Visit the Sistine Chapel Before Opening Hours
Please note that the special access passage between the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica is closed on Wednesdays and is subject to other unexpected closures during special celebrations/festivities, including the Easter ceremonies. On such days we will instead explore the magnificent Pinacoteca Gallery.
Enter the Sistine Chapel before it opens to the general public and enjoy Michelangelo’s masterpieces in peace before embarking on a thorough guided tour of the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica. There is simply no better way to see the highlights of the Vatican without the crowds that can overrun the galleries later in the day.
Tour Details
What’s Included
Good to Know
Highlights
Meeting Point
Please meet at Antico Café Candia, Via Candia, 153, 00192 Roma RM. Your guide will be holding a green Walks sign.
Google map link: https://goo.gl/maps/JJTREqmDXvy5TzweA
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions about our VIP Tours/Tours in Rome
What does 'Fat Tire Tours Approved' mean?
We’ve been perfecting our tours since 1999, and we are always looking for new ways to improve our tour menu for our guests. We are committed to expanding the activities offered during your stay to make for an unforgettable experience. So for all of the experiences that we aren’t able to deliver on our own, we’ve hand-selected the best local providers to offer a wide-range of unique and fun activities for our guests.
With anything Fat Tire Tours Approved, you still receive our spectacular customer service ready to assist you in any way we can, 24/7, as well as the guarantee that we have hand selected the best possible partners to supplement our tour menu.
How early do I need to arrive at the meeting point?
The tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. Therefore, since this tour begins at 7:00am, you must arrive by 6:45am. No refunds or re-bookings can be provided for late arrivals or no shows after tour commencement or departure.
Can I take photos during the tour?
Yes and no. You are welcome to take photos in designated areas including many rooms of the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica, but please note photography is strictly prohibited inside the Sistine Chapel.
Where is the meeting point?
This tour meets at Antico Café Candia, Via Candia, 153, 00192 Roma RM. You guide will be holding a green ‘Walks’ sign.
Please note the meeting time is 15 minutes prior to tour start time. Due to the timed and exclusive nature of our entries, we do not have the luxury of waiting for guests, or catching them up after the fact. No refunds or re‐bookings can be provided for late arrivals or no shows after tour commencement or departure.
Is this tour appropriate for children?
Absolutely! Please note that we are on our feet the duration of the tour when deciding if this tour is appropriate for your family.
While the Vatican Museums are equipped with elevators for wheelchair and stroller access, they are not located on the group tour route and only give access to specific sections of the Museums. Please contact Customer Service to make further arrangements.
How big will my group be?
This tour operates in groups of 14 people maximum to ensure a personal experience.
Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
While the Vatican Museums are equipped with elevators for wheelchair and stroller access, they are not located on the group tour route and only give access to specific sections of the Museums. We unfortunately 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 so we can arrange your visit.
General Tour Questions
What is your weather policy? What if it rains?
Our tours run rain or shine, and we have rain ponchos available in our office. We encourage all guests to consult the weather forecast and plan your dress accordingly.
In the summer months, please prepare for the heat by bringing/wearing adequate sun protection, and staying hydrated. Even if you are accustomed to high temperatures, air-conditioning is not always available in Italy.
Are reservations required?
Yes, reservations are required for all tours.
Other Questions
What is your cancellation policy?
Activities including tickets or special entrances, such as this one, may only be rescheduled for free up to 72 hours in advance. These activities are also only refundable more than 72 hours in advance of the activity start time. Within 72 hours, we will only be able to issue a partial refund or future credit.
