The Vatican Museums, Saint Peter’s Basilica, and the Sistine Chapel are among the most popular sites. Our tours ensure you get an in-depth look at these iconic locations.
Vatican Museums: Early Morning or After-Hours Guided Tour – Includes Sistine Chapel
Experience the Vatican in a way few others ever do. This tour offers a rare opportunity for exclusive early morning or after-hours access to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. You will enter the Vatican before or after regular public hours, allowing you to explore its galleries and treasures without the usual crowds.
Our Exclusive After-Hours Vatican Tour includes:
- Exclusive Access to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
- Explore Galleries and Treasures Without the Usual Crowds
- Enjoy a More Intimate Connection With the Vatican's Art and History
Exclusive Access
Skip-the-Line Exclusive Entry Tickets to the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica
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About the TourPassionate and professional tour guide -
TakeawayAccess to the Sistine Chapel
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AudioHeadsets to ensure clear audio throughout the tour
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Duration2.5-hour experience
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Group SizeMaximum group size of 20 people
Know Before You Go:
- During periods of Sede Vacante, the Sistine Chapel will be closed to the public without prior notice due to the Papal Conclave (election of a new Pope). As this is a decision made by the Vatican, access to the Sistine Chapel is not guaranteed during these times. No refunds or discounts will be issued in the event of such closures.
- St. Peter’s Basilica is closed on Wednesday mornings (8 AM–12 PM), December 24, and December 31. Skip-the-line entry to the Basilica may be restricted without prior notice due to religious ceremonies or crowd control during Jubilee Year masses.
- For tours including St. Peter’s Basilica starting at 3:00 PM or later, Basilica visits are self-guided.
- Entry to the Vatican Museums is strictly timed; late arrivals cannot be guaranteed access.
- A valid photo ID is required for security checks upon arrival.
- A dress code is strictly enforced: shoulders and knees must be covered. Sleeveless tops, low-cut garments, shorts above the knee, and miniskirts are not permitted.
Know Before You Go:
- During periods of Sede Vacante, the Sistine Chapel will be closed to the public without prior notice due to the Papal Conclave (election of a new Pope). As this is a decision made by the Vatican, access to the Sistine Chapel is not guaranteed during these times. No refunds or discounts will be issued in the event of such closures.
- St. Peter’s Basilica is closed on Wednesday mornings (8 AM–12 PM), December 24, and December 31. Skip-the-line entry to the Basilica may be restricted without prior notice due to religious ceremonies or crowd control during Jubilee Year masses.
- For tours including St. Peter’s Basilica starting at 3:00 PM or later, Basilica visits are self-guided.
- Entry to the Vatican Museums is strictly timed; late arrivals cannot be guaranteed access.
- A valid photo ID is required for security checks upon arrival.
- A dress code is strictly enforced: shoulders and knees must be covered. Sleeveless tops, low-cut garments, shorts above the knee, and miniskirts are not permitted.
What You Will See
Discover the secrets of the Vatican with this exclusive after-hours tour that offers access to its most famous sites without the usual crowds. You can marvel at its stunning architecture and historical significance in a tranquil setting.
About our local
Knowledgeable Tour Guides
- Local guides with expert knowledge of history and culture
- Engaging storytelling that makes history come alive
- Fluent in multiple languages for a seamless experience
- Passionate about providing exceptional service on every tour
- Personalization of tours to tailor to the interests, pace and preferences of the group
- An interactive approach that encourages participation and creates a memorable hands-on experience
- Ensuring cultural sensitivity and respect for important World Heritage sites
GREAT FOR THESE TRAVELERS
Whether you’re checking off a must-see from your bucket list, diving deep into history or seeking to make the most of every moment, this tour is designed with you in mind.
The Upgrade Seeker
You want the best of the best. This tour provides the exclusive experience and VIP treatment that we know you crave!
The Bucket-List Traveler
You have places to be and things to see, and this tour will help you check those important items off your bucket list! Maximize your time and don’t miss a single highlight!
The Historian
You love to read and soak up every detail about history! This tour is perfect to help you deepen your understanding with detailed insights that will enrich your historical knowledge.
The Art Aficionado
You’re an artist or an art lover, and we know you don’t want to miss any local or historical art on your visit. This tour will allow you to experience renowned and hidden art pieces guided by experts who are as passionate about art as you.
Reviews
What Our Customers Say
I simply can't recommend it more
..Before the tour, Sara made me feel as if I was in safe hands… The tour itself was given by Maya who can only be described as effervescent and brimmed with a genuine joy about all things art from the moment we met. Throughout the day she was part teacher, part friend, and part personal photographer (thanks again)…
Simply masterclass
We have never met such a passionate guide as Eugenio. His knowledge and style of explaining is unmatched. It was a pleasure being guided by him and worth every penny. We hope to see him again in one of the tours.
Definitely worth a guided tour
Our visit to the Vatican with Crown Tours was great. Our guide, Selenia was excellent. She was knowledgeable and was easy to understand… we learned a lot and saw the things we had hoped to see. Definitely worth a guided tour that also enabled us to skip the long lines.
