Vatican City: St Peters Basilica and Papal Tombs Guided Tour

Exploring the grandeur of Vatican City is a must-do for many travelers. The St. Peter’s Basilica and Papal Tombs Guided Tour offers a unique opportunity to marvel at Michelangelo’s masterpieces and explore the rich history of the Catholic Church. With skip-the-line access and insightful commentary from a knowledgeable guide, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. From the awe-inspiring St. Peter’s Basilica to the sacred Vatican Grottoes, the tour covers the highlights of this iconic destination, leaving visitors eager to discover more.

Key Points

• Guided exploration of St. Peter’s Basilica and Papal Tombs in Vatican City, with skip-the-line access and insights from a multilingual live guide.
• Tour priced from $28.40 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a pay later option.
• Tour duration is one day, starting at the Best In Rome Tour meeting point, a 1-minute walk from St. Peter’s Basilica.
• Highlights include viewing Michelangelo’s Pietà, Bernini’s statues, and the burial site of St. Peter within the Vatican Grottoes.
• Certain restrictions apply, such as attire requirements and potential security check delays, especially during peak seasons.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour offers visitors a guided exploration of St. Peters Basilica and the Papal Tombs. Priced from $28.40 per person, the tour lasts one day with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Explore St. Peters Basilica and Papal Tombs with a guided tour priced at $28.40 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours.

Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later. The tour starts at a meeting point just a minute’s walk from St. Peters Basilica, where a live guide provides insights in various languages.

The highlights include Michelangelo’s Pietà, Bernini’s statues, intricate mosaics, and St. Peter’s burial site.

Skip-the-line access is provided, though security checks may cause delays, especially during peak seasons.

Tour Details and Itinerary

Guests begin the tour at the Best In Rome Tour meeting point, a 1-minute walk from St. Peter’s Basilica.

A multilingual guide leads the group, sharing insights about Vatican City. They then enter St. Peter’s Basilica to marvel at Michelangelo’s Pietà, Bernini’s statues, and intricate mosaics.

Next, the group descends to the Vatican Grottoes to explore the papal tombs, including Saint Peter’s burial site.

The tour ends near a fountain, where guests have the option to revisit the church or purchase a ticket to climb the dome at an additional cost of €10 per person.

Tour Experience

As guests arrive at the Best In Rome Tour meeting point, a short walk from St. Peter’s Square, they are greeted by a knowledgeable guide. The tour begins with an overview of Vatican City, setting the stage for the immersive experience ahead. Entering the iconic St. Peter’s Basilica, visitors are awestruck by the grand scale and intricate details of Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s sculptures. The group then descends to the Vatican Grottoes, where they explore the burial sites of past popes, including St. Peter’s. The tour concludes near a nearby fountain, allowing guests the option to revisit the basilica or climb the dome.

| Highlight | Description | Impression |

| — | — | — |

| St. Peter’s Square | Iconic entrance to Vatican City | Grandeur |

| St. Peter’s Basilica | Magnificent Renaissance architecture | Awe-inspiring |

| Vatican Grottoes | Resting place of past popes | Solemn |

| Nearby Fountain | Optional visit after the tour | Serene |

Inclusions and Access

This guided tour includes a multilingual guide, providing informative commentary throughout the visit.

Visitors enjoy skip-the-line access to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Grottoes. The tour covers the highlights, from Michelangelo’s Pietà to Bernini’s statues and intricate mosaics.

Guests also have the opportunity to explore Saint Peter’s burial site within the Grottoes.

However, all visitors must undergo a security check, which can cause delays, especially during high season.

Plus, certain attire, such as shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless shirts, isn’t permitted inside the basilica.

