Walks

History of "VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel"

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Version 150 – May 12, 2025 17:08

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Previous Version
Description
  • Travel with the Vatican’s Key Master as he opens up the Museums, unlocking doors and lighting long, empty galleries for you to explore. On this unprecedented tour, the most exclusive ever offered by the Vatican, your small group enjoy 2 hours inside the Vatican Museums completely alone. The highlight of your tour will be the opening of the Sistine Chapel, where you’ll enter completely alone and watch Michelangelo’s frescoes flicker to life. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours -- an experience usually reserved for the Key Master....and the Pope.
  •  Accompanied by an Official Vatican Tour Guide, you’ll get up close with some of the finest artworks in the world, appreciating every detail of the gallery’s masterpieces. While opening the Sistine Chapel is an unforgettable experience, there’s so much more to the Vatican Museums. The Raphael Rooms are a particular highlight. Often more crowded than the Sistine Chapel, they’re home to a collection of frescoes just as revered by art historians. Visiting alone, you’ll have the space to appreciate them in all their majesty. During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  •  Enter the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard and you can choose to stay inside the Museums to explore more on your own, or head off for your next adventure, passing the crowds who are only now getting inside the doors.
  • Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments, or for wheelchairs or strollers. Please contact the Guest Experience team at +39 068-596-0143 (Italy) or 888-683-8670 (USA) to make alternative arrangements.
  • Travel with the Vatican’s Key Master as he opens up the Museums, unlocking doors and lighting long, empty galleries for you to explore. On this unprecedented tour, the most exclusive ever offered by the Vatican, your small group enjoy 2 hours inside the Vatican Museums completely alone. The highlight of your tour will be the opening of the Sistine Chapel, where you’ll enter completely alone and watch Michelangelo’s frescoes flicker to life. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours -- an experience usually reserved for the Key Master....and the Pope.
  •  Accompanied by an Official Vatican Tour Guide, you’ll get up close with some of the finest artworks in the world, appreciating every detail of the gallery’s masterpieces. While opening the Sistine Chapel is an unforgettable experience, there’s so much more to the Vatican Museums. The Raphael Rooms are a particular highlight. Often more crowded than the Sistine Chapel, they’re home to a collection of frescoes just as revered by art historians. Visiting alone, you’ll have the space to appreciate them in all their majesty. During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  •  Enter the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard and you can choose to stay inside the Museums to explore more on your own, or head off for your next adventure, passing the crowds who are only now getting inside the doors.
  • Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments, or for wheelchairs or strollers. Please contact the Guest Experience team at +39 068-596-0143 (Italy) or 888-683-8670 (USA) to make alternative arrangements.
  • Please note that the Sistine Chapel will be closed from April 28-mid-May for the Papal Conclave. The Vatican Museums will remain open and you will still be able to see its many highlights with your expert guide as they lead you on an alternative itinerary during this historic time at the Vatican.

Version 149 – May 05, 2025 10:14

Current Version
Previous Version
Highlights
  • experience the vatican free of crowds., explore alongside an official vatican museums guide., join the vatican’s key master to open the sistine chapel., spend 2 hours inside the vatican museums completely alone., take part in the opening of the vatican galleries.
  • explore alongside an official vatican museums guide., explore the vatican free of crowds., join the vatican’s key master to open the sistine chapel., spend 2 hours inside the vatican museums completely alone., take part in the opening of the vatican galleries.

Version 148 – April 30, 2025 13:06

Current Version
Previous Version
Additional Info
  • Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments, or for wheelchairs or strollers. Please contact the Guest Experience team at +39 068-596-0143 (Italy) or 888-683-8670 (USA) to make alternative arrangements.
  • Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments, or for wheelchairs or strollers. Please contact the Guest Experience team at +39 068-596-0143 (Italy) or 888-683-8670 (USA) to make alternative arrangements.
Know Before You Book
  • all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., due to the religious nature of the vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry., the tour is in english., this is a walking tour. guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty., unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or with wheelchairs, or strollers. , walks tours is an accredited tour operator with an official ticketing agreement with the vatican museums.
  • all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., due to the religious nature of the vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry., the tour is in english., this is a walking tour. guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty., unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or with wheelchairs, or strollers. , walks and devour comply with all local government regulations. please refer to local government guidelines for the most up to date information.

Version 147 – April 29, 2025 16:58

Current Version
Previous Version
Redemption type
  • MANIFEST

Version 146 – April 29, 2025 16:52

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • This once in a lifetime tour offers the most incredible Vatican experience imaginable. Enter the Vatican museums before dawn, with the Museums’ Key Master. Join him as he opens the still and silent galleries and breeze through Italy’s most prized gem in luxurious seclusion. For two unique and memorable hours, you’ll glide through the deserted Museums, seeing the most awe-inspiring spaces including the Raphael Rooms and – the height of exclusivity - an empty Sistine Chapel. Walks Tours is proud to be an Accredited Tour Operator with an official ticketing agreement with the Vatican Museums. 
  • This once in a lifetime tour offers the most incredible Vatican experience imaginable. Enter the Vatican museums before dawn, with the Museums’ Key Master. Join him as he opens the still and silent galleries and breeze through Italy’s most prized gem in luxurious seclusion. For two unique and memorable hours, you’ll glide through the deserted Museums, seeing the most awe-inspiring spaces including the Raphael Rooms and – the height of exclusivity - an empty Sistine Chapel. 
Description
  • Travel with the Vatican’s Key Master as he opens up the Museums, unlocking doors and lighting long, empty galleries for you to explore. On this unprecedented tour, the most exclusive ever offered by the Vatican, your small group enjoy 2 hours inside the Vatican Museums completely alone. The highlight of your tour will be the opening of the Sistine Chapel, where you’ll enter completely alone and watch Michelangelo’s frescoes flicker to life. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours -- an experience usually reserved for the Key Master....and the Pope.
  •  Accompanied by an Official Vatican Tour Guide, you’ll get up close with some of the finest artworks in the world, appreciating every detail of the gallery’s masterpieces. While opening the Sistine Chapel is an unforgettable experience, there’s so much more to the Vatican Museums. The Raphael Rooms are a particular highlight. Often more crowded than the Sistine Chapel, they’re home to a collection of frescoes just as revered by art historians. Visiting alone, you’ll have the space to appreciate them in all their majesty. During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  •  Enter the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard and you can choose to stay inside the Museums to explore more on your own, or head off for your next adventure, passing the crowds who are only now getting inside the doors.
  • Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments, or for wheelchairs or strollers. Please contact the Guest Experience team at +39 068-596-0143 (Italy) or 888-683-8670 (USA) to make alternative arrangements.
  • Please note that the Sistine Chapel will be closed from April 28-mid-May for the Papal Conclave. The Vatican Museums will remain open and you will still be able to see its many highlights with your expert guide as they lead you on an alternative itinerary during this historic time at the Vatican.
  • Travel with the Vatican’s Key Master as he opens up the Museums, unlocking doors and lighting long, empty galleries for you to explore. On this unprecedented tour, the most exclusive ever offered by the Vatican, your small group enjoy 2 hours inside the Vatican Museums completely alone. The highlight of your tour will be the opening of the Sistine Chapel, where you’ll enter completely alone and watch Michelangelo’s frescoes flicker to life. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours -- an experience usually reserved for the Key Master....and the Pope.
  • Accompanied by an Official Vatican Tour Guide, you’ll get up close with some of the finest artworks in the world, appreciating every detail of the gallery’s masterpieces. While opening the Sistine Chapel is an unforgettable experience, there’s so much more to the Vatican Museums. The Raphael Rooms are a particular highlight. Often more crowded than the Sistine Chapel, they’re home to a collection of frescoes just as revered by art historians. Visiting alone, you’ll have the space to appreciate them in all their majesty. During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • Enter the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard and you can choose to stay inside the Museums to explore more on your own, or head off for your next adventure, passing the crowds who are only now getting inside the doors.
  • Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments, or for wheelchairs or strollers. Please contact the Guest Experience team at +39 068-596-0143 (Italy) or 888-683-8670 (USA) to make alternative arrangements.
Redemption type
  • voucher

Version 145 – April 18, 2025 13:05

Current Version
Previous Version
Cancellation notes
  • Cancellations received greater than 24 hours prior to tour commencement are fully refundable.
  • Cancellations received within 24 hours of tour commencement are nonrefundable.
  • Amendment requests are subject to availability and price changes.
  • Late arrivals and no shows are nonrefundable. This is applicable to any tour participant that fails to arrive, or arrives after tour departure.
  • Cancellations received greater than 72 hours prior to tour commencement are fully refundable.
  • Cancellations received within 72 hours of tour commencement are nonrefundable.
  • Amendment requests are subject to availability and price changes.
  • Late arrivals and no-shows are non-refundable. This is applicable to any tour participant that fails to arrive or arrives after tour departure.

Version 144 – February 21, 2025 04:39

Current Version
Previous Version
Know Before You Go
  • all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., all guests must pass through security. for useful information/restrictions about your tour in the vatican museum, visit https://m.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani-mobile/en/visita-i-musei/consigli-utili.html, due to the religious nature of the vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry., guests are free to stay in the vatican museums after the tour ends., no photography or filming is permitted in the sistine chapel., only small backpacks and handbags are allowed inside the vatican museums., please arrive 15 minutes before your tour start time for check-in. out of courtesy to other guests, we’re unable to wait for latecomers. no refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows., tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated., walks and devour comply with all local government regulations. please refer to local government guidelines for the most up to date information.
Know Before You Book
  • all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., due to the religious nature of the vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry., the tour is in english., this is a walking tour. guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty., unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or with wheelchairs, or strollers. , walks and devour comply with all local government regulations. please refer to local government guidelines for the most up to date information.
Percent Complete
  • 94.4444444444444444
  • 83.3333333333333333

Version 141 – February 07, 2025 13:51

Current Version
Previous Version
Know Before You Go
  • all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., all guests must pass through security. for useful information/restrictions about your tour in the vatican museum, visit https://m.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani-mobile/en/visita-i-musei/consigli-utili.html, due to the religious nature of the vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry., guests are free to stay in the vatican museums after the tour ends., no photography or filming is permitted in the sistine chapel., only small backpacks and handbags are allowed inside the vatican museums., please arrive 15 minutes before your tour start time for check-in. out of courtesy to other guests, we’re unable to wait for latecomers. no refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows., tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated., walks and devour comply with all local government regulations. please refer to local government guidelines for the most up to date information.
Know Before You Book
  • all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., due to the religious nature of the vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry., the tour is in english., this is a walking tour. guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty., unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or with wheelchairs, or strollers. , walks and devour comply with all local government regulations. please refer to local government guidelines for the most up to date information.
Cancellation cutoff
  • 24
  • 72
Percent Complete
  • 83.3333333333333333
  • 94.4444444444444444

Version 119 – October 22, 2024 11:18

Current Version
Previous Version
Know Before You Go
  • all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., all guests must pass through security. for useful information/restrictions about your tour in the vatican museum, visit https://m.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani-mobile/en/visita-i-musei/consigli-utili.html, due to the religious nature of the vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry., guests are free to stay in the vatican museums after the tour ends., no photography or filming is permitted in the sistine chapel., only small backpacks and handbags are allowed inside the vatican museums., please arrive 15 minutes before your tour start time for check-in. out of courtesy to other guests, we’re unable to wait for latecomers. no refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows., tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated., walks and devour comply with all local government regulations. please refer to local government guidelines for the most up to date information.
  • all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., all guests must pass through security. for useful information/restrictions about your tour in the vatican museum, visit https://m.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani-mobile/en/visita-i-musei/consigli-utili.html, only small backpacks and handbags are allowed inside the vatican museums. storage is available but please note you must return (about a 20-minute walk) to the entrance to pick up your items at the end of the tour., please arrive 15 minutes before your tour start time for check-in. out of courtesy to other guests, we’re unable to wait for latecomers. no refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows.

Version 118 – October 22, 2024 11:16

Current Version
Previous Version
Know Before You Go
  • all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., all guests must pass through security. for useful information/restrictions about your tour in the vatican museum, visit https://m.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani-mobile/en/visita-i-musei/consigli-utili.html, only small backpacks and handbags are allowed inside the vatican museums. storage is available but please note you must return (about a 20-minute walk) to the entrance to pick up your items at the end of the tour., please arrive 15 minutes before your tour start time for check-in. out of courtesy to other guests, we’re unable to wait for latecomers. no refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows.
  • all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., all guests must pass through security. for useful information/restrictions about your tour in the vatican museum, visit https://m.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani-mobile/en/visita-i-musei/consigli-utili.html, due to the religious nature of the vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry., only small backpacks and handbags are allowed inside the vatican museums. storage for small items is available., the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. no refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows., this is a walking tour. guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty., this tour is in english., tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated., unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments, or for wheelchairs or strollers. please contact the guest experience team at +39 068-596-0143 (italy) or 888-683-8670 (usa) to make alternative arrangements.

