Exploring the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Papal Tombs is a must-do in Rome. This guided tour provides visitors with a captivating experience, offering skip-the-line access and insights into the rich history and stunning architecture. From Michelangelo’s masterpiece to Bernini’s design, the tour promises to transport guests through the awe-inspiring spaces. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, travelers can uncover the secrets and significance that lie within these sacred halls.

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Key Points

2-hour guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica and Papal Tombs, exploring the basilica’s summit, core, and the Papal Grottoes.
Priced at $21.84 per person and available in multiple languages.
Highlights include Bernini’s design, the Egyptian Obelisk, and Michelangelo’s La Pietà.
Skip-the-line access included, though security checks can take up to 120 minutes.
Meeting point is a minute’s walk from St. Peter’s Basilica.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour

The St. Peters Basilica and Papal Tombs Guided Tour offers visitors a comprehensive 2-hour exploration of the renowned Vatican landmark.

Enjoy a 2-hour guided exploration of the renowned St. Peter’s Basilica and its iconic Papal Tombs.

Priced at $21.84 per person, the tour is available in multiple languages, including Italian, Portuguese, English, Spanish, German, and French.

The meeting point is just a minute’s walk from St. Peters Basilica, providing easy access.

Guests can expect to discover the Basilica’s summit and foundational core, as well as visit the Papal Grottoes to learn about papal and royal burials since the 11th century.

The tour also highlights Bernini’s design, the Egyptian Obelisk, and Michelangelo’s La Pietà.

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Highlights of the Tour

Highlights of this guided tour include a captivating exploration of St. Peter’s Square and Basilica. Guests will admire Bernini’s grand design, the iconic Egyptian Obelisk, and Michelangelo’s renowned La Pietà sculpture. The tour also offers a rare opportunity to venture into the Vatican Grottoes, where visitors can learn about the papal and royal burials dating back to the 11th century. Plus, guests can ascend to the Basilica’s summit and explore its foundational core, providing a unique perspective on this architectural marvel.

| Tour Highlights |

|—————–|

| Guided walking tour of St. Peter’s Square and Basilica |

| Explore the Basilica’s summit and foundational core |

| Visit the Papal Grottoes and learn about papal and royal burials since the 11th century |

| Admire Bernini’s design, the Egyptian Obelisk, and Michelangelo’s La Pietà |

| Skip-the-line access (security checks required) |

Exploring St. Peter’s Square and Basilica

As guests embark on this captivating tour, they’ll be immersed in the grandeur of St. Peter’s Square.

Designed by the renowned Bernini, the vast open space features stunning colonnades and the iconic Egyptian obelisk at its center. Visitors will marvel at the basilica’s facade, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture.

Once inside, they’ll be awed by the sheer scale and opulence of the interior, adorned with stunning frescoes, sculptures, and altars.

The tour guide will provide insights into the basilica’s rich history and point out Michelangelo’s famous La Pietà, a must-see for any art enthusiast.

Discovering the Papal Grottoes

Descending into the Papal Grottoes, visitors uncover a centuries-old repository of papal and royal burials. This subterranean necropolis contains the tombs of over 100 popes, dating back to the 11th century.

The guide shares captivating stories of these historical figures, explaining their significance and the intricate designs of their resting places. From the simple sarcophagi of earlier popes to the ornate monuments of later eras, the Grottoes offer a profound glimpse into the legacy of the papacy.

Visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for the rich history entombed beneath St. Peter’s Basilica.

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Admiring Bernini’s Design and Michelangelo’s Art

After exploring the captivating Papal Grottoes, visitors now turn their attention to the stunning artistic and architectural elements that adorn St. Peter’s Basilica. Gaze in awe at Bernini’s grand Baroque design, including the iconic colonnade in St. Peter’s Square. Admire the towering Egyptian obelisk, a symbol of the Vatican’s power and influence. Inside, be mesmerized by Michelangelo’s breathtaking La Pietà sculpture, depicting the body of Jesus on the lap of his mother, Mary.

| Bernini’s Design | Michelangelo’s Art |

|—————–|——————-|

| Baroque colonnade in St. Peter’s Square | La Pietà sculpture |

| Iconic Egyptian obelisk | Breathtaking depiction of Jesus and Mary |

| Symbol of Vatican’s power and influence | Masterpiece of Renaissance art |

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Practical Information and Logistics

To begin your tour of St. Peter’s Basilica, arrive at the meeting point on Borgo Vittorio, just a minute from the basilica.

Get set for a 2-hour guided experience in multiple languages. While skip-the-line access is included, security checks can take 10-120 minutes during peak times.

Be aware that the basilica may close unexpectedly, but the tour operator will reschedule if needed. Visitors in wheelchairs should note the tour isn’t suitable for them.

Reviews and Ratings

Numerous past guests have highly praised this guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica.

With an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 22 reviews, the tour provides excellent value for money. Guests particularly commend the knowledgeable and engaging guides, who earn a 4.9 rating.

With an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 22 reviews, the tour provides excellent value for money. Guests particularly commend the knowledgeable and engaging guides, who earn a 4.9 rating.

Visitors appreciate the skip-the-line access and in-depth exploration of the basilica’s summit, Papal Grottoes, and key artworks.

While security checks can be lengthy during peak seasons, the tour operator is responsive in rescheduling when necessary.

Booking and Reservation Details

Booking this guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica and Papal Tombs is convenient and flexible.

Visitors can save up to 20% by reserving the tour in advance. The booking process allows them to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund.

Availability is easy to check, with multiple start times offered. This tour includes skip-the-line access, although security checks are still required.

The operator will reschedule the tour if the basilica closes unexpectedly. While not suitable for wheelchair users, this 2-hour guided experience provides an in-depth look at St. Peter’s and the Vatican Grottoes.

Common Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour is not explicitly mentioned as suitable for children. However, the description notes it’s "not suitable for wheelchair users," suggesting the tour may not be ideal for young children either. Parents should consider the tour’s content and duration before booking.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Private Groups?

The tour can be customized for private groups. Clients can request special arrangements, such as smaller group sizes or tour duration adjustments, to personalize the experience. However, availability and pricing may vary based on the specific requests.

Are Audio Guides Available During the Tour?

Yes, the tour includes official guide and radio headset, allowing visitors to hear the guide’s commentary throughout the tour. This provides an immersive experience and ensures everyone can easily follow along.

What Security Measures Are in Place During the Tour?

Security checks can take 10-120 minutes during high season. All guests must undergo mandatory security screening before entering the Vatican. The tour operator will reschedule the tour if the basilica closes unexpectedly due to security concerns.

Can the Tour Be Combined With Other Vatican Attractions?

The tour can be combined with entry to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. Dome tickets are also available at the entrance, allowing visitors to climb to the top of St. Peter’s Basilica.

The Sum Up

The St. Peter’s Basilica and Papal Tombs guided tour offers an in-depth exploration of this iconic Roman landmark. Visitors can skip the lines and explore the rich history and stunning architecture of the basilica, including Michelangelo’s masterpiece and Bernini’s design. The tour also provides access to the Papal Grottoes, where the tombs of over 100 popes are housed. This captivating experience is a must for history and art enthusiasts visiting Rome.