walking Tour in Testaccio

Explore and learn about the gourmet delights in Rome, past and present as you enjoy 16 incredibly fresh flavors of the regional specialties in this...

3 hours 30 minutes
4.4 (26)
from
$94
Colosseum and Roman Forum Guided Tour

This incredible tour goes to the very heart of ancient Rome and takes in the Empire’s most iconic monuments. Our experienced guide will take you …More

4.5 (101)

Colosseum and Roman Forum Guided Tour

4.5 (101)

This incredible tour goes to the very heart of ancient Rome and takes in the Empire’s most iconic monuments. Our experienced guide will take you...

2 hours 30 minutes
4.5 (101)
from
$68
Private Vatican Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets

This three hour private tour allows you to see the very best of the Vatican City in three hours, accompanied by an expert guide. With …More

4.8 (5)

Private Vatican Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets

4.8 (5)

This three hour private tour allows you to see the very best of the Vatican City in three hours, accompanied by an expert guide. With...

3 hours
4.8 (5)
from
$137
Rome VIP Private Walking Tour

Visit Rome in a day and experience this fascinating Eternal City with our tour! Licensed guides will lead you through the most spectacular attractions and must …More

5.0 (1)

Rome VIP Private Walking Tour

5.0 (1)

Visit Rome in a day and experience this fascinating Eternal City with our tour! Licensed guides will lead you through the most spectacular attractions and must...

2 to 3 hours Free Cancellation
5.0 (1)
from
$80
Off the Beaten Path: Semi Private Rome Food and Wine Walking Tour in Testaccio

Explore and learn about the gourmet delights in Rome, past and present as you enjoy 16 incredibly fresh flavors of the regional specialties in this …More

4.4 (26)

Off the Beaten Path: Semi Private Rome Food and Wine Walking Tour in Testaccio

4.4 (26)

Explore and learn about the gourmet delights in Rome, past and present as you enjoy 16 incredibly fresh flavors of the regional specialties in this...

3 hours 30 minutes
4.4 (26)
from
$94

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 (14,679)

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 (14,679)
from
$21
Rome Pasta and Tiramisu Class: Ravioli, Fettuccine & Fine Wine 5*
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
5.0 (4,142)

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 (4,142)
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
Pizza Cooking Class in Rome - Near Piazza Navona
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.9 (1,479)

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 (1,479)
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 (14,679)

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

4.8 (14,679)

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 (14,679)
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 (4,142)

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

5.0 (4,142)

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 (4,142)
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
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 (1,479)

Pizza Cooking Class in Rome - Near Piazza Navona

4.9 (1,479)

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 (1,479)
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 Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & Bramante Staircase Private Tour?
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:
  • Pio Clementino's Museum.
  • "Skip the line" entrance tickets in the Vatican Museums.
  • Private tour leader at your disposal (choose the language on the checkout).
  • Pick-up and drop off with luxury transportation and private chauffeur.
  • Entrance in the Bramante Staircase (Hidden Vatican).
  • Entrance in the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entrance in the Gallery of the Candelabra and Gallery of the Geographical Maps.
  • Entrance in the Raphael’s Rooms and entrance in the Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • Educational professional guide authorised by Vatican City State.
The following is NOT included:
  • Entrance in St. Peter's Basilica.
  • Food and Beverages.
  • Gratuities. If you are satisfied with the service, a gratuity is customary.
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 Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & Bramante Staircase Private Tour 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 Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & Bramante Staircase Private Tour 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

  • Pio Clementino's Museum
  • "Skip the line" entrance tickets in the Vatican Museums
  • Private tour leader at your disposal (choose the language on the checkout)
  • Pick-up and drop off with luxury transportation and private chauffeur
  • Entrance in the Bramante Staircase (Hidden Vatican)
  • Entrance in the Sistine Chapel
  • Entrance in the Gallery of the Candelabra and Gallery of the Geographical Maps
  • Entrance in the Raphael’s Rooms and entrance in the Gallery of the Tapestries
  • Educational professional guide authorised by Vatican City State
  • Entrance in St. Peter's Basilica
  • Food and Beverages
  • Gratuities. If you are satisfied with the service, a gratuity is customary.

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
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Dress code required for the Sistine Chapel: knees and shoulders must be covered

Report Product Issue

Activity name