Version 117 – October 22, 2024 11:14

Current Version
Previous Version
Know Before You Book
  • all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., due to the religious nature of the vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry., the tour is in english., this is a walking tour. guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty., unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or with wheelchairs, or strollers. , walks and devour comply with all local government regulations. please refer to local government guidelines for the most up to date information.
  • unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments, or for wheelchairs or strollers. please contact the guest experience team at +39 068-596-0143 (italy) or 888-683-8670 (usa) to make alternative arrangements., walks / devour complies with all local government regulations. please refer to local government guidelines for the most up-to-date information.

Version 114 – January 10, 2024 10:13

Current Version
Previous Version
Know Before You Go
  • all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., all guests must pass through security. for useful information/restrictions about your tour in the vatican museum, visit https://m.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani-mobile/en/visita-i-musei/consigli-utili.html, due to the religious nature of the vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry., only small backpacks and handbags are allowed inside the vatican museums. storage for small items is available., the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. no refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows., this is a walking tour. guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty., this tour is in english., tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated., unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments, or for wheelchairs or strollers. please contact the guest experience team at +39 068-596-0143 (italy) or 888-683-8670 (usa) to make alternative arrangements.
  • all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., all guests must pass through security. for useful information/restrictions about your tour in the vatican museum, visit https://m.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani-mobile/en/visita-i-musei/consigli-utili.html, due to the religious nature of the vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry., only small backpacks and handbags are allowed inside the vatican museums. storage for small items is available., the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. no refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows., this is a walking tour. guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty., this tour is in english., tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated., unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments, or for wheelchairs or strollers. please contact the guest experience team at +39 068-596-0143 (italy) or 888-683-8670 (usa) to make alternative arrangements., walks comply with all local government regulations. you may need to wear a mask or provide proof of vaccination to enter certain venues. please refer to italy government guidelines for the most up to date information
Know Before You Book
  • unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments, or for wheelchairs or strollers. please contact the guest experience team at +39 068-596-0143 (italy) or 888-683-8670 (usa) to make alternative arrangements., walks / devour complies with all local government regulations. please refer to local government guidelines for the most up-to-date information.
  • unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments, or for wheelchairs or strollers. please contact the guest experience team at +39 068-596-0143 (italy) or 888-683-8670 (usa) to make alternative arrangements., walks comply with all local government regulations. you may need to wear a mask or provide proof of vaccination to enter certain venues. please refer to italy government guidelines for the most up to date information

Version 108 – March 13, 2023 11:20

Current Version
Previous Version
Included
  • entrance ticket to the vatican museums, expertly guided walking tour, official english-speaking vatican guide
  • exclusive entrance ticket to the vatican museums, expertly guided walking tour, official english-speaking vatican guide

Version 107 – March 13, 2023 11:18

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • This once in a lifetime tour offers the most incredible Vatican experience imaginable. Enter the Vatican museums before dawn, with the Museums’ Key Master. Join him as he opens the still and silent galleries and breeze through Italy’s most prized gem in luxurious seclusion. For two unique and memorable hours, you’ll glide through the deserted Museums, seeing the most awe-inspiring spaces including the Raphael Rooms and – the height of exclusivity - an empty Sistine Chapel. 
  • This once in a lifetime, exclusive tour offers the most incredible Vatican experience imaginable. Enter the Vatican museums before dawn, with the Museums’ Key Master. Join him as he opens the still and silent galleries and breeze through Italy’s most prized gem in luxurious seclusion. For two unique and memorable hours, you’ll glide through the deserted Museums, seeing the most awe-inspiring spaces including the Raphael Rooms and – the height of exclusivity - an empty Sistine Chapel. 

Version 106 – February 15, 2023 12:54

Current Version
Previous Version
Description
  • Travel with the Vatican’s Key Master as he opens up the Museums, unlocking doors and lighting long, empty galleries for you to explore. On this unprecedented tour, the most exclusive ever offered by the Vatican, your small group enjoy 2 hours inside the Vatican Museums completely alone. The highlight of your tour will be the opening of the Sistine Chapel, where you’ll enter completely alone and watch Michelangelo’s frescoes flicker to life. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours -- an experience usually reserved for the Key Master....and the Pope.
  • Accompanied by an Official Vatican Tour Guide, you’ll get up close with some of the finest artworks in the world, appreciating every detail of the gallery’s masterpieces. While opening the Sistine Chapel is an unforgettable experience, there’s so much more to the Vatican Museums. The Raphael Rooms are a particular highlight. Often more crowded than the Sistine Chapel, they’re home to a collection of frescoes just as revered by art historians. Visiting alone, you’ll have the space to appreciate them in all their majesty. During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • Enter the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard and you can choose to stay inside the Museums to explore more on your own, or head off for your next adventure, passing the crowds who are only now getting inside the doors.
  • Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments, or for wheelchairs or strollers. Please contact the Guest Experience team at +39 068-596-0143 (Italy) or 888-683-8670 (USA) to make alternative arrangements.
  • Travel with the Vatican’s Key Master as he opens up the Museums, unlocking doors and lighting long, empty galleries for you to explore. On this unprecedented tour, the most exclusive ever offered by the Vatican, your small group enjoy 2 hours inside the Vatican Museums completely alone. The highlight of your tour will be the opening of the Sistine Chapel, where you’ll enter completely alone and watch Michelangelo’s frescoes flicker to life. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours -- an experience usually reserved for the Key Master....and the Pope.
  • Accompanied by an Official Vatican Tour Guide, you’ll get up close with some of the finest artworks in the world, appreciating every detail of the gallery’s masterpieces. While opening the Sistine Chapel is an unforgettable experience, there’s so much more to the Vatican Museums. The Raphael Rooms are a particular highlight. Often more crowded than the Sistine Chapel, they’re home to a collection of frescoes just as revered by art historians. Visiting alone, you’ll have the space to appreciate them in all their majesty. During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • Enter the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard and you can choose to stay inside the Museums to explore more on your own, or head off for your next adventure, passing the crowds who are only now getting inside the doors.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time.
  • Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments, or for wheelchairs or strollers. Please contact the Guest Experience team at +39 068-596-0143 (Italy) or 888-683-8670 (USA) to make alternative arrangements.

Version 104 – January 03, 2023 12:42

Current Version
Previous Version
Description
  • Travel with the Vatican’s Key Master as he opens up the Museums, unlocking doors and lighting long, empty galleries for you to explore. On this unprecedented tour, the most exclusive ever offered by the Vatican, your small group enjoy 2 hours inside the Vatican Museums completely alone. The highlight of your tour will be the opening of the Sistine Chapel, where you’ll enter completely alone and watch Michelangelo’s frescoes flicker to life. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours -- an experience usually reserved for the Key Master....and the Pope.
  • Accompanied by an Official Vatican Tour Guide, you’ll get up close with some of the finest artworks in the world, appreciating every detail of the gallery’s masterpieces. While opening the Sistine Chapel is an unforgettable experience, there’s so much more to the Vatican Museums. The Raphael Rooms are a particular highlight. Often more crowded than the Sistine Chapel, they’re home to a collection of frescoes just as revered by art historians. Visiting alone, you’ll have the space to appreciate them in all their majesty. During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • Enter the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard and you can choose to stay inside the Museums to explore more on your own, or head off for your next adventure, passing the crowds who are only now getting inside the doors.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time.
  • Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments, or for wheelchairs or strollers. Please contact the Guest Experience team at +39 068-596-0143 (Italy) or 888-683-8670 (USA) to make alternative arrangements.
Highlights
  • explore alongside an official vatican museums guide., explore the vatican free of crowds., join the vatican’s key master to open the sistine chapel., spend 2 hours inside the vatican museums completely alone., take part in the opening of the vatican galleries.
  • ● follow an official vatican guide, sharing context in each of the galleries you visit, ● join the vatican's key master, opening the vatican museums for the day, ● spend as much time as you desire inside the vatican after your tour, ● spend two exclusive hours inside the museums alone with your small group

Version 103 – January 03, 2023 12:37

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • This once in a lifetime, exclusive tour offers the most incredible Vatican experience imaginable. Enter the Vatican museums before dawn, with the Museums’ Key Master. Join him as he opens the still and silent galleries and breeze through Italy’s most prized gem in luxurious seclusion. For two unique and memorable hours, you’ll glide through the deserted Museums, seeing the most awe-inspiring spaces including the Raphael Rooms and – the height of exclusivity - an empty Sistine Chapel. 
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given in one of the world's most revered spaces.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel. It is here the Key Master graciously allows our guests a chance to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. Beyond the doors the celestial figures of Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Perugino await your arrival.

Version 100 – October 19, 2022 14:30

Current Version
Previous Version
Additional Info
  • Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments, or for wheelchairs or strollers. Please contact the Guest Experience team at +39 068-596-0143 (Italy) or 888-683-8670 (USA) to make alternative arrangements.

Version 99 – October 19, 2022 09:36

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given in one of the world's most revered spaces.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel. It is here the Key Master graciously allows our guests a chance to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. Beyond the doors the celestial figures of Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Perugino await your arrival.
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given in one of the world's most revered spaces.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel. It is here the Key Master graciously allows our guests a chance to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. Beyond the doors the celestial figures of Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Perugino await your arrival.
  • Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments, or for wheelchairs or strollers. Please contact the Guest Experience team at +39 068-596-0143 (Italy) or 888-683-8670 (USA) to make alternative arrangements.
Know Before You Go
  • all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., all guests must pass through security. for useful information/restrictions about your tour in the vatican museum, visit https://m.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani-mobile/en/visita-i-musei/consigli-utili.html, due to the religious nature of the vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry., only small backpacks and handbags are allowed inside the vatican museums. storage for small items is available., the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. no refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows., this is a walking tour. guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty., this tour is in english., tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated., unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments, or for wheelchairs or strollers. please contact the guest experience team at +39 068-596-0143 (italy) or 888-683-8670 (usa) to make alternative arrangements., walks comply with all local government regulations. you may need to wear a mask or provide proof of vaccination to enter certain venues. please refer to italy government guidelines for the most up to date information
  • all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., all guests must pass through security. for useful information/restrictions about your tour in the vatican museum, visit https://m.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani-mobile/en/visita-i-musei/consigli-utili.html, due to the religious nature of the vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry., only small backpacks and handbags are allowed inside the vatican museums. storage for small items is available., the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. no refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows., this is a walking tour. guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty., this tour is in english., this tour utilizes multiple areas that are not wheelchair accessible., tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated., walks comply with all local government regulations. you may need to wear a mask or provide proof of vaccination to enter certain venues. please refer to italy government guidelines for the most up to date information
Know Before You Book
  • unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments, or for wheelchairs or strollers. please contact the guest experience team at +39 068-596-0143 (italy) or 888-683-8670 (usa) to make alternative arrangements., walks comply with all local government regulations. you may need to wear a mask or provide proof of vaccination to enter certain venues. please refer to italy government guidelines for the most up to date information
  • this tour utilizes multiple areas that are not wheelchair accessible., walks comply with all local government regulations. you may need to wear a mask or provide proof of vaccination to enter certain venues. please refer to italy government guidelines for the most up to date information

Version 98 – October 18, 2022 15:32

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given in one of the world's most revered spaces.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel. It is here the Key Master graciously allows our guests a chance to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. Beyond the doors the celestial figures of Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Perugino await your arrival.
  • Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments, or for wheelchairs or strollers. Please contact the Guest Experience team at +39 068-596-0143 (Italy) or 888-683-8670 (USA) to make alternative arrangements.
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given in one of the world's most revered spaces.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel. It is here the Key Master graciously allows our guests a chance to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. Beyond the doors the celestial figures of Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Perugino await your arrival.

Version 97 – October 18, 2022 15:32

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given in one of the world's most revered spaces.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel. It is here the Key Master graciously allows our guests a chance to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. Beyond the doors the celestial figures of Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Perugino await your arrival.
  • Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments, or for wheelchairs or strollers. Please contact the Guest Experience team at +39 068-596-0143 (Italy) or 888-683-8670 (USA) to make alternative arrangements.
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given in one of the world's most revered spaces.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel. It is here the Key Master graciously allows our guests a chance to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. Beyond the doors the celestial figures of Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Perugino await your arrival.

Version 92 – March 08, 2022 13:08

Current Version
Previous Version
Know Before You Go
  • all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., all guests must pass through security. for useful information/restrictions about your tour in the vatican museum, visit https://m.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani-mobile/en/visita-i-musei/consigli-utili.html, due to the religious nature of the vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry., only small backpacks and handbags are allowed inside the vatican museums. storage for small items is available., the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. no refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows., this is a walking tour. guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty., this tour is in english., this tour utilizes multiple areas that are not wheelchair accessible., tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated., walks comply with all local government regulations. you may need to wear a mask or provide proof of vaccination to enter certain venues. please refer to italy government guidelines for the most up to date information
  • walks comply with all local government regulations. you may need to wear a mask or provide proof of vaccination to enter certain venues. please refer to italy government guidelines for the most up to date information, ● all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., ● all guests must pass through security. for useful information/restrictions about your tour in the vatican museum, visit https://m.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani-mobile/en/visita-i-musei/consigli-utili.html, ● due to the religious nature of the vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry., ● only small backpacks and handbags are allowed inside the vatican museums. storage for small items is available., ● the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. no refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows., ● this is a walking tour. guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty., ● this tour is in english., ● this tour utilizes multiple areas that are not wheelchair accessible., ● tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.
Know Before You Book
  • this tour utilizes multiple areas that are not wheelchair accessible., walks comply with all local government regulations. you may need to wear a mask or provide proof of vaccination to enter certain venues. please refer to italy government guidelines for the most up to date information
  • walks comply with all local government regulations. you may need to wear a mask or provide proof of vaccination to enter certain venues. please refer to italy government guidelines for the most up to date information, ● this tour utilizes multiple areas that are not wheelchair accessible.