More Great Tours Nearby

Important Information and Restrictions

Although the tour is not suitable for people over 70 years, certain attire restrictions apply inside the basilica. Visitors are not allowed to wear shorts, short skirts, sleeveless shirts, or see-through clothing. Plus, the consumption of alcohol and drugs is strictly prohibited. Delays are possible due to mandatory security checks, which can range from 10 to 120 minutes during peak seasons. Visitors should also be aware that the tour is subject to unforeseen closures due to Vatican affairs, but rescheduling is available if necessary.

| Restrictions | Details |

| — | — |

| Age | Not suitable for people over 70 years |

| Attire | No shorts, short skirts, sleeveless shirts, or see-through clothing |

| Prohibited Items | No alcohol, drugs |

| Security Checks | Possible delays of 10-120 minutes during high season |

| Closures | Subject to unforeseen Vatican affairs; rescheduling available |

Visiting St. Peter’s Basilica

Visitors begin their tour at St. Peter’s Square, taking in the grand architectural masterpiece that’s St. Peter’s Basilica.

Visitors begin their tour at St. Peter’s Square, taking in the grand architectural masterpiece that’s St. Peter’s Basilica.

As they step inside, they’re immediately struck by the sheer scale and opulence of the interior. The guide points out the stunning works of art, including:

• Michelangelo’s magnificent Pietà, a breathtaking depiction of the Virgin Mary cradling the body of Jesus.

• Bernini’s imposing bronze canopy, a masterpiece of Baroque design.

• The intricate mosaics that adorn the walls and ceilings, showcasing the Vatican’s unparalleled artistry.

• The burial site of St. Peter, the first Pope, a sacred and revered space.

Exploring the Vatican Grottoes

After exploring the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica, the guided tour descends into the Vatican Grottoes. This sacred underground necropolis holds the tombs of past Popes and other important figures. Visitors can marvel at the intricate designs and historical significance of these papal resting places.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Main Stops | Papal tombs, including that of St. Peter |

| Highlights | Ornate architecture, historical artifacts |

| Access | Requires guided tour or special permission |

| Duration | Approximately 45 minutes |

| Photography | Permitted, but no flash allowed |

The tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and religious significance of the Vatican Grottoes.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

What should you know before embarking on your guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Grottoes? Consider these practical tips:

• Allow ample time for security checks, which can take up to 2 hours during peak seasons. Arrive early to avoid delays.

• Dress modestly – no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless shirts, as the basilica has a strict dress code.

• Bring water and snacks, as food and drinks aren’t permitted inside the sacred sites.

• Double-check the meeting point and be punctual, as the tour departs on time and can’t wait for late arrivals.

Common Questions

Is Photography Allowed Inside St. Peter’s Basilica?

Photography is allowed inside St. Peter’s Basilica, but visitors shouldn’t use flash photography as it can damage the ancient artwork and mosaics. Tripods are also not permitted due to the large crowds.

Can I Bring a Backpack or Large Bag on the Tour?

Large bags and backpacks aren’t allowed on the tour due to security restrictions. However, small bags and purses are generally permitted. Visitors should plan to bring only essential items to avoid delays during security checks.

Is There a Dress Code for Entering the Vatican?

There is a dress code for entering the Vatican. Visitors should avoid wearing shorts, short skirts, sleeveless shirts, and see-through clothing. Proper attire is required to enter the sacred spaces.

How Accessible Is the Tour for People With Disabilities?

The tour may not be fully accessible for those with disabilities. It involves stairs and navigating uneven terrain. Visitors are advised to contact the tour provider to discuss specific accessibility needs prior to booking.

Can I Leave the Tour Group During the Visit?

Participants can generally leave the tour group during the visit, but they should inform the guide beforehand. However, leaving the group may result in missing key parts of the tour experience.

The Sum Up

The St. Peter’s Basilica and Papal Tombs Guided Tour offers a captivating exploration of Vatican City’s grandeur. Visitors can marvel at Michelangelo’s masterpiece, the Pietà, and explore the sacred Vatican Grottoes, where past popes’ tombs lie. With skip-the-line access and a knowledgeable multilingual guide, this tour provides an immersive and insightful experience, making it a must-do for anyone visiting the iconic St. Peter’s Basilica.

You can check availability for your dates here: