Private Palazzo Barberini Museum Tour with Art Historian Guide
See Judith Beheading Holofrenes, La Fornarina, and more inside this opulent 17th-century palace
Step into the grandeur of a living royal palace at Palazzo Barberini, home to one of Rome’s most intriguing art collections. With your private guide, uncover mysterious and obscure masterpieces by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Holbein, including his iconic portrait of Henry VIII. Admire the palace’s stunning architecture, featuring the rival staircases of Bernini and Borromini. This exclusive tour offers art lovers an intimate journey through history, beauty, and hidden stories.
- thumbnail
- Private Palazzo Barberini tour
- Explore the grand palace
- Rival staircases by Bernini and Borromini
- Saint Francis in Meditation
- Iconic portrait of Henry VIII
- What's with all these Bees?
- The power and popes of the Barberini
After meeting your expert art historian guide just outside of Palazzo Barberini, you'll head inside to begin your tailored private tour. Over the next couple of hours, you'll explore the grand collection of paintings housed in the ornate medieval palace of the Barberini family, as well as Bernini and Borromini's competing staircases, and much more. Along the way, learn about the influential noble family and the signature bees found in the works they commissioned.
Palazzo Barberini Museum Private Tour Description
Your 2-hour private tour includes:
Admission to the Palazzo Barberini
Tailored private tour of the Museum's collection and architecture
See Caravaggio's Judith Beheading Holofrenes, Raphael's La Fornarina, and so much more
Your own personal guide with an expertise in art history
Meet Your Guide in Piazza Barberini
Your experience begins in Piazza Barberini, home to Bernini's great 17th-century Triton Fountain as well as the grand family palace you'll explore today. Your guide will talk you through some of the most impressive external architecture and introduce you to the history of the palace before you head inside.
Enter the Ornate Palace of the Barberini Family
One of Rome's most important aristocratic families, the Barberini reached the apex of power with the election of Cardinal Maffeo Barberini as Pope Urban VIII. Formerly a minor Tuscan noble family, the Barberini needed a downtown palace to portray and lead their newfound influence.
To construct Palazzo Barberini, the family went through three of Italy's great architects. From Carlo Maderno and his nephew Francesco Borromini to the final touches by the aforementioned Gian Lorenzo Bernini, your guide will point out the stamp each of these great artists placed on the palace finally completed in 1633.
Grand Staircases by Bernini and Borromini
As you enter the majestic palace, your eyes will head to the great staircases that rise towards the sky above. These two staircases were created by Bernini and Borromini—two iconic artists and also fierce rivals during the Renaissance era. Decide which style of elaborate staircase is your favorite as your guide tells of the reasons why they despised each other so much.
The Works of Caravaggio
Once you head up one of the stairwells, you'll reach the incredible collection of paintings that brings art lovers from across the world to the Palazzo Barberini. Though Caravaggio's works can be found across Italy and beyond, the Barberini arguably holds Caravaggio's greatest masterpiece among others.
Stand up close and observe the painstaking detail of Judith Beheading Holofrenes. With his patented use of the chiaroscuro, Caravaggio creates a vividness and power of realism which was unmatched until the advent of photography. Besides the bloody biblical scene, Caravaggio's Saint Francis in Meditation and Narcissus are found in the collection. Learn about Caravaggio's turbulent life and career that led to genius, murder, and controversy.
Raphael, Canaletto, and Henry VIII
As you explore the Galleria Nazionale d'Arte Antica, your guide will lead you to amazing works including the Renaissance master Raphael's La Fornarina. Full of theories on who the subject of the painting is, thoughts range from a witch to Raphael's muse and lover.
The great collection also holds great works from across eras and some from outside of Italy, including the iconic portrait of Britain's King Henry VIII by Holbein. You'll also enjoy a collection from the most famous Italian landscape painter of them all, Canaletto. Before postcards, the wealthiest travelers would pay Canaletto and others to paint scenes of Venice, Florence, Rome, and Vesuvius with them included...kind of like a 17th-century Instagram post!
After a couple of hours exploring the best of the museum, your guide will say goodbye and leave you to enjoy the rest of your day in Rome. Don't hesitate to ask for recommendations—our guides know this city better than anyone!
What you get with this tour
See what people are saying
1 total reviews
Leave a reviewPia is an excellent guide
James Smiley
I greatly enjoyed all of her insight and perspective on the building architecture, history and art within.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to bring?
Just some comfortable shoes and a passion for art and history!
What to bring?
Just some comfortable shoes and a passion for art and history!