Version 90 – February 15, 2022 09:50

Current Version
Previous Version
Know Before You Go
  • walks comply with all local government regulations. you may need to wear a mask or provide proof of vaccination to enter certain venues. please refer to italy government guidelines for the most up to date information, ● all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., ● all guests must pass through security. for useful information/restrictions about your tour in the vatican museum, visit https://m.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani-mobile/en/visita-i-musei/consigli-utili.html, ● due to the religious nature of the vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry., ● only small backpacks and handbags are allowed inside the vatican museums. storage for small items is available., ● the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. no refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows., ● this is a walking tour. guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty., ● this tour is in english., ● this tour utilizes multiple areas that are not wheelchair accessible., ● tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.
  • ● all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., ● all guests must pass through security. for useful information/restrictions about your tour in the vatican museum, visit https://m.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani-mobile/en/visita-i-musei/consigli-utili.html, ● due to the religious nature of the vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry., ● effective august 6, 2021, proof of covid-19 vaccination (over the age of 12) or negative covid test completed within 48 hours is required to enter sites on this tour. all those entering (over the age of 18) must provide photo i.d. matching the vaccination record/test results for the full requirements. please check here. (https://www.dgc.gov.it/web/checose.html), ● only small backpacks and handbags are allowed inside the vatican museums. storage for small items is available., ● the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. no refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows., ● this is a walking tour. guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty., ● this tour is in english., ● this tour utilizes multiple areas that are not wheelchair accessible., ● tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.
Know Before You Book
  • walks comply with all local government regulations. you may need to wear a mask or provide proof of vaccination to enter certain venues. please refer to italy government guidelines for the most up to date information, ● this tour utilizes multiple areas that are not wheelchair accessible.
  • ● effective august 6, 2021, proof of covid-19 vaccination (over the age of 12) or negative covid test completed within 48 hours is required to enter sites on this tour. all those entering (over the age of 18) must provide photo i.d. matching the vaccination record/test results for the full requirements. please check here. (https://www.dgc.gov.it/web/checose.html), ● this tour utilizes multiple areas that are not wheelchair accessible.

Version 89 – February 15, 2022 09:48

Current Version
Previous Version
Duration from
  • 2.0
  • 2.5

Version 88 – January 14, 2022 16:37

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given in one of the world's most revered spaces.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel. It is here the Key Master graciously allows our guests a chance to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. Beyond the doors the celestial figures of Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Perugino await your arrival.
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given in one of the world's most revered spaces.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel. It is here the Key Master graciously allows our guests a chance to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. Beyond the doors the celestial figures of Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Perugino await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for the daily flow of visitors (none who you saw!), you will enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
Highlights
  • ● follow an official vatican guide, sharing context in each of the galleries you visit, ● join the vatican's key master, opening the vatican museums for the day, ● spend as much time as you desire inside the vatican after your tour, ● spend two exclusive hours inside the museums alone with your small group
  • ● enjoy a complimentary breakfast in the pinecone courtyard, ● follow an official vatican guide, sharing context in each of the galleries you visit, ● join the vatican's key master, opening the vatican museums for the day, ● spend as much time as you desire inside the vatican after your tour, ● spend two exclusive hours inside the museums alone with your small group
Included
  • exclusive entrance ticket to the vatican museums, expertly guided walking tour, official english-speaking vatican guide
  • buffet breakfast inside the vatican museums, exclusive entrance ticket to the vatican museums, expertly guided walking tour, official english-speaking vatican guide
Health items
  • Face masks required for travelers in public areas
  • Face masks required for guides in public areas
  • Face masks provided for travelers
  • Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
  • Social distancing enforced throughout experience
  • Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
  • Gear/equipment sanitized between use
  • Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
  • Guides required to regularly wash hands
  • Regular temperature checks for staff
  • Temperature checks for travelers upon arrival
  • Paid stay-at-home policy for staff with symptoms
  • Contactless payments for gratuities and add-ons
  • COVID-19 vaccination required for guides
  • Proof of COVID-19 vaccination required for travelers
  • Face masks required for travelers in public areas
  • Face masks required for guides in public areas
  • Face masks provided for travelers
  • Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
  • Social distancing enforced throughout experience
  • Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
  • Gear/equipment sanitized between use
  • Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
  • Guides required to regularly wash hands
  • Regular temperature checks for staff
  • Temperature checks for travelers upon arrival
  • Paid stay-at-home policy for staff with symptoms
  • Contactless payments for gratuities and add-ons
  • COVID-19 vaccination required for guides
  • Proof of COVID-19 vaccination required for travelers

Version 85 – September 21, 2021 19:36

Current Version
Previous Version
Additional Info
  • Before you travel, please read the "Know Before You Go" section for essential information, requirements, and possible disruptions regarding your tour.

Version 84 – September 21, 2021 17:15

Current Version
Previous Version
Additional Info
  • Before you travel, please read the "Know Before You Go" section for essential information, requirements, and possible disruptions regarding your tour.
  • Sites Visited
  • Vatican Museums
  • Sistine Chapel
  • Raphael Rooms (Stanze di Raffaello)
  • Belvedere Courtyard (Pinecone)
  • Octagonal Courtyard (Apollo Belvedere & Laocoön)
  • Gallery of the Candelabra
  • Gallery of Maps
  • Gallery of the Tapestries

Version 83 – September 07, 2021 15:11

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given in one of the world's most revered spaces.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel. It is here the Key Master graciously allows our guests a chance to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. Beyond the doors the celestial figures of Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Perugino await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for the daily flow of visitors (none who you saw!), you will enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given in one of the world's most revered spaces.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel. It is here the Key Master graciously allows our guests a chance to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. Just beyond the doors the celestial figures of Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Perugino await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for the daily flow of visitors (none who you saw!), you will enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!

Version 79 – September 07, 2021 14:44

Current Version
Previous Version
Health
  • Covid Update. Effective August 6, 2021, proof of Covid-19 vaccination (over the age of 12) or negative COVID test completed within 48 hours is required to enter sites on this tour. All those entering (over the age of 18) must provide photo I.D. matching the vaccination record/test results. For the full requirements please check here. (https://www.dgc.gov.it/web/checose.html)
  • Covid Update. Effective August 6, 2021, proof of Covid-19 vaccination (over the age of 12) or negative COVID test completed within 48 hours is required to enter sites on this tour. All those entering (over the age of 18) must provide photo I.D. matching the vaccination record/test results For the full requirements. please check here. (https://www.dgc.gov.it/web/checose.html)

Version 78 – August 31, 2021 15:56

Current Version
Previous Version
Know Before You Go
  • ● all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., ● all guests must pass through security. for useful information/restrictions about your tour in the vatican museum, visit https://m.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani-mobile/en/visita-i-musei/consigli-utili.html, ● due to the religious nature of the vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry., ● effective august 6, 2021, proof of covid-19 vaccination (over the age of 12) or negative covid test completed within 48 hours is required to enter sites on this tour. all those entering (over the age of 18) must provide photo i.d. matching the vaccination record/test results for the full requirements. please check here. (https://www.dgc.gov.it/web/checose.html), ● only small backpacks and handbags are allowed inside the vatican museums. storage for small items is available., ● the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. no refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows., ● this is a walking tour. guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty., ● this tour is in english., ● this tour utilizes multiple areas that are not wheelchair accessible., ● tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.
  • ● all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., ● all guests must pass through security. for useful information/restrictions about your tour in the vatican museum, visit https://m.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani-mobile/en/visita-i-musei/consigli-utili.html, ● due to the religious nature of the vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry., ● effective august 6, 2021, proof of covid-19 vaccination (over the age of 12) or negative covid test completed within 48 hours is required to enter sites on this tour. all those entering (over the age of 18) must provide photo i.d. matching the vaccination record/test results for the full requirements. please check here. (https://www.dgc.gov.it/web/checose.html), ● only small backpacks and handbags are allowed inside the vatican museums. storage is available but please note you must return (about a 20-minute walk) to the entrance to pick up your items at the end of the tour., ● the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. no refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows., ● this is a walking tour. guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty., ● this tour is in english., ● this tour utilizes multiple areas that are not wheelchair accessible., ● tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.

Version 75 – August 31, 2021 15:29

Current Version
Previous Version
Know Before You Go
  • ● all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., ● all guests must pass through security. for useful information/restrictions about your tour in the vatican museum, visit https://m.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani-mobile/en/visita-i-musei/consigli-utili.html, ● due to the religious nature of the vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry., ● effective august 6, 2021, proof of covid-19 vaccination (over the age of 12) or negative covid test completed within 48 hours is required to enter sites on this tour. all those entering (over the age of 18) must provide photo i.d. matching the vaccination record/test results for the full requirements. please check here. (https://www.dgc.gov.it/web/checose.html), ● only small backpacks and handbags are allowed inside the vatican museums. storage is available but please note you must return (about a 20-minute walk) to the entrance to pick up your items at the end of the tour., ● the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. no refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows., ● this is a walking tour. guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty., ● this tour is in english., ● this tour utilizes multiple areas that are not wheelchair accessible., ● tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.
  • ● all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., ● all guests must pass through security. for useful information/restrictions about your tour in the vatican museum, visit https://m.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani-mobile/en/visita-i-musei/consigli-utili.html, ● due to the religious nature of the vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry., ● effective august 6, 2021, proof of covid-19 vaccination (over the age of 12) or negative covid test completed within 48 hours is required to enter sites on this tour. all those entering (over the age of 18) must provide photo i.d. matching the vaccination record/test results for the full requirements. please check here. (https://www.dgc.gov.it/web/checose.html), ● only small backpacks and handbags are allowed inside the vatican museums. storage is available but please note you must return (about a 20-minute walk) to the entrance to pick up your items at the end of the tour., ● our group tour utilizes multiple areas that are not wheelchair accessible. those with wheelchairs should contact us so we can arrange your visit., ● the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. no refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows., ● this is a walking tour. guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty., ● this tour is in english., ● tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.
Know Before You Book
  • ● effective august 6, 2021, proof of covid-19 vaccination (over the age of 12) or negative covid test completed within 48 hours is required to enter sites on this tour. all those entering (over the age of 18) must provide photo i.d. matching the vaccination record/test results for the full requirements. please check here. (https://www.dgc.gov.it/web/checose.html), ● this tour utilizes multiple areas that are not wheelchair accessible.
  • ● effective august 6, 2021, proof of covid-19 vaccination (over the age of 12) or negative covid test completed within 48 hours is required to enter sites on this tour. all those entering (over the age of 18) must provide photo i.d. matching the vaccination record/test results for the full requirements. please check here. (https://www.dgc.gov.it/web/checose.html), ● our group tour utilizes multiple areas that are not wheelchair accessible. those with wheelchairs should contact us so we can arrange your visit.

Version 74 – August 31, 2021 15:19

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Group info
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers.

Version 73 – August 30, 2021 18:46

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Previous Version

Version 72 – August 30, 2021 18:46

Current Version
Previous Version
Know Before You Go
  • ● all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., ● all guests must pass through security. for useful information/restrictions about your tour in the vatican museum, visit https://m.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani-mobile/en/visita-i-musei/consigli-utili.html, ● due to the religious nature of the vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry., ● effective august 6, 2021, proof of covid-19 vaccination (over the age of 12) or negative covid test completed within 48 hours is required to enter sites on this tour. all those entering (over the age of 18) must provide photo i.d. matching the vaccination record/test results for the full requirements. please check here. (https://www.dgc.gov.it/web/checose.html), ● only small backpacks and handbags are allowed inside the vatican museums. storage is available but please note you must return (about a 20-minute walk) to the entrance to pick up your items at the end of the tour., ● our group tour utilizes multiple areas that are not wheelchair accessible. those with wheelchairs should contact us so we can arrange your visit., ● the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. no refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows., ● this is a walking tour. guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty., ● this tour is in english., ● tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.
  • ● all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., ● all guests must pass through security. for useful information/restrictions about your tour in the vatican museum, visit https://m.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani-mobile/en/visita-i-musei/consigli-utili.html, ● due to the religious nature of the vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry., ● effective august 6, 2021, proof of covid-19 vaccination (over the age of 12) or negative covid test completed within 48 hours is required to enter sites on this tour. all those entering (over the age of 18) must provide photo i.d. matching the vaccination record/test results for the full requirements. please check here. (https://www.dgc.gov.it/web/checose.html), ● only small backpacks and handbags are allowed inside the vatican museums. storage is available but please note you must return (about a 20-minute walk) to the entrance to pick up your items at the end of the tour., ● the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. no refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows., ● this is a walking tour. guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty., ● this tour is in english., ● tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated., ● we cannot accept wheelchairs on this group tour. our group route utilizes staircases where elevator access is not easily accessible. those with wheelchairs and limited mobility can contact us ([email protected]) so we can arrange your visit.
Know Before You Book
  • ● effective august 6, 2021, proof of covid-19 vaccination (over the age of 12) or negative covid test completed within 48 hours is required to enter sites on this tour. all those entering (over the age of 18) must provide photo i.d. matching the vaccination record/test results for the full requirements. please check here. (https://www.dgc.gov.it/web/checose.html), ● our group tour utilizes multiple areas that are not wheelchair accessible. those with wheelchairs should contact us so we can arrange your visit.
  • effective august 6, 2021, proof of covid-19 vaccination (over the age of 12) or negative covid test completed within 48 hours is required to enter sites on this tour. all those entering (over the age of 18) must provide photo i.d. matching the vaccination record/test results for the full requirements. please check here. (https://www.dgc.gov.it/web/checose.html), we cannot accept wheelchairs on this group tour. our group route utilizes staircases where elevator access is not easily accessible. those with wheelchairs and limited mobility can contact us ([email protected]) so we can arrange your visit.

