Tour of St Peter's Basilica with Dome Climb and Grottoes

4.6
(2,323 reviews)

1 hour 45 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: German and 5 more

Embark on an extraordinary journey commencing at St. Peter's Square, where the architectural brilliance of Bernini unfolds.

Then enter the awe-inspiring St. Peter's Basilica, a realm adorned with golden ceilings, vibrant marbles, and masterpieces like Michelangelo's Pietà. Delve into the Papal grottoes underground, touching ancient walls and visiting St. Peter's tomb for a profound historical encounter.

The grand crescendo awaits as you ascend to the dome's summit, offering both close encounters with intricate mosaics and panoramic views of Rome's iconic landmarks. From this lofty perch at 136 meters, immerse yourself in breathtaking vistas, spotting the Colosseum, Pantheon, and beyond.

PLEASE NOTE: In the event that the grottoes or certain areas of St. Peter’s Basilica are closed, your guide will adapt the itinerary by highlighting alternative sites and artworks within the basilica. As a result, the overall duration and quality of the tour will remain unchanged.

What's Included

Professional art-historian guide
Guided tour of St. Peter Dome and St. Peter's Basilica
Sterilized headsets to hear clearly your guide
Entry fees to the top of the Dome
Full on-site assistance
The Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel are not part of this tour
This tour does not skip the line (neither the security checks one nor the dome's elevator one)

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Meet your guide at Largo del Colonnato, 5, by the first columns of the Colonnade. Look for a yellow label with TOURIKS written on it. Please be at the meeting point 5 minutes before the starting time. The meeting point is outside the Basilica before entering St. Peter's square.

End point

Itinerary

Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes (approximately)
  • 1
    St. Peter's Square

    Start your tour in St. Peters Square and perceive the all-embracing character of its majestic architecture. Understand the game of visual effects as were thought by its designer, Bernini, and find the two "special" spots in the square.

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

    Then head towards the Basilica to be amazed by its magnificence. See why it took 150 years to rebuild and marvel at the golden ceilings and the impressive mosaics all around you. Let your art-historian guide lead you through renowned masterpieces of Renaissance and Neoclassic art. Be impressed by the harmonious 30-meters-high canopy and appreciate the expressive power and delicate beauty of Michelangelo's "Pietà".

    40 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3

    Descend into the underground grottoes and visit St. Peter's tomb. Touch the ancient walls of the original 4th-century basilica and admire the beautiful frescoes.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4

    Then climb your way up to the top of the Dome. Enjoy a bird's-eye view over the marble floors and take an exclusive and close-up look at the mosaics of the dome. Go even higher to find yourself at the top balcony and be amazed by the spectacular panorama over Rome and beyond. Spot the Colosseum, the Pantheon, Castel Sant'Angelo, and other iconic monuments from the height of 136 meters. Enjoy a breathtaking view of St. Peters Square and the Vatican gardens.

    40 minutes Admission ticket included
  • Vatican City (Pass by)

    All the visited areas are part of the Vatican city.

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • The dome's terrace might not be accessible during bad weather conditions. In that case, you can either ask for a partial refund and visit the Basilica and the grottoes or decide to cancel the tour for a full refund
  • An appropriate dress-code is required in order to enter the churches: knees and shoulders should be covered
  • Please take into consideration that the lines to clear security checks at the entrance of the square might take 15-120 minutes
Supplied by TOURIKS

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Architecture Tours
Cultural Tours
Walking Tours
Religious Tours
Excellent Quality
Top Product
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Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

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

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Rating

4.6 Based on 2323 2323 reviews
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