Embark on our early morning tour with an intimate group of just six people. As part of this exclusive experience, you’ll have the privilege of being among the first to explore lavish galleries, pristine courtyards, and extensive art collections.
Your expert guide will ensure an insightful journey through the vast Papal collections, into the Sistine Chapel, and through St. Peter’s Basilica. Enjoy unparalleled views and capture stunning photos during this unique and personalized tour.
The longstanding partnership we’ve had with the Vatican allows us to offer this award-winning tour. LivTours’ expertise in delivering this very special experience is unmatched. We will bring the Vatican treasures to life and leave you with a lasting impression and memories you will cherish for the rest of your life.
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This tour was awarded “Best of the Best” by TripAdvisor in 2023. Reviews from millions of TripAdvisor travelers place this experience in the top 1% of things to do in Italy. |
Semi-Private tours and experiences are guaranteed six participants max.
Our prices always include tickets and reservations fees (no waiting in lines!)
Our tour guides and staff are selected experts and speak perfect English
Easy to book and prepay your tours with our secure payment system
Eco-sustainable tourism, designed to respect and support local culture, art and traditions
Your Semi-Private Early Morning Vatican Tour will begin near the Vatican Museums’ entrance. Here you will meet your professional and charismatic tour guide.
The tour will begin with the Pinecone Courtyard and Octagonal Courtyard. Learn about the greatest statues of antiquity. From the mysterious composition of the Greek statue of the Laocoon, to the Apollo Belvedere and the Belvedere Torso, which despite it’s ruined state, inspired generations of artists. Then, stop to admire the art and decoration of the Gallery of the Maps and the Gallery of the Tapestries.
Then, onto to the world-renowned Sistine Chapel, Michelangelo’s masterpiece. Because this Chapel is the number one attraction inside the Vatican, LivTours believes it is important to give guests the time and space they need to fully appreciate it. Stand in amazement as you gaze onto Michelangelo’s awe-inspiring ceiling frescoes. Wonder over the breathtaking “The Last Judgement” before the major surge of crowds.
Your tour will continue by visiting the Raphael Rooms before the rush of tourists. Guests will be privy to some of the most important works of art in the museum – all without the rush of the usual crowds around them. With your tour guide by your side, you’ll learn about the intriguing stories and meaning behind the paintings that adorn the walls of the pope’s private apartments.
Once you’re done, you’ll head directly into St. Peter’s Basilica. This VIP access saves time and allows you to skip-the-line. Once inside, you’ll be greeted by the breathtaking space, which is the largest Catholic church in the world. Two of the glorious works of art that you will get to see up close include Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s Baldacchino. Before you leave St. Peter’s Basilica, your guide will tell you about the Papal Tombs and share how to access the dome of St. Peter’s. Conclude your Early Morning Vatican Tour by walking around Piazza San Pietro Square and taking in the grandeur that is St. Peter’s.
LivTours’ group size of max 6 participants is and always has been based on sustainable travel, and we are proud to be at the forefront of change and innovation in the industry. LivTours is committed to providing travelers with truly sustainable tours with the lowest possible environmental impact, all while supporting the local industries and people of each unique destination. To learn more about how you can actively support sustainable tourism and how LivTours is contributing, click here.
All LivTours Semi-Private Group Tours are limited to 6 guests per tour guide. Our commitment to maintaining our uniquely tiny group sizes can sometimes be a little tricky, mathematically speaking. For example, we want to ensure that traveling families and friends can tour together so on rare occasions we may add one or two guests in order to not split groups. On that same note, you may also find yourself on tour with less than six people! We thank you for your understanding and flexibility.
By selecting Choose Dates Later / Buy as Gift at booking, any tour can be purchased without fixed dates. This is the perfect option if you want to purchase your tour as a gift for a loved one, or if you are in the pre-planning phase of your vacation. After booking, you will receive a Travel Voucher Code and full instructions on how to schedule your tours when ready. Once your travel plans are confirmed, you can easily use the Travel Voucher Code on the LivTours website to formally schedule your tours. You can find out more here.
