Private Vatican Museums Night Tour

Highlights

  • Discover the masterpieces of the Vatican Museums

  • Explore the Vatican's unrivalled collections of ancient sculpture

  • Marvel at the Sistine Chapel and its famous ceiling

  • Visit the Belvedere Courtyard, the Gallery of the Maps and the Gallery of the Tapestries

  • Get the fascinating historical context of the Vatican palaces

Summary

For a truly unique and exclusive experience, discover the stunning works of art and history of the Vatican Museums at night on a private tour of the world's largest collection of art.

Tour info

Duration
2 hours 30 minutes
Group Size
Pricing (From)
Adult: (18-64 years)
€365.00
Commentary
Meeting Point
Dropoff location

Why take this tour?

The Vatican Museums - generally acknowledged to be one of the best collections of art in the world - are usually closed to the public at night. On this Vatican Night Tour, you’ll have the opportunity to discover Greek statues, The Sistine Chapel and Renaissance masterpieces after dark, and the Vatican Museums with an expert private guide. When night falls, the atmosphere of the Vatican Museums is transformed. You’ll marvel at the timeless beauty of these grand galleries. You’ll walk through vast, frescoed chambers and hallways lined with some of the most famous statues from antiquity, enjoying the enchanted atmosphere which can only be experienced in the calm of the evening. The splendour of the Vatican never ceases to amaze, but your visit will be further enriched by the explanations of your personal guide. You’ll see works by Michelangelo, Raphael, and Bernini, and discover what inspired these great artists. This tour is carefully planned to optimize your time, showing you highlights such as the Sistine Chapel & Raphael Rooms as well as some of the hidden treasures of the Belvedere Courtyard, The Gallery of the Maps and the Gallery of the Tapestries. The Vatican is renowned throughout the world for its astonishing collection of Greek and Roman art. A Renaissance enthusiasm for classical artwork led to the rediscovery and display of great works such as the Laocoon - a moving depiction of the struggle of a doomed family - and the aesthetic perfection of the Apollo Belvedere. Discover the stories and the secrets of these magnificent sculptures on your private Vatican tour, exploring the Courtyard of the Pinecone, the Belvedere Courtyard, the Gallery of the Candelabra, and many other famous parts of the Vatican Museums. An undisputed highlight of the tour is undoubtedly a walk through the Raphael Rooms. Stunning frescoes by Raphael decorate the walls and ceilings of the most luxurious rooms in the papal apartments, including the famous School of Athens. This impressive fresco not only demonstrates Raphael’s supreme talent, but also offers a fascinating insight into the art and philosophy of the Renaissance. Your journey through the Raphael Rooms takes you to the Sistine Chapel tour. Seeing Michelangelo’s awe-inspiring frescoes with your own eyes is an unforgettable experience. Learn about the remarkable life and work of Michelangelo, one of the greatest artists of all time, while studying the rich detail of the most famous ceiling in the world. On your private tour of the Sistine Chapel you’ll have the opportunity to admire the paintings up close, and hear the story behind the Last Judgement. This vast painting on the altar wall was surprisingly controversial when it was first revealed, for reasons you’ll discover on your private tour. With the help of your knowledgeable guide, you’ll separate fact from fiction and learn the truth about Michelangelo’s masterpiece.

What’s included?

  • All fees and taxes

  • Special night entrance to the Vatican Museums

  • Skip-the-lines Entry

  • Expert English-speaking private guide

  • All fees and taxes

  • Transportation to and from the meeting and end point

  • Food and Beverages

  • Gratuities (optional)

Things to know

Before you book

  • Please be advised that this is a walking tour with steps and staircases. Comfortable walking shoes and a bottle of water are strongly recommended.

  • Please advise if any travelers have mobility concerns so that we can best accommodate you.

  • Please note that the Vatican Museums provide free entrance for visitors who are (according to the requirements stated by the Vatican City) at least 74% disabled by presenting the appropriate certification and, if one needs assistance by another person, that person also receives a free entrance. Please inform us when you are booking if you fit into these requirements and we will remove the pricing of the entry tickets from the price of the tour.

Before you go

  • The activity provider cannot wait for late arrivals. If you are unable to find your guide, please call our office at +1 800-267-7581.

  • For your convenience and safety we urge you to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a bottle of water.

  • Dress code enforced at certain religious sites and museums. Knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements

  • This tour does not include the Basilica of St. Peter's as it is closed to visitors during the evenings.

  • Large bags, tripods and large umbrellas cannot be brought into the museums. These items will have to be left at the museum coat check and retrieved after your visit. Please leave such items at your hotel.

  • At the end of your tour, you are required to return the headset provided to you to your guide. In the event that you do not return the headset, you will be subject to a fine of €100 for lost property.

Cancellation Policy

    15 or more days before the tour day: 90% of the cost will be refunded, minus ticket costs; Between 8 and 14 days before the tour day: 50% of the cost will be refunded, minus ticket costs; 7 days or less: no refund.

About operator:

Through Eternity is a tour company in Italy that provides insightful guidance and commentary on historical and artistic sights, both well known and off the beaten track. The company has been providing exceptionally high quality cultural tourism since 1999. Our guides are all highly educated, fluent English-speaking professionals who bring history alive and provide deep cultural context. The company provides tours and excursions in Italy, Spain, France, Turkey, England and Greece. All Through Eternity's back-office staff are native English speakers.

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