Vatican: St. Peter’s Basilica, Dome Climb & Papal Tombs Tour

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About the activity

Discover the rich history of Vatican City on this early bird tour. Climb the Basilica's Dome with a guide and enjoy panoramic views. Then explore St. Peter’s Basilica and Papal Tombs.

Free cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
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Live guiding

English
Duration

1-2 hours
Includes
- St. Peter’s Basilica tour
- Dome Tour (if option is selected)
- Papal Tombs
- Guided Tour
- Headsets if needed
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Food and drinks
- Tips

Highlights & Description

Highlights

Experience sprawling views of Rome from the roof of St. Peter's Basilica
Step back in time to discover the Vatican Grottoes and Papal Tombs
Entry to St. Peter's Basilica, the world's largest church
Admire the frescoes, statues, and mosaics of the Basilica and its square
Discover Renaissance and Baroque art by Bernini and Michelangelo

Description

Uncover the history, art, and architecture of the Vatican City. Visit sites like St. Peter’s Square and Basilica in the morning light before the crowds arrive for the day.
Meet your guide in Piazza della Città Leonina and dive into the ancient history of the Vatican City. Admire the statuesque columns and majestic pilasters in St. Peter’s Square. Walk through the walk close to the 1st balcony which is decorated with amazing frescoes.
You can choose between two options, together with an expert guide enter the Basilica, and if you selected the full option, reach the summit of the Dome after 320 steps, where you are rewarded for the climb with views of the city center. Have some free time to enjoy views of monuments like the Roman Colosseum and Pantheon.
At your own leisure be captivated by the Basilica's interiors which are filled with masterpieces from masters like Bernini and Michelangelo. See pieces from the Renaissance and Baroque periods.
Continue to explore the Vatican’s historic Grottoes to get a closer look of the rooms, chapels, and the papal tombs, where many Popes, royals, and other dignitaries are laid to rest.

Good to know before you go

All visitors must pass through airport-style security check before entering the Basilica, during high season the waiting time may be up to 2 hours.
The elevator's Dome only takes you to the first balcony, to climb up to the main Dome you will have to use the stairs (320 steps) which requires and 20 extra minutes
Please take note that this service exclusively offers an entry ticket to the Dome & not skip-the-line access to the Basilica.
As per the attraction's regulations, please provide each participant's full name, ideally as on their passport, during booking.
The roof might not be accessible during bad weather conditions
The Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and Vatican Necropoli are not part of this tour

Meeting point

St. Peter’s Basilica Express Guided Tour (No Dome)