Combos

Combo (Save 23%): Santa Maria Maggiore + Vatican Museum Entry Tickets

Aerial view of Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore and Piazza Esquilino in Rome.

Visitors at the altar of Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore, Rome, with ornate ceiling and columns.

Sphere sculpture by Arnaldo Pomodoro at Vatican Museum, Vatican City.

Vatican Museums gallery with classical statues and ornate ceiling.

Explore at your pace

Choose your entry time, stay as long as you like

Audio guide

Enhance your experience with multilingual audio guide

Select an option

Santa Maria Maggiore + Vatican Museum Entry Tickets

€61.90

€47.40

23% off

For a double-dose of art and history
Experience the serene beauty of Santa Maria Maggiore at your own pace
Audio guide in English, Italian, Spanish, French, or German (for Santa Maria Maggiore)
Drift through iconic Vatican halls alive with colour, detail, and imagination

Santa Maria Maggiore English Guided Tour + Vatican Museums English Guided Tour

€140.13

€75.17

46% off

For curated expert-led experiences across Rome’s finest
Experience Santa Maria Maggiore through vivid storytelling and carefully chosen highlights
Journey through the Vatican Museums with a guide who connects every artwork to its past

4.4/5(41,935)

Michael H

Solo

Verified booking

6 days ago

The Vatican Museums were a highlight of my trip to Italy this year. Exploring this extensive collection at the historic Vatican site is truly fascinating—featuring, for example, original works by Van Gogh, Chagall, Gauguin, Picasso, and the great painter Raphael, as well as Michelangelo’s frescoes. All of this is part of a unique collection that showcases wonderful ancient sculptures. A journey through the entire ancient world with valuable exhibits... There’s the original autographed jersey of Maradona and Pelé, Schumi’s Formula 1 steering wheel, the popes’ state carriages, and their “Papa-Mobiles.” You can also enjoy a cozy cup of coffee and a snack inside the well-maintained open-air restaurant. It was exhausting, but since I wasn’t in a rush, it was very enjoyable. There are benches and places to take a break everywhere. The highlight, of course, is the Sistine Chapel, the site of the secret papal election by the conclave, with Michelangelo’s magnificent paintings. I had purchased a ticket in advance through "HeadOut"; the admission and service were great, and it saved a lot of time since we were admitted immediately instead of having to wait in the usual long line. The museum offers an audio guide for 8 EUR that explains all the sights in a simple yet interesting way. Many rooms are air-conditioned, and you can send greetings to your loved ones directly from the Vatican Post Office. For me, it was a uniquely wonderful experience; including the great tour operator "headout," I can highly recommend it. Best regards, Micha

Mary B

Couple

Verified booking

Last week

The crowds at the Vatican weren't too bad as we chose to start our visit at 4 pm or so. After about 2 hours, we were ready for a break and a snack. I was disappointed to find no tables with chairs at them; it was standing room only. It's not much of a break if you have to stand through it! Upon leaving the Vatican, we were approached by a taxi driver who asked if we wanted to engage him. We said yes and got in his taxi. To make a long story short, he overcharged us for the ride and, after I had given him a €50 note, he said I had only given him a €10. I was sure I had given him €50 to pay the €48 we owed. He said no, I had only given him a €10. Feeling rushed, flustered and tired after our time at the Vatican, I gave him the benefit of the doubt, only to later discover I had given him €50 and then another €20 and 3 - €10 Euro notes. Plus, I tipped him €5 Euros!! So in the end I had given him €105 Euros for an inflated taxi ride of €48. I felt like such an idiot, but in reality I had been intentionally scammed by a taxi driver, who targets patrons leaving the Vatican. Needless to say, this event left a very sour taste in my mouth regarding my Vatican visit.

