Take a stirring journey through art and religious history with skip-the-ticket-line entry to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. Avoid the long ticket lines and then enjoy your visit at your own pace.  Wander through the Greek Cross Gallery to see elaborately-carved sarcophagi that might just contain the earthly remains of some of antiquity's famous kings and queens. Peek at the Cabinet of the Masks, or tour the Sala degli Animali to see a virtual menagerie of fantastic beasts, real and imagined. Walk the Upper Galleries, including the Gallery of Maps, to see how cartographers depicted the world through the ages. See masterpieces by Renaissance masters in the Raphael Rooms, and rest for a while in the Borgia Apartments. Then, it’s time to marvel at Michelangelo’s exquisite Sistine Chapel, the crown jewel of the Vatican, and perhaps even of all the world’s art treasures.

The most memorable things to do in Rome – this unique experience begins with a day trip from Rome to one of the most exclusive destinations. Explore the Pope’s Summer Residence in Castel Gandolfo – a beautiful, small town overlooking Lake Albano. One of Italy’s most scenic towns, located only 15 miles southeast of Rome, it is understandable why Popes have chosen this spot as their sanctuary for hundreds of years. Recently opened to the public by Pope Francis for a select number of tours, this sightseeing tour allows you to escape into the Pope’s private and luxurious Barberini Gardens, the Papal Palace and stroll around the beautifully scenic and serene town of Castel Gandolfo. Followed by a Vatican tour which includes visits to the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and Vatican Gardens. Where you will see all of the must-see destinations when visiting Vatican City. Experience a peaceful retreat in two of the most unforgettable places to visit in Rome. ITINERARY 1.This exclusive day trip from Rome begins with one of the main destinations and top things to do in Rome – the Vatican Museums. And with our Priority Access, you skip the line, allowing you more time to discover the great works of art by Michelangelo, Raphael and Bernini. 2.Our sightseeing Vatican visit continues to one of the most revered places to see in Rome – and the world – the Sistine Chapel. An absolute must-see in Rome, our expert guide will take you around to explore the amazing works of art including Michelangelo’s The Last Judgement – the largest fresco ever painted by one man. 3.Then you will be visiting an essential to your Rome itinerary. Covering the most significant and spiritual destinations in the world, The Vatican Gardens, an experience you will cherish for a lifetime. 4.The second part of the tour begins with 11:00 am train ride to the Pope’s Summer Residence in Castel Gandolfo. One of Italy’s most scenic towns, located only 15 miles southeast of Rome, it is understandable why Popes have chosen this spot as their sanctuary for hundreds of years. 5.A short ride by mini bus from the train station and you arrive to the top of this secluded, charming town where your exclusive sightseeing tour begins. Explore the Pope’s private and luxurious Barberini Gardens, using your audio guide, before sampling a yogurt snack straight from the Pope’s private farm. Then eat lunch and stroll around as you absorb the breathtaking views of this scenic town. 6.Recently opened to the public by Pope Francis for a select number of tours, the Papal Palace – also known as the Apostolic Palace was designed by Carlo Maderno- the same architect as St. Peter’s Basilica’s façade. Previously off-limits, you can now discover the rare history and treasures contained in its extravagant yet intimate interior, including the works of Bernini.

See Vatican City's top attractions on a sightseeing tour where you don't have to wait in line. Discover the treasures of the Vatican Museums with a guide or on your own. Take in the beauty of the Sistine Chapel and Michelangelo's incredible artworks. Explore the Vatican Gardens with an audio guide. Meet near the Vatican Museums and enjoy fast-track access to Europe's most renowned art collection. Dive into the art world with an expert guide or explore on your own, depending on the option chosen. Take in the Gallery of the Candelabra, the Gallery of Maps, the Gallery of Tapestries, and more. Admire the impressive collection of classic sculptures at the Pio Clementino Museum. Wander the halls of the ornate and elaborate papal apartments, including the Raphael Rooms and Borgia Apartments. Finally, step into the world of Michelangelo as you uncover the secrets of the Sistine Chapel. Continue to the Gardens of Vatican City and receive your audio guide. Learn about the Pontifical Academy of Sciences, the Apostolic Palace, and the Governor's Palace. Admire St. Peter's Basilica from a unique perspective and immerse yourself in this peaceful hideaway. Or choose the option that includes the Vatican 360 experiences gives you 360 access to the Vatican City and Castel Gandolfo Starting off at the Vatican Museum, you’ll have the opportunity to explore Europe’s most renowned art collection. Accompanied by an expert guide, enjoy fast track entrance and dive into the history of the Art world. Admire the impressive collection of classic sculptures in the Pio Clementino Museum. Wander the halls of the ornate and elaborate papal apartments, including the Raphael Rooms and the Borgia Apartments. And finally, step into the world of Michelangelo as you uncover the secrets of the Sistine Chapel. Once you’ve had your art fix, it’s time to explore the Vatican Gardens. Stretching an impressive 57 acres. Enjoy the picture-perfect landscapes and uncover the impressive garden architecture that draws influence from both the baroque and renaissance era. After spending the morning at the Vatican City, it’s time to head out of town by train to explore the Papal Palace at Castel Gandolfo, about an hour north of Rome. Pick up your audio guide at the welcome desk and start your journey through the Apostolic Palace. First up, enjoy the museum and experience the intricate work of the clergy up close as you pass by historical papal gowns and the impressive display of the Pope’s portable throne. Then, it’s up to the Papal apartment. Step into the true home of Christianity as you admire the Pope’s clock parlour, music gallery, the Swiss Hall, and even the Holy Father’s library. The all-access Vatican experience wraps up with a tour of the Barberini gardens. There you’ll not only enjoy stunning panoramic views, but also a complimentary picnic with locally sourced porchetta and wine.