Authentic stories, expertly guided by Europe’s most trusted tour operator.
As a leading tour operator in Europe, our commitment to quality and authenticity shines through in everything we do, from selecting passionate guides to crafting detailed itineraries that showcase the best of each destination. We make booking straightforward and direct, ensuring you get great value and a seamless experience, guaranteed. At Crown Tours, we don’t just visit places — we tell stories, sharing the rich histories and cultures along the way. Join us to Explore, Discover, and Dream.
About the Trip
FAQs
The Sistine Chapel, Saint Peter’s Basilica, and the vast collections of the Vatican Museums are top attractions that draw millions of visitors annually.
Yes, audio guides are available at many attractions, including the Vatican Museums and Saint Peter’s Basilica. Our tours also provide radios and headsets to ensure you can hear your guide clearly.
Absolutely! While Vatican City is rich in history and art, it offers captivating experiences that can be enjoyable for children as well. However, we recommend checking the suitability of specific tours.
Yes, many restaurants and attractions in Vatican City are open on Sundays, but it’s always best to check in advance, as hours may vary.
Yes, our guided tours are available in multiple languages, including English, Italian, German, French and Spanish. Please specify your preferred language when booking.
Photography is allowed in most areas of the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica, but flash photography is prohibited. Photography is not allowed inside the Sistine Chapel. Some of the best photo spots include the Gallery of Maps, the Rotunda, and St. Peter’s Square.
Yes, purchasing tickets in advance is highly recommended, as it helps avoid long queues and ensures your spot on the tour.
Small bags are allowed, but large bags or backpacks must be checked in at the cloakroom, which is free of charge.
Food and drinks are not allowed inside the Vatican Museums or the Sistine Chapel. However, there are designated areas where you can enjoy refreshments.
You will receive detailed instructions and a map with your booking confirmation, including the exact meeting point at our designated location with free Wi-Fi.
The Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica require modest clothing. All visitors must ensure knees, midriff, cleavage and shoulders are covered at all times.
There are thorough security screenings for entry to Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. During the high season, the waiting time in the security check lines may be extended.
The Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica are subject to closure without prior notice due to exceptional religious events.
Tours will continue rain or shine. Our guides will ensure you have an enjoyable experience no matter the forecast.
The tour includes walking, stairs and uneven terrain, making it less suitable for those with mobility issues.
Yes, to ensure a personalized experience, we limit the number of participants in each group. This allows for better interaction with the guide and a more intimate exploration of the sites.
The tour typically lasts about 2.5 hours, giving ample time to explore the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and Saint Peter’s Basilica.
Yes, our tours are family-friendly and suitable for children. However, parents should consider the length and nature of the tour when planning for younger children.
Our tours are conducted in multiple languages, including English, Italian, German, French and Spanish. Please select your preferred language during the booking process.
Yes, our exclusive early morning and after-hours tours are available year-round, offering a unique experience regardless of the season.
This tour includes the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and Saint Peter’s Basilica, providing a comprehensive experience of Vatican City’s most iconic sites.
Itinerary
We look forward to hosting you on this after-hours Vatican tour, guiding you through one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks. This tour is 2.5 hours and includes approximately 2.2 kilometers/1.36 miles of walking. Here’s everything you need to know!
1
Meet at Via Mocenigo, 15
Please meet us at the Crown Tours office on Via Mocenigo, 15, just a short walk from the Vatican Museums. You will find our staff dressed in Crown Tours purple. Please arrive at the meeting point 30 minutes before your tour, as we cannot guarantee access to the tour if you do not arrive by this time.
2
Pinecone Courtyard
Introduction to the Vatican Museums.
3
Apollo Belvedere
A renowned statue of Apollo, the Greek god of light, music and healing.
4
Caravaggio's “The Entombment of Christ”
A dramatic painting of the burial of Jesus, known for its use of chiaroscuro lighting.
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Gallery of Maps
Detailed maps of the Italian peninsula from the 16th century.
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Sistine Chapel
Stand beneath Michelangelo’s masterpieces.
- Michelangelo’s “Creation of Adam”: Perhaps the most famous fresco in the world, this image depicts God reaching out to touch Adam, giving him life.
- Michelangelo’s “The Creation of Eve”: A companion piece to the “Creation of Adam,” this fresco shows God creating Eve from Adam’s rib.
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The Vatican Grottoes
Located beneath the basilica, the grottoes are the burial place of several popes, including St. Peter himself, the first pope of the Catholic Church.
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Michelangelo’s "Pietà"
A poignant marble structure depicting the Virgin Mary holding the dead body of Jesus.
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Bernini's "Baldachin"
The intricate bronze canopy above the altar in St. Peter’s Basilica designed by Michelangelo.
Special Notes
Attire Recommendations: We suggest wearing breathable fabrics and comfortable shoes. Consider wearing sun protection and rain gear based on the season.
Bag Restrictions: No large backpacks allowed.
Rain or Shine: Don’t worry. Tours will continue, rain or shine. Our guides will ensure you have an enjoyable experience no matter the forecast.
Mobility Restrictions: As there is a lot of walking involved, we recommend travelers have a moderate physical fitness level.
