30 minutes before the Vatican Museums open to the public, you'll slip in with your Expert Guide and a group of 20 people or fewer, and quickly make your way to the Sistine Chapel. As you tread through the galleries on our specially-planned route, you'll view some highlights with few (if any) other people around to disturb you.
You won't pause for long but during your walk (about 15 - 20 minutes in duration), you will get a sense of what the Papal Palaces look like and the kinds of treasures they hold. [readmore]From the time you meet your guide, a lot of what they say will be building up to the moment you enter the Sistine Chapel. While you wait in line or stroll through the galleries, they'll teach you about the life and times of Michelangelo. Using a special hand-out, they'll explain to you the meaning behind his Sistine Chapel frescoes, and tell you what details you should be looking out for once inside.
When you arrive you'll be ready (as ready as you can ever be, anyway) for one of the most awe-inspiring works of art in existence. Spend 20 serene minutes in the Chapel with only a handful of other people and then, just as the crowds begin to show up, you can either head back to the museums to experience them on your own, or follow your guide through a special access entrance into St. Peter's Basilica.
Inside the Basilica your guide will give you a full 45-minute tour that includes more world-famous art, like Bernini's monolithic baldachin and Michelangelo's famously heart-wrenching Pietá.
Read moreThe St. Peter's Dome climb requires separate tickets
Only very small backpacks and handbags may be taken inside the Vatican Museums
In the Vatican Museums, both men and women are asked to wear clothing that covers at least the shoulders and knees
Please be at the meeting point 15 minutes before departure