



St. Peter's Basilica & Vatican Grottoes: Dome Climb + Guided Tour
- Rome
- Italy
Book St. Peter's Basilica & Vatican Grottoes: Dome Climb + Guided Tour tickets online and discover the world's largest church building with an expert guide
About
Duration:
3 hoursSmartphone tickets accepted
Instant ticket delivery
Skip the Line
Max group size:
30Free cancellation
Free rescheduling
Live guides:
English, Spanish, French.Overview
Get as close to heaven as humanly possible, with a guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica and Cupola.
Join your guide for a delicious breakfast at 'Al San Michele' bar, the perfect starting point for your unforgettable adventure to Vatican City. Gaze in awe at the Dome of the Basilica, the highest architectural point in Rome, and take in the breathtaking views of the Eternal City. Explore the Vatican Gardens, the roof of the Sistine Chapel, and the chimney of the papal conclave, while your guide narrates the history of the mesmerising architecture.
Ride the elevator to the base of the cupola, and then take the stairs to the very top for stunning views of the city. Visit the main Basilica of Saint Peter's, where you’ll get to see where St. Peter was buried and uncover some of the secret, hidden spots at the heart of Catholic Rome. This is a tour to remember!
Attractions
- 3 attractions are available.
What's Included
Entry to St. Peter’s Basilica
Access to the Vatican Grottoes
Live guide
Guided tour
Digital tour of the Vatican Grottoes
Elevator access to the first level of St. Peter’s Dome
Group monitoring fee
Headset to hear the guide
What's Not Included
Skip-the-line access
Optional activity costs
Instructions
- Meet your guide in front of the cafè 'Al San Michele' at the meeting point at the Bar 'Al San Michele' (Borgo Santo Spirito 17, 00193 Rome)
- Show your smartphone voucher to the guide with the Vox Italy sign
- Your visit inside St Peter's Basilica and the Domb will be led by a tour guide. You have the option to explore the Papal Tombs independently with a complimentary digital audio tour
- To access St. Peter's Basilica, please consider that from June to the end of August there could be long lines and the waiting time could be up to 30 minutes
Additional Info
This tour is not recommended for those who suffer from claustrophobia
Entry to St. Peter's Basilica is free of charge. In peak times, you could wait in line for up to 25 minutes to enter
Not wheelchair-accessible
Tour subject to weather and liturgical events
Tips
- Arrive early to beat the crowds and make the most of your visit.
- Be prepared for a climb to the top of the dome—320 steps to enjoy the stunning panoramic views.
- Don’t forget your camera for breathtaking photos from the dome’s balcony.
- Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to explore the Basilica and climb the Dome.
- Respect the dress code: knees and shoulders must be covered for entry to St. Peter's Basilica.
- Check if the weather will affect the climb—strong winds can close the dome to visitors.
How to Get There
Frequently Asked Questions about St. Peter's Basilica & Vatican Grottoes: Dome Climb + Guided Tour
This guided tour includes entry to St. Peter’s Basilica, access to the Vatican Grottoes, a live guide, elevator access to the first level of the St. Peter's Dome, and a digital tour of the Vatican Grottoes. You’ll also get a headset to hear your guide clearly throughout the experience.
During the Dome Climb + Guided Tour, you’ll enjoy spectacular views from the top of St. Peter’s Dome, the highest architectural point in Rome. Explore St. Peter’s Basilica, visit St. Peter's tomb, and discover hidden spots of Catholic Rome. The tour also includes a visit to the Vatican Gardens, the roof of the Sistine Chapel, and the papal conclave chimney.
Dress appropriately for a visit to St. Peter's Basilica. You must cover your knees and shoulders. No hats or sunglasses are allowed, and low-cut or sleeveless tops and shorts are prohibited. Please avoid wearing clothing with rips, tears, or transparent material.
No, this tour is not wheelchair accessible. Please plan accordingly if you or someone in your group requires mobility assistance.
Yes, St. Peter's Basilica has a strict dress code. Knees and shoulders must be covered. Ensure you wear appropriate clothing to avoid being denied entry.
Meet your guide at Bar 'Al San Michele' (Borgo Santo Spirito 17, 00193 Rome). Show your smartphone voucher to the guide with the Vox Italy sign.
Entry to St. Peter's Basilica is free of charge, but during peak times, you might have to wait in line for up to 30 minutes, especially from June to August.
No, this tour does not include skip-the-line access to St. Peter's Basilica, although there may still be a security check upon entry.
Please note that there is a mandatory security check at St. Peter’s Basilica, and large bags and backpacks are not allowed. Also, keep in mind that this tour is subject to weather conditions and liturgical events. If you have claustrophobia, this tour may not be suitable for you due to the stairs to the Dome.
The tour includes all main attractions, but there may be optional activity costs for additional experiences or upgrades, depending on availability.
While the tour includes a guide for St. Peter's Basilica and the Dome, you have the option to explore the Papal Tombs and Vatican Grottoes independently with a complimentary digital audio guide.
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