Rome: St. Peter's Basilica Guided Tour

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About the activity

Enjoy St. Peter’s Basilica with a guided tour. Discover masterpieces, hidden details, and the stories behind the heart of the Vatican.

Free cancellation

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

English (depends on selected option)
Valid

1 day
Includes
- Guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica interior
- Headsets to hear your guide clearly (when required by the venue)
- Free time inside the basilica after the guided tour
- Marvel at Michelangelo's Pietà, a masterpiece of emotion and artistry
- Descend into the Papal Grottoes, the final resting place of popes and saints
- La Pietà
- Food or drinks
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off service
- Dome Climb
- Skip-the-line entry service to St. Peter’s Basilica

Highlights & Description

Highlights

Explore St. Peter’s masterpieces with an expert, licensed Vatican guide
Discover hidden symbols, papal tombs, and stories behind the basilica
Discover hidden stories and treasures with your dedicated guide
Enjoy a small-group experience with headsets so you never miss a word
Focus on the basilica interior; dome (cupola) access is not included

Description

Meet your professional guide near St. Peter’s Square and get an introduction to Vatican City before you enter the basilica. While the regular line stretches across the square, you’ll pass security and step straight into one of the world’s most important churches.

Inside, your guide will lead you through the vast nave and side chapels, explaining how popes, architects, and artists shaped St. Peter’s over the centuries. Admire Michelangelo’s Pietà, Bernini’s bronze Baldachin over the papal altar, the glittering ceilings, and the rich marble decorations that cover every surface.

Learn to notice details you might otherwise miss: hidden symbols, inscriptions, and tombs of popes that reveal the stories, rituals, and traditions of the Catholic Church. Hear how the basilica was built over the presumed burial place of the apostle Peter and why millions of pilgrims still travel here every year.

Your guide will also share practical tips on how to continue exploring at your own pace after the tour ends, so you can revisit your favorite areas, pray quietly, or take photos within the rules of the basilica. This experience focuses on the interior of St. Peter’s Basilica and does not include access to the dome.

Good to know before you go

Holy Door: You will see the Holy Door if you take the tour during the year 2025
Dress code: Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry.
Security: Visitors must pass through airport-style security. The wait at the security checkpoint can last more than 30 minutes, depending on Vatican security.All visitors must pass through a security check line like an airport. It might take 10-120 minutes during high season.
St. Peter's Basilica is subject to unforeseen closures due to Vatican affairs. If this happens, the activity provider will contact you as soon as possible to reschedule.
In the rare event the underground is closed, you will spend extra time in the basilica and St. Peter's Square

Meeting point