I have some doubts about my mobility. Is this tour right for me?
If you have any doubts about your mobility then a private tour is your best bet. Private Vatican tours are more easily customized to the needs of people with reduced mobility.
Does the tour go inside without waiting in any lines?
Yes! Your guide will help you skip the line and start exploring straight away.
You may also like
Skip the Line
Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum and Vatican Museums
Explore the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica, Roman Forum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and more!
Exclusive Access
Special Access Colosseum Arena Floor Tour through the Gladiator's Gate
Walk in the footsteps of gladiators on the Colosseum floor and see the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
Skip the Line
Privileged Entrance Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel
Skip the line and gain direct access to the Raphael Rooms, Creation of Man, and St. Peter's Basilica
Skip the Line
Semi-Private Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel
Enjoy a premium and exclusive tour of the Raphael Rooms, St.Peter's Basilica, and more!
Skip the Line
St. Peter's Dome Climb and Sistine Chapel Combo Tour
Begin your day early and see Rome from above, the Papal Crypts below, and the Vatican museums nearby
Skip the Line
Rome Catacombs Tour and Capuchin Crypts with Transportation
Skip the line and explore a creepy underground world of Roman tombs and crypts with an expert guide
Transportation Included
Rome Shore Excursion from Civitavecchia
Book a private Rome tour and see the Colosseum, Vatican, Sistine Chapel, and more in just one day!
Skip the Line
Semi-Private Colosseum Tour with Arena Floor
Stand where gladiators fought on the Colosseum floor, then tour the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
Guided Tour
Trastevere Local Food Tour in Rome
Join a culinary guide to savor authentic Roman food, such as tasty cheese, pasta, gelato, and wine
Free cancellation
3-Hour Scenic Golf Cart Tour of Rome in a Small Group
Experience the Eternal City in complete comfort with stops at 8 iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites
Skip the Line
Privileged Entrance Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
Skip the line at the Colosseum, plus Arch of Titus, Temple of Julius Caesar, and more!
Skip the Line
Private Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum & Vatican Museums
See the best of Rome your way with a private guide at the Sistine Chapel, Trevi Fountain, and more!
Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica Private Tour
See the wonders of the Vatican on a tailored private tour with expert guide and skip-the-line entry
Day Trip
Unforgettable Rome Day Trip to Pompeii and Sorrento
The easiest way to dive deep into the famous ancient ruins and soak up the sunny coast of Sorrento
Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius from Rome
Full Day Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius Tour from Rome
Skip-the-line at Pompeii, savor a three-course meal, and walk amid Mt. Vesuvius’ volcanic formations
Private Tour
Private Pompeii & Mt. Vesuvius Day Trip from Rome
An unforgettable visit to ancient ruins with all the details and transportation taken care of
Semi-Private Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
Immerse in Roman history as you visit Arch of Titus, Temple of Caesar and more with an expert guide
Skip the Line
Vatican Uncovered: A Private, Detailed Tour
Get an in-depth experience tailored to your interests of art, sculptures, and the Sistine Chapel
New Tour
Rome’s Catacombs and Appian Way Golf Cart Small Group Tour
Escape the crowds and journey through ancient roads and underground tombs alongside an expert guide
Skip the Line
Vatican at Closing Time with Sistine Chapel
Book a unique experience that visits the Vatican in the early evening with fewer crowds
Entry Ticket
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Tickets
Skip the line and gain quicker access to the Vatican so you can explore at your leisure
Skip the Line
Private Family-Friendly Vatican and Sistine Chapel Tour
Enjoy a boredom-free Vatican private tour that's perfect for kids, with treasure hunt and fun guide
Private Tour
Private Vatican, Sistine Chapel and Saint Peter's Dome Climb Complete Tour
Climb St. Peter's Dome then tour the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
Exclusive Access
Semi-Private Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
Get special access to the Underground dungeons and Arena Floor on this guided semi-private tour
Cooking Class
Dough to Dessert: 3-in-1 Cooking Class near Piazza Navona
Master the art of making fettuccine, ravioli, and mouthwatering tiramisu in a single day!
Skip the Line
Private Skip the Line Vatican, Sistine Chapel, and St Peter's Basilica Tour
Enjoy a tailored VIP Vatican experience with a dedicated private guide
Skip the Line
Private Family-Friendly Rome Colosseum & Roman Forum Tour
Bring the Colosseum to life on this interactive kids tour with a treasure hunt and fun local guide
Climb the Dome
Ultimate St. Peter's Basilica Dome Climb and Tour with Papal Crypts
See Michelangelo's La Pietà up close and climb the dome for stunning views of Rome and the Vatican
New Tour
Private Tour of Rome’s Seven Hills by Tuk Tuk
Cruise to the Orange Gardens, and admire the view from Circus Maximum from a real ape calessino
Skip the Line
Private Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill
See the Colosseum and ancient Rome like a VIP, the Temple of Caesar, and more!
