Vatican Day Tour with Bras Tours in Rome
Difficulty
easy
Duration
10 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; primarily involves moderate walking and standing during sessions.
Overview
Witness the rare Papal Audience at St. Peter’s Square, enjoy lunch, and then tour the Vatican Museums with Bras Tours. Discover Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel and the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica on this exclusive full-day experience.
Papal Audience + Lunch + Vatican Museums
10 hours • Skip the line • Small groups • English only • Lunch included
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable day in Vatican City, starting with a rare opportunity to witness the Papal Audience in St. Peter's Square. After lunch, explore the Vatican Museums, home to breathtaking art, including Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel. Conclude your tour at the majestic St. Peter's Basilica and its iconic surroundings.
The tour
A day to discover the Vatican City, the smallest sovereign state in the world! In the morning, the Holy Father holds a public Audience on St. Peter's Square. Attending the Papal Audience is an amazing once-in-a-lifetime experience and an opportunity to see the Pope himself. He will be passing by the faithful on his Pope mobile, on his way to the podium in front of St. Peter's Basilica, from where will be delivering his message and finally give the Papal Blessing. After lunch, the guide will meet you at the restaurant to continue the tour at the Vatican Museums, with its immense art collection built up by the Popes throughout the centuries. The itinerary includes Pio Clementino Hall, Laocoon and Apollo Belvedere, Maps Gallery, Candelabra Gallery, Tapestries Gallery and one of the most celebrated masterpieces in the world: the Sistine Chapel, with the breathtaking frescoes by Michelangelo. Leaving the Museum, follow your guide along the gigantic walls of the Vatican City and reach St. Peter's Square, dominated by Michelangelo's imposing Cupola and surrounded by the famous Bernini's double Colonnade, which houses St. Peter's Basilica the most important Christian church in the world.
Duration
10 hours
Highlights
- Papal Audience
- Vatican Museums
- Sistine Chapel
- St. Peter's Basilica (from outside)
- St. Peter’s Square
Language
English
Included
- Admission tickets to the Papal Audience
- Skip the line entrance tickets
- Professional licensed guide
- Headsets
- Lunch (drinks non included)
- Pick up service from centrally located hotels (when selected)
Not included
- Drop off at the hotels
Please note
- Admission tickets to the Papal Audience are free
- Accommodation during the audience is not guaranteed
- Due to weather conditions the audience can be held indoors
- It is forbidden to bring metal objects and big bags
- Not wheelchair accessible
- It is not permitted to wear shorts, miniskirts and have uncovered shoulders
- Please advise for any food allergies, dietary restrictions or other special requirements
Meeting point
Via della Traspontina, 6 or pick up from centrally located hotels
Adventure Tips
Dress Code Compliance
Wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees to meet Vatican dress code requirements; shorts and sleeveless tops are not permitted.
Arrive Early
Arrive at the meeting point ahead of time to ensure smooth entry and group coordination, especially for the Papal Audience seating.
Prepare for Security Checks
Expect airport-style security screening; avoid carrying metal objects or large bags to speed up entry.
Camera Usage
Photography is allowed in most areas, but flash and tripods are prohibited inside the Sistine Chapel—respect posted signs.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Pigeons commonly gather in St. Peter’s Square
- Sparrows flitting around the Vatican Gardens nearby
History
Vatican City became an independent state in 1929 under the Lateran Treaty, making it the smallest internationally recognized independent state.
Conservation
The Vatican prioritizes preservation of its priceless art collections with climate control and strict visitor limits to ensure longevity.
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Adventure Hotspots in Rome
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Essential for navigating museum halls, Vatican grounds, and St. Peter’s Square with ease.
Lightweight Rain Jacket
Useful for unexpected rain showers during outdoor moments of the tour.
spring|fall|winter specific
Sun Hat and Sunscreen
Protects from the strong Roman sun during the outdoor Papal Audience and walking periods.
summer specific
Small Daypack
For carrying essentials like water, ID, and snacks, but keep it small to pass security easily.