St. Peter’s Basilica is best known as the centerpiece of Vatican City and the heart of the Roman Catholic Church. It is home to Michelangelo’s stunning La Pietà sculpture, the impressive dome, and the tomb of St. Peter, the first pope. The basilica’s magnificent architecture and historical significance make it a must-see landmark.
St. Peter’s Basilica & Papal Tombs Tour with Optional Dome Climb
Your visit to St. Peter’s Basilica just got an upgrade! This tour goes way beyond just access to the Basilica and Papal Tombs—it’s a deep dive into one of the world’s most awe-inspiring religious landmarks. With our expert guide, you’ll hear the stories, discover hidden details, and see the artistry that makes St. Peter’s so incredible.
If you’re up for it, take the dome climb option! Picture yourself ascending Michelangelo’s magnificent dome, step by step, until you reach those unbeatable 360-degree views of the Vatican City and Rome. It’s a bit of a climb, but trust us, those views are worth every step.
Whether you choose the dome climb or not, this group tour combines history, culture, and jaw-dropping architecture for a truly rich experience. So…are you ready to see St. Peter’s Basilica up close and personal?
Our St. Peter’s Basilica & Papal Tombs Tour with Optional Dome Climb Includes:
- Professional Tour Guide
- Guided Tour of St. Peter's Basilica and Papal tombs
- Optional Entry Tickets to the Dome
- Immersive Cultural and Historical Insight
Exclusive Access
Upgrade Your Access to Include St Peter's Dome Climb
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Duration2.5-hour experience (3-hour experience with Dome option) -
About the TourThis tour is offered in English -
AudioHeadsets for enhanced, clear audio throughout the tour -
Group SizeMaximum group size of 20 people
What You Will See
Dive into the rich history of St. Peter’s Basilica and its stunning artworks with the guidance of an expert. Here are some highlights you can look forward to:
About our local
Knowledgeable Tour Guides
All guides are professional, licensed experts in Vatican history and art, providing rich insights into the significance of the basilica and its historical treasures.
- Local guides with expert knowledge of history and culture
- Engaging storytelling that makes history come alive
- Fluent in multiple languages for a seamless experience
- Passionate about providing exceptional service on every tour
- Personalization of tours to tailor to the interests, pace and preferences of the group
- An interactive approach that encourages participation and creates a memorable hands-on experience
- Ensuring cultural sensitivity and respect for important World Heritage sites
GREAT FOR THESE TRAVELERS
Whether you’re checking off a must-see from your bucket list, diving deep into history or seeking to make the most of every moment, this tour is designed with you in mind.
The Upgrade Seeker
You want the best of the best. This tour provides the exclusive experience and VIP treatment that we know you crave!
The Bucket-List Traveler
You have places to be and things to see, and this tour will help you check those important items off your bucket list! Maximize your time and don’t miss a single highlight!
The Historian
You love to read and soak up every detail about history! This tour is perfect to help you deepen your understanding with detailed insights that will enrich your historical knowledge.
The Art Aficionado
You’re an artist or an art lover, and we know you don’t want to miss any local or historical art on your visit. This tour will allow you to experience renowned and hidden art pieces guided by experts who are as passionate about art as you.
Reviews
What Our Customers Say
Authentic stories, expertly guided by Europe’s most trusted tour operator.
As a leading tour operator in Europe, our commitment to quality and authenticity shines through in everything we do, from selecting passionate guides to crafting detailed itineraries that showcase the best of each destination. We make booking straightforward and direct, ensuring you get great value and a seamless experience, guaranteed. At Crown Tours, we don’t just visit places — we tell stories, sharing the rich histories and cultures along the way. Join us to Explore, Discover, and Dream.
About the Trip
FAQs
The best way to explore St. Peter’s Basilica is through a guided tour, which provides valuable insights into its history, art, and religious importance. With a guide, you can learn about key features such as the dome and papal tombs, ensuring a richer understanding of this iconic site.
Inside St. Peter’s Basilica, you can admire masterpieces such as Michelangelo’s La Pietà, the grand altar with Bernini’s Baldachin, and numerous ornate chapels. The tour may also include access to the papal tombs beneath the basilica and, optionally, the climb to the dome for panoramic views.
You can typically explore St. Peter’s Basilica in about 1 to 2 hours. However, if you plan to climb the dome or visit the papal tombs, allowing extra time (around 2 to 3 hours in total) will give you a more comprehensive experience.
St. Peter’s Basilica is approximately 30 kilometers (about 18 miles) from Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (Fiumicino) in Rome. The journey usually takes around 40 minutes by car or taxi, depending on traffic.
St. Peter’s Basilica is easily accessible on foot once you’re in Vatican City. The climb to the dome involves stairs, and there is an elevator option that takes you part of the way up, however kindly notice that this activity may be difficult for claustrophobic people.
