Sistine Chapel Tickets : How to visit the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican City ?

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Are you planning to visit the Sistine Chapel during your next trip to Rome? In this guide, I’ll show you how to buy your Sistine Chapel tickets and how to skip the long lines.

The Sistine Chapel, a masterpiece of art and history, draws over 3 million visitors every year. As one of the most sacred and admired sites in the world, it's a must-see within the Vatican Museums.

With my tips, you’ll be able to make the most of your visit to the Sistine Chapel, even if you're only in Rome for a short time. Whether you're interested in discovering the treasures of the Sistine Chapel or exploring other wonders in the Vatican Museums, you’ll learn how to easily book your tickets and plan a stress-free day.

Some areas of the Vatican Museums are free, but you’ll need a ticket to visit the Sistine Chapel.

I’ll show you 6 ways to buy your tickets to the Sistine Chapel, with options for all budgets, whether you want a guided tour or not. You’ll also find the opening hours and the best ways to get there.

Sistine Chapel Tickets (Quick Table Overview)

If you're pressed for time and need to pick a Sistine Chapel ticket quickly, this guide is here to help.

You have three primary options:

• A standard skip-the-line entrance ticket with an audio guide (check the latest price here >>)
• A skip-the-line guided tour
• A private VIP-style tour for an exclusive experience

Whatever your schedule, these are the top Sistine Chapel tickets available to book today >>

Types of Sistine Chapel Tickets

Here are the main types of tickets available to visit Vatican museums and the Sistine Chapel:

• 🎟️ Standard Entry Ticket: provides Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel access. It includes entry to the Apostolic Palace and Raphael Rooms and is the lowest cost option, but it usually involves long waiting times and you’ll have to visit at your own pace. You can buy these Vatican museums Sistine chapel tickets directly at the ticket office.
• 🎟️ Skip the line tickets: come with priority access to the Vatican Museums and famous Sistine Chapel and allow bypassing the general admission line. It’s a good choice if you have limited time or you want to avoid long queues to really enjoy all the Vatican’s beauty.
• 🎟️ Guided Tour: includes skip-the-line entry and a guide who provides insights into the Sistine Chapel visit. The guided tour ticket includes Michelangelo's frescoes commissioned by Pope Julius II. Usually covers other Vatican highlights.
• 🎟️ Early Access Tour: allows entry to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel before regular opening hours. This option provides a more intimate experience with fewer crowds.
• 🎟️ Vatican Museums and Gardens Tour: combines Sistine Chapel access with a tour of the Vatican Gardens. This ticket boasts a comprehensive Vatican experience.
• 🎟️ Evening Tour: provides Sistine Chapel admission during special extended evening hours. This option allows you to enjoy the artwork in a less crowded environment.
• 🎟️ Combo Tickets: includes Sistine Chapel visit along with other Rome attractions (the Colosseum, St. Peter's Basilica, etc.). This one offers good value for comprehensive sightseeing.
• 🎟️ Audio Guide Option: can be added to standard or skip-the-line tickets for a self-guided tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.

What to Expect If You Book Sistine Chapel Tickets

When you purchase Vatican museums Sistine Chapel tickets, you're in for a treat of Renaissance art at its finest!

You'll have access to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel ceiling (painted by Michelangelo), but bear in mind the experience may, for some, be overwhelming, especially if you visit the Vatican Museums at your own pace.

So before you go, it's always good to know what's included in your Vatican museums tickets and what's not.

Sistine Chapel Tickets – What Is Included

Your Sistine Chapel ticket includes entry to the Vatican Museums. This is where you'll find an enormous collection of art and historical artifacts.

You'll have access to the Appella Sistina which was commissioned by Pope Sixtus IV and behold Michelangelo's frescoes on the ceiling and walls.

The ticket also covers entry to the Raphael Rooms, to the Papal Collections and other important areas within the Vatican Museums. Audio guide is not automatically included, but you can get one for an additional fee.

Sistine Chapel Tickets – What Is Not Included

Please note that standard Vatican museums sistine chapel tickets do not include entry to St Peter's Basilica.

The basilica is free to enter, but you'll need to queue separately if you want to visit. Also guided tours, Sistine Chapel tickets skip the line and access to special exhibitions or areas of the Vatican Museums are not included in basic tickets.

Same for the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. So don’t hesitate to have a look at all the things included in the ticket you decide to buy.

How to Buy Sistine Chapel Tickets

There are several ways to purchase tickets for the Sistine Chapel.