Luís P

Couple

Verified booking

Last week

We had an amazing fast-track experience in Rome with Headout while visiting the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and the Pantheon. Everything was extremely well organized from start to finish, and having guides help us through the entrances made the entire experience smooth and stress-free. We skipped the massive queues and got inside surprisingly fast, which gave us much more time to actually enjoy the places instead of waiting outside for hours. Inside the Vatican Museums, we explored incredible galleries filled with sculptures, paintings, and centuries of history before reaching the Sistine Chapel. Seeing Michelangelo’s famous ceiling in person was honestly breathtaking and completely different from seeing it in pictures. The atmosphere inside the chapel felt surreal and unforgettable. We also visited the Pantheon, which was another huge highlight of the day. The architecture, the enormous dome, and the history behind the building were genuinely impressive. Overall, the experience felt very premium, comfortable, and memorable, and the fast-track access with Headout made exploring these iconic places in Rome so much easier and more enjoyable.

Gabriela A

Couple

Verified booking

5 days ago

Visiting the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel was one of the highlights of my trip to Rome. The skip-the-line tickets saved us a huge amount of time and made the experience smooth from the start. The museums are breathtaking, with endless galleries filled with incredible art, history, and stunning architecture. The absolute highlight was seeing Michelangelo’s masterpiece in the Sistine Chapel. Standing beneath that ceiling was a truly unforgettable moment and something I had dreamed about for years. Despite the large crowds, everything was well organized, and there was plenty to admire along the way. Every room revealed another treasure, making the visit feel like a journey through centuries of human creativity. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone visiting Rome.

Monika K

Couple

Verified booking

5 days ago

Skipping the line at the Vatican Museums saves a lot of time and spares you the hassle of standing in a long line, especially on a hot day. It’s worth spending that time at the Museums because there’s plenty to see, and the tour route is designed in such a way that you can’t go directly to just specific spots. It’s also important to remember that the ticket includes skip-the-line access to the Museums and the Sistine Chapel, while entry to the Basilica and the papal tombs is separate, free of charge, after passing through security and waiting in line. I went on a weekday, and before noon the line to the Basilica wasn’t long—a 10-minute wait.

Denilson O

Group

Verified booking

4 days ago

Visiting the Vatican Museum was amazing, starting with how easy it was to buy tickets on Headout. From there, everything was truly special because we had never been to Rome before. We arrived at the meeting point and immediately received our admission vouchers before heading to the entrance. The information was clear and straightforward, and we had no trouble at all during the entire tour. We took a full 5-hour tour, starting at the Pinacoteca and ending at the Sistine Chapel. Here’s a three-part recommendation: travel to Rome, visit the Vatican Museum, and buy your tickets on Headout.

Experience two of Rome’s most iconic sites in one seamless visit, skipping long lines while exploring the basilica’s sacred treasures and the Vatican’s masterpieces.

Access Santa Maria Maggiore, Rome’s oldest Marian basilica, featuring stunning 5th-century mosaics, Bernini’s tomb, and the revered Holy Cradle relic.

Enjoy fast-track entry to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, marvel at masterpieces by Michelangelo and Raphael, and stroll through the historic Patrizi Montoro Palace.

Upgrade to guided tours at both sites to uncover hidden corners, gain expert insights, and enjoy a richer, more immersive experience.

Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica

Access to Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica

Audio guide in English, Italian, Spanish, French or German

English guided tour of Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica (as per option selected)

Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel

Skip-the-line entry to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

English guided tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel (as per option selected)