New Tour
Authentic Pizza and Gelato Cooking Class in Rome
Embark on an Italian culinary adventure in a 17th-century palace near Piazza Navona!
Skip the Line
Private Borghese Gallery Tour
Admire stunning Baroque art most miss like Bernini's Rape of Proserpina & Apollo and Daphne
New Tour
Prati Eats: A Delicious Walking Tour
Indulge in Rome's famous pizza, pasta, and wine alongside a knowledgeable foodie guide
Rome's Appian Way, Aqueduct Park, and Catacombs by E-Bike
Cruise through the historic Appia Antica, visit Catacombs of St. Callixtus and enjoy a light lunch!
Appian Way and Catacombs Walking Tour in Rome
Walk in emperors’ footsteps, explore chariot stadium ruins, and descend into underground tombs
New Tour
Trastevere Food Tour and Pasta Making Class
Sample classic Roman delicacies and learn how to make fettuccine from scratch!
Colosseum, Forum, and Palatine Hill Access Plus Audio Guide
Take in Rome’s magnificent ancient wonders at your own pace
Free cancellation
Rome Sightseeing Private Tour by Golf Cart
Whiz through Rome to see the Colosseum, Vatican, Roman Forum, Oppian Hill, Tiber Island, and more!
Borghese Gallery Skip the Line
Skip-the-Line Borghese Gallery Tour
Join an intimate small-group tour and uncover Baroque masterpieces with an expert guide.
New Tour
Tasty Pasta and Tiramisu Cooking Class Near Piazza Navona
Cook like a pro with a local chef as you master two Italian dishes then savor your own creations
New Tour
Skip-the-Line Pantheon Express Guided Tour in Rome
In one hour, uncover the rich history and marvel at the remarkable dome in a small group setting
Guided Tour
Half Day Electric Bike Tour of Rome
Pedal past the Colosseum, Piazza Navona, and up Capitoline Hill in the peaceful morning
New Tour
Trastevere Pasta Making Class: Fettuccine and Maltagliati
Head to Rome’s trendiest food district to try your hand at authentic pasta making (and eating!)
New Tour
Testaccio Market Morning Food Tour in Rome
Immerse yourself in Roman cuisine as you savor supplì, carbonara pasta and other regional delicacies
New Tour
Traditional Roman Cooking Class in Jewish Ghetto
Learn how to make pasta, seasonal vegetables, and a traditional dessert in a charming neighborhood
New Tour
Castel Sant’ Angelo Skip the Line Small Group Tour in Rome
Visit Hadrian’s Tomb, learn about the legend of Archangel Michael, and view stunning frescoes!
New Tour
Tuscany Day Trip from Rome with Vineyard Lunch and Wine Tasting
Wander through the medieval towns of Montepulciano and Pienza and enjoy a 3-course meal!
New Tour
Ultimate Pizza & Tiramisu Making Class Near Piazza Navona
Learn the secrets of making authentic tiramisu and pizza from a pizzaiolo chef before devouring them
Private Tour
Private Half Day E-Bike Tour of Rome
Cycle through the Roman streets with ease to see the Colosseum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and more!
Private Tour
Rome Evening Cocktail Tour with Local Guide
Experience Rome’s cocktail culture as you stroll by the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and Trastevere!
