Rome: Santa Maria Maggiore and Panoramic Dome Guided Tour

4.5
(22 reviews)
Rome, Italy

1 hour 30 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English

Embark on an unforgettable guided tour of one of Rome’s most magnificent basilicas, Santa Maria Maggiore. Your expert guide will lead you through the rich history and architectural marvels of this iconic landmark, highlighting the stunning mosaics, the impressive interior, and the sacred art that have made it a symbol of the Eternal City.
As part of the tour, you'll climb the Dome, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Rome. From this incredible vantage point, you can admire the city’s landmarks and natural beauty in all directions.
Explore the Liberiano Museum, the Loggia delle Benedizioni and Sala dei Papi, your guide will provide in-depth insights into the masterpieces, offering a deeper understanding of the basilica's cultural and spiritual importance.
Besides, you will have the opportunity to see the Scala del Bernini, designed by Flaminio Ponzio. This stunning staircase, renowned for its elegance.

What's Included

Ticket for the Dome of the Basilica (accompanied by an authorized staff for security reasons)
Headsets (if needed)
Access to Loggia of Benedictions, Room of the Popes, Bernini’s Stairs, Historic Liberian Museum
Live guide
Hotel pick up and drop off
Gratuities

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

• The meeting point indicated is the address of the attraction. • Go directly to the entrance of the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore at Piazza Santa Maria Maggiore and show the voucher to the Reception Staff at the Portico 15 minutes before the scheduled time.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Ticket Redemption Point

Itinerary

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes (approximately)
  • 1
    Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

    Explore a Vatican territory without being in Vatican City. Discover a church where classical antiquity, Christianity and modernity meet. Visit the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, one of Rome’s four patriarchal basilicas, one of the most significant Catholic Churches in the world. As you arrive at Santa Maria Maggiore, you find yourself in front of a beautiful elaborate facade and a striking bell tower. Upon entry to the church, the expansive central nave stretches out in front of the viewer. Its ceiling was decorated with the first gold brought back to Europe from the New World. Dominating the front side of the nave is a triumphal arch covered with intricate mosaics arranged in four rows which depict scenes from Jesus’ childhood. Beneath the triumphal arch, is the high altar which is above a relic which contains five pieces of wood said to be from the manger in which Christ was laid in Bethlehem.

    1 hour 30 minutes Admission ticket included

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
  • Not suitable for Children under 7 years
  • What to bring: Passport or ID card (mandatory), Comfortable shoes, Weather-appropriate clothing
  • Not allowed: Shorts, Baby strollers, Luggage or large bags, Short skirts, Sleeveless shirts, Backpacks, Umbrellas, Tripod, Animals, Weapons or sharp objects, Food and Drinks
Supplied by Loving Rome

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Tags

Cultural Tours
Walking Tours
Religious Tours
Seasonal
Excellent Quality

Cancellation Policy

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

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Rating

4.5 Based on 22 22 reviews
5 stars
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4 stars
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