Nowhere else on Earth has such a unique history and art collection as the Vatican. With our passionate expert guides, you will be led through the highlights and hidden gems, hearing the remarkable stories behind both the exhibits and the Vatican itself. See the Laocoon, a statue that Ancient Romans praised as ‘the perfect’ work of art, a giant bathtub that once belonged to the infamous Emperor Nero, and the Gallery of Maps, with frescoes perfectly depicting Italy in the 16th Century, as well as an incredibly decorated ceiling. Visit the Raphael Rooms, former apartments of Pope Julius II, decorated by Raphael with some of his most admired works, including the ‘School of Athens’, learning the fascinating history behind the paintings and Raphael himself. Continue through the apartments of the notorious Borgia Pope, Alexander VI, which now houses Contemporary Art, before arriving at the grand highlight of the museums - the Sistine Chapel. Your guide will explain the Sistine Chapel in detail (before entering), and then give you free time to take in one of the most celebrated works of art in history - and once you are in the chapel, you’ll see why it is so renowned! The tour continues through a special access door, down the Pope’s staircase, to visit the grand magnificence of St. Peter’s Basilica. Our guide will show you the secrets of this fabulous building, including Michelangelo’s statue of the Pieta, Bernini’s Baldacchino, and much more, before ending on the steps of the Church, giving you a chance to re-enter if you wish. Please note, once we leave the Sistine Chapel, you CANNOT re-enter the Vatican Museums. If you wish to visit more of the museums, please let the guide know, though this will mean you cannot continue with the tour to St. Peter’s Basilica. REMEMBER: To enter the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica, SHOULDERS AND KNEES MUST BE COVERED. Please bring some kind of covering.