Version 71 – August 30, 2021 18:38

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Previous Version
Terms and conditions
  • Before you travel, please read the "Know Before You Go" section for essential information, requirements, and possible disruptions regarding your tour.
  • Before you travel, please read the "Know Before You Go" section about possible disruptions & site entrance requirements.

Version 70 – August 30, 2021 18:37

Current Version
Previous Version
Terms and conditions
  • Before you travel, please read the "Know Before You Go" section about possible disruptions & site entrance requirements.
  • Before you travel, please read our important notes about possible disruptions & site entrance requirements.

Version 69 – August 30, 2021 18:35

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Highlights
  • ● enjoy a complimentary breakfast in the pinecone courtyard, ● follow an official vatican guide, sharing context in each of the galleries you visit, ● join the vatican's key master, opening the vatican museums for the day, ● spend as much time as you desire inside the vatican after your tour, ● spend two exclusive hours inside the museums alone with your small group
  • - enjoy a complimentary breakfast in the pinecone courtyard, - follow an official vatican guide, sharing context in each of the galleries you visit, - join the vatican's key master, opening the vatican museums for the day, - spend as much time as you desire inside the vatican after your tour, - spend two exclusive hours inside the museums alone with your small group

Version 68 – August 30, 2021 18:34

Current Version
Previous Version
Know Before You Go
  • ● all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., ● all guests must pass through security. for useful information/restrictions about your tour in the vatican museum, visit https://m.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani-mobile/en/visita-i-musei/consigli-utili.html, ● due to the religious nature of the vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry., ● effective august 6, 2021, proof of covid-19 vaccination (over the age of 12) or negative covid test completed within 48 hours is required to enter sites on this tour. all those entering (over the age of 18) must provide photo i.d. matching the vaccination record/test results for the full requirements. please check here. (https://www.dgc.gov.it/web/checose.html), ● only small backpacks and handbags are allowed inside the vatican museums. storage is available but please note you must return (about a 20-minute walk) to the entrance to pick up your items at the end of the tour., ● the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. no refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows., ● this is a walking tour. guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty., ● this tour is in english., ● tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated., ● we cannot accept wheelchairs on this group tour. our group route utilizes staircases where elevator access is not easily accessible. those with wheelchairs and limited mobility can contact us ([email protected]) so we can arrange your visit.
  • - this tour is in english., - all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., - all guests must pass through security. for useful information/restrictions about your tour in the vatican museum, visit https://m.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani-mobile/en/visita-i-musei/consigli-utili.html, - due to the religious nature of the vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry., - effective august 6, 2021, proof of covid-19 vaccination (over the age of 12) or negative covid test completed within 48 hours is required to enter sites on this tour. all those entering (over the age of 18) must provide photo i.d. matching the vaccination record/test results for the full requirements. please check here. (https://www.dgc.gov.it/web/checose.html), - only small backpacks and handbags are allowed inside the vatican museums. storage is available but please note you must return (about a 20-minute walk) to the entrance to pick up your items at the end of the tour., - the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. no refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows., - this is a walking tour. guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty., - tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated., - we cannot accept wheelchairs on this group tour. our group route utilizes staircases where elevator access is not easily accessible. those with wheelchairs and limited mobility can contact us ([email protected]) so we can arrange your visit.

Version 67 – August 30, 2021 18:33

Current Version
Previous Version
Know Before You Go
  • - this tour is in english., - all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., - all guests must pass through security. for useful information/restrictions about your tour in the vatican museum, visit https://m.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani-mobile/en/visita-i-musei/consigli-utili.html, - due to the religious nature of the vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry., - effective august 6, 2021, proof of covid-19 vaccination (over the age of 12) or negative covid test completed within 48 hours is required to enter sites on this tour. all those entering (over the age of 18) must provide photo i.d. matching the vaccination record/test results for the full requirements. please check here. (https://www.dgc.gov.it/web/checose.html), - only small backpacks and handbags are allowed inside the vatican museums. storage is available but please note you must return (about a 20-minute walk) to the entrance to pick up your items at the end of the tour., - the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. no refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows., - this is a walking tour. guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty., - tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated., - we cannot accept wheelchairs on this group tour. our group route utilizes staircases where elevator access is not easily accessible. those with wheelchairs and limited mobility can contact us ([email protected]) so we can arrange your visit.
  • this tour is in english., all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., all guests must pass through security. for useful information/restrictions about your tour in the vatican museum, visit https://m.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani-mobile/en/visita-i-musei/consigli-utili.html, due to the religious nature of the vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry., effective august 6, 2021, proof of covid-19 vaccination (over the age of 12) or negative covid test completed within 48 hours is required to enter sites on this tour. all those entering (over the age of 18) must provide photo i.d. matching the vaccination record/test results for the full requirements. please check here. (https://www.dgc.gov.it/web/checose.html), only small backpacks and handbags are allowed inside the vatican museums. storage is available but please note you must return (about a 20-minute walk) to the entrance to pick up your items at the end of the tour., the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. no refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows., this is a walking tour. guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty., tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated., we cannot accept wheelchairs on this group tour. our group route utilizes staircases where elevator access is not easily accessible. those with wheelchairs and limited mobility can contact us ([email protected]) so we can arrange your visit.

Version 64 – August 30, 2021 18:22

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Previous Version
Know Before You Book
  • effective august 6, 2021, proof of covid-19 vaccination (over the age of 12) or negative covid test completed within 48 hours is required to enter sites on this tour. all those entering (over the age of 18) must provide photo i.d. matching the vaccination record/test results for the full requirements. please check here. (https://www.dgc.gov.it/web/checose.html), we cannot accept wheelchairs on this group tour. our group route utilizes staircases where elevator access is not easily accessible. those with wheelchairs and limited mobility can contact us ([email protected]) so we can arrange your visit.
  • all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., covid update. effective august 6, 2021, proof of covid-19 vaccination (over the age of 12) or negative covid test completed within 48 hours is required to enter sites on this tour. all those entering (over the age of 18) must provide photo i.d. matching the vaccination record/test results for the full requirements. please check here. (https://www.dgc.gov.it/web/checose.html), we cannot accept wheelchairs on this group tour. our group route utilizes staircases where elevator access is not easily accessible. those with wheelchairs and limited mobility can contact us ([email protected]) so we can arrange your visit.

Version 63 – August 30, 2021 18:21

Current Version
Previous Version
Know Before You Book
  • all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., covid update. effective august 6, 2021, proof of covid-19 vaccination (over the age of 12) or negative covid test completed within 48 hours is required to enter sites on this tour. all those entering (over the age of 18) must provide photo i.d. matching the vaccination record/test results for the full requirements. please check here. (https://www.dgc.gov.it/web/checose.html), we cannot accept wheelchairs on this group tour. our group route utilizes staircases where elevator access is not easily accessible. those with wheelchairs and limited mobility can contact us ([email protected]) so we can arrange your visit.
  • all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., effective august 6, 2021, proof of covid-19 vaccination (over the age of 12) or negative covid test completed within 48 hours is required to enter sites on this tour. all those entering (over the age of 18) must provide photo i.d. matching the vaccination record/test results for the full requirements. please check here. (https://www.dgc.gov.it/web/checose.html), we cannot accept wheelchairs on this group tour. our group route utilizes staircases where elevator access is not easily accessible. those with wheelchairs and limited mobility can contact us ([email protected]) so we can arrange your visit.

Version 61 – August 30, 2021 18:15

Current Version
Previous Version
Know Before You Go
  • this tour is in english., all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., all guests must pass through security. for useful information/restrictions about your tour in the vatican museum, visit https://m.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani-mobile/en/visita-i-musei/consigli-utili.html, due to the religious nature of the vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry., effective august 6, 2021, proof of covid-19 vaccination (over the age of 12) or negative covid test completed within 48 hours is required to enter sites on this tour. all those entering (over the age of 18) must provide photo i.d. matching the vaccination record/test results for the full requirements. please check here. (https://www.dgc.gov.it/web/checose.html), only small backpacks and handbags are allowed inside the vatican museums. storage is available but please note you must return (about a 20-minute walk) to the entrance to pick up your items at the end of the tour., the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. no refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows., this is a walking tour. guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty., tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated., we cannot accept wheelchairs on this group tour. our group route utilizes staircases where elevator access is not easily accessible. those with wheelchairs and limited mobility can contact us ([email protected]) so we can arrange your visit.
  • this tour is in english., all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., all guests must pass through security. for useful information/restrictions about your tour in the vatican museum, visit https://m.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani-mobile/en/visita-i-musei/consigli-utili.html, due to the religious nature of the vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry., from august 6th 2021, all italy sites we visit will require clients and guides alike to provide proof of vaccination or a negative covid test completed within 48 hours prior to entry. they will also require a legal form of id matching the vaccination or test results. more info on the italian government website, from august 6th 2021, all italy sites we visit will require clients and guides alike to provide proof of vaccination or a negative covid test completed within 48 hours prior to entry. they will also require a legal form of id matching the vaccination or test results. more info on the italian government website., only small backpacks and handbags are allowed inside the vatican museums. storage is available but please note you must return (about a 20-minute walk) to the entrance to pick up your items at the end of the tour., the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. no refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows., this is a walking tour. guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty., this tour is in english., tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated., we cannot accept wheelchairs on this group tour. our group route utilizes staircases where elevator access is not easily accessible. those with wheelchairs and limited mobility can contact us ([email protected]) so we can arrange your visit.
Know Before You Book
  • all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., effective august 6, 2021, proof of covid-19 vaccination (over the age of 12) or negative covid test completed within 48 hours is required to enter sites on this tour. all those entering (over the age of 18) must provide photo i.d. matching the vaccination record/test results for the full requirements. please check here. (https://www.dgc.gov.it/web/checose.html), we cannot accept wheelchairs on this group tour. our group route utilizes staircases where elevator access is not easily accessible. those with wheelchairs and limited mobility can contact us ([email protected]) so we can arrange your visit.
  • all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., from august 6th 2021, all italy sites we visit will require clients and guides alike to provide proof of vaccination or a negative covid test completed within 48 hours prior to entry. they will also require a legal form of id matching the vaccination or test results. more info on the italian government website, we cannot accept wheelchairs on this group tour. our group route utilizes staircases where elevator access is not easily accessible. those with wheelchairs and limited mobility can contact us ([email protected]) so we can arrange your visit.

Version 59 – August 30, 2021 17:38

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Previous Version
Health
  • Covid Update. Effective August 6, 2021, proof of Covid-19 vaccination (over the age of 12) or negative COVID test completed within 48 hours is required to enter sites on this tour. All those entering (over the age of 18) must provide photo I.D. matching the vaccination record/test results For the full requirements. please check here. (https://www.dgc.gov.it/web/checose.html)
  • Covid Update. Effective August 6, 2021, proof of Covid-19 vaccination (over the age of 12) or negative COVID test completed within 48 hours is required to enter sites on this tour. All those entering (over the age of 18) must provide photo I.D. matching the vaccination record/test results For the full requirements. please check here.

Version 58 – August 30, 2021 17:38

Current Version
Previous Version
Health
  • Covid Update. Effective August 6, 2021, proof of Covid-19 vaccination (over the age of 12) or negative COVID test completed within 48 hours is required to enter sites on this tour. All those entering (over the age of 18) must provide photo I.D. matching the vaccination record/test results For the full requirements. please check here.
  • Please note Walks will update health & safety requirements in keeping with local authorities' advice.

