One of Rome’s most captivating religious sites, St. Peter’s Basilica, offers an enriching tour experience that takes visitors through its stunning interior and exclusive underground areas. For just €21.84 per person, this guided walk showcases Michelangelo’s masterpieces and provides a unique opportunity to explore the Vatican’s hidden depths. Whether you’re a history buff, art enthusiast, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of this iconic landmark, the tour promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Vatican City.

Contents show

Key Points

St. Peter’s Basilica tour includes guided exploration of the Basilica, St. Peter’s Square, and exclusive access to the Vatican Underground.
Tour duration is 1-2 hours, and the cost is $21.84 per person with an optional Dome climb for an additional €10.
Cancellations are eligible for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance, and spot reservations without upfront payment are allowed.
Tour is not suitable for pregnant women or individuals with certain medical conditions, and a modest dress code is required.
Customers praise the tour guides’ exceptional knowledge and the overall enjoyable experience, though wait times for security checks can be lengthy.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The St. Peters Basilica Tour with Underground presents an immersive experience for visitors. Priced from $21.84 per person, the tour lasts 1-2 hours.

Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Plus, they can reserve their spot without upfront payment.

The tour begins at the entrance of St. Peters Basilica and includes visits to St. Peters Square, the basilica’s interior, Michelangelo’s Pietà, and the Vatican Underground.

Highlights include admiring the Dome’s intricate mosaics and an optional climb to the Dome’s panoramic views for an additional €10.

This tour offers an in-depth exploration of the basilica’s architectural wonders and Renaissance artworks.

Looking for more options in Rome? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Tour Itinerary and Highlights

The tour starts at the Via di Porta Cavalleggeri, 61, the entrance to St. Peters Basilica.

Guests will first explore St. Peters Square, the iconic plaza surrounded by Bernini’s grand colonnades.

Next, they’ll venture inside the Basilica, admiring the intricate mosaics of the Dