Meet your professional guide in St Peter’s Square, the massive square at the heart of the Vatican. Follow your guide straight on to the Mosaic Studio, where talented artists practice their craft using age-old techniques. Meet the men and woman charged with caring for the Vatican’s prized mosaics and listen as they teach you about their work. Hear how they ensure that the state’s mosaic masterpieces are kept in impeccable condition, as well as creating new works of art to be used as papal gifts for visiting dignitaries. This experience is not available to most Vatican visitors.

From there, gain fast-track access to the magnificent St Peter’s Basilica with your skip-the-line ticket. Pause to view the church’s breathtaking interior, which counts Michelangelo’s exquisite marble Piet? among its numerous Renaissance and Baroque treasures.

Once inside, avoid the crowds with skip-the-line access to the cupola. Ride the elevator to the lofty heights of the dome, which was designed by Renaissance master Michelangelo. Admire a bird’s-eye view of the nave below and examine the ornate mosaics of the dome’s interior. Ascend to the upper level of the cupola — the highest viewpoint in Rome — for unrivaled vistas of the city.

Descend to ground level to continue your intimate walking tour. Stroll through the Vatican and hear your expert guide expound on the fascinating history of the state and its papal inhabitants.

At the conclusion of your private small-group tour, part with your professional guide at St Peter’s Square and explore the rest of the Vatican at your own leisure.

Please note that the order of the tour may varies according to the events that take place at the Vatican. Afternoon departures starts with the visit to St Peter's Basilica.

Click on 'View additional info' to see the meeting point.