Here's my breakdown of the main ticket options:

• Official Vatican website: you can book directly through the Vatican Museums' official site. This is the cheapest option but tickets can sell out quickly during peak seasons and the website isn’t as easy as the other options.
• Tiqets.com or Getyourguide.com: These websites provides Vatican tickets with additional perks. Prices may be slightly higher, but this site has better availability and a user-friendly interface. It’s the option I recommend.
• On-site purchase: yes you can buy Vatican museums Sistine Chapel tickets at the Vatican Museums entrance, but I wouldn’t recommend that. You'll face long queues and risk tickets being sold out for the day. It’s probably the best way to be disappointed!
• Rome City Passes: some city passes like the Roma Pass include entry to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. These options are cost-effective if you're planning to visit several Rome attractions.
• Hotel concierge: some hotels in central Rome can arrange Vatican tickets for their guests. This can be convenient but may come with expensive additional service fees.

3 Reasons You Should Get Sistine Chapel tickets Now

Don't wait to secure your chance to see Michelangelo's masterpiece on the Sistine Chapel Ceiling!

Here's why you should book your tickets right away:

1. High demand: tickets sell out fast, especially during peak seasons. Online booking in advance ensures you won't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
2. Skip the queues: most pre-booked tickets come with skip-the-line access. This may save you hours of waiting in long lines under the sun.
3. Better planning: knowing your entry time in advance allows you to plan the rest of your Vatican and Rome itinerary efficiently. Don't risk disappointment or wasted time!

Who Is Eligible for Free Entry to the Sistine Chapel?

Free Sistine Chapel entry is only available for some groups: children under 6 years old, disabled visitors with over 74% disability (and their companions) and some religious groups can enter for free.

Also, everyone is allowed to enjoy free entry on the last Sunday of each month, except on some holidays. Always bring proper documentation to prove your eligibility.

Sistine Chapel Dress Code & Security Procedures

Just like the St Peter’s Basilica visit, you’ll absolutely have to get proper attire to visit the Sistine Chapel.

Your shoulders and knees have to be covered no matter if you’re a man or a woman. Everything that goes from low-cut or sleeveless tops and shorts to miniskirts is not allowed. You’ll also have to remove your hat upon entry.

As for security, you’ll have to go through metal detectors and bag checks. Please note that large bags and backpacks are not permitted inside.

Sistine Chapel Etiquette and Behavior Rules

Too many visitors forget that the Sistine Chapel is a sacred place. Silence is strictly enforced, and you'll hear occasional “SILENZIO” calls from attendants.

It’s strictly forbidden to photograph or use your phone inside the chapel, or to drink or eat. Also, the Chapel maintains a strict “no touching” policy and dress code. Remember, you're in one of the world's most significant religious and artistic sites!

Sistine Chapel Opening Hours

The Sistine Chapel hours are the same as the Vatican Museum opening times. You’ll be able to visit the Sistine Chapel from Monday to Saturday, from 8 AM to 7 PM.

The chapel is also open on the last Sunday of each month from 9 AM to 2 PM. For the museums (and the Sistine Chapel by extension), the last entry is two hours before closing time.

Here's a quick overview of the opening hours:

3 Top Tips from People That Already Visited

If you're planning to visit the Sistine Chapel, here are three top tips from people who’ve been there:

1. Arrive early: beat the crowds and arrive right when the Vatican Museums open. This gives you a chance to enjoy the Sistine Chapel in a more peaceful atmosphere before it gets too busy.
2. Opt for a guided tour: why not booking a guided tour (check the price) to gain deeper insights into the artwork and history of the chapel? I found the guides very knowledgeable and great to enhance the experience.
3. Be respectful and quiet: once again, remember that the Sistine Chapel is a sacred space. Maintain a respectful demeanor: keep your voice low and refrain from using your phone or taking photos inside.

Who was Michelangelo?

Michelangelo is perhaps the most famous renaissance artist, known not only for the frescos in the Sistine Chapel but also for his other works including sculptures and poems such as the Pieta sculpture.

Michelangelo died at the grand old age of 88, and the majority of people heading on a Sistine Chapel tour will likely know about the fabulous frescos painted by him (at many protests – he didn’t originally want to take on the task!)

Things to See When Visiting the Sistine Chapel in Vatican

Michelangelo’s frescoes are a must-see, but you may be surprised to find out that some of the other great artists such as Botticelli and Perugino.

Here’s the top things to see if you visit Sistine Chapel in the Vatican:

The works of Michelangelo

The ceiling and the altar of the Sistine Chapel is decorated in frescos of stories from the Bible, including creation of Adam and the great flood, as well as the fall of Adam and Eve.