Version 57 – August 30, 2021 17:38

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Previous Version
Excluded
  • gratuities, hotel pick-up/drop off
  • hotel pick-up/drop off, tips/gratuities
Additional Info
  • Sites Visited
  • Vatican Museums
  • Sistine Chapel
  • Raphael Rooms (Stanze di Raffaello)
  • Belvedere Courtyard (Pinecone)
  • Octagonal Courtyard (Apollo Belvedere & Laocoön)
  • Gallery of the Candelabra
  • Gallery of Maps
  • Gallery of the Tapestries
  • Sites Visited
  • Vatican Museums
  • Sistine Chapel
  • Raphael Rooms (Stanze di Raffaello)
  • Belvedere Courtyard (Pinecone)
  • Octagonal Courtyard (Apollo Belvedere, Laocoön)
  • Gallery of the Candelabra
  • Gallery of Maps
  • Gallery of the Tapestries
Health items
  • Face masks required for travelers in public areas
  • Face masks required for guides in public areas
  • Face masks provided for travelers
  • Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
  • Social distancing enforced throughout experience
  • Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
  • Gear/equipment sanitized between use
  • Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
  • Guides required to regularly wash hands
  • Regular temperature checks for staff
  • Temperature checks for travelers upon arrival
  • Paid stay-at-home policy for staff with symptoms
  • Contactless payments for gratuities and add-ons
  • COVID-19 vaccination required for guides
  • Proof of COVID-19 vaccination required for travelers
  • Face masks required for travelers in public areas
  • Face masks required for guides in public areas
  • Face masks provided for travelers
  • Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
  • Social distancing enforced throughout experience
  • Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
  • Gear/equipment sanitized between use
  • Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
  • Guides required to regularly wash hands
  • Regular temperature checks for staff
  • Temperature checks for travelers upon arrival
  • Paid stay-at-home policy for staff with symptoms
  • Contactless payments for gratuities and add-ons
  • COVID-19 vaccination required for guides
  • Proof of COVID-19 vaccination required for travelers

Version 56 – August 30, 2021 17:36

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Previous Version
Included
  • buffet breakfast inside the vatican museums, exclusive entrance ticket to the vatican museums, expertly guided walking tour, official english-speaking vatican guide
  • buffet breakfast inside the vatican museums, exclusive entrance ticket to the vatican museums, expertly guided walking tour, official vatican english-speaking guide

Version 55 – August 30, 2021 17:36

Current Version
Previous Version
Included
  • buffet breakfast inside the vatican museums, exclusive entrance ticket to the vatican museums, expertly guided walking tour, official vatican english-speaking guide
  • buffet breakfast inside the vatican museums, exclusive entrance to the vatican museums (2.5 hours prior to opening), official vatican english-speaking guide

Version 54 – August 30, 2021 17:33

Current Version
Previous Version
Included
  • buffet breakfast inside the vatican museums, exclusive entrance to the vatican museums (2.5 hours prior to opening), official vatican english-speaking guide
  • buffet breakfast inside the vatican museums, exclusive entrance to vatican museums (2.5 hours prior to opening), expertly guided walking tour, local english-speaking guide, official vatican tour guide

Version 53 – August 30, 2021 17:32

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given in one of the world's most revered spaces.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel. It is here the Key Master graciously allows our guests a chance to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. Just beyond the doors the celestial figures of Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Perugino await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for the daily flow of visitors (none who you saw!), you will enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given in one of the world's most revered spaces.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel. It is here the Key Master graciously allows our guests a chance to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. Just beyond the doors the celestial figures of Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Perugino await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for the daily flow of visitors (none who you saw!), you will enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.
Highlights
  • - enjoy a complimentary breakfast in the pinecone courtyard, - follow an official vatican guide, sharing context in each of the galleries you visit, - join the vatican's key master, opening the vatican museums for the day, - spend as much time as you desire inside the vatican after your tour, - spend two exclusive hours inside the museums alone with your small group
  • ● accompanied by an official vatican museums guide you’ll learn the context to help you truly appreciate this experience, ● enjoy a complimentary breakfast on the still-closed pinecone courtyard, inside the museums., ● experience 2 hours inside the vatican museums completely alone, ● join the vatican’s key master, opening the sistine chapel for the day, ● option to stay inside the museums to continue your exploration as they open to the general public.

Version 52 – August 30, 2021 17:30

Current Version
Previous Version
Additional Info
  • Sites Visited
  • Vatican Museums
  • Sistine Chapel
  • Raphael Rooms (Stanze di Raffaello)
  • Belvedere Courtyard (Pinecone)
  • Octagonal Courtyard (Apollo Belvedere, Laocoön)
  • Gallery of the Candelabra
  • Gallery of Maps
  • Gallery of the Tapestries
  • Sites Visited
  • Vatican Museums
  • Sistine Chapel
  • Raphael Rooms (Stanze di Raffaello)
  • Belvedere Courtyard (Pinecone)
  • Octagonal Courtyard (Apollo Belvedere, Laocoön)
  • Gallery of the Candelabra
  • Gallery of Maps
  • Gallery of the Tapestries
  • Sobieski Room

Version 51 – August 30, 2021 17:22

Current Version
Previous Version
Additional Info
  • Sites Visited
  • Vatican Museums
  • Sistine Chapel
  • Raphael Rooms (Stanze di Raffaello)
  • Belvedere Courtyard (Pinecone)
  • Octagonal Courtyard (Apollo Belvedere, Laocoön)
  • Gallery of the Candelabra
  • Gallery of Maps
  • Gallery of the Tapestries
  • Sobieski Room
  • Sites Visited
  • Vatican Museums
  • Sistine Chapel
  • Raphael Rooms (Stanze di Raffaello)
  • Belvedere Courtyard (Pinecone)
  • Octagonal Courtyard (Apollo Belvedere, Laocoön)
  • Gallery of the Candelabra
  • Gallery of the Maps
  • Gallery of the Tapestries
  • Sobieski Room

Version 50 – August 30, 2021 17:17

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given in one of the world's most revered spaces.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel. It is here the Key Master graciously allows our guests a chance to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. Just beyond the doors the celestial figures of Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Perugino await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for the daily flow of visitors (none who you saw!), you will enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given in one of the world's most revered spaces.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel. It is here the Key Master graciously allows our guests a chance to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. Just beyond the doors the celestial figures of Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Perugino await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for the daily flow of their thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), you will enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.

Version 49 – August 30, 2021 17:16

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given in one of the world's most revered spaces.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel. It is here the Key Master graciously allows our guests a chance to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. Just beyond the doors the celestial figures of Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Perugino await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for the daily flow of their thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), you will enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given in one of the world's most revered spaces.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel. It is here the Key Master graciously allows our guests a chance to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. Just beyond the doors the celestial figures of Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Perugino await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), you will enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.

Version 48 – August 30, 2021 17:15

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given in one of the world's most revered spaces.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel. It is here the Key Master graciously allows our guests a chance to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. Just beyond the doors the celestial figures of Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Perugino await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), you will enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given in one of the world's most revered spaces.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel. It is here the Key Master graciously allows our guests a chance to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. Just beyond the doors the brilliant figures of Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Perugino await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), you will enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.

Version 47 – August 30, 2021 17:15

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given in one of the world's most revered spaces.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel. It is here the Key Master graciously allows our guests a chance to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. Just beyond the doors the brilliant figures of Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Perugino await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), you will enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given in one of the world's most revered spaces.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel. It is here the Key Master graciously allows our guests a chance to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. Just beyond the doors the shadowy figures of Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Perugino await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), you will enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.

Version 46 – August 30, 2021 17:14

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given in one of the world's most revered spaces.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel. It is here the Key Master graciously allows our guests a chance to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. Just beyond the doors the shadowy figures of Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Perugino await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), you will enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given in one of the world's most revered spaces.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel. It is here the Key Master graciously allows our guests a chance to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. Just beyond the doors the shadowy figures of Michelangelo, Botticelli, and  await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), you will enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.

Version 45 – August 30, 2021 17:13

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given in one of the world's most revered spaces.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel. It is here the Key Master graciously allows our guests a chance to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. Just beyond the doors the shadowy figures of Michelangelo, Botticelli, and  await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), you will enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given in one of the world's most revered spaces.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel. It is here the Key Master graciously turns over to allow our guests a chance to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), you will enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.

Version 44 – August 30, 2021 17:12

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given in one of the world's most revered spaces.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel. It is here the Key Master graciously turns over to allow our guests a chance to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), you will enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given in one of the world's most revered spaces.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel which the Key Master graciously turns over to allow our guests to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), you will enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.

Version 43 – August 30, 2021 17:11

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given in one of the world's most revered spaces.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel which the Key Master graciously turns over to allow our guests to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), you will enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given in one of the world's most reverent spaces.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel which the Key Master graciously turns over to allow our guests to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), you will enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.

Version 42 – August 30, 2021 17:09

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given in one of the world's most reverent spaces.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel which the Key Master graciously turns over to allow our guests to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), you will enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given 
  • time in the Vatican
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel which the Key Master graciously turns over to allow our guests to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), you will enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.

Version 41 – August 30, 2021 17:08

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will appreciate the time and space given 
  • time in the Vatican
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel which the Key Master graciously turns over to allow our guests to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), you will enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will have the time and space to appreciate your time in the Vatican
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel which the Key Master graciously turns over to allow our guests to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), you will enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • For a full 2 hours you'll follow the man with the keys through some of the Vatican's most famous rooms - the Raphael Rooms and of course, the Sistine Chapel. As the lights come up, you'll stand in silent awe of Michelangelo's masterpieces. There's a lot to take in here, and for regular visitors it's impossible to soak it up. But devoid of the day's noise, you'll have the time and space to do truly appreciate this space. Few people ever have the opportunity to make memories like this.
  • Aside from the Key Master, you'll also be accompanied by an Official Vatican Museums Tour Guide, hand-chosen by the Museum authorities to lead this special experience (that's a pretty high bar to pass). As you move through the Museums, they'll explain the historic and artistic significane of what you're seeing, adding colour and character to these hallowed halls.
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.

Version 40 – August 30, 2021 17:07

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. Void of the daily crowds, you will have the time and space to appreciate your time in the Vatican
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel which the Key Master graciously turns over to allow our guests to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), you will enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • For a full 2 hours you'll follow the man with the keys through some of the Vatican's most famous rooms - the Raphael Rooms and of course, the Sistine Chapel. As the lights come up, you'll stand in silent awe of Michelangelo's masterpieces. There's a lot to take in here, and for regular visitors it's impossible to soak it up. But devoid of the day's noise, you'll have the time and space to do truly appreciate this space. Few people ever have the opportunity to make memories like this.
  • Aside from the Key Master, you'll also be accompanied by an Official Vatican Museums Tour Guide, hand-chosen by the Museum authorities to lead this special experience (that's a pretty high bar to pass). As you move through the Museums, they'll explain the historic and artistic significane of what you're seeing, adding colour and character to these hallowed halls.
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. 
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel which the Key Master graciously turns over to allow our guests to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), you will enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • For a full 2 hours you'll follow the man with the keys through some of the Vatican's most famous rooms - the Raphael Rooms and of course, the Sistine Chapel. As the lights come up, you'll stand in silent awe of Michelangelo's masterpieces. There's a lot to take in here, and for regular visitors it's impossible to soak it up. But devoid of the day's noise, you'll have the time and space to do truly appreciate this space. Few people ever have the opportunity to make memories like this.
  • Aside from the Key Master, you'll also be accompanied by an Official Vatican Museums Tour Guide, hand-chosen by the Museum authorities to lead this special experience (that's a pretty high bar to pass). As you move through the Museums, they'll explain the historic and artistic significane of what you're seeing, adding colour and character to these hallowed halls.
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.

Version 39 – August 30, 2021 17:06

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. 
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel which the Key Master graciously turns over to allow our guests to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), you will enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • For a full 2 hours you'll follow the man with the keys through some of the Vatican's most famous rooms - the Raphael Rooms and of course, the Sistine Chapel. As the lights come up, you'll stand in silent awe of Michelangelo's masterpieces. There's a lot to take in here, and for regular visitors it's impossible to soak it up. But devoid of the day's noise, you'll have the time and space to do truly appreciate this space. Few people ever have the opportunity to make memories like this.
  • Aside from the Key Master, you'll also be accompanied by an Official Vatican Museums Tour Guide, hand-chosen by the Museum authorities to lead this special experience (that's a pretty high bar to pass). As you move through the Museums, they'll explain the historic and artistic significane of what you're seeing, adding colour and character to these hallowed halls.
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. 
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel which the Key Master graciously turns over to allow our guests to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • Enter the Vatican Museums before dawn and travel with the Key Master on his daily ritual. Sweeping through silent halls, you'll unlock rooms covered in world-famous frescoes and hear footsteps eccho around the Popes's Palaces.
  • For a full 2 hours you'll follow the man with the keys through some of the Vatican's most famous rooms - the Raphael Rooms and of course, the Sistine Chapel. As the lights come up, you'll stand in silent awe of Michelangelo's masterpieces. There's a lot to take in here, and for regular visitors it's impossible to soak it up. But devoid of the day's noise, you'll have the time and space to do truly appreciate this space. Few people ever have the opportunity to make memories like this.
  • Aside from the Key Master, you'll also be accompanied by an Official Vatican Museums Tour Guide, hand-chosen by the Museum authorities to lead this special experience (that's a pretty high bar to pass). As you move through the Museums, they'll explain the historic and artistic significane of what you're seeing, adding colour and character to these hallowed halls.
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.