To avoid crowds, consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Booking a guided tour in advance can also help streamline entry and enhance your visit.
The most popular sites in St. Peter’s Basilica include the magnificent dome, Michelangelo’s La Pietà, the grand altar with Bernini’s Baldachin, and the papal tombs. The climb to the dome offers breathtaking panoramic views of Rome and the Vatican.
Vatican City’s top attractions, such as St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, are rich in religious significance and cultural heritage. The Vatican Museums showcase an impressive art collection, offering a unique insight into the history and spirituality of this iconic city.
Yes, audio guides are available at St. Peter’s Basilica. They provide detailed information about the history, art, and significance of key features within the basilica.
St. Peter’s Basilica can be an interesting visit for children, with its vast scale, beautiful artwork, and the exciting climb to the dome.
Most restaurants and attractions around St. Peter’s Basilica are open on Sundays, although it’s advisable to check specific opening times in advance, as religious services might affect accessibility to certain areas.
We are offering guided tours in English and Spanish for the St. Peter’s Basilica guided tour at the moment.
Yes, a dress code is strictly enforced at St. Peter’s Basilica. Visitors must dress modestly, with shoulders and knees covered, to respect the religious significance of the site.
No tickets are required for entry to St. Peter’s Basilica. However, booking a guided tour is highly recommended. A guided tour not only provides valuable insights and fascinating stories but also enhances your overall experience by helping you navigate and appreciate the basilica’s rich history and art.
Photography is allowed inside St. Peter’s Basilica, except in certain areas where it may be restricted. Flash photography is generally prohibited. The best photo spots include the interior of the basilica, the grand altar, and the panoramic view from the top of the dome.
At Crown Tours, we believe in flexibility. Guests may cancel their tour up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time to receive a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour will not be eligible for a refund. Alternatively, guests may choose to reschedule their tour within this time frame, subject to availability.
Itinerary
We look forward to hosting you on this St. Peter’s Basilica & Papal Tombs Tour, guiding you through one of the Vatican’s most iconic landmarks. This tour is 2 hours and includes approximately 2 kilometers/1.25 miles of walking. Here’s everything you need to know!
1
Meet at Piazza del Sant'uffizio, 6/7
Please arrive at the meeting point 30 minutes before the activity starts. Meet us at Piazza del Sant’uffizio, 6/7, approximately two minutes from the Vatican Museums. Look for our colleagues wearing purple shirts with the Crown Tours logo to guide you on your tours. Latecomers are not guaranteed access to the tour.
2
St. Peter’s Basilica
St. Peter’s Basilica showcases Michelangelo’s Pietà, Bernini’s grand Baldachin, and the Tomb of St. Peter. Visitors can also explore papal tombs, including Pope John Paul II’s, and admire the intricate mosaics and sculptures throughout.
3
St. Peter’s Crypts
Located beneath the basilica, these crypts contain the tombs of many popes, including what is believed to be the burial site of St. Peter himself.
4
St. Peter's Dome
Explore Michelangelo’s St. Peter’s Dome, a Renaissance masterpiece. Climb to the top for panoramic views of Vatican City and Rome’s skyline.
5
La Pietà di Maria
Marvel at Michelangelo’s masterpiece, La Pietà, a stunning sculpture depicting Mary cradling the body of Jesus. This iconic work of art is renowned for its emotional depth and exquisite craftsmanship.
6
St. Peter’s tomb
Visit the sacred Tomb of St. Peter, the resting place of the apostle and first pope. This revered site holds profound historical and religious significance within St. Peter’s Basilica.
7
St. Peter's Square
Experience the grandeur of St. Peter’s Square, an architectural marvel designed by Bernini. The square’s magnificent colonnades and stunning views of the Basilica create a memorable and awe-inspiring atmosphere.
Special Notes:
The climb to St. Peter’s Dome includes over 300 narrow stairs in a cozy, enclosed space. If you’re claustrophobic, it may be a bit challenging, so take your time and enjoy the journey!
Kindly note that this activity does not provide tour or access to the Vatican Museums & the sistine chapel.
Cancelation Policy: Guests may cancel their tour up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time to receive a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour will not be eligible for a refund.
Attire Recommendations: St. Peter’s Basilica requires modest clothing. All visitors must ensure knees, midriff, cleavage and shoulders are covered at all times.
Bag Restrictions: No large backpacks or luggage are allowed.
Camera/Photography Restrictions: Photography without flash is permitted in most areas.
Age Restrictions: Suitable for all age groups.
Mobility Restrictions: As there is a lot of walking involved, we recommend travelers have a moderate physical fitness level.
Possible Closures: St. Peter’s Basilica is subject to closure without prior notice due to exceptional religious events.
