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Rome: St. Peter's Basilica, La Pietà, and Papal Tombs Tour

From $46.21
$23.10 /person
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About the activity

Explore St. Peter's Basilica, its Dome designed by Michelangelo, Bernini’s masterpieces, and the Papal Tombs. Choose the optional Dome climb for stunning panoramic views of Rome

  • Free cancellation
    Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
  • Instant confirmation & Mobile tickets
    Receive your ticket right away. Use your phone or print your voucher.
  • Private tour
    Avoid crowds with an exclusive experience. (depends on selected option)
  • Live guiding
    English, French, German, Italian, Spanish (depends on selected option)
  • Duration
    1.5-2.5 hours
  • Includes
    • Official guide
    • Headsets where appropriate, so you can always hear your guide
    • Tickets for the dome climb can be purchased at the end of the tour for 15 euros (includes elevator access)
    • Hotel pickup and drop-off
    • Skip-the-line entry
Highlights & Description

Highlights

  • Marvel at masterpieces by Michelangelo, Bernini, and many more
  • Listen to stories about the popes buried in the Papal Tombs
  • Admire the Basilica's array of impressive marble, ceilings, and mosaics
  • Explore St. Peter's Basilica with an art historian guide
  • Optional Dome Climb at the end of the tour: Stunning panoramic views of Rome!

Description

Discover the wonders of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican

Step into the heart of the Vatican and explore the breathtaking beauty of St. Peter’s Basilica. Begin your journey in St. Peter’s Square, where your expert guide will reveal the history and significance of its magnificent colonnades and fountains, designed to welcome millions of visitors each year. Learn about the square’s spiritual and historical importance as the center of Vatican City.

Enter the world-famous basilica and marvel at masterpieces by legendary artists. Stand before Michelangelo’s Pietà, a moving sculpture of the Virgin Mary holding Christ, and admire Bernini’s grand Baldachin, the iconic bronze canopy above the high altar. Your guide will share captivating stories behind these masterpieces, providing deeper insight into the art, history, and spirituality of this sacred site.

Descend into the Papal Tombs, the resting place of popes who shaped the Church and world history. Hear fascinating stories about their lives, legacies, and contributions, bringing centuries of Vatican history to life.

For an unforgettable perspective, choose the optional Dome climb. Ascend to the top of St. Peter’s Basilica and enjoy sweeping 360-degree panoramic views over Rome, taking in its iconic skyline, historic churches, and stunning cityscape beyond.

Perfect for art lovers, history enthusiasts, and travelers seeking a deep dive into Vatican City, this tour offers an inspiring blend of culture, history, and spirituality. Whether you admire the basilica from the floor or from the Dome above, this experience promises memories that will last a lifetime.

Book now to secure your spot—availability is limited!

Good to know before you go
  • 1. Dress Code: Shoulders and knees must be covered as this is a religious site.
  • 2. Security: Airport-style checks are required, with wait times ranging from 10 to 120 minutes, especially during peak hours.
  • 3. Possible Closures: St. Peter’s Basilica may close for Vatican events. If this happens, we will reschedule your visit as soon as possible.
  • 4. Alternative Plans: If the underground is closed, we will extend the visit to St. Peter’s Basilica and St. Peter’s Square.
  • 5. Exclusions: This tour does not include entry to the Vatican Museums or Sistine Chapel.
  • 6. Dome Climb (Optional): The dome climb closes at 4:00 PM. The 3:00 PM tour does not include the dome climb option. For the 8:30 AM & 12:30 PM tours, the guide can show you where to purchase dome climb tickets (€15, including elevator access) at the end of the tour.
  • 7. Meet your tour coordinator at Galleria San Pietro, in front of the shop, holding a red "Tix & Tours" sign. Avoid speaking with or buying from street vendors.
Meeting point

Group Tour in French

Group Tour In German

Group Tour in English

Group Tour in Spanish

Group Tour in Italian

English Small Group

English Group with Dome Climb

English Private Tour

Reviews & Ratings

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the cancellation policy for this activity?
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
2. When will I receive the confirmation of my booking?
You will receive an email notification right after your successful payment. If you don't see it in your inbox, check your spam or junk mail folder. When the payment is completed you have the option to download your ticket directly.
3. What is a private tour?
Private tours offer more advantages and benefits than regular tours. You will have your own private guide for the duration of the tour. You can also customize the itinerary to your specific interests and needs.
4. Are mobile tickets enough or do I have to print them?
Tickets don't need to be printed. You can show your ticket from your smartphone as a PDF.
  • Adults
    18-99 years
  • Children
    6-17 years
  • Infants
    0-5 years
December 2025
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