St.Peter's Basilica: Guided Tour, Underground Tomb & Dome
Tour Overview
Experience one of the most unforgettable viewpoints in Rome with the St. Peter's Basilica Dome Climb. Rising above Vatican City, Michelangelo's magnificent dome is not only a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture but also the highest accessible point in Rome's historic center. Your journey begins in St. Peter's Square with an introduction to Vatican City. After passing security and entering the world's largest church, you'll see masterpieces like Michelangelo's Pieta and Bernini's Baldachin. Choose to take the elevator partway or climb the full staircase. The first level brings you to the interior dome balcony for a dramatic view down into the basilica. Continue climbing the narrow, curved stairway following the dome's shape until you reach the top - where doors open to breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views over St. Peter's Square, Vatican Gardens, Rome's rooftops, the Tiber River, and on clear days, the distant hills.
1. Meet your guide and set out on your express tour of St. Peter's Basilica. On your way, pass through St. Peter's Square, listening as your guide introduces you to the smallest country in the world, Vatican City.
2. Fast-Track Entry: Skip the long lines and head straight inside via the reserved entrance.
3. Guided Tour of St. Peter’s Basilica: Explore the stunning interior, including Michelangelo's Pietà, Bernini's Baldacchino, the grand mosaics, and much more.
4. Visit the Vatican Crypts: Descend into the papal tombs beneath the basilica, where popes have been laid to rest.
5. Tour concludes: Return to the basilica level; guests may choose to stay inside or explore further on their own.
6. From here, you will have the opportunity to enter the church once more at your leisure and enjoy the included access to climb the dome, where breathtaking panoramic views over Rome — the Eternal City — await you.
Highlights
- Guided exploration of St. Peter's Basilica with expert insights
- Discover the history of St. Peter's Square and its iconic design
- Admire Michelangelo's Pietà and Bernini's statues in the Basilica
- Descend into the Papal Tombs within the Vatican Grottoes
- Climb the Dome for spectacular 360° panoramic views over Rome
- Learn about the basilica’s art, architecture, and spiritual significance
What's Included
- Licensed professional guide
- Guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica
- Entry to the Vatican Grottoes (Papal Tombs)
- Dome climb ticket (elevator + stairs or stairs only, depending on option)
- Headsets (when required) for clear audio
What's Not Included
- Hotel pickup/drop-off
- Food and drinks
- Skip-the-line at security (mandatory for all visitors)
- Access to the Vatican Museums or Sistine Chapel
- Gratuities
Meeting Point
Meet near St. Peter's Square security checkpoint. Look for guide with company flag.
Important Information
- Valid photo ID may be required for entry
- Strict dress code: shoulders and knees must be covered
- Security screening is mandatory and cannot be skipped
- The Dome climb involves a significant number of stairs and narrow passages
- Not suitable for guests with heart conditions, vertigo, claustrophobia, or mobility issues
- Access may be restricted during religious ceremonies or special events
- Comfortable walking shoes recommended
- Late arrivals will not be granted access. Please ensure you arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before the starting time.
- Tour operates rain or shine
Select Dates
Select your preferred date to see availability.
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