Last-Minute Vatican tickets with skip-the-line access

The Vatican Museums are one of the most popular attractions in the world, attracting over 6 million visitors annually.

Till recently, this used to result in ticket counter queues as long as 1-2 km (0.8 miles).

When unsuspecting visitors would see these long lines, they would want to buy online tickets at the last minute and try to avoid the queue.

However, now there are no walk-up tickets at the venue. But tourists who don’t know this reach the entrance without entry tickets – and end up looking for same-day tickets.

If you are one of them, don’t worry – Vatican Museum tickets rarely sell out, and it is possible to get last-minute tickets.

Here are two ways to secure tickets at the last moment:

Last-minute self-guided Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket

This self-guided ticket is the cheapest and most popular way to enter the Vatican Museums.

Once purchased, the tickets are delivered straight to your inbox, making them a perfect choice if the Vatican Museums are added to your itinerary at the last minute.

With these tickets, you get skip-the-line access to both the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel.

The tour lasts around 2.5 hours, with six available starting time slots: 9.30 am, 10.30 am, 11 am, 11.30 am, 1.30 pm, and 3.30 pm.

A host will be available to assist you throughout your visit.

Cost of tickets

Adult (18+ years): €65
Child (7 to 17 years): €60
Infant (under 7 years): Free entry

Last-minute guided tour of Vatican Museums

You can book this guided tour for today’s visit by simply heading to the booking page, selecting your preferred time slot, and making the payment.

This guided tour provides skip-the-line access to the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica (if selected).

This 3-hour group tour is limited to a maximum of 20 participants. You can choose from two starting time slots: 10.15 am or 12.15 pm.

With St. Peter’s Basilica

Adult (18+ years): €75
Child (6 to 17 years): €67
Infant (under 6 years): Free entry

Without St. Peter’s Basilica

Adult (18+ years): €70
Child (6 to 17 years): €62
Infant (under 6 years): Free entry

Didn’t get a last-minute ticket? Visit free areas of the Vatican

One of the highlights is St. Peter’s Basilica, which is free to enter—though keep in mind that you’ll still need to pass through a queue. You can enter the main area and admire its stunning architecture and the famous Pietà sculpture by Michelangelo.

You can also freely enter and explore St. Peter’s Square, a grand open space that’s home to the Vatican’s iconic obelisk and offers a beautiful view of the Basilica. But there’s no access to the Dome, Necropolis, and Sacristy, as they require tickets.

Vatican Grottoes are located beneath the basilica and are open to visitors for free, but you need to contact the Excavations Office for access.

Even though St. Peter’s Square doesn’t require entry tickets, they are still incredibly beautiful and offer a chance to experience the essence and spirituality of the Vatican.

These areas provide a meaningful visit at no cost, allowing you to enjoy the beauty and significance of the Vatican without needing a ticket.