Your Semi-Private Highlights Vatican & Sistine Chapel Tour begins with a friendly welcome from your expert tour guide and direct access to the Vatican Museums with LivTours’ priority access, so no waiting in any lines! Once inside, you will begin learning about the amazing art housed here, seeing the wonders of the Pinecone and Octagonal Courtyard and the Belvedere Torso, a statue studied by the greats – even Michelangelo! Later on, you will stroll throughout the Round Room and admire the Constantine coffins of the Greek room.
Your expert guide will take you to see the Gallery of Tapestries; housing handcrafted tapestries by Pieter van Aelst’s School which were created from drawings by Raphael’s pupils! Next, it is on to the Gallery of Maps, just imagine, wall-to-wall hand-painted maps which will give you an idea of the 16th-century maps which will give you an idea of geography visuals from the past. From there it is on to see the recently restored Raphael Rooms* which are sure to take your breath away! As you easily spin through the afternoon crowds, you will appreciate the size of your semi-private group. Admire one of Raphael’s masterworks – The School of Athens and learn about all the historic greats and even some contemporaries he carefully placed within this masterful painting.
After this, it’s time to head over to see one of the shining masterpieces of the tour – Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel. After admiring the 8,000 square feet of Michelangelo’s masterpiece, your expert tour guide will take you towards your final stop, St. Peter’s Basilica* where you will enjoy exclusive direct access. Your guide will take you through the most immense and ornate Catholic church in the world, sharing with you the most amazing pieces of art – including Michelangelo’s dramatic statue of the Pietà. This statue of the Virgin Mary holding her dying child in her arms is one of the most stunning pieces held in the basilica. Another must-see work of art is Bernini’s alter canopy, which is made of an astounding 100,000 pounds of gilded bronze.
This comprehensive tour will give you an idea of the grandeur of Vatican City and the artwork it holds.
Continue Exploring On Your Own! Your guide will leave you inside Saint Peter’s Basilica, allowing you ample time to continue your exploration, if you so desire, of the Papal Tombs, and even climbing to the top of the Dome.