St. Peter's Basilica Guided Tour with Papal Tombs and Dome Access

2 hours (approximately)
Offered in: German and 3 more

This experience combines all the must-see highlights of St. Peter’s Basilica—including the Papal Tombs and the Dome—into one seamless, expertly guided visit that most travelers never manage to do on their own. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, guests enjoy a deeper understanding of the art, architecture, and history that make St. Peter’s one of the world’s most extraordinary religious sites.

Unlike standard basilica visits, this tour takes travelers beneath the church to explore the Vatican Grottoes, then high above the skyline to the top of the dome for unbeatable views over Rome. The combination of underground tombs, world-famous masterpieces, and a breathtaking rooftop panorama creates a truly immersive and unforgettable Vatican experience.

Perfect for visitors wanting more than a basic entrance, this tour offers richer stories, exclusive access areas, and a thoughtfully structured itinerary that reveals the full depth and beauty of St. Peter’s Basilica.

What's Included

Dome Ticket (If booked with Dome)
Entrance: St. Peter's Dome
Entrance: The Vatican Grottoes
Expert Live Guide
Entrance: St. Peter's Square
Headphones to listen to the guide clearly
Entrance: St. Peter's Basilica
Food and Drinks
Hotel Pickup / Dropoff

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
Via di Porta Angelica, 83

Our representative will be waiting for you at this point, holding a white flag in hand. Kindly reach the meeting point 15 minutes before your visit.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Ticket Redemption Point

Via di Porta Angelica, 83

Itinerary

Duration: 2 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    St. Peter's Square

    Travelers will begin in the iconic St. Peter’s Square, the grand plaza designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Surrounded by sweeping colonnades and adorned with statues of saints, the square offers an unforgettable first impression of the Vatican and provides context for the history and architecture of St. Peter’s Basilica.

    20 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 2
    St. Peter's Basilica

    Inside the basilica, visitors will explore one of the world’s most important and awe-inspiring churches. Highlights include Michelangelo’s Pietà, Bernini’s magnificent bronze Baldachin, the richly decorated chapels, and the vast, ornate nave that showcases centuries of art, architecture, and devotion.

    50 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3
    The Vatican Grottoes

    Descending beneath the basilica, travelers will visit the Vatican Grottoes, the sacred burial chambers where many popes and notable historical figures rest. Here are the tombs of popes such as John Paul II, Benedict XVI, Paul VI, John Paul I, and older popes such as Leo II. This area offers a powerful insight into the spiritual legacy of the Catholic Church and the deep history beneath St. Peter’s.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4
    St. Peter's Basilica

    St. Peter’s Dome (Optional) The experience continues with access to the dome, designed in part by Michelangelo. From the interior balcony, travelers can admire the basilica’s stunning mosaics up close before ascending to the top for panoramic views across Vatican City and Rome—one of the most breathtaking vantage points in the city.

    20 minutes Admission ticket included

Additional info

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Prime Travels

Tags

Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Religious Tours
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Show more

from per person
Was {{formatPrice(summaryFromPriceBeforeDiscount, currency, 2)}}