Immerse yourself in the history, architecture and lore of St. Peter’s Basilica with this all-access tour. Not only will you enjoy a fully-guided tour of the Basilica and Papal Crypt with an expert guide, but you’ll also avoid long lines to climb up to the dome early in the morning and gape at the amazing views of Rome.

Your tour starts early before the crowds arrive. After exploring St. Peter’s Square, you’ll head for St. Peter’s Basilica Dome. You’ll take the special elevator to the first terrace of the dome to admire the beautiful mosaics up close. To reach the top of the dome you have to climb 231 steps, but the view alone is worth the effort.

When you come down from the dome, your expert guide will lead you on a full tour of the Basilica, from Bernini’s colossal baldachin to Michelangelo’s heart-wrenching Pietá. You’ll also discover the small details, stories, history and lore that are packed into every nook and cranny of this nearly 400-year-old building, including why everyone is so intent on rubbing the foot of a certain statue.

Finally, your tour will include a rare visit to the Papal Crypt, where your guide will point out the most significant tombs. The Crypt is a sacred site so that it’s forbidden to speak in it, but before you enter, your guide will tell you the stories of the men buried in them.

Sites Visited:

St Peter’s Basilica
Dome of St Peter’s Basilica
Papal crypt (NOT the Scavi)
St Peter’s Square

Enjoy a fully-guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica and Square in a small group
Pre-reserved, early access tickets to climb St. Peter's Basilica Dome and see the amazing view
Descend into the Papal Crypt for a rare guided tour

Important to know

Not suitable for:

Guests with mobility impairments, wheelchairs, and strollers

Know in advance:

The skip-the-line access is not possible at the dome or at St. Peter's Basilica security line (although it is possible for guests entering via the Vatican Museums, who use a different door), so you may need to spend some time in unavoidable queues. Your guide will use the time well though, entertaining you with stories and pointing out the incredible details of St. Peter's Square
Due to the religious nature of the Vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. The tour operator cannot be held responsible for those denied entry
After the terrace where the lift stops, there are still 320 steps to climb to reach the very top
The tour complies with all local government regulations. Please refer to local government guidelines for the most up-to-date information

Remember to bring:

A valid ID (that applies also to any children booked on the tour)

Cancellation policy

Receive a 100% refund if you cancel up to 24 hours before the experience begins.

Guided walking tour
Entrance ticket
Individual headset
Local guide

Tips (optional)
Hotel pick-up/drop-off

Booking fee

Good news! No extra fees are applied to this booking.

Location

Piazza della Città Leonina, 7, 00193 Roma RM, Italy

Meeting point:

Kindly meet 15 minutes before departure time in front of 'Caffè Leonina, in Piazza Citta' Leonina, just outside St. Peter's Square. Take the Red Line metro and get off at the "Ottaviano/San Pietro" stop.