The easiest way to experience Vatican Museums, featuring an outstanding collection of fine art, is by joining a guided tour. These museums display works from an immense collection that the Roman Catholic church built up over several centuries. You can see some of the most renowned Classical sculptures in the world, as well as numerous Renaissance art masterpieces. Founded in the early 16th century by Pope Julius II, the museums contain 54 galleries. The last stop and a highlight of every tour is the Sistine Chapel, featuring the world-famous ceiling decorated by Michelangelo. You are not required to join a tour, but the collection is spread over an area of nearly 15 km (9 mi), so it's highly recommended. Look online beforehand to choose from many different tour options. Make Vatican Museums part of your personalized Vatican City itinerary using our Vatican City day trip planning site.
Create an itinerary including Vatican Museums
Unable to display map at this time. Please try again later.
© OpenMapTiles © OpenStreetMap contributors
Tours to Vatican Museums
Vatican Museums reviews
-
One of the least enjoyable museums I have ever been to: not relaxing or contemplative at all. The welcome is atrocious thanks to barking security officers and precious few smiles or greetings. The... more »
-
all arts and all periods are covered from egyptian to contemporary painting. Take time to look up and enjoy!!! more »
-
Amazing place to visit if in Rome. The art is breathtaking by so many of the greats of the classical era. You can spend days discovering new art at the Vatican no problem. I only went for half a day and felt it was barely enough to just scratch the surface of the Vatican. So much history is here and it is spectacular. Stepping into the sistine chapel is a truly surreal experience as you dive into the artwork that resides On the walls and ceilings. Definitely a must do if in Rome.
-
Mind blowing and extensive. You will get overwhelmed very quickly in here. Take your time research some items you really want to see and focus on those. Do not try and see it all in one visit. Too many wonderful things to see. From the rooms themselves to the art and tapestries it really is an incredible collection.
Plan your trip to Vatican City
Get a personalized trip
A complete day by day itinerary
based on your preferencesCustomize it
Refine your trip. We'll find the
best routes and schedulesBook it
Choose from the best hotels
and activities. Up to 50% offManage it
Everything in one place.
Everyone on the same page.
Popular things to do in Vatican City
Hidden gems in Vatican City
Side trips from Vatican City
Historic Sites in Vatican City
Nearby attractions in Vatican City
Trips to Vatican Museums by other users
21 days in Italy
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Rome
·
Florence
·
Assisi
11 days in Europe
BY A USER FROM UNITED KINGDOM
Paris
·
Geneva
·
Lausanne
15 days in Europe
BY A USER FROM REPUBLIC OF NORTH MACEDONIA
Rome
·
Florence
·
Venice
22 days in Austria, Czech Republic & Italy
BY A USER FROM COLOMBIA
Vienna
·
Salzburg
·
Prague
19 days in Prague & Italy
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Prague
·
Venice
·
Bellagio
22 days in Italy
BY A USER FROM CANADA
Rome
·
Positano
·
Florence