St Peter's Basilica & Dome: Guided Tour
- Rome
- Italy
Explore St. Peter's Basilica with a professional art historian. Book your tickets online and explore the best things to do in Rome
About
Duration:
1 hour 45 minsSmartphone tickets accepted
Instant ticket delivery
Max group size:
25Free cancellation
Live guides:
German, English, Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese.Overview
Gain incredible insight (and views of Vatican City) with tickets for a guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica and climb to the top of the dome.
Start your tour by ascending the stairs to the dome of St. Peter's. Contemplate the interior mosaics of the dome up close while your guide shares stories about the history of this Renaissance-style church.
Once you reach the viewing deck, marvel at the stunning views of St. Peter's Square and the Vatican Gardens from above.
Admire Rome from a height of 136 meters, and spot the Colosseum, the Pantheon, Castel Sant'Angelo, and other historic sites.
From here, descend directly into the Basilica and avoid the long lines at its entrance. Wander through renowned works of Renaissance and Neoclassic art by Canova, Michelangelo, and Bernini with an art historian as your guide.
Attractions
- 2 attractions are available.
What's Included
Ticket access to St Peter's dome
Guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica
Headset so that you can always hear your guide
Free time after the tour to explore the Basilica at your own leisure
Additional Info
You will meet your guide outside of St. Peter's Basilica. Please refer to your voucher for all the details
During peak times, you could wait in line for up to 25 minutes to enter the Basilica
Entry to St. Peter's Basilica is free of charge.
Tips
- Book your tickets in advance to secure a spot for this popular tour.
- Wear comfortable shoes since the tour involves a fair amount of walking and climbing.
- Arrive 20 minutes early and avoid entering through security before meeting your guide.
- Don't miss the chance to hear your guide share fascinating insights about Renaissance art and Vatican history.
- Dress code is strictly enforced—ensure your knees and shoulders are covered before entering.
- Use the free time after the tour to linger and admire the breathtaking artwork, like Michelangelo's Pietà.
- If you're visiting during peak times, be ready for long security lines, especially between June and August.
- Note that there are 320 steps to reach the top of the dome, so prepare for a rewarding but physically demanding climb.
How to Get There
Frequently Asked Questions about St Peter's Basilica & Dome: Guided Tour
This tour includes access to St. Peter's Dome, a guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica with an art historian, and a headset to ensure you can always hear your guide. After the tour, you will have free time to explore the Basilica at your own leisure.
No, skip-the-line access is not included. However, your guide will escort you directly to the Basilica and avoid long entrance lines. During peak times, waiting could take up to 25 minutes.
You’ll start by climbing the 320 steps to the top of St. Peter's Dome, where you'll marvel at breathtaking views of St. Peter's Square, the Vatican Gardens, and the city of Rome. Your guide will explain the history of the dome and the mosaics that decorate its interior.
Yes, visitors must follow a strict dress code. Knees and shoulders must be covered, and no hats or sunglasses are allowed. Clothing with rips, tears, or transparent material is also prohibited. Failure to comply will result in being denied entry.
No, this tour is not wheelchair-accessible and may not be suitable for those with claustrophobia or vertigo due to the 320 steps to the dome. It is also not recommended for individuals with difficulty walking or climbing stairs.
You will meet your guide outside St. Peter's Basilica. Please refer to your voucher for the specific details. Do not go through security or metal detectors before meeting your guide.
While the tour includes access to the Dome and guided entry to St. Peter's Basilica, skip-the-line entry and access to other Vatican attractions like the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel are not included.
Yes, there is a mandatory security check at the Dome’s ticket office and at St. Peter’s Basilica. Large bags and backpacks are not allowed, and waiting times may occur, especially during high season.
You will need to climb 320 steps to reach the top of St. Peter's Dome. There is an elevator that takes you part of the way, but the last portion is by stairs.
Please arrive at least 20 minutes before your scheduled tour time. Late arrivals will not be accommodated, and there will be no refund if you miss your tour.
No, strollers are not allowed inside St. Peter’s Basilica. Please plan accordingly.
Make sure to bring your voucher and arrive 20 minutes early. You can bring your own wired headphones for the audio guide if you prefer. Be prepared for a security check, and ensure that your clothing complies with the dress code.
St Peter's Basilica & Dome: Guided Tour
- Rome
- 1 hour 45 mins
Explore St. Peter's Basilica with a professional art historian
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