Vatican Basilica Tour with Dome Climb Grottoes and Live Guide

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2 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English and 1 more

Step into the heart of Vatican City with a guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica. Your expert guide will lead you through centuries of art, faith, and history, starting with a climb to the top of the Dome. From here, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Rome, St. Peter’s Square, and beyond.

Inside the Basilica, marvel at Michelangelo’s Pietà, Bernini’s towering Baldachin, and countless masterpieces of Renaissance and Baroque art. Then descend to the Vatican Grottoes, where generations of popes are entombed, and learn about the Apostle Peter’s resting place.

With headsets included for crystal-clear commentary and live guiding in English and Spanish, this experience is designed for travelers who want more than a quick visit — it’s a full journey through the Vatican’s most iconic landmark.

What's Included

Guided tour of the Basilica
Expert live guide (English & Spanish)
Access to the Vatican Grottoes (Underground)
Dome climb ticket
Headsets to hear your guide clearly
Alcoholic Beverages
Food & drinks
Hotel pickup/drop-off

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes earlier of the tour. A host will be waiting holding a WHITE FLAG near the bar.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Ticket Redemption Point

Itinerary

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
  • 1
    St. Peter's Square

    Meet your guide in the iconic St. Peter’s Square, designed by Bernini. Learn about the history of the Vatican, the colonnades symbolizing the Church’s embrace, and the Egyptian obelisk at the center of the square. Your guide will set the stage for your Vatican journey.

    15 minutes • Admission ticket included
  • 2
    St. Peter's Basilica

    Dome Climb: Begin your adventure by ascending to the top of St. Peter’s Dome, Michelangelo’s masterpiece. First, take the elevator to the terrace level, then climb the remaining steps to the summit. From here, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Rome — the Vatican Gardens, the Colosseum, and the Tiber River all visible from above.

    45 minutes • Admission ticket included
  • 3
    St. Peter's Basilica

    Basilica Interior: Step inside the world’s largest church, a treasure trove of Renaissance and Baroque art. See Michelangelo’s Pietà, Bernini’s ornate Baldachin, and the majestic bronze statue of St. Peter. Your guide will share fascinating stories about its construction and spiritual significance, making the art and architecture come alive.

    1 hour • Admission ticket included
  • 4

    Descend into the Vatican Grottoes, the underground chambers beneath the Basilica. Explore the resting places of past Popes and saints, and see the spot where tradition holds that St. Peter himself is buried. This part of the tour offers a reflective and intimate look at centuries of Church history.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket included

Additional info

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Supplied by Royale Routes

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Tags

Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Archaeology Tours
New Product
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

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

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