Rome: St. John Lateran Complex With Holy Stairs Private Tour

Explore the rich history of Rome’s St. John Lateran Complex on a private tour. Discover the magnificent Basilica, serene Cloister, and ancient Baptistery with a knowledgeable guide. Skip the lines and uncover captivating stories of these sacred sites. Conclude your journey at the Holy Stairs, believed to be the very steps Jesus ascended. This 3-hour guided experience provides an insightful look into an iconic Roman landmark, leaving you eager to delve deeper into its fascinating past.

Key Points

• Explore the Lateran Complex in Rome, including the Basilica of St. John Lateran, Cloister, Baptistery, and the Scala Santa on a private guided tour.
• The 3-hour private tour is priced from $262.13 per person and includes skip-the-line entry and a licensed guide.
• Discover the historical significance of these sacred sites, with the guide providing context and fascinating stories.
• Hotel pickup is available for an additional fee, and drop-off is provided at two convenient locations.
• Dress code requirements and restrictions, such as no shorts or sleeveless shirts, must be observed during the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The private tour of the Lateran Complex in Rome offers visitors a chance to explore the historic site at their own pace.

Priced from $262.13 per person, the 3-hour guided experience grants access to the Basilica of St. John Lateran, the Cloister, Baptistery, and the Scala Santa.

Guests can take advantage of the skip-the-line entry and private group tour.

Hotel pickup is available for an additional fee, with drop-off at two convenient locations.

Visitors should dress modestly and wear comfortable shoes.

Photography restrictions apply.

Itineraries may change, so checking availability for start times is recommended.

Itinerary and Highlights

The private tour offers a captivating journey through the historic Lateran Complex.

Visitors will explore the Basilica of St. John Lateran, the cathedral of Rome and the Mother of all Churches.

The Basilica of St. John Lateran, the cathedral of Rome and the Mother of all Churches, awaits visitors on this captivating tour.

The tour includes:

• Discovering the serene Romanesque Cloister of St. John Lateran

• Visiting the Lateran Baptistery, the oldest in Rome

• Concluding at the Holy Stairs (Scala Santa), believed to be the steps Jesus ascended during His trial

• Skipping the line through a separate entrance for a seamless experience

The guided tour provides an in-depth look at the complex’s rich history and architectural wonders.

Guided Experience

A live tour guide is available for this private experience, providing insights in both English and Italian.

Guests can skip the line and enjoy the tour without the crowds. The guide will lead the group through the highlights of the Lateran Complex, including the Basilica of St. John Lateran, the Cloister, the Baptistery, and the Holy Stairs.

The guide will offer historical context and share fascinating stories about the significance of these sacred sites.

This private tour provides a personalized and enriching experience, allowing visitors to explore the Lateran Complex at their own pace.

Transportation and Pickup

Optional pickup from your hotel by private car is available for this tour, allowing for a seamless start to the experience.

Seamless pickup from your hotel via private car sets the stage for an effortless tour experience.

Guests can choose to be dropped off at two convenient locations:

• Rome, Piazza San Giovanni In Laterano (main stop)

• One other location

This flexibility ensures visitors can easily continue their exploration of Rome after the tour.

The private transportation eliminates the hassle of navigating public transit, enabling a stress-free and efficient experience from start to finish.

With the option to be picked up and dropped off at select points, the tour provides a tailored and convenient way to explore the Lateran Complex.

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Visitor Information and Restrictions

Comfortable shoes are recommended for the moderate walking involved during the private tour of the Lateran Complex.

Visitors must adhere to the dress code, which requires covering shoulders and knees. Shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless shirts aren’t permitted. Flash photography is prohibited inside the basilicas. These rules ensure a respectful and immersive experience.

Itineraries may be subject to change, so it’s essential to check availability and starting times.

Despite these restrictions, the tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the Lateran Baptistery, the Cloister of St. John Lateran, and the Basilica of St. John Lateran, the cathedral of Rome.

Exploring the Basilica of St. John Lateran

The Basilica of St. John Lateran is the cathedral of Rome and the mother church of all churches.

It’s a stunning example of Baroque architecture with impressive interiors.

Key highlights include:

• The grand façade with its towering statues and looming bell towers

• The ornate interior filled with marble, mosaics, and gilded details

• The Cappella Corsini, a stunning side chapel decorated in the Baroque style

• The tombs of several popes, including Pope Innocent III and Pope Leo XIII

Visitors can marvel at the basilica’s grandeur and uncover its rich history during this private tour experience.

Discovering the Lateran Baptistery and Holy Stairs

What else does this private tour offer beyond the grand Basilica of St. John Lateran?

Visitors will explore the Lateran Baptistery, the oldest baptistery in Rome. Here, they’ll learn about its stunning marble interior and octagonal design dating back to the 4th century.

The tour also includes the famed Holy Stairs, said to be the very steps Jesus ascended during his trial. Pilgrims can climb these 28 marble steps on their knees, reflecting on Christ’s passion.

This comprehensive private experience provides an in-depth look at the Lateran complex’s history and religious significance beyond the renowned cathedral.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Group Size for the Private Tour?

The minimum group size for the private tour is not specified in the information provided. The tour is described as a private group experience, suggesting it can accommodate a flexible number of participants.

Can I Bring Food and Drinks Inside the Basilica?

No, visitors can’t bring food or drinks inside the basilica. The dress code requires covered shoulders and knees, and flash photography is prohibited. Comfortable shoes are recommended for the moderate walking during the tour.

Are Guided Audio Tours Available for the Tour?

The tour does not offer guided audio tours. Instead, it provides a live tour guide available in English and Italian to lead the private group experience at the Lateran Complex.

Can I Take Photographs Inside the Basilica?

Flash photography isn’t allowed inside the basilicas, but visitors can take photos without a flash. The tour guide will provide information on the appropriate photography policies for each site visited during the private tour.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. Children of all ages are welcome. However, the tour involves a moderate amount of walking, so young children may require extra assistance or a stroller.

The Sum Up

This private tour of the St. John Lateran Complex offers a captivating glimpse into Rome’s rich history. Visitors can explore the magnificent Basilica, serene Cloister, and the ancient Baptistery, while also experiencing the iconic Holy Stairs. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this 3-hour experience promises an insightful and memorable journey through one of Rome’s most significant landmarks.

You can check availability for your dates here: