Overview
Embark on an extraordinary journey commencing at St. Peter's Square, where the architectural brilliance of Bernini unfolds.
Then enter the awe-inspiring St. Peter's Basilica, a realm adorned with golden ceilings, vibrant marbles, and masterpieces like Michelangelo's Pietà. Delve into the Papal grottoes underground, touching ancient walls and visiting St. Peter's tomb for a profound historical encounter.
The grand crescendo awaits as you ascend to the dome's summit, offering both close encounters with intricate mosaics and panoramic views of Rome's iconic landmarks. From this lofty perch at 136 meters, immerse yourself in breathtaking vistas, spotting the Colosseum, Pantheon, and beyond.
Immerse yourself in a blend of art, history, and mesmerizing panoramas, ensuring a "wow-ing" experience in the heart of Vatican City. Enjoy a unique adventure, where architectural marvels intertwine with iconic heritage landmarks, promising an unforgettable exploration.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
Professional art-historian guide
Thorough guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica
Sterilized headsets to hear clearly your guide
Guided tour of St. Peter Dome
Entry fees to the top of the Dome
Full on-site assistance
The Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel are not part of this tour
This tour does not skip the line (neither the security checks one nor the dome's elevator one)
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
Meet your guide at Largo del Colonnato, 5, by the first columns of the Colonnade. Look for a yellow label with TOURIKS written on it. Please be at the meeting point 20 minutes before the starting time. The meeting point is outside the Basilica before entering St. Peter's square.
Good to know
- In order to complete check-in time, please arrive at the meeting point 20 minutes before the activity starts
- The meeting point is outside the Basilica before entering St. Peter's square and the security checks
- The dome's terrace might not be accessible during bad weather conditions. In that case, you can either ask for a partial refund and visit the Basilica and the grottoes or decide to cancel the tour for a full refund
- An appropriate dress code is required in order to enter the churches: knees and shoulders should be covered
- Wear comfortable walking shoes: a moderate amount of walking is involved
- Please be aware that the lines to clear security checks at the entrance of the square are not skippable and might take 15-120 minutes
- We might not be able to accommodate, refund or reschedule late arrivals
- Please note that you will be required to pass through metal detectors at the entrance of the square
- The Vatican Necropoli is not part of this tour
- The Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel are not part of this tour
- For environmental reasons, it is preferable that you bring your own earphones (regular wired jack, no usb one, no bluetooth) and do not print your voucher. We will provide earphones in case you forget yours
- We suggest you bring your own refillable bottle as you can find drinkable-water fountains everywhere in Rome
- Please note that this is not a skip-the-line tour
What to expect
-
St. Peter's Square
10 min
Start your tour in St. Peters Square and perceive the all-embracing character of its majestic architecture. Understand the game of visual effects as were thought by its designer, Bernini, and find the two "special" spots in the square.
-
St. Peter's Basilica
40 min
Then head towards the Basilica to be amazed by its magnificence. See why it took 150 years to rebuild and marvel at the golden ceilings and the impressive mosaics all around you.
Let your art-historian guide lead you through renowned masterpieces of Renaissance and Neoclassic art. Be impressed by the harmonious 30-meters-high canopy and appreciate the expressive power and delicate beauty of Michelangelo's "Pietà". -
The Vatican Grottoes
15 min
Descend into the underground grottoes and visit St. Peter's tomb. Touch the ancient walls of the original 4th-century basilica and admire the beautiful frescoes.
-
Cupola di San Pietro
40 min
Then climb your way up to the top of the Dome. Enjoy a bird's-eye view over the marble floors and take an exclusive and close-up look at the mosaics of the dome.
Go even higher to find yourself at the top balcony and be amazed by the spectacular panorama over Rome and beyond. Spot the Colosseum, the Pantheon, Castel Sant'Angelo, and other iconic monuments from the height of 136 meters. Enjoy a breathtaking view of St. Peters Square and the Vatican gardens. -
Vatican City
40 min
All the visited areas are part of the Vatican city.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (Europe/Rome).
Additional Information
- Not recommended for travellers with vertigo
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 10 travelers per booking
- Each booking must include at least one adult.
FAQs about Tour of St Peter's Basilica with Dome Climb and Grottoes in a Small Group
Can I cancel Tour of St Peter's Basilica with Dome Climb and Grottoes in a Small Group for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
How long does it take?
It takes about 1 hour 45 min.
Where does it start?
Meet your guide at Largo del Colonnato, 5, by the first columns of the Colonnade. Look for a yellow label with TOURIKS written on it.
What's included?
- Professional art-historian guide
- Thorough guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica
- Sterilized headsets to hear clearly your guide
- Guided tour of St. Peter Dome
- Entry fees to the top of the Dome
- Full on-site assistance
What's not included?
- The Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel are not part of this tour
- This tour does not skip the line (neither the security checks one nor the dome's elevator one)
Which places does it visit?
It visits St. Peter's Square, St. Peter's Basilica, The Vatican Grottoes, Cupola di San Pietro, Vatican City.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in German, Russian, Korean, Portuguese, Chinese, English, Italian, French, Spanish.
Is it suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Operated by TOURIKS