Start your day trip with an amazing early entrance visit to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel with a professional Guide. Take your time to enjoy Micheal Angelo's masterpieces before the crowds. Enjoy the privileged skip the line entrance and take most of it to visit all the parts of the Museums in peace. Wander the Vatican City Gardens which will make your way to a modern train that will take you to Pope's Summer Residence at Castel Gandolfo. Have a biological lunch at the Barberini Gardens. Let your guide lead you through the amazing Barberini Gardens and Pope's Summer residence recently opened to external visitors. Enjoy this day trip and take the train back to the St. Perter's train station in Rome.

Start your day bright and early as you meet your tour guide at the Vatican Museums. Skip the line and enter 45 minutes before the general public with your special access ticket. After going through a brief security check, proceed inside to begin your tour starting with the best galleries. Follow your art historian guide along the tour route which includes the Gallery of the Tapestries, the Gallery of the Candelabra, and the Gallery of the Maps.  Then, learn about the history and process Michelangelo used to paint the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel before entering to see it yourself. Continue to the Vatican Gardens, where only special tour groups are allowed to visit. With your exclusive Vatican Gardens tickets, breathe in the tranquil air of this mini paradise. After your Vatican Gardens tour, enter Vatican City’s only train station to board the train to Castel Gandolfo. Once the site of Emperor Domitian’s Villa, the Barberini Gardens boast beautifully-designed hedges situated amidst flowers, fountains and Ancient Roman ruins. Your guide will tell you stories about the history of the gardens and the many points of interest located within. Once you’ve explored the lush scenery of the Barberini Gardens, the tour will break for lunch (included with the tour). Sit down to a sumptuous spread of locally-sourced, organic Italian meats, cheeses, olive oil, tomatoes, and pasta. Then, have the opportunity to take a self-guided tour of the Papal Palace of Castel Gandolfo, the Pope’s summer residence. Now a museum open to the public, enjoy exploring the Palace’s many rooms, art galleries, and collection of cars driven by former popes. Use your round-trip train ticket to return to Vatican City and conclude your memorable experience.

Benefit from priority entrance at 8 AM, away from the daily crowds. You will visit Vatican Museums’ must sees such as Gallery of Candelabra, Gallery of Maps and Gallery of Tapestry and the Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo's paintings.. After your visit to Vatican Museums, you will be escorted by Vatican guard to the Vatican Station, where you will take the special train that connects Vatican City with Pope Summer Residence in Castel Gandolfo. You will enjoy a panoramic ride of the Roman Countryside and reach in about 30 minutes the charming village of Castel Gandolfo renown for the Pope's' residence and for the delicious local food served by local restaurants. You will visit the Baroque Barberini Gardens on an electric bus with your audio-guide and access also inside the Pope's Palace with beautiful rooms decorated with precios art-crafts and with the Popes Portraits representing many important Popes including the Pope Julius the II who commissioned the Sistine Chapel to Michelangelo. You will receive a flexible return ticket that will allow to spend some free time in Castel Gandolfo enjoying the local shops and food and the panoramic view over the Lake.

Whether it's your first or fifth visit to the Vatican, take the time to discover all there is to see on this full-day comprehensive tour of its museums, gardens, and grounds. You’ll begin early by meeting your guide outside the entrance to the Vatican Museums where you’ll skip the usually long lines outside to go straight in. This collection houses 26 distinct museums and 70,000 pieces of art. But we’ve taken the stress out of your day by ensuring you’ll be accompanied by an official Vatican guide who knows these museums inside-out and will be able to take you to the best of the best. Enjoy the exquisitely crafted sculptures in the Octagonal Courtyard, the magnificent Raphael Rooms, and the ornate Gallery of Tapestries. You'll also arrive at Michelangelo's masterpiece in the Sistine Chapel, fully prepared with tips from your guide on what to look out for. Next, you'll journey into the stately Vatican Gardens. Entry to this collection of landscaped gardens, forests, and medieval monuments is strictly for those on tours (like this one), so you’ll be sure of a slice of tranquility within the bustling city-state. After you’ve soaked in the fresh air, you’ll make your way to the Vatican Rail Station with your guide for a journey to make your Vatican experience complete. Opened as recently as 2015, you’ll step aboard the Pope’s train and set your sights on one of the most beautiful hill towns in all of Italy coming into view. Steeped in history, Castel Gandolfo is not only the summer residence of the Popes but close by is the birthplace of the legendary Romulus and Remus, founders of Rome. The gorgeous gardens of the Villa Barberini are where you’ll be treated to an inviting buffet lunch, made of traditional Italian dishes and fresh seasonal ingredients. Use your free time after lunch to explore the charming town further. We’d recommend visiting the Papal Palace for an audio tour (included) where you can roam inside the Pope’s apartments, which are vastly more extensive than even those of the Vatican! Afterward, be sure to wander towards the beautiful Lake Albano and take in the scenic hill views.