Visitors to Rome can now experience the grandeur of the Basilica of St. Mary Major with ease. These priority access tickets allow you to skip the lines and explore the basilica’s stunning interiors, adorned with exquisite statues, frescoes, and mosaics. Whether you choose to enhance your visit with an audio guide or join a small group tour, the Basilica of St. Mary Major promises an unforgettable journey. However, it’s important to arrive early and familiarize yourself with the security guidelines to ensure a seamless experience.
Key Points

- Priority access tickets for the Basilica of St. Mary Major start at $16.32 per person and offer a shorter entry queue.
- Tickets are non-refundable and visitors should expect security checks upon entry, avoiding large bags.
- The self-guided tour of the basilica’s interiors and artworks lasts between 50 minutes to 1 hour.
- Audio guides are available in multiple languages to provide in-depth commentary on the basilica’s history and highlights.
- Visitors can purchase specialized tickets to access the dome for panoramic views over Rome.
Ticket Information

The Basilica of St. Mary Major offers priority access tickets from $16.32 per person. These non-refundable tickets are likely to sell out, with a duration of 50 minutes to 1 hour.
Visitors can explore the basilica at their own pace or choose a guided tour or audio guide available in multiple languages. Dome and underground tickets are also available for panoramic views and access to lower sections of the basilica.
Security checks are mandatory at the entrance, and no cloakroom facilities are provided. Visitors should bring their passport or ID card and avoid large bags and backpacks.
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Experience Options

Visitors to the Basilica of St. Mary Major can explore the stunning interior at their own pace or opt for a guided tour or audio guide.
The available experience options include:
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Exploring the basilica’s lavish interiors and famous artworks on a self-guided tour
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Choosing an audio guide in multiple languages to learn about the basilica’s history and highlights
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Purchasing tickets to access the dome for panoramic views over Rome
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Discovering the underground sections of the basilica through specialized tickets
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Joining a small group tour for a more personalized and in-depth experience.
Exploring the Basilica

What awaits those who enter the Basilica of St. Mary Major is a magnificent display of art and architecture.
The interior boasts stunning statues, frescoes, and intricate mosaics that captivate visitors. Travelers can explore the basilica at their own pace or opt for a guided tour or audio guide to delve deeper into its history and significance.
The highlight for many is the opportunity to ascend to the dome, offering panoramic views of Rome.
Visitors should be prepared for mandatory security checks and note the lack of cloakroom facilities.
With its rich history and impressive aesthetics, the Basilica of St. Mary Major is a must-see for any Rome itinerary.
Audio Guide Availability
As an added convenience, the basilica offers audio guides in a variety of languages, including English, German, Spanish, French, and Italian.
This allows visitors to explore the stunning architecture, artwork, and history of the Basilica of St. Mary Major at their own pace.
Audio guides provide:
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In-depth commentary on the basilica’s key features
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Flexibility to spend more time on areas of personal interest
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Hands-free sightseeing for a more immersive experience
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Multilingual options for international visitors
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Convenient self-guided tour option for those short on time
Dome and Underground Tickets

Along With exploring the basilica at their own pace, visitors can opt for access to the dome and underground sections.
Dome tickets provide panoramic views over Rome from the top of the basilica. For a deeper dive, underground tickets allow exploration of the lower levels of the church.
Both experiences provide unique perspectives on this architectural and historical marvel. Audio guides are available in multiple languages to enhance the self-guided visit.
Small group options are also offered for a more intimate and immersive exploration of the Basilica of St. Mary Major.
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Security and Visitor Guidelines
Visitors to the Basilica of St. Mary Major must adhere to a few security guidelines. Mandatory security checks are required at the entrance, so be sure to arrive with ample time.
Visitors to the Basilica of St. Mary Major must adhere to security guidelines, with mandatory checks at the entrance requiring ample arrival time.
Prohibited items include:
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Luggage
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Large bags
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Flash photography
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Backpacks
Unfortunately, there are no cloakroom facilities available, so plan accordingly.
To enter, head to the reception desk inside the basilica and present your voucher. Remember to bring your passport or ID card, as a copy is accepted.
With these simple guidelines in mind, visitors can explore the basilica’s stunning interior with ease.
Customer Feedback and Ratings

Customers have provided mixed reviews on their experience at the Basilica of St. Mary Major. Based on 15 reviews, the overall rating stands at 4.3 out of 5.
While some found the value for money rating to be a solid 4 out of 5, others felt the experience didn’t quite match up to the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Some visitors noted the skip-the-line ticket was unnecessary, as they encountered little to no queues.
Availability and Booking

Though ticket availability for the Basilica of St. Mary Major can vary, visitors have several options to secure their spot:
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Check the official website for real-time availability and starting times.
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Book in advance to ensure a preferred time slot.
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Consider purchasing a combined ticket for the basilica and dome access.
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Opt for a small group tour for a more intimate experience.
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Be prepared to arrive at the designated meeting point 15-20 minutes early.
Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, as the basilica is a popular attraction that can sell out, especially during peak season.
Common Questions
Is Photography Allowed Inside the Basilica?
Flash photography is not allowed inside the basilica. However, visitors can take non-flash photos to capture the stunning statues, frescoes, and mosaics that adorn the interior of the historic church.
Can I Bring Food and Drinks Into the Basilica?
No, food and drinks are not allowed inside the basilica. According to the visitor guidelines, only passport or ID cards are permitted, and large bags, luggage, and backpacks are not allowed. Security checks are mandatory at the entrance.
Are There Any Guided Tours Available in Other Languages?
Yes, audio guides are available in English, German, Spanish, French, and Italian for exploring the Basilica of St. Mary Major. Guided tour options in other languages may also be available, depending on the selected ticket.
Is There an Age Limit or Special Requirements for the Dome Access?
There’s no age limit for the dome access, but visitors must be able to climb over 500 stairs. Those with mobility issues may find the dome climb challenging. The basilica’s website provides details on accessibility requirements.
Can I Store My Luggage at the Basilica During My Visit?
There are no cloakroom facilities available at the basilica. Visitors are not allowed to bring large bags or luggage. Security checks are mandatory, so these items cannot be stored on-site during the visit.
The Sum Up
The Basilica of St. Mary Major offers visitors the chance to enjoy the grandeur of Rome’s architectural and artistic heritage. With priority access tickets, travelers can bypass long lines and explore the basilica’s stunning interiors at their own pace. Audio guides and small group tours enhance the experience, while security checks ensure a seamless visit. Visitors can make the most of their time in this iconic Roman landmark.
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