Transfers

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

41,935 reviews
How do we collect reviews?
These ratings include verified reviews from both Headout guests and our trusted partners who operate this experience locally. All reviews come from real travelers who've taken this experience.
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Guests from United States, United Kingdom, Spain and over 110 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Michael H
Solo
Verified booking
6 days ago
The Vatican Museums were a highlight of my trip to Italy this year. Exploring this extensive collection at the historic Vatican site is truly fascinating—featuring, for example, original works by Van Gogh, Chagall, Gauguin, Picasso, and the great painter Raphael, as well as Michelangelo’s frescoes. All of this is part of a unique collection that showcases wonderful ancient sculptures. A journey through the entire ancient world with valuable exhibits... There’s the original autographed jersey of Maradona and Pelé, Schumi’s Formula 1 steering wheel, the popes’ state carriages, and their “Papa-Mobiles.” You can also enjoy a cozy cup of coffee and a snack inside the well-maintained open-air restaurant. It was exhausting, but since I wasn’t in a rush, it was very enjoyable. There are benches and places to take a break everywhere. The highlight, of course, is the Sistine Chapel, the site of the secret papal election by the conclave, with Michelangelo’s magnificent paintings. I had purchased a ticket in advance through "HeadOut"; the admission and service were great, and it saved a lot of time since we were admitted immediately instead of having to wait in the usual long line. The museum offers an audio guide for 8 EUR that explains all the sights in a simple yet interesting way. Many rooms are air-conditioned, and you can send greetings to your loved ones directly from the Vatican Post Office. For me, it was a uniquely wonderful experience; including the great tour operator "headout," I can highly recommend it. Best regards, Micha
Mary B
Couple
Verified booking
Last week
The crowds at the Vatican weren't too bad as we chose to start our visit at 4 pm or so. After about 2 hours, we were ready for a break and a snack. I was disappointed to find no tables with chairs at them; it was standing room only. It's not much of a break if you have to stand through it! Upon leaving the Vatican, we were approached by a taxi driver who asked if we wanted to engage him. We said yes and got in his taxi. To make a long story short, he overcharged us for the ride and, after I had given him a €50 note, he said I had only given him a €10. I was sure I had given him €50 to pay the €48 we owed. He said no, I had only given him a €10. Feeling rushed, flustered and tired after our time at the Vatican, I gave him the benefit of the doubt, only to later discover I had given him €50 and then another €20 and 3 - €10 Euro notes. Plus, I tipped him €5 Euros!! So in the end I had given him €105 Euros for an inflated taxi ride of €48. I felt like such an idiot, but in reality I had been intentionally scammed by a taxi driver, who targets patrons leaving the Vatican. Needless to say, this event left a very sour taste in my mouth regarding my Vatican visit.
Luís P
Couple
Verified booking
Last week
We had an amazing fast-track experience in Rome with Headout while visiting the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and the Pantheon. Everything was extremely well organized from start to finish, and having guides help us through the entrances made the entire experience smooth and stress-free. We skipped the massive queues and got inside surprisingly fast, which gave us much more time to actually enjoy the places instead of waiting outside for hours. Inside the Vatican Museums, we explored incredible galleries filled with sculptures, paintings, and centuries of history before reaching the Sistine Chapel. Seeing Michelangelo’s famous ceiling in person was honestly breathtaking and completely different from seeing it in pictures. The atmosphere inside the chapel felt surreal and unforgettable. We also visited the Pantheon, which was another huge highlight of the day. The architecture, the enormous dome, and the history behind the building were genuinely impressive. Overall, the experience felt very premium, comfortable, and memorable, and the fast-track access with Headout made exploring these iconic places in Rome so much easier and more enjoyable.
Gabriela A
Couple
Verified booking
5 days ago
Visiting the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel was one of the highlights of my trip to Rome. The skip-the-line tickets saved us a huge amount of time and made the experience smooth from the start. The museums are breathtaking, with endless galleries filled with incredible art, history, and stunning architecture. The absolute highlight was seeing Michelangelo’s masterpiece in the Sistine Chapel. Standing beneath that ceiling was a truly unforgettable moment and something I had dreamed about for years. Despite the large crowds, everything was well organized, and there was plenty to admire along the way. Every room revealed another treasure, making the visit feel like a journey through centuries of human creativity. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone visiting Rome.
Riedel S
Couple
Verified booking
Last week
Everything went smoothly with the fast-track tickets—which, given the crowds and long lines, is "worth its weight in gold," as they say. It felt like I paid “gold” for it, though... I was a bit late, and other providers didn’t have any time slots left for my week-long vacation. Here I was still able to get everything, and as I said, everything went smoothly/worked out—but it was “just” admission (I know, that’s a luxury at these hotspots), no tour, no guide, just an audio guide to download at the Colosseum with a bit of info......for a luxurious €239... It’s 4 stars because, as I said, everything went smoothly (and I couldn’t change the rating anymore), but it was really a bit too expensive—though I only have myself to blame for paying that much... 😉

