Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Early Morning or After-Hours Skip-the-Line Tour

Explore Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel

Make your way to the Vatican Museums by skipping the lines and check out some of the most important galleries and highlights of the Vatican Museums. The Vatican Museums are home to several classical sculptures and paintings by Renaissance greats such as Raphael, Caravaggio, Michelangelo, Bernini, and Leonardo da Vinci.

The tour will continue to the Sistine Chapel where a guide will give an introduction. You can then explore the chapel on your own.Gaze in wonder at Michelangelo's stunning ceiling, meticulously painted over four years, and his iconic masterpiece, Last Judgement.

Enjoy at leisure with a ticket upgrade

Choose between early-morning and after-hours guided tour guided tour of the Vatican Museum by upgrading your ticket. The early-morning option provides you with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the museums without the usual crowds. You will be able to explore galleries and the Sistine Chapel. With thousands of visitors flocking to the museums every day, it is one of the most crowded attractions in Rome.

If you choose to visit the museum after hours, you will be able to see the exhibits in their soft evening light, which is when they look their best. Your guide will be on hand to bring the museum to life, weaving tales along the way.

Additionally, you can enjoy a spread of American-style breakfast in the peaceful atmosphere of the Pinecone Courtyard, before your tour with a ticket upgrade.

Know before you go

What's not allowed

• Strict dress code: Knees, shoulders, and back must be covered for all guests.

• Note that tripod and flash photography are not allowed in this experience.

Additional information

• It's recommended to wear clothing that covers their knees, arms, and back.

• The Sistine Chapel is often subject to last-minute closures for religious ceremonies.

• Photography allowed.

• The Vatican Museums reserve the right to close any section, including the Sistine Chapel, due to unforeseen circumstances. The closure of any museum section does not entitle visitors to any refund.

• Note: From January 12–March 31, 2026, Michelangelo’s Last Judgment will be temporarily out of view due to restoration works. However, the Sistine Chapel remains open during this time.