The Altar features the Last Judgement, a pretty scary piece of work if you can get the space and time to stare at it a little.

The art of Botticelli

Sandro Botticelli's contributions to the Sistine Chapel include three magnificent frescoes.

1. “The Temptation of Christ” depicts the devil tempting Jesus in three ways.
2. “The Punishment of Korah” illustrates the rebellion against Moses and Aaron.
3. And lastly the “Scenes from the Life of Moses” showcases various events from the prophet's life.

Michelangelo's Masterpiece: The Ceiling

Michelangelo's ceiling is the most important artwork of the Sistine Chapel. Completed between 1508 and 1512, this monumental work covers over 5,000 square feet. It features nine scenes from the Book of Genesis. The ceiling also includes depictions of prophets, sibyls and the ancestors of Christ.

The Famous Works of Rosselli

Cosimo Rosselli's “Last Supper” fresco in the Sistine Chapel is a masterpiece of Renaissance art. The detailed depiction goes beyond the famous meal as it includes additional scenes from Christ's Passion in the background. Rosselli's use of colors and details really brings the biblical narrative to life.

The Cosmatesque floor

If you have booked a Sistine Chapel tour your guide should definitely stop and point the striking mosaic floor beneath your feet – it is hard to draw your eyes away from the frescoes above you but the floor itself is a real work of art too!

Pietro Perugino's Frescoes

Pietro Perugino contributed several frescoes to the Sistine Chapel. Amongst them are “Christ Giving the Keys to St. Peter” and “The Baptism of Christ.” His work is characterized by very relaxed compositions, harmonious color palettes and masterful use of perspective. The artwork perfectly reflects the ideals of the Early Renaissance.

Domenico Ghirlandaio's Contributions

Domenico Ghirlandaio painted “The Calling of the Apostles” in the Sistine Chapel. His fresco perfectly showcases his skill in portraying contemporary Florentine life within biblical scenes. His artwork features detailed costumes and architecture of his time.

Luca Signorelli's Frescoes

Luca Signorelli contributed “The Testament and Death of Moses” to the chapel. His work is notable for its anatomical accuracy and dramatic compositions. In his way, he actually prefigured the High Renaissance style.

The Tapestries

The lower walls of the Sistine Chapel are adorned with magnificent tapestries designed by Raphael. Depicting scenes from the Acts of the Apostles, they were created between 1515 and 1519 in Brussels. Originally, ten tapestries were commissioned, but only seven remain in the Vatican today.

The Choir Screen

Designed by Mino da Fiesole, Andrea Bregno and Giovanni Dalmata, the marble choir screen separates the chapel into two sections. Known as the transenna, the screen is surmounted by a row of ornate candlesticks and features a wooden door where once there was an ornate door of gilded wrought iron.

The Papal Throne

Located at the altar end of the Sistine Chapel, the ornate papal throne is a symbol of papal authority. Its design and placement emphasize the Pope's central role in the Church hierarchy. Its elevated position and elaborate craftsmanship underscore the spiritual and temporal power of the papacy within the sacred space of the chapel.

The Chapel's Architecture

Designed to echo the proportions of Solomon's Temple, the Sistine Chapel's architecture is a masterpiece in itself. The rectangular brick building features six arched windows on each of the two main walls and a barrel-vaulted ceiling. The chapel's dimensions – 40.9 meters long by 13.4 meters wide – create a sense of grandeur and intimacy simultaneously.

Leonardo da Vinci's Influence

It's true, that Leonardo da Vinci did not directly contribute to the Sistine Chapel, but his influence can be seen in the work of other artists there, especially in their use of sfumato and dynamic compositions.

This influence is evident in the naturalistic rendering of figures, the subtle gradations of light and shadow and the complex, multi-figured compositions that adorn the chapel's walls and ceiling.

Where Is the Sistine Chapel and How to Get There ?

Rome is easy to access and use public transport network is a cheap and easy way to get to the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums.

Here are your options, and it costs just €1.50 for a trip on the metro or 100 minutes on the bus network.

• Sistine Chapel by Bus – a number of lines stop a short walk from the Vatican City, including lines 81, 62, 40 and 64
• Sistine Chapel by Metro – use line A which will have you coming above ground at the Ottaviano-S. Pietro station
• Sistine Chapel by Tram – line 19 stops at the Piazza Risorgimento

When Is the Best Time to Visit Sistine Chapel ?

Being such a major tourist spot within the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel is always busy, and it can be hard to get a good view of the frescoes with so many people cramming in to get a look!

