Start your tour by skipping the (always long) ticket lines to get into the museum and diving right into the galleries holding some of the most famous works of art in the world. This specially-designed route encompasses all the can’t-miss pieces while also including some of the lesser-known works that will really dazzle you.

Your expert, English-speaking guide will give you eye-opening insight and context (along with some great stories) as you explore the Raphael Rooms, the Belvedere courtyard with ‘Apollo Belvedere’ & the Laocoön group, the Pinecone Courtyard, the Gallery of the Candelabra, the Gallery of the Maps, and the Gallery of the Tapestries.

The piéce-de-resistance is, of course, the Sistine Chapel. Your guide will prep you for your time here by telling you the stories behind the creation of the iconic frescoes as well as what they mean. When you enter, you will then be able to appreciate the full majesty of the room, spotting little details like Michelangelo’s self-portrait and the rather painful revenge he plotted for the Pope’s aide (he wasn’t his biggest fan)

From the Sistine Chapel, you'll follow your guide through a special, groups-only door taking you right into St. Peter's Basilica—skipping the long line outside. Once in St. Peter's, your guide will point out the precious art and treasures inside and share the story behind the church's 120-year construction.

The Vatican is more than just a museum. It's home to the Pope and Catholicism and is one of the world's smallest yet powerful states. On this intimate tour, your guide will ensure that you get an overview of it all—from papal scandal to Renaissance masters and the day-to-day operation of Vatican City.

Sites Visited:

• Vatican Museums
• Sistine Chapel
• Raphael Rooms
• Apollo Belvedere & Laocoön & His Sons
• Pinecone Courtyard
• Gallery of the Candelabra
• Gallery of the Maps
• Gallery of the Tapestries
• St. Peter's Basilica