Private First Entry Vatican Visit with Bramante Staircase, Rome

With early-access tickets and an expert guide, this private excursion is the best way to discover the Vatican City. Start with the Vatican Museums, where your guide will help navigate the vast network of collections with your interests (and preferred pace) in mind. A highlight of the day: exclusive entry to the helical Bramante Staircase, Michelangelo’s own hidden passageway. Your visit concludes with two of the most iconic sights in Europe—the famed frescoes of the Sistine Chapel and the imposing grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica.

Just before the general opening time, you'll meet your expert guide across from the Musei Vaticani (Vatican Museums) entrance and get direct access alongside just a handful of small groups. From Greek and Roman statues to Egyptian relics, this is a paradise for art history lovers. Chat with your guide about your preferences, as they are well-versed in the 24 museums and 54 galleries that you can choose from. 

Among the public museums, you'll be offered a special treat—exclusive access to the original Bramante Double Helix Staircase (distinct from the Vatican's exit, the Bramante Momo Staircase). This staircase was Michelangelo's hidden entrance while he worked on the Sistine Chapel, and it only allows a handful of groups on its spiral stairs. You'll return from the Bramante Staircase with even more to explore: notable collections include Raphael's Rooms, the Pio Clementino Museum, and the Gallery of Maps.

After the Vatican Museums, it's time to visit the 15th-century Sistina Cappella (Sistine Chapel). Find The Creation of Adam among the ceiling frescos and spot Last Judgment on the altar wall. You can't take pictures inside the Sistine Chapel, so soak everything in while you're there.

You'll then head to St. Peter's Basilica. Silence is observed in the historic, still-used church, so your guide will provide an overview before you step inside. There's much to see in this majestic building, from St. Peter the Apostle's tomb to the mosaic-covered dome. Your guide will part ways with you here, but you're welcome to keep exploring the church and St. Peter's Square independently.