Enjoy fast-track entry to the Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel plus full access to Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore, with this hassle-free combo

Getting started

Begin at the designated meeting point near each site’s main entrance. Present your mobile ticket for validation and follow security procedures before entering. For guided options, your expert guide will introduce the experience and outline the highlights before you set off.

What to expect

Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica

Dating to the 5th century, this major papal basilica is a cornerstone of Rome’s religious and artistic heritage, offering access to its terrace, museum, and sacred relics.

Features:

Mosaics and frescoes: Admire early Christian mosaics and frescoes depicting biblical stories and artistic mastery.

Crypt of the Nativity: Visit the site believed to house a relic from Jesus’ manger, a focal point for pilgrims.

Architectural highlights: Experience the basilica’s grand nave, ornate chapels, and architectural details spanning multiple eras.

Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel

Home to one of the world’s largest Renaissance art collections, the Vatican Museums span 54 galleries and include the renowned Sistine Chapel, celebrated for Michelangelo’s frescoes and its ongoing religious significance.

Features:

Sistine Chapel: Stand beneath Michelangelo’s iconic ceiling and view The Last Judgment, masterpieces central to Western art.

Raphael’s Rooms: Explore rooms adorned with frescoes like The School of Athens, illustrating the height of Renaissance creativity.

Galleries of Maps & Tapestries: Walk through corridors filled with vibrant cartography and woven narratives from the Renaissance era.

Pigna Courtyard & Vatican Walls: Discover outdoor and architectural highlights that frame the museum’s vast collections.

What to bring

Wear comfortable shoes, as both experiences involve walking and climbing stairs.

Dress respectfully for religious sites: shoulders and knees must be covered; short skirts, sleeveless tops, and see-through clothing are not allowed. A shawl or scarf can be handy for head coverage if needed.

Carry a valid photo ID or passport that matches your booking details.

Keep your smartphone voucher ready to present at the entrance or to reception staff.

You may bring a camera for non-flash photography at the basilica.

What’s not allowed

Large bags, suitcases, or oversized luggage; lockers are available on site for storage.

Food and drinks, including water, are not permitted inside sacred areas.

Flash photography, tripods, filming equipment, and mobile phones in the Sistine Chapel are strictly prohibited.

Power banks are not allowed inside the Vatican Museums.

Pets are not permitted except for registered service animals.

Smoking, alcohol, and drugs are forbidden on the premises.

Access through the Holy Door is not included.

Children under 7 cannot enter certain areas of the basilica, such as the Dome or underground sections.

Using external guides or leaving the assigned guide in the Vatican Museums is not permitted.

Accessibility

These experiences are not suitable for wheelchair users, those with mobility difficulties, prams/strollers, or visitors with heart conditions, walking difficulties, claustrophobia, dizziness, disabilities, anxiety disorders, or pregnancy.

Some sections involve stairs, narrow passageways, or other areas that may be difficult to access.

Additional information

General entry to Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica is free. This ticket provides skip-the-line access for convenience.

Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled entry time for a smooth check-in.

Entry is only permitted through the reserved entrance.

Vatican Museums guests will pass through airport-style security; during peak times, waits can be up to 30 minutes.

Both sites strictly enforce dress codes; non-compliance may result in denied entry.

Management may close certain sections due to force majeure, religious ceremonies, or weather; such closures do not qualify for refunds.

During Jubilee years or special ceremonies, some areas, including St. Peter’s Basilica, may be temporarily inaccessible.

Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.

Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the starting point.

Please check your final voucher for the starting point details & specific instructions.