Exploring the iconic basilicas of Rome is a must-do for any traveler interested in the Vatican’s rich history and spiritual significance. The Vatican: Papal Basilicas and Holy Doors Tour offers an intimate experience, guiding visitors through three renowned basilicas and the Scala Sancta. With convenient transfers and a small group size, this tour promises a personalized and enlightening adventure. Whether you’re a history buff or seeking spiritual reflection, this tour unveils the captivating stories and architectural wonders that have long defined the Vatican’s sacred legacy.

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Key Points

This tour provides a comprehensive exploration of three iconic Papal Basilicas in Rome, including Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore, St. Paul Outside the Walls, and Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano.
The tour lasts 3 hours and includes round-trip transfers in a comfortable vehicle, with a maximum of 6 participants for an intimate experience.
Visitors have the opportunity to meditate at the Scala Sancta, believed to be the stairs climbed by Jesus, during the tour.
The itinerary highlights the unique architectural and historical significance of each Papal Basilica, including the resting place of Saint Paul and the official throne of the Pope.
The tour features air-conditioned vehicle transfers, free time for exploration and souvenir browsing, and an instant confirmation booking process.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Vatican Tour with Transfers provides visitors with a comprehensive exploration of three iconic Papal Basilicas in Rome.

Over 3 hours, guests visit the Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore, St. Paul Outside the Walls, and the Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano. Highlights include guided tours of these sacred spaces and the opportunity to meditate at the Scala Sancta, believed to be the stairs climbed by Jesus.

Included in the tour are round-trip transfers in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. With a maximum of 6 participants, this small group experience offers an intimate and meaningful journey through Rome’s renowned religious sites.

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Itinerary Highlights

Starting at Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore, the tour kicks off with a guided exploration of the Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore, a 5th-century church that boasts a baroque facade, lavish gold, marble, and the sacred relic of the Holy Crib.

After a 15-minute transfer by van, the group visits and tours Saint Paul Outside the Walls, one of the world’s largest churches and the resting place of Saint Paul.

The group visits and tours Saint Paul Outside the Walls, one of the world’s largest churches and the resting place of Saint Paul.

The next stop is a 15-minute transfer to the Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano, Rome’s Cathedral, featuring the official throne of the Pope and baroque chapels.

The tour concludes at the Pontifical Sanctuary of the Holy Stairs.

Papal Basilicas

As the tour progresses, visitors explore three of the four major Papal Basilicas in Rome. The first stop is the Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore, a 5th-century church featuring a baroque facade, gold, marble, and a sacred relic of the Holy Crib. Next, they visit the Saint Paul Outside the Walls, one of the world’s largest churches and the resting place of Saint Paul. Finally, they explore the Saint John in Lateran, Rome’s Cathedral and the first Catholic church built by Emperor Constantine, which includes the official throne of the Pope and baroque chapels.

| Basilica | Key Features |

| — | — |

| Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore | 5th-century church, largest dedicated to Virgin Mary, baroque facade, gold, marble, sacred relic of the Holy Crib |

| Saint Paul Outside the Walls | One of the world’s largest churches, resting place of Saint Paul, portraits of every Pope, originally built by Emperor Constantine |

| Saint John in Lateran | Rome’s Cathedral, first Catholic church by Emperor Constantine, official throne of the Pope, baroque chapels |

Holy Stairs

After visiting the Papal Basilicas, the tour proceeds to the Pontifical Sanctuary of the Holy Stairs.

This sacred site is believed to be the very stairs Jesus Christ ascended to face Pontius Pilate. Visitors can meditate or pray as they climb the 28 marble steps on their knees. The stairs are encased in a wooden structure to protect them.

While it’s a solemn experience, the tour allots just 15 minutes here, allowing time to reflect before finishing at the sanctuary.

This visit provides a unique spiritual opportunity amidst the Vatican’s magnificent architecture and history.

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Tour Features

The Vatican Tour with Transfers includes several key features that enhance the experience for visitors.

The Vatican Tour with Transfers includes several key features that enhance the experience for visitors.

These include:

Transfers in air-conditioned vehicles, providing comfortable transportation between sites
The opportunity to visit three major Papal Basilicas – Saint Mary Major, Saint Paul Outside the Walls, and Saint John in Lateran – all in a single day
Time to meditate or pray at the Scala Sancta, the Holy Stairs believed to have been ascended by Jesus Christ
Instant confirmation for peace of mind, ensuring a seamless booking process
Free time for participants to explore the sites, browse for souvenirs, or use nearby facilities.

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Basilica Descriptions

The tour also provides descriptions of the three major Papal Basilicas visited during the experience.

The Basilica of Saint Mary Major is a 5th-century church, the largest dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It features a baroque facade, gold, marble, and the sacred relic of the Holy Crib.

Saint Paul Outside the Walls is one of the world’s largest churches, the resting place of Saint Paul, and holds portraits of every Pope.

Saint John in Lateran is Rome’s Cathedral, the first Catholic church built by Emperor Constantine, including the official throne of the Pope and baroque chapels.

Customer Reviews

According to the information provided, the Vatican Tour with Transfers boasts an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 6 customer reviews.

The feedback highlights several positive aspects of the tour:

Knowledgeable, friendly guide who allowed extra time for exploration
Memorable experience with an excellent tour
Opportunity to visit three major Papal Basilicas in one day
Convenient transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle
Chance to meditate or pray at the historic Scala Sancta

The reviews suggest the tour provides a comprehensive and enriching experience for visitors to the Vatican.

Reserve Your Tour

Ready to secure your spot on this captivating Vatican tour? Booking is easy and convenient. Reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This small-group tour is limited to just 6 participants, ensuring a personalized experience. To check availability and secure your reservation, visit the booking page. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to explore the Vatican’s Papal Basilicas and Holy Doors. Here’s a quick overview of the key booking details:

| Booking Details | |

| — | — |

| Price | From €115.16 per person |

| Availability | Limited; likely to sell out |

| Cancellation | Free up to 24 hours in advance |

| Group Size | Small, maximum 6 participants |

| Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible |

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos Inside the Basilicas?

You can generally take photos inside the basilicas, but it’s best to be respectful and avoid disrupting services or other visitors. Some areas may have restrictions, so it’s recommended to follow any guidance from the staff.

Do I Need to Dress Modestly for the Tour?

Yes, visitors should dress modestly for the tour. The basilicas require covered shoulders and knees, as they are sacred religious sites. Casual, respectful attire is recommended to fully participate in the experience.

Are There Any Restrictions on Bringing Liquids?

Yes, there are restrictions on bringing liquids. Visitors are generally not allowed to bring in large containers of liquid, such as water bottles or soft drinks. Small, personal amounts of water or other beverages are typically permitted.

How Much Time Is Allotted for Each Basilica Visit?

The tour allots 45 minutes for guided visits at each of the three major Papal Basilicas: Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore, St. Paul Outside the Walls, and Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano. There’s also a 15-minute visit to the Scala Sancta.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour doesn’t explicitly offer an option to extend the duration. However, the small group size and flexible nature of the experience suggest it may be possible to coordinate with the guide for additional time at the basilicas if desired.

The Sum Up

This Vatican: Papal Basilicas and Holy Doors Tour offers an intimate, guided exploration of three iconic basilicas in Rome. With convenient transfers, participants can reflect on the spiritual and historical significance of these sacred sites, including the Scala Sancta. The personalized experience accommodates up to six guests, ensuring a captivating and enriching adventure through the city’s remarkable religious architecture.