Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and Castel Sant’Angelo Private Tour

Immerse yourself in centuries of art, history, and faith on this private guided tour that brings together some of Rome’s most iconic landmarks. Accompanied by your Official Private Guide, you explore the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, and Castel Sant’Angelo, following a carefully curated route designed to offer depth, clarity, and continuity.

The experience begins inside the Vatican Museums, home to one of the most important art collections in the world. As you move through this vast complex, your guide leads you through its highlights, including the Gallery of Maps, the Gallery of Tapestries, and celebrated ancient sculptures such as the Laocoön. Along the way, you gain insight into how art, religion, and power shaped the Vatican’s collections over centuries.

The tour continues into the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s frescoes represent one of the greatest achievements in Western art. Before entering, your guide explains the symbolism, context, and meaning behind masterpieces such as The Creation of Adam and The Last Judgment, allowing you to fully appreciate the ceiling and altar wall once inside.

From here, you proceed into St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world and a masterpiece of Renaissance and Baroque art. Inside, you admire works such as Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s Baldachin, while your guide explains the architectural vision, religious symbolism, and historical ambition behind this extraordinary space.

The experience concludes at Castel Sant’Angelo, originally built as the mausoleum of Emperor Hadrian and later transformed into a papal fortress. As you explore its layered interior, you trace the transition from ancient Rome to the Renaissance, before reaching the upper terraces for panoramic views over the Tiber River and the city.

This private tour offers a seamless and in-depth journey through Rome’s artistic and historical heart, ideal for travelers who want to experience the city’s most important sites with expert guidance and a clear narrative connection.

• Not available on Sunday and Wednesday mornings.
• Even with your ‘Skip the Line’ ticket you are NOT exempt from the line (queue) for the Security Check. As you enter in the Museums all visitors and their bags have to be screened under metal detectors and to be checked by the Vatican guards.
• It is not possible to bring large bags or backpacks, as well as bulky bags, big umbrellas and selfie-sticks. All weapons, hazardous or flammable objects are strictly forbidden.
• Food and beverages are permitted but must be checked.
• Appropriate clothing is recommended, especially in high season when visiting some important holy sites, such as Basilicas and Churches. Shoulders and knees have to be covered (Sistine Chapel included).
• Wheelchair partially accessible (St. Peter's Basilica not included in the itinerary)
• Pick-up is included only for guests staying within the Aurelian Walls

1. Dolce Vita policy is applied on all Standard Bookings placed more than 72 hours from the date of the event. We provide all our customers with Refundable Terms up to 72 hours from the date of the event for any reason. To apply for a refund including where your tour is cancelled or changed by Eyes of Rome®, please contact our customer service team at info@eyesofrome.com.
2. Peace of Mind policy is applied on Selected Bookings and on all Bookings placed within 72 hours from the date of the event. We provide all our customers with Refundable Terms so if you are unable to attend your booking due to unforeseen circumstances outside of your control you may be entitled to a refund - please see our full set of Refundable Terms and Conditions here. To apply for a refund, please find the instructions on how to apply in the booking confirmation email you received after payment.