If you plan well ahead you may be able to hit a time that will have less crowds: we suggest heading to the Vatican City in the off season – November or February are good options – and staying away from the summer months, Easter and Christmas.

Another secret tip – although Wednesdays see the Vatican City stuffed with people coming to see an audience with the pope, you could use this time to rush through the museums to the Sistine Chapel first thing on a Wednesday morning whilst everyone else queue for a glimpse of the pontiff.

How to Skip the Line on Sistine Chapel ?

Sistine Chapel tickets (see price here) come as part of your entry ticket to the Vatican Museums, and you’ll have to go through security no matter what type of ticket you have, but there are a few ways to bypass the lines.

Prebook Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel tickets online

This way, you will not have to stand in the long queue for those who don’t have tickets and join a shorter queue for those who booked online on this website.

Prebook an early entry Vatican Museums tour

A pricy option (see prices here), but some tour companies offer Sistine Chapel tours that begin before the official opening hours of the museums.

Special skip the line tip – any Vatican Museums tour will allow passage to the short cut through to St Peter’s Basilica which will help cut down your queuing time here as well!

Should You Buy the Omnia Card or Roma Pass to Visit the Sistine Chapel?

The Omnia Card includes not only free transport within Rome, as well as hop on hop off bus access but also fast track entry to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel!

So, if you are planning to visit the Sistine Chapel as part of a wider tour of Rome then yes, we definitely recommend this option!

The Rome Tourist Card (with Vatican option) also has the same entry to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel too, so either one is a good option. If you only plan to get the most of a card to visit Vatican's top attractions, the Rome Tourist Card also has a specific offer to the Vatican. You can find out more here.

What You Need to Know to Go on a Sistine Chapel Tour?

Here’s some other useful information for your Sistine Chapel Tour.

Security control

You will need to go through airport style security to enter the Vatican museums, certain items such as tripods and knives are prohibited

Restrooms

Available throughout the Vatican Museums – they are well signposted and accessible for all.

Personal Belongings

As with any big city or tourist attraction we recommend keeping your belongings in a bag that can be zipped closed, and do not make any unnecessary displays of valuables.

FAQs

Can you buy tickets just for the Sistine Chapel?

No, you cannot buy Sistine chapel tickets solely for the Chapel. Entry is included with Vatican Museums tickets, which cover access to different areas within the Vatican complex.

Is it worth buying Sistine Chapel tickets?

Yes, it's absolutely worth buying tickets to see Michelangelo's masterpiece. The Sistine Chapel's frescoes are considered among the world's greatest artistic achievements !

Are photography allowed inside the Sistine Chapel?

No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the Sistine Chapel. This rule is enforced to protect the artwork and maintain a respectful atmosphere for visitors.

How much time should I allocate for a visit to the Sistine Chapel?

Allocate at least 20-30 minutes for the Sistine Chapel itself. You’ll have to plan 2-3 hours for the entire Vatican Museums visit as the chapel is located at the end.

Can I get a refund for my Sistine Chapel ticket?

It all depends on where you purchased your ticket. Check with the official Vatican website or your tour operator to get the refund terms and conditions.

Can I purchase Sistine Chapel tickets on-site?

Yes, you can purchase tickets on-site, but I don’t recommend that because of the long lines. It’s best to book online in advance to save time and ensure entry.

Who has free entry to Sistine Chapel?

Free entry is available for children under 6, people with disabilities and their companions and (who also get priority access) on certain days like World Tourism Day.

Are there any special events or ceremonies scheduled in the Sistine Chapel?

The Sistine Chapel hosts papal conclaves and other religious ceremonies. Careful, as public access may be restricted during these events.

Is it permissible to carry bags or backpacks into the Sistine Chapel?

Small bags and handbags are allowed, but large backpacks and suitcases must be stored in the cloakroom.

Are there facilities for visitors with disabilities at the Sistine Chapel?

Yes, the Vatican Museums (and the Sistine Chapel as well) are wheelchair accessible. You’ll have access to elevators and ramps as well as special assistance if needed.

Do Vatican Museum tickets include entry to the Sistine Chapel?

Yes, Vatican Museum tickets include entry to the Sistine Chapel. The chapel is part of the museum complex and is visited at the end of the tour.

Is the Sistine Chapel open on Sundays and during holidays?

The Sistine Chapel is closed on Sundays, except for the last Sunday of each month when it's open and free. It's also closed on some religious holidays.

Conclusion on Sistine Chapel Tickets

Now you know all there is to know about the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican it’s time to start booking your trip and sorting out your skip the line Sistine Chapel tickets (check the availability here) to make the most of the experience!