Version 38 – August 30, 2021 17:05

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. 
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel which the Key Master graciously turns over to allow our guests to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • Enter the Vatican Museums before dawn and travel with the Key Master on his daily ritual. Sweeping through silent halls, you'll unlock rooms covered in world-famous frescoes and hear footsteps eccho around the Popes's Palaces.
  • For a full 2 hours you'll follow the man with the keys through some of the Vatican's most famous rooms - the Raphael Rooms and of course, the Sistine Chapel. As the lights come up, you'll stand in silent awe of Michelangelo's masterpieces. There's a lot to take in here, and for regular visitors it's impossible to soak it up. But devoid of the day's noise, you'll have the time and space to do truly appreciate this space. Few people ever have the opportunity to make memories like this.
  • Aside from the Key Master, you'll also be accompanied by an Official Vatican Museums Tour Guide, hand-chosen by the Museum authorities to lead this special experience (that's a pretty high bar to pass). As you move through the Museums, they'll explain the historic and artistic significane of what you're seeing, adding colour and character to these hallowed halls.
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. 
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel which the Key Master graciously allows our guests to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • Enter the Vatican Museums before dawn and travel with the Key Master on his daily ritual. Sweeping through silent halls, you'll unlock rooms covered in world-famous frescoes and hear footsteps eccho around the Popes's Palaces.
  • For a full 2 hours you'll follow the man with the keys through some of the Vatican's most famous rooms - the Raphael Rooms and of course, the Sistine Chapel. As the lights come up, you'll stand in silent awe of Michelangelo's masterpieces. There's a lot to take in here, and for regular visitors it's impossible to soak it up. But devoid of the day's noise, you'll have the time and space to do truly appreciate this space. Few people ever have the opportunity to make memories like this.
  • Aside from the Key Master, you'll also be accompanied by an Official Vatican Museums Tour Guide, hand-chosen by the Museum authorities to lead this special experience (that's a pretty high bar to pass). As you move through the Museums, they'll explain the historic and artistic significane of what you're seeing, adding colour and character to these hallowed halls.
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.

Version 37 – August 30, 2021 17:05

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. Along the way, they will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. 
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel which the Key Master graciously allows our guests to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • Enter the Vatican Museums before dawn and travel with the Key Master on his daily ritual. Sweeping through silent halls, you'll unlock rooms covered in world-famous frescoes and hear footsteps eccho around the Popes's Palaces.
  • For a full 2 hours you'll follow the man with the keys through some of the Vatican's most famous rooms - the Raphael Rooms and of course, the Sistine Chapel. As the lights come up, you'll stand in silent awe of Michelangelo's masterpieces. There's a lot to take in here, and for regular visitors it's impossible to soak it up. But devoid of the day's noise, you'll have the time and space to do truly appreciate this space. Few people ever have the opportunity to make memories like this.
  • Aside from the Key Master, you'll also be accompanied by an Official Vatican Museums Tour Guide, hand-chosen by the Museum authorities to lead this special experience (that's a pretty high bar to pass). As you move through the Museums, they'll explain the historic and artistic significane of what you're seeing, adding colour and character to these hallowed halls.
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. They will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. 
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel which the Key Master graciously allows our guests to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • Enter the Vatican Museums before dawn and travel with the Key Master on his daily ritual. Sweeping through silent halls, you'll unlock rooms covered in world-famous frescoes and hear footsteps eccho around the Popes's Palaces.
  • For a full 2 hours you'll follow the man with the keys through some of the Vatican's most famous rooms - the Raphael Rooms and of course, the Sistine Chapel. As the lights come up, you'll stand in silent awe of Michelangelo's masterpieces. There's a lot to take in here, and for regular visitors it's impossible to soak it up. But devoid of the day's noise, you'll have the time and space to do truly appreciate this space. Few people ever have the opportunity to make memories like this.
  • Aside from the Key Master, you'll also be accompanied by an Official Vatican Museums Tour Guide, hand-chosen by the Museum authorities to lead this special experience (that's a pretty high bar to pass). As you move through the Museums, they'll explain the historic and artistic significane of what you're seeing, adding colour and character to these hallowed halls.
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.

Version 36 – August 30, 2021 17:03

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls. They will introduce you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. 
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel which the Key Master graciously allows our guests to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • Enter the Vatican Museums before dawn and travel with the Key Master on his daily ritual. Sweeping through silent halls, you'll unlock rooms covered in world-famous frescoes and hear footsteps eccho around the Popes's Palaces.
  • For a full 2 hours you'll follow the man with the keys through some of the Vatican's most famous rooms - the Raphael Rooms and of course, the Sistine Chapel. As the lights come up, you'll stand in silent awe of Michelangelo's masterpieces. There's a lot to take in here, and for regular visitors it's impossible to soak it up. But devoid of the day's noise, you'll have the time and space to do truly appreciate this space. Few people ever have the opportunity to make memories like this.
  • Aside from the Key Master, you'll also be accompanied by an Official Vatican Museums Tour Guide, hand-chosen by the Museum authorities to lead this special experience (that's a pretty high bar to pass). As you move through the Museums, they'll explain the historic and artistic significane of what you're seeing, adding colour and character to these hallowed halls.
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls and introducing you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. 
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel which the Key Master graciously allows our guests to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • Enter the Vatican Museums before dawn and travel with the Key Master on his daily ritual. Sweeping through silent halls, you'll unlock rooms covered in world-famous frescoes and hear footsteps eccho around the Popes's Palaces.
  • For a full 2 hours you'll follow the man with the keys through some of the Vatican's most famous rooms - the Raphael Rooms and of course, the Sistine Chapel. As the lights come up, you'll stand in silent awe of Michelangelo's masterpieces. There's a lot to take in here, and for regular visitors it's impossible to soak it up. But devoid of the day's noise, you'll have the time and space to do truly appreciate this space. Few people ever have the opportunity to make memories like this.
  • Aside from the Key Master, you'll also be accompanied by an Official Vatican Museums Tour Guide, hand-chosen by the Museum authorities to lead this special experience (that's a pretty high bar to pass). As you move through the Museums, they'll explain the historic and artistic significane of what you're seeing, adding colour and character to these hallowed halls.
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.

Version 35 – August 30, 2021 17:03

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls and introducing you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. 
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel which the Key Master graciously allows our guests to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • Enter the Vatican Museums before dawn and travel with the Key Master on his daily ritual. Sweeping through silent halls, you'll unlock rooms covered in world-famous frescoes and hear footsteps eccho around the Popes's Palaces.
  • For a full 2 hours you'll follow the man with the keys through some of the Vatican's most famous rooms - the Raphael Rooms and of course, the Sistine Chapel. As the lights come up, you'll stand in silent awe of Michelangelo's masterpieces. There's a lot to take in here, and for regular visitors it's impossible to soak it up. But devoid of the day's noise, you'll have the time and space to do truly appreciate this space. Few people ever have the opportunity to make memories like this.
  • Aside from the Key Master, you'll also be accompanied by an Official Vatican Museums Tour Guide, hand-chosen by the Museum authorities to lead this special experience (that's a pretty high bar to pass). As you move through the Museums, they'll explain the historic and artistic significane of what you're seeing, adding colour and character to these hallowed halls.
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new "VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel" is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls and introducing you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. 
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel which the Key Master graciously allows our guests to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • Enter the Vatican Museums before dawn and travel with the Key Master on his daily ritual. Sweeping through silent halls, you'll unlock rooms covered in world-famous frescoes and hear footsteps eccho around the Popes's Palaces.
  • For a full 2 hours you'll follow the man with the keys through some of the Vatican's most famous rooms - the Raphael Rooms and of course, the Sistine Chapel. As the lights come up, you'll stand in silent awe of Michelangelo's masterpieces. There's a lot to take in here, and for regular visitors it's impossible to soak it up. But devoid of the day's noise, you'll have the time and space to do truly appreciate this space. Few people ever have the opportunity to make memories like this.
  • Aside from the Key Master, you'll also be accompanied by an Official Vatican Museums Tour Guide, hand-chosen by the Museum authorities to lead this special experience (that's a pretty high bar to pass). As you move through the Museums, they'll explain the historic and artistic significane of what you're seeing, adding colour and character to these hallowed halls.
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.

Version 34 – August 30, 2021 17:02

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new "VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel" is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls and introducing you to famed frescos, marble sculptures, and artifacts of grandiose proportions. 
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel which the Key Master graciously allows our guests to turn the key and pry open the old doors, just as cardinals and popes have done for centuries. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • Enter the Vatican Museums before dawn and travel with the Key Master on his daily ritual. Sweeping through silent halls, you'll unlock rooms covered in world-famous frescoes and hear footsteps eccho around the Popes's Palaces.
  • For a full 2 hours you'll follow the man with the keys through some of the Vatican's most famous rooms - the Raphael Rooms and of course, the Sistine Chapel. As the lights come up, you'll stand in silent awe of Michelangelo's masterpieces. There's a lot to take in here, and for regular visitors it's impossible to soak it up. But devoid of the day's noise, you'll have the time and space to do truly appreciate this space. Few people ever have the opportunity to make memories like this.
  • Aside from the Key Master, you'll also be accompanied by an Official Vatican Museums Tour Guide, hand-chosen by the Museum authorities to lead this special experience (that's a pretty high bar to pass). As you move through the Museums, they'll explain the historic and artistic significane of what you're seeing, adding colour and character to these hallowed halls.
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new "VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel" is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel which the Key Master graciously allows our guests to turn the key and pry the old doors open. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • Enter the Vatican Museums before dawn and travel with the Key Master on his daily ritual. Sweeping through silent halls, you'll unlock rooms covered in world-famous frescoes and hear footsteps eccho around the Popes's Palaces.
  • For a full 2 hours you'll follow the man with the keys through some of the Vatican's most famous rooms - the Raphael Rooms and of course, the Sistine Chapel. As the lights come up, you'll stand in silent awe of Michelangelo's masterpieces. There's a lot to take in here, and for regular visitors it's impossible to soak it up. But devoid of the day's noise, you'll have the time and space to do truly appreciate this space. Few people ever have the opportunity to make memories like this.
  • Aside from the Key Master, you'll also be accompanied by an Official Vatican Museums Tour Guide, hand-chosen by the Museum authorities to lead this special experience (that's a pretty high bar to pass). As you move through the Museums, they'll explain the historic and artistic significane of what you're seeing, adding colour and character to these hallowed halls.
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.

Version 33 – August 30, 2021 16:58

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new "VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel" is the only tour of its kind. We are the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel which the Key Master graciously allows our guests to turn the key and pry the old doors open. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • Enter the Vatican Museums before dawn and travel with the Key Master on his daily ritual. Sweeping through silent halls, you'll unlock rooms covered in world-famous frescoes and hear footsteps eccho around the Popes's Palaces.
  • For a full 2 hours you'll follow the man with the keys through some of the Vatican's most famous rooms - the Raphael Rooms and of course, the Sistine Chapel. As the lights come up, you'll stand in silent awe of Michelangelo's masterpieces. There's a lot to take in here, and for regular visitors it's impossible to soak it up. But devoid of the day's noise, you'll have the time and space to do truly appreciate this space. Few people ever have the opportunity to make memories like this.
  • Aside from the Key Master, you'll also be accompanied by an Official Vatican Museums Tour Guide, hand-chosen by the Museum authorities to lead this special experience (that's a pretty high bar to pass). As you move through the Museums, they'll explain the historic and artistic significane of what you're seeing, adding colour and character to these hallowed halls.
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new "VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel" is the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel which the Key Master graciously allows our guests to turn the key and pry the old doors open. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • Enter the Vatican Museums before dawn and travel with the Key Master on his daily ritual. Sweeping through silent halls, you'll unlock rooms covered in world-famous frescoes and hear footsteps eccho around the Popes's Palaces.
  • For a full 2 hours you'll follow the man with the keys through some of the Vatican's most famous rooms - the Raphael Rooms and of course, the Sistine Chapel. As the lights come up, you'll stand in silent awe of Michelangelo's masterpieces. There's a lot to take in here, and for regular visitors it's impossible to soak it up. But devoid of the day's noise, you'll have the time and space to do truly appreciate this space. Few people ever have the opportunity to make memories like this.
  • Aside from the Key Master, you'll also be accompanied by an Official Vatican Museums Tour Guide, hand-chosen by the Museum authorities to lead this special experience (that's a pretty high bar to pass). As you move through the Museums, they'll explain the historic and artistic significane of what you're seeing, adding colour and character to these hallowed halls.
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.

Version 32 – August 30, 2021 16:25

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new "VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel" is the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel which the Key Master graciously allows our guests to turn the key and pry the old doors open. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • Enter the Vatican Museums before dawn and travel with the Key Master on his daily ritual. Sweeping through silent halls, you'll unlock rooms covered in world-famous frescoes and hear footsteps eccho around the Popes's Palaces.
  • For a full 2 hours you'll follow the man with the keys through some of the Vatican's most famous rooms - the Raphael Rooms and of course, the Sistine Chapel. As the lights come up, you'll stand in silent awe of Michelangelo's masterpieces. There's a lot to take in here, and for regular visitors it's impossible to soak it up. But devoid of the day's noise, you'll have the time and space to do truly appreciate this space. Few people ever have the opportunity to make memories like this.
  • Aside from the Key Master, you'll also be accompanied by an Official Vatican Museums Tour Guide, hand-chosen by the Museum authorities to lead this special experience (that's a pretty high bar to pass). As you move through the Museums, they'll explain the historic and artistic significane of what you're seeing, adding colour and character to these hallowed halls.
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new "VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel" is the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michaelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel which the Key Master graciously allows our guests to turn the key and pry the old doors open. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • Enter the Vatican Museums before dawn and travel with the Key Master on his daily ritual. Sweeping through silent halls, you'll unlock rooms covered in world-famous frescoes and hear footsteps eccho around the Popes's Palaces.
  • For a full 2 hours you'll follow the man with the keys through some of the Vatican's most famous rooms - the Raphael Rooms and of course, the Sistine Chapel. As the lights come up, you'll stand in silent awe of Michelangelo's masterpieces. There's a lot to take in here, and for regular visitors it's impossible to soak it up. But devoid of the day's noise, you'll have the time and space to do truly appreciate this space. Few people ever have the opportunity to make memories like this.
  • Aside from the Key Master, you'll also be accompanied by an Official Vatican Museums Tour Guide, hand-chosen by the Museum authorities to lead this special experience (that's a pretty high bar to pass). As you move through the Museums, they'll explain the historic and artistic significane of what you're seeing, adding colour and character to these hallowed halls.
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.

