A Vatican night tour gives you the unique opportunity to explore the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica under the enchanting glow after dark.
While the Vatican is a popular site during the day, visiting at night offers a magical experience.
With fewer crowds and the Museums beautifully illuminated, the ambience is serene.
Night tours are perfect for couples and families who enjoy a quieter, more intimate atmosphere while exploring this historic landmark.
You can choose from three types of Vatican night tours: self-guided tours, guided tours, and private tours.
Here’s everything you need to know about tickets, prices, discounts, timings, and what to expect from your unforgettable Vatican night experience.
Self-guided night tour ticket
- Fast-track entrance to Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
- Choose from various evening starting time slots: 3 pm, 3.30 pm, 4 pm, and 4.30 pm
- Audio guides are available for purchase on-site for an additional fee
- For assistance at the meeting point, opt for a host-entry ticket
- Sightseeing Bus Tour Option: Select this to enjoy a 1-day sightseeing bus tour of Rome, including access to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
- Explore the museums after dark in a peaceful atmosphere, away from daytime crowds
- Witness masterpieces by Giotto, Titian, Caravaggio, Da Vinci, Raphael, and more
- Valid ID is required for infant tickets
- Certain sections, including the Sistine Chapel, may be unexpectedly closed. No refunds will be issued in such cases
- No refunds or rescheduling are available for this ticket
- Wheelchair access is available for visitors with mobility needs if you choose the host-entry option
Ticket prices
Adult (18+ years): €45
Child (6 to 17 years): €35
Infant (under 6 years): Free entry
Note: Night tours to the Vatican Museum are also available in combination with other attractions such as the Colosseum, Pantheon, Mamertine Museum, etc. Find Out More.
Guided night tour ticket
- On this guided tour, a local expert shares detailed insights about the Vatican Museums
- Choose from various evening starting time slots for your guided tour, available till 5.30 pm
- The maximum guided group size is 20 people
- Two guided tour options available: Without St. Peter’s Basilica (2h 30m) and VIP entry to St. Peter’s Basilica (3h)
- You can select your guide according to your language preference. Available in English, French, Spanish, German, and Italian
- Headsets are provided to ensure you hear the guide clearly throughout the tour
- Your tour guide will meet you outside the Vatican Museum entrance—please refer to your voucher for detailed meeting instructions
- No refunds or rescheduling are available for this ticket
Without Basilica
Adult (18+ years): €99
Youth (5 to 17 years): €83
Infant (below 5 years): Free entry
VIP entry to Basilica
Adult (18+ years): €150
Youth (7 to 17 years): €130
Infant (below 7 years): Free entry
For a premium experience, check out this small-group evening guided tour of the Vatican.
If it is your first visit to Rome or you are short on time, check out the guided tour of Vatican Museums+Colosseum.
There are no private tours to the Vatican at night. However, if you are interested in an exclusive guide who takes you around the Colosseum, Pantheon, St. Peter’s Square, and more, check out this 2-hour private tour (cost: €320)
Why should you go for a Vatican Museums night tour?
A Vatican Museums Night Tour provides a unique and peaceful experience, letting you explore the iconic sites at your own pace with fewer visitors.
The Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel are beautifully illuminated after dark, creating a stunning atmosphere that adds to the exclusive ambience.
You’ll have more time to appreciate the intricate details of the artwork without feeling rushed, thanks to the tranquil setting.
The night tour offers a cooler, more comfortable experience, especially in the warmer months, compared to the often hot and crowded daytime hours.
Vatican night tour or morning tour – which one to go for?
If you’re an early riser, it’s ideal to start your day by taking a morning visit to the Vatican’s iconic sites. However, keep in mind that the Vatican Museums quickly become crowded once they open.
If you seek a quieter experience, it’s best to visit the Vatican at night, when there are fewer crowds, creating a more intimate and peaceful atmosphere.
Whichever time you choose for your Vatican visit, one thing is sure – it is going to be a memorable visit!
FAQs on Vatican Museums night tour
Here are some questions tourists ask before booking a night tour of Vatican Museums
Does the Vatican close at night?
Vatican City is open at all times. However, the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica close either at 7 pm or 8 pm, depending on the day of the week. You can visit St. Peter’s Square at any hour.
Is a night tour of the Vatican worth it?
A night tour of the Vatican is a great way to avoid the daytime crowds and explore the Museums in a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere. The Vatican Museums look stunning under the evening lighting, making it worth the visit.
Can you walk around the Vatican City at night?
Yes, you can walk around Vatican City at night. While the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica have set visiting hours, St. Peter’s Square and the surrounding areas remain accessible to the public anytime, even after dark.
Is Vatican City safe at night?
Yes, Vatican City is generally safe to visit at night, with strong security and well-lit areas. However, as with any popular tourist destination, it’s always a good idea to stay alert, avoid dark or isolated spots, and keep your belongings secure to prevent theft.
