Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel small-group tour with basilica visit

It may be the world's smallest state, but Vatican City packs a mighty punch when it comes to history, art, and architecture. And there's no better way to tick off its must-sees than this walking tour with an expert local guide. You’ll explore the Vatican Museums, and Sistine Chapel in a small group, meaning you get more from your guide. Valeria, one of our guides, says, "since I was a child, my passion for the past was my inspiration, and my dream to become an archaeologist came true. The incredible beauty and splendour of the Vatican Museums will amaze you."

With a priceless collection of over 20,000 unique works of art, there's no time to waste on this afternoon of discovery. And, with the added, you'll avoid the crowds and skip straight to the good part with your small group. Follow your guide as they take you through the museums' labyrinth of statues, paintings, and sculptures from the likes of Raphael, Bellini, and Leonardo.

Listen to expert background commentary as you wander through the most important sections, including the Gallery of Tapestries and the Gallery of Candelabra, before reaching your next stop — the Sistine Chapel. "It’s one of Michelangelo’s greatest masterpieces," says Valeria. Its frescoes, which took six years to complete, span the complete interior — it's a real showstopper. At the end of your tour, you'll head through a passageway that connects the Sistine Chapel to St Peter's Basilica. Here, your guide will point out a few things you may want to check out here, then you're free to wander around on your own.