Exploring the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica is a must-do for any visitor to Rome. This 1.5-hour guided tour provides an enriching experience, allowing travelers to discover the church’s stunning Renaissance architecture and uncover its hidden gems. From the awe-inspiring mosaics to the breathtaking panoramic views from the dome, the tour offers a comprehensive introduction to this iconic landmark. With knowledgeable guides and a perfect 4.8/5 rating, it’s no wonder this wheelchair-accessible experience is a popular choice among visitors to Vatican City.
Key Points

- Guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, the world’s largest Catholic church, highlighting its Renaissance architecture and intricate mosaics.
- Option to visit the Vatican Grottoes and climb the basilica’s dome for panoramic views of the city.
- Tour available in English and French, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Wheelchair-accessible tour with a dress code to respect the sacred nature of the site.
- Highly rated tour with knowledgeable guides and excellent value for money, based on customer reviews.
Tour Overview and Pricing

The St. Peters Basilica tour offers visitors a chance to explore the world’s largest Catholic church.
Priced from $16.32 per person, the 1.5-hour guided tour is available in English and French. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can secure their spot and pay later.
The tour highlights include the basilica’s Renaissance architecture, intricate mosaics, and the Vatican Grottoes featuring Saint Peter’s burial site. Visitors can also opt to revisit the church or purchase a ticket to climb the dome for panoramic views of Rome.
Explore the basilica’s Renaissance architecture, intricate mosaics, and Saint Peter’s burial site. Climb the dome for panoramic views of Rome.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, though a dress code applies.
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Tour Highlights and Itinerary

Visitors can experience the world’s largest Catholic church, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, during the St. Peters Basilica Tour. The tour includes exploring the vast interior with intricate mosaics, visiting the Vatican Grottoes featuring Saint Peter’s burial site, and walking through St. Peter’s Square. Guests have the option to revisit the church or purchase a ticket to climb the dome for panoramic views of Rome.
| Tour Highlights | Details |
|—————-|———|
| St. Peters Basilica | Admire the church’s priceless artworks |
| Vatican Grottoes | See the burial site of Saint Peter |
| St. Peters Square | Experience the grandeur of the square |
| Guided Walking Tour | Discover the highlights with a knowledgeable guide |
| Optional Dome Climb | Enjoy breathtaking views of Rome from above |
Meeting Point and Accessibility

The tour meeting location is Via di Porta Cavalleggeri, 61, 00165 Roma RM, Italy.
The basilica is wheelchair accessible, allowing all visitors to explore its grandeur.
However, there’s an important dress code to follow. No shorts, short skirts, sleeveless shirts, or see-through clothing are allowed. This ensures visitors respect the sacred nature of the site.
Meeting at the designated location and adhering to the dress code will provide a seamless start to the tour, allowing participants to fully enjoy the rich history and artistry of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Customer Reviews and Ratings

Travelers have consistently praised the overall experience, awarding the tour an impressive 4.8/5 rating based on 72 reviews.
Guides received a perfect 5/5 score, with customers highlighting their extensive knowledge and captivating storytelling abilities.
The experience also earned a 4.7/5 rating for value, as guests felt they received great worth for their money.
Reviewers lauded the tour’s ability to provide an in-depth look at St. Peter’s Basilica and its many treasures.
With such consistently positive feedback, this tour is a reliable choice for those seeking an enriching visit to this iconic Roman landmark.
More Great Tours NearbyParticipant Information and Booking

To book this tour, simply select the desired number of participants and the date you’d like to visit. The booking process is quick and easy:
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Choose your tour date and time.
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Enter the number of adults and/or children in your party.
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Complete the booking form and securely pay online.
Once confirmed, you’ll receive a voucher via email. Just present this at the meeting point on the day of your tour.
This St. Peter’s Basilica experience ensures a memorable visit to one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks.
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Exploring the Architectural Masterpiece

St. Peters Basilica is an architectural masterpiece. Its vast interior features intricate mosaics and elaborate decorations.
Visitors are awed by the sheer scale of the building, with its impressive height and length. The basilica’s Renaissance design, led by Michelangelo, blends classical and baroque elements.
The basilica’s vast scale and Michelangelo’s Renaissance design, blending classical and baroque elements, leave visitors in awe.
Highlights include the iconic St. Peter’s Square and the Vatican Grottoes, which house the burial site of St. Peter.
Visitors can optionally purchase a ticket to climb the dome for stunning views over Rome. The tour provides an immersive experience, allowing guests to fully appreciate the basilica’s grandeur and historical significance.
Discovering the Vatican Grottoes

As part of the St. Peters Basilica tour, visitors can explore the Vatican Grottoes. This underground cemetery contains the burial sites of past popes and other notable figures.
The highlights of the Vatican Grottoes include:
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Saint Peter’s Burial Site: Descend into the grotto and visit the tomb believed to hold the remains of Saint Peter, the first pope.
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Papal Tombs: See the elaborate sarcophagi and crypts of former popes, some dating back centuries.
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Architectural Wonders: Marvel at the intricate Renaissance-era architecture and decorations that adorn the subterranean chambers.
Exploring the Vatican Grottoes provides a unique glimpse into the history and traditions of the Catholic Church.
Panoramic Views From the Dome

After exploring the sacred burial sites in the Vatican Grottoes, visitors can opt to climb the iconic dome of St. Peter’s Basilica for panoramic views of Rome. The dome climb offers three levels of access:
| Level | Stops | Price |
| — | — | — |
| Dome Terrace | Top of dome’s interior | €8 |
| Dome Exterior | External walkway around dome | €10 |
| Top of Dome | Highest point of dome, 136m above ground | €12 |
The climb is a strenuous, 551-step journey, but the sweeping vistas over St. Peter’s Square and the Eternal City are well worth the effort. Advance reservations are recommended to secure a spot.
Common Questions

Is It Possible to Visit the Basilica Independently?
Yes, it’s possible to visit St. Peter’s Basilica independently. Visitors can explore the basilica on their own without a guided tour, but they won’t have the benefit of a knowledgeable guide to provide historical context and insights.
How Long Does It Take to Climb to the Top of the Dome?
It takes around 15-20 minutes to climb to the top of St. Peter’s Basilica dome. The climb involves 551 steps and offers visitors breathtaking views over Rome from the highest point of the basilica.
Are There Any Special Tour Options for Families With Children?
Yes, the tour offers family-friendly options. There’s a special reduced rate for children under 18, and the walking tour is designed to engage kids with interactive elements and kid-friendly explanations of the basilica’s history and artworks.
Are Audio Guides Available for the Tour?
Yes, audio guides are available for this tour. Guests can opt to enhance their experience with an audio guide, which provides detailed information about the history and significance of St. Peter’s Basilica and its artworks at their own pace.
Can I Bring Food and Drinks Inside the Basilica?
No, visitors can’t bring food or drinks into St. Peter’s Basilica. The Vatican enforces a strict no-food-or-drink policy to preserve the church’s sacred and peaceful atmosphere. Bottled water is allowed, but all other consumables must be left outside.
The Sum Up
The Rome: St. Peter’s Basilica Tour offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the architectural marvel of St. Peter’s Basilica. With knowledgeable guides, stunning highlights, and optional dome access, this tour provides an unforgettable journey through the heart of Vatican City. At just $16.32 per person, it’s a must-do experience for any visitor seeking to enjoy the rich history and grandeur of this iconic religious landmark.
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