Discover the wonders of St. Peter’s Square and Basilica on this top to bottom tour with a professional guide. Climb to the upper level of the Dome and soak up panoramic views of Rome, then go underground to admire the historic grottoes.
About this activity
- Free cancellation
- Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
- Covid-19 precautions
- Special health and safety measures apply. Learn more
- Mobile ticketing
- Use your phone or print your voucher
- Duration 1.5 hours
- Check availability to see starting times.
- Instant confirmation
- Live tour guide
- English, Italian, Spanish, German, French, Portuguese, Russian, Chinese
- Private or small groups available
Experience
Highlights
- Climb to the top of the Dome to admire panoramic views of Rome
- Admire the Basilica's array of impressive marble, ceilings, and mosaics
- Visit St. Peter’s Tomb and touch the original 4th century Basilica walls
- Explore the underground grottoes and marvel at the ancient frescoes
- Choose between a small group or private tour
Full description
Meet your guide in St. Peter’s Square then start the tour by climbing your way to the top of the Basilica’s Dome. Enjoy an exclusive look at the Dome’s impressive mosaics then head further up to the top balcony. From here, marvel at panoramic views across the city, spot the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and other iconic landmarks.
Descend directly into the Basilica and avoid the long entry queue. Inside, admire its impressive interior and discover why it took 150 years to build. Gaze at the colorful marble, golden ceilings, and intricate mosaics that surround you. Learn about the renowned works of Renaissance and Neoclassic artists that are housed here.
Next, head underground to the Basilica’s historic grottoes and visit St. Peter’s Tomb (if option selected). Touch the ancient walls of the original 4th century Basilica and admire its beautiful frescoes. Finish the tour in St. Peter’s Square and soak up its majestic architecture.
Includes
- Professional guide
- Entry fees to the top of the Dome
- Sterilized headsets to hear your guide better
- One mask per person, if required
- Use of hand sanitizer during the tour
- Full on-site assistance
Not suitable for
- People with claustrophobia
- People with vertigo
Covid-19 precautions
Safety measures in place
- All required protective equipment is provided
- The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
Traveler requirements
- Customers must bring their own headphones
- Customers must fill out a travel information form
- Customers will get a mandatory temperature check
Select participants and date
Participants
Date
Prepare for the activity
Meeting point
Meet your guide at Largo del Colonnato 5, by the first columns of the Colonnade. Look for a yellow label with TOURIKS on it.
Open in Google Maps ⟶Important information
What to bring
- Comfortable shoes
Not allowed
- Shorts
- Weapons or sharp objects
- Luggage or large bags
- Sleeveless shirts
Know before you go
- The Dome's terrace might not be accessible during bad weather. In that case, you can ask for a partial refund and visit the other areas, or cancel for a full refund
- Modest clothing is required to enter the Basilica (knees and shoulders should be covered)
- Please be aware that the lines to clear security checks at the entrance are not skippable and may take 5-45 minutes
- You will be required to pass through metal detectors at the entrance of the square
- The Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel are not part of this tour