Version 31 – August 30, 2021 16:24

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new "VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel" is the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michaelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel which the Key Master graciously allows our guests to turn the key and pry the old doors open. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • Enter the Vatican Museums before dawn and travel with the Key Master on his daily ritual. Sweeping through silent halls, you'll unlock rooms covered in world-famous frescoes and hear footsteps eccho around the Popes's Palaces.
  • For a full 2 hours you'll follow the man with the keys through some of the Vatican's most famous rooms - the Raphael Rooms and of course, the Sistine Chapel. As the lights come up, you'll stand in silent awe of Michelangelo's masterpieces. There's a lot to take in here, and for regular visitors it's impossible to soak it up. But devoid of the day's noise, you'll have the time and space to do truly appreciate this space. Few people ever have the opportunity to make memories like this.
  • Aside from the Key Master, you'll also be accompanied by an Official Vatican Museums Tour Guide, hand-chosen by the Museum authorities to lead this special experience (that's a pretty high bar to pass). As you move through the Museums, they'll explain the historic and artistic significane of what you're seeing, adding colour and character to these hallowed halls.
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.
  • For the first time ever, the Vatican Museums are allowing guests to travel with the Key Master as they perform their daily ritual - opening up the extensive network of galleries including the Sistine Chapel. And you could be one of them.
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new "VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel" is the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michaelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel which the Key Master graciously allows our guests to turn the key and pry the old doors open. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • Enter the Vatican Museums before dawn and travel with the Key Master on his daily ritual. Sweeping through silent halls, you'll unlock rooms covered in world-famous frescoes and hear footsteps eccho around the Popes's Palaces.
  • For a full 2 hours you'll follow the man with the keys through some of the Vatican's most famous rooms - the Raphael Rooms and of course, the Sistine Chapel. As the lights come up, you'll stand in silent awe of Michelangelo's masterpieces. There's a lot to take in here, and for regular visitors it's impossible to soak it up. But devoid of the day's noise, you'll have the time and space to do truly appreciate this space. Few people ever have the opportunity to make memories like this.
  • Aside from the Key Master, you'll also be accompanied by an Official Vatican Museums Tour Guide, hand-chosen by the Museum authorities to lead this special experience (that's a pretty high bar to pass). As you move through the Museums, they'll explain the historic and artistic significane of what you're seeing, adding colour and character to these hallowed halls.
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.

Version 29 – August 30, 2021 16:10

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • For the first time ever, the Vatican Museums are allowing guests to travel with the Key Master as they perform their daily ritual - opening up the extensive network of galleries including the Sistine Chapel. And you could be one of them.
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new "VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel" is the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michaelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel which the Key Master graciously allows our guests to turn the key and pry the old doors open. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • Enter the Vatican Museums before dawn and travel with the Key Master on his daily ritual. Sweeping through silent halls, you'll unlock rooms covered in world-famous frescoes and hear footsteps eccho around the Popes's Palaces.
  • For a full 2 hours you'll follow the man with the keys through some of the Vatican's most famous rooms - the Raphael Rooms and of course, the Sistine Chapel. As the lights come up, you'll stand in silent awe of Michelangelo's masterpieces. There's a lot to take in here, and for regular visitors it's impossible to soak it up. But devoid of the day's noise, you'll have the time and space to do truly appreciate this space. Few people ever have the opportunity to make memories like this.
  • Aside from the Key Master, you'll also be accompanied by an Official Vatican Museums Tour Guide, hand-chosen by the Museum authorities to lead this special experience (that's a pretty high bar to pass). As you move through the Museums, they'll explain the historic and artistic significane of what you're seeing, adding colour and character to these hallowed halls.
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.
  • Open the Sistine Chapel with the Key Master at the Vatican Museums
  • For the first time ever, the Vatican Museums are allowing guests to travel with the Key Master as they perform their daily ritual - opening up the extensive network of galleries including the Sistine Chapel. And you could be one of them.
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new "VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel" is the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michaelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel which the Key Master graciously allows our guests to turn the key and pry the old doors open. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • Enter the Vatican Museums before dawn and travel with the Key Master on his daily ritual. Sweeping through silent halls, you'll unlock rooms covered in world-famous frescoes and hear footsteps eccho around the Popes's Palaces.
  • For a full 2 hours you'll follow the man with the keys through some of the Vatican's most famous rooms - the Raphael Rooms and of course, the Sistine Chapel. As the lights come up, you'll stand in silent awe of Michelangelo's masterpieces. There's a lot to take in here, and for regular visitors it's impossible to soak it up. But devoid of the day's noise, you'll have the time and space to do truly appreciate this space. Few people ever have the opportunity to make memories like this.
  • Aside from the Key Master, you'll also be accompanied by an Official Vatican Museums Tour Guide, hand-chosen by the Museum authorities to lead this special experience (that's a pretty high bar to pass). As you move through the Museums, they'll explain the historic and artistic significane of what you're seeing, adding colour and character to these hallowed halls.
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.

Version 28 – August 30, 2021 16:05

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • Open the Sistine Chapel with the Key Master at the Vatican Museums
  • For the first time ever, the Vatican Museums are allowing guests to travel with the Key Master as they perform their daily ritual - opening up the extensive network of galleries including the Sistine Chapel. And you could be one of them.
  • Just before the sun rises over Rome, a small group gathers for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Soon they will greet the Vatican Museum's Key Master - the individual responsible for opening the seemingly endless web of galleries filled with some of the world's most pristine works of art - including the Sistine Chapel.
  • Entering with a group of 20 (or less), our new "VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel" is the only company Vatican City has invited to join their Key Master. As you pass through the Pope's palace, lights flicker on and illuminate works by Raphael, Michaelangelo, and other Master artists. An official Vatican guide joins as well, adding color and character to these hallowed halls.
  • A highlight, for sure, is the small wooden doors leading into the Sistine Chapel which the Key Master graciously allows our guests to turn the key and pry the old doors open. It is here the shadowy figures of Michelangelo await your arrival.
  • After a few hours preparing the galleries for their daily thousands of visitors (none who you saw!), enjoy an exclusive buffet breakfast in the famed Pinecone Courtyard - you've earned it after all your hard work!
  • Enter the Vatican Museums before dawn and travel with the Key Master on his daily ritual. Sweeping through silent halls, you'll unlock rooms covered in world-famous frescoes and hear footsteps eccho around the Popes's Palaces.
  • For a full 2 hours you'll follow the man with the keys through some of the Vatican's most famous rooms - the Raphael Rooms and of course, the Sistine Chapel. As the lights come up, you'll stand in silent awe of Michelangelo's masterpieces. There's a lot to take in here, and for regular visitors it's impossible to soak it up. But devoid of the day's noise, you'll have the time and space to do truly appreciate this space. Few people ever have the opportunity to make memories like this.
  • Aside from the Key Master, you'll also be accompanied by an Official Vatican Museums Tour Guide, hand-chosen by the Museum authorities to lead this special experience (that's a pretty high bar to pass). As you move through the Museums, they'll explain the historic and artistic significane of what you're seeing, adding colour and character to these hallowed halls.
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.
  • Enter the Vatican Museums before dawn and travel with the Key Master on his daily ritual. Sweeping through silent halls, you'll unlock rooms covered in world-famous frescoes and hear footsteps eccho around the Popes's Palaces.
  • For a full 2 hours you'll follow the man with the keys through some of the Vatican's most famous rooms - the Raphael Rooms and of course, the Sistine Chapel. As the lights come up, you'll stand in silent awe of Michelangelo's masterpieces. There's a lot to take in here, and for regular visitors it's impossible to soak it up. But devoid of the day's noise, you'll have the time and space to do truly appreciate this space. Few people ever have the opportunity to make memories like this.
  • Aside from the Key Master, you'll also be accompanied by an Official Vatican Museums Tour Guide, hand-chosen by the Museum authorities to lead this special experience (that's a pretty high bar to pass). As you move through the Museums, they'll explain the historic and artistic significane of what you're seeing, adding colour and character to these hallowed halls.
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.

Version 27 – August 30, 2021 15:46

Current Version
Previous Version
Highlights
  • ● accompanied by an official vatican museums guide you’ll learn the context to help you truly appreciate this experience, ● enjoy a complimentary breakfast on the still-closed pinecone courtyard, inside the museums., ● experience 2 hours inside the vatican museums completely alone, ● join the vatican’s key master, opening the sistine chapel for the day, ● option to stay inside the museums to continue your exploration as they open to the general public.
  • ● accompanied by an official vatican museums guide you’ll learn the context to help you truly appreciate this experience., ● enjoy a complimentary breakfast on the still-closed pinecone courtyard, inside the museums., ● experience 2 hours inside the vatican museums completely alone., ● join the vatican’s key master, opening the sistine chapel for the day, ● option to stay inside the museums to continue your exploration as they open to the general public., ● take part in the opening of the vatican galleries

Version 26 – August 30, 2021 15:45

Current Version
Previous Version
Highlights
  • ● accompanied by an official vatican museums guide you’ll learn the context to help you truly appreciate this experience., ● enjoy a complimentary breakfast on the still-closed pinecone courtyard, inside the museums., ● experience 2 hours inside the vatican museums completely alone., ● join the vatican’s key master, opening the sistine chapel for the day, ● option to stay inside the museums to continue your exploration as they open to the general public., ● take part in the opening of the vatican galleries
  • ● accompanied by an official vatican museums guide you’ll learn the context to help you truly appreciate this experience., ● enjoy a complimentary breakfast on the still-closed pinecone courtyard, inside the museums., ● experience 2 hours inside the vatican museums completely alone., ● join the vatican’s key master to open the sistine chapel, ● option to stay inside the museums to continue your exploration as they open to the general public., ● take part in the opening of the vatican galleries

Version 23 – July 28, 2021 21:33

Current Version
Previous Version
Group info
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers.
Know Before You Go
  • this tour is in english., all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., all guests must pass through security. for useful information/restrictions about your tour in the vatican museum, visit https://m.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani-mobile/en/visita-i-musei/consigli-utili.html, due to the religious nature of the vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry., from august 6th 2021, all italy sites we visit will require clients and guides alike to provide proof of vaccination or a negative covid test completed within 48 hours prior to entry. they will also require a legal form of id matching the vaccination or test results. more info on the italian government website, from august 6th 2021, all italy sites we visit will require clients and guides alike to provide proof of vaccination or a negative covid test completed within 48 hours prior to entry. they will also require a legal form of id matching the vaccination or test results. more info on the italian government website., only small backpacks and handbags are allowed inside the vatican museums. storage is available but please note you must return (about a 20-minute walk) to the entrance to pick up your items at the end of the tour., the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. no refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows., this is a walking tour. guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty., this tour is in english., tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated., we cannot accept wheelchairs on this group tour. our group route utilizes staircases where elevator access is not easily accessible. those with wheelchairs and limited mobility can contact us ([email protected]) so we can arrange your visit.
  • this tour is in english., from august 6th 2021, all italy sites we visit will require clients and guides alike to provide proof of vaccination or a negative covid test completed within 48 hours prior to entry. they will also require a legal form of id matching the vaccination or test results. more info on the italian government website, please note that the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. no refunds or re-bookings can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows after tour commencement or departure., please ensure that all members of your party have a valid id on them on the day of the visit. this is particularly important for guests who have qualified for child reduction., please note that guests may only carry small handbags inside the vatican museums. larger backpacks and big pointy umbrellas etc must be left at the cloakroom. it is the responsibility of the guest to return to the vatican museums entrance to collect these after the tour., please remember that the sistine chapel is a holy place, and attire must be appropriate for the visit. both men and women are asked to wear clothing that covers at least the shoulders and knees
Know Before You Book
  • all guests (including children) must bring id on the day of their tour., from august 6th 2021, all italy sites we visit will require clients and guides alike to provide proof of vaccination or a negative covid test completed within 48 hours prior to entry. they will also require a legal form of id matching the vaccination or test results. more info on the italian government website, we cannot accept wheelchairs on this group tour. our group route utilizes staircases where elevator access is not easily accessible. those with wheelchairs and limited mobility can contact us ([email protected]) so we can arrange your visit.
  • this tour is not wheelchair accessible., from august 6th 2021, all italy sites we visit will require clients and guides alike to provide proof of vaccination or a negative covid test completed within 48 hours prior to entry. they will also require a legal form of id matching the vaccination or test results. more info on the italian government website, please note that guests may only carry small handbags inside the vatican museums. larger backpacks and big pointy umbrellas etc must be left at the cloakroom. it is the responsibility of the guest to return to the vatican museums entrance to collect these after the tour.