Private Tour
Vatican at Closing Time Private Evening Tour with Sistine Chapel
Appreciate the Vatican masterpieces without less crowds on our tour with a private guide
Skip the Line
Catacombs Private Tour in Rome
Discover the mysterious Roman Catacombs, Capuchin Crypts, and Appian Way on an personal private tour
Private Tour
Trastevere and Jewish Ghetto Private Rome Tour
With a private guide, unearth the trendiest Rome districts from Santa Maria Basilica to Tiber Island
Skip the Line
Alone at the Vatican: Private After Hours Tour
Experience the quiet of the Sistine Chapel without the crowds after your tailored tour
Skip the Line
Basilicas of Rome Private Driving Tour
Uncover relics of Catholic history across three of Rome’s major churches with an expert local guide
Skip the Line
The Quickest Direct Access Private Vatican Tour
Explore the Vatican on a shorter, tailored tour that includes the Sistine Chapel
Private Tour
Orvieto, Civita di Bagnoregio & Winery Private Day Trip from Rome
Escape the city on a memorable journey through Umbria’s historic towns to taste fine local wines
Private Tour
Private Pompeii & Sorrento Day Trip from Rome
Step back in time with a private guided tour of Pompeii then enjoy a lazy afternoon in Sorrento
Private Tour
Private Transfer from Rome to Amalfi Coast with Tour of Pompeii
Travel south in style with door-to-door service, and explore Italy’s lost city with a private guide
Skip the Line
Private Rome City Driving Tour
See the best of Rome with the comfort of your own private vehicle and a dedicated local tour guide
Brunello di Montalcino Helicopter Tour from Rome or Florence
Soar above Tuscany on an exclusive VIP tour, complete with private wine tastings and a gourmet lunch
Private Tour
Tivoli Fountains & Hadrian's Villa Private Tour from Rome
Escape the city on a VIP private day trip to Tivoli, with Villa d’Este, Hadrian’s Estate, and more!
New Tour
Golf Cart Tour of Rome with Pizza and Gelato Dinner
Indulge in authentic Italian pizza, savor gelato, and whizz between Pantheon, Trastevere and more
Tuscany and Umbria Day Trip from Rome with Lunch and Wine Tasting
Discover Civita di Bagnoregio and Orvieto, with a 3-Course meal and Brunello di Montalcino tasting
New tour
Self-Drive Rome Sightseeing Tour by Electric Car
Take the wheel of a Fiat Topolino for an eco-friendly convoy around the Eternal City’s iconic sights
New Tour
Four-Course Roman Dinner with Wine Pairing Near the Pantheon
Taste exquisite Italian food with sommelier-style pairings in a stunning 15th-century building
Sommelier-Led Food & Wine Tour in Rome at Sunset
Join an expert to discover three exceptional restaurants near the Vatican with a small group
Skip the Line
After Hours Rome Catacombs Tour with Capuchin Crypts
Experience Rome’s underground tombs and religious bone displays on this exclusive night tour
Amalfi Coast from Rome
Positano and Amalfi Day Trip from Rome with Boat Cruise
Navigate along the Coast, explore the picturesque town of Positano, and enjoy a classic limoncello
New Tour
Rome by Vespa Small Group Driving Tour
Join an intimate Vespa convoy and scoot past the Pantheon, Spanish Steps and Piazza Navona
Full Day Tour from Rome to Ponza Island with Boat Tour and Lunch
Indulge in an ultimate day of comfort and adventure featuring a 5-hour cruise with food
New Tour
Testaccio Small Group Food Tour
Sip an espresso, indulge in authentic Italian pasta and wine, and explore a local Roman Market
New Tour
Rome’s Appian Way Tour by E-Bike
Pedal through Parco dell’Appia Antica alongside an expert guide and admire ancient Roman marvels
New Tour
Rome Vintage Fiat 500 Sightseeing Tour
Cruise around in style as you explore the Eternal City’s top landmarks, sights, and attractions!
New tour
Half-Day Ostia Antica Small Group Tour from Rome
In the company of an expert guide, discover the magnificent ruins of Rome's ancient port city
Private Tour
Piazza Navona Underground Ruins Tour with Palazzo Altemps
Admire the stunning Suicidal Gaul, Athlete at Rest, and more then see the ruins of Domitian' Stadium
Night tour
Rome Evening Tour by Tuk Tuk
Journey from the Colosseum to the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain with a private driver-guide
Borghese Gallery "Story Tellers" Small Group Tour
Explore Rome’s Baroque Masterpieces with Expert Guides and Skip-the-Line Access
Free cancellation
Rome Golf Cart Food Tour: Explore the City's Iconic Sites and Cuisine
Journey Through Time and Taste on a Small-Group Adventure
New tour
Night VIP Golf Cart Tour in Rome with Drinks and Bites
Cruise through Trastevere and Gianicolo while enjoying classic cocktails, tasty food, and prosecco!
Guided Buggy Tour of Rome
Guided Buggy Self-Drive Tour of Rome
Cruise to the Eternal City’s most iconic landmarks, historic monuments, and breathtaking viewpoints!
Pompeii, Amalfi Coast and Sorrento Full Day Tour from Rome
Sip Limoncello in the Italy’s crown jewel and enjoy visiting an ancient town frozen in time
Tipsy Roman Cooking Class: Spritz & Pasta
Join a small group near Termini station to master an Italian classic while enjoying local cocktails!