Version 22 – July 28, 2021 21:31

Current Version
Previous Version
Included
  • buffet breakfast inside the vatican museums, exclusive entrance to vatican museums (2.5 hours prior to opening), expertly guided walking tour, local english-speaking guide, official vatican tour guide
  • ● buffet breakfast inside the vatican museums, ● exclusive entrance to the vatican museums 2.5 hours before opening, ● fully guided tour of the sistine chapel, ● fully guided tour of the vatican museums , ● official vatican tour guide, ● option to stay in the vatican for further exploration
Excluded
  • hotel pick-up/drop off, tips/gratuities
  • ● hotel pick-up/drop off, ● tips/gratuities

Version 21 – July 28, 2021 21:27

Current Version
Previous Version
Additional Info
  • Sites Visited
  • Vatican Museums
  • Sistine Chapel
  • Raphael Rooms (Stanze di Raffaello)
  • Belvedere Courtyard (Pinecone)
  • Octagonal Courtyard (Apollo Belvedere, Laocoön)
  • Gallery of the Candelabra
  • Gallery of the Maps
  • Gallery of the Tapestries
  • Sobieski Room
  • Sites Visited
  • Sistine Chapel
  • Raphael Rooms
  • Gallery of the Maps
  • Gallery of the Tapestries
  • Gallery of the Candelabra
  • Sobiescki Room
  • Pinecone Courtyard

Version 20 – July 28, 2021 21:25

Current Version
Previous Version
Included
  • ● buffet breakfast inside the vatican museums, ● exclusive entrance to the vatican museums 2.5 hours before opening, ● fully guided tour of the sistine chapel, ● fully guided tour of the vatican museums , ● official vatican tour guide, ● option to stay in the vatican for further exploration
  • ● buffet breakfast inside the vatican museums, ● exclusive entrance to the vatican museums 2.5 hours before opening, ● fully guided tour of the sistine chapel, ● fully guided tour of the vatican museums , ● official vatican tour guide, ● open the sistine chapel with the vatican key master, ● option to stay in the vatican for further exploration
Additional Info
  • Sites Visited
  • Sistine Chapel
  • Raphael Rooms
  • Gallery of the Maps
  • Gallery of the Tapestries
  • Gallery of the Candelabra
  • Sobiescki Room
  • Pinecone Courtyard
  • Sites Visited
  • ●      Sistine Chapel
  • ●      Raphael Rooms
  • ●      Gallery of the Maps
  • ●      Gallery of the Tapestries
  • ●      Gallery of the Candelabra
  • ●      Sobiescki Room
  • ●      Pinecone Courtyard

Version 19 – July 28, 2021 21:24

Current Version
Previous Version
Short Description
  • Enter the Vatican Museums before dawn and travel with the Key Master on his daily ritual. Sweeping through silent halls, you'll unlock rooms covered in world-famous frescoes and hear footsteps eccho around the Popes's Palaces.
  • For a full 2 hours you'll follow the man with the keys through some of the Vatican's most famous rooms - the Raphael Rooms and of course, the Sistine Chapel. As the lights come up, you'll stand in silent awe of Michelangelo's masterpieces. There's a lot to take in here, and for regular visitors it's impossible to soak it up. But devoid of the day's noise, you'll have the time and space to do truly appreciate this space. Few people ever have the opportunity to make memories like this.
  • Aside from the Key Master, you'll also be accompanied by an Official Vatican Museums Tour Guide, hand-chosen by the Museum authorities to lead this special experience (that's a pretty high bar to pass). As you move through the Museums, they'll explain the historic and artistic significane of what you're seeing, adding colour and character to these hallowed halls.
  • While the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly be the highlight of your experience, there's so much more to the Vatican Museums. Unlike previous iterations of this experience which allowed guests only inside the Sistine Chapel when it was empty, you'll see those rooms empty too. This is a particular treat at the Raphael Rooms. Much smaller than the Sistine Chapel but just as revered by art historians, they're often too crowded for guests to fully appreciate. Not on your tour though.
  • During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries most commonly featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries.
  • After two hours of touring, your guide will leave you at the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard, a beautiful enclosed space inside the Museums. Here you'll have access to a full breakfast buffet. Grab a coffee and whatever you fancy and relax, soaking up the peace of the morning and the dome of St Peter's Basilica behind you.
  • Once finished, you have two choices. You can stay inside the Vatican Museums to explore more, or you can head for the doors (just now opening to the public) and off on your next adventure.
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours (including those offered to world leaders and a-list visitors) entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time. On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours - an experience usually reserved for the Key Master and the Pope.
  • Travel with the Vatican’s Key Master as he opens up the Museums, unlocking doors and lighting long, empty galleries for you to explore. On this unprecedented tour, the most exclusive ever offered by the Vatican, your small group enjoy 2 hours inside the Vatican Museums completely alone. The highlight of your tour will be the opening of the Sistine Chapel, where you’ll enter completely alone and watch Michelangelo’s frescoes flicker to life.  On this tour, you’ll have the whole Museum to yourself for a full two hours -- an experience usually reserved for the Key Master....and the Pope.
  •  
  • Accompanied by an Official Vatican Tour Guide, you’ll get up close with some of the finest artworks in the world, appreciating every detail of the gallery’s masterpieces. While opening the Sistine Chapel is an unforgettable experience, there’s so much more to the Vatican Museums. The Raphael Rooms are a particular highlight. Often more crowded than the Sistine Chapel, they’re home to a collection of frescoes just as revered by art historians. Visiting alone, you’ll have the space to appreciate them in all their majesty. During your experience, you’ll walk the galleries featured on Vatican tours, like the historic Gallery of the Maps & Gallery of the Tapestries. 
  •  
  • Enter the still-closed Pinecone Courtyard and enjoy a complimentary breakfast, after which you can choose to stay inside the Museums to explore more on your own, or head off for your next adventure, passing the crowds who are only now getting inside the doors. 
  •  
  • This incredible access is new in 2021. Previous ‘exclusive access’ tours entered the Museums during regular hours and simply ended at the Sistine Chapel where guests were allowed to stay inside for a few minutes after closing time
Name
  • VIP Key Master's Tour: Open The Sistine Chapel
  • The Key Masters Tour: Opening the Sistine Chapel

Version 18 – July 28, 2021 14:54

Current Version
Previous Version
Know Before You Go
  • this tour is in english., from august 6th 2021, all italy sites we visit will require clients and guides alike to provide proof of vaccination or a negative covid test completed within 48 hours prior to entry. they will also require a legal form of id matching the vaccination or test results. more info on the italian government website, please note that the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. no refunds or re-bookings can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows after tour commencement or departure., please ensure that all members of your party have a valid id on them on the day of the visit. this is particularly important for guests who have qualified for child reduction., please note that guests may only carry small handbags inside the vatican museums. larger backpacks and big pointy umbrellas etc must be left at the cloakroom. it is the responsibility of the guest to return to the vatican museums entrance to collect these after the tour., please remember that the sistine chapel is a holy place, and attire must be appropriate for the visit. both men and women are asked to wear clothing that covers at least the shoulders and knees
  • this tour is in english., please note that the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. no refunds or re-bookings can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows after tour commencement or departure., please ensure that all members of your party have a valid id on them on the day of the visit. this is particularly important for guests who have qualified for child reduction., please note that guests may only carry small handbags inside the vatican museums. larger backpacks and big pointy umbrellas etc must be left at the cloakroom. it is the responsibility of the guest to return to the vatican museums entrance to collect these after the tour., please remember that the sistine chapel is a holy place, and attire must be appropriate for the visit. both men and women are asked to wear clothing that covers at least the shoulders and knees
Know Before You Book
  • this tour is not wheelchair accessible., from august 6th 2021, all italy sites we visit will require clients and guides alike to provide proof of vaccination or a negative covid test completed within 48 hours prior to entry. they will also require a legal form of id matching the vaccination or test results. more info on the italian government website, please note that guests may only carry small handbags inside the vatican museums. larger backpacks and big pointy umbrellas etc must be left at the cloakroom. it is the responsibility of the guest to return to the vatican museums entrance to collect these after the tour.
  • this tour is not wheelchair accessible., please note that guests may only carry small handbags inside the vatican museums. larger backpacks and big pointy umbrellas etc must be left at the cloakroom. it is the responsibility of the guest to return to the vatican museums entrance to collect these after the tour.

Version 17 – July 27, 2021 09:21

Current Version
Previous Version
Percent Complete
  • 94.4444444444444444
  • 88.8888888888888889

Version 15 – July 13, 2021 15:43

Current Version
Previous Version
Tier labels
  • ---
  • adult: Adult
  • child: Child
  • infant: Infant
  • ---
  • adult: ''
  • child: ''
  • infant: ''
Tier ages
  • ---
  • adult:
  • from: '15'
  • to: '99'
  • child:
  • from: '2'
  • to: '14'
  • infant:
  • from: '0'
  • to: '1'
  • ---
  • adult:
  • from: '18'
  • to: '64'
  • child:
  • from: '5'
  • to: '11'
  • infant:
  • from: '0'
  • to: '4'

Version 14 – July 13, 2021 15:43

Current Version
Previous Version
Tier labels
  • ---
  • adult: ''
  • child: ''
  • infant: ''
  • ---
  • adult: ''
  • child: ''
Tier ages
  • ---
  • adult:
  • from: '18'
  • to: '64'
  • child:
  • from: '5'
  • to: '11'
  • infant:
  • from: '0'
  • to: '4'
  • ---
  • adult:
  • from: '18'
  • to: '64'
  • child:
  • from: '5'
  • to: '11'
Instant confirmation
  • true
  • false

Version 13 – July 13, 2021 15:41

Current Version
Previous Version
Available tiers
  • adult, child, infant
  • adult, child

Version 12 – July 13, 2021 15:40

Current Version
Previous Version
Currency
  • EUR
  • USD

Version 11 – July 13, 2021 15:40

Current Version
Previous Version
Timezone
  • Europe/Rome
Duration from
  • 2.5
Duration unit
  • hours
  • minutes
Rails Timezone
  • Rome
Percent Complete
  • 88.8888888888888889
  • 83.3333333333333333

Version 8 – July 13, 2021 15:34

Current Version
Previous Version
Know Before You Go
  • this tour is in english., please note that the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. no refunds or re-bookings can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows after tour commencement or departure., please ensure that all members of your party have a valid id on them on the day of the visit. this is particularly important for guests who have qualified for child reduction., please note that guests may only carry small handbags inside the vatican museums. larger backpacks and big pointy umbrellas etc must be left at the cloakroom. it is the responsibility of the guest to return to the vatican museums entrance to collect these after the tour., please remember that the sistine chapel is a holy place, and attire must be appropriate for the visit. both men and women are asked to wear clothing that covers at least the shoulders and knees
  • this tour is in english., please note that the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. no refunds or re-bookings can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows after tour commencement or departure., please note that guests may only carry small handbags inside the vatican museums. larger backpacks and big pointy umbrellas etc must be left at the cloakroom. it is the responsibility of the guest to return to the vatican museums entrance to collect these after the tour.

Version 7 – July 13, 2021 15:34

Current Version
Previous Version
Know Before You Go
  • this tour is in english., please note that the tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. no refunds or re-bookings can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows after tour commencement or departure., please note that guests may only carry small handbags inside the vatican museums. larger backpacks and big pointy umbrellas etc must be left at the cloakroom. it is the responsibility of the guest to return to the vatican museums entrance to collect these after the tour.
Know Before You Book
  • this tour is not wheelchair accessible., please note that guests may only carry small handbags inside the vatican museums. larger backpacks and big pointy umbrellas etc must be left at the cloakroom. it is the responsibility of the guest to return to the vatican museums entrance to collect these after the tour.
Percent Complete
  • 83.3333333333333333
  • 72.2222222222222222

Version 6 – July 13, 2021 15:29

Current Version
Previous Version
Group info
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of ... travelers.

Version 5 – July 13, 2021 15:28

Current Version
Previous Version
Included
  • ● buffet breakfast inside the vatican museums, ● exclusive entrance to the vatican museums 2.5 hours before opening, ● fully guided tour of the sistine chapel, ● fully guided tour of the vatican museums , ● official vatican tour guide, ● open the sistine chapel with the vatican key master, ● option to stay in the vatican for further exploration
  • option to stay in the vatican for further exploration , ● buffet breakfast inside the vatican museums, ● exclusive entrance to the vatican museums 2.5 hours before opening, ● fully guided tour of the sistine chapel, ● fully guided tour of the vatican museums , ● official vatican tour guide, ● open the sistine chapel with the vatican key master
Excluded
  • ● hotel pick-up/drop off, ● tips/gratuities
  • hotel pick-up/drop off, tips/gratuities

Version 4 – July 13, 2021 15:28

Current Version
Previous Version
Included
  • option to stay in the vatican for further exploration , ● buffet breakfast inside the vatican museums, ● exclusive entrance to the vatican museums 2.5 hours before opening, ● fully guided tour of the sistine chapel, ● fully guided tour of the vatican museums , ● official vatican tour guide, ● open the sistine chapel with the vatican key master
  • ● buffet breakfast inside the vatican museums, ● exclusive entrance to the vatican museums 2.5 hours before opening, ● fully guided tour of the sistine chapel, ● fully guided tour of the vatican museums , ● official vatican tour guide, ● open the sistine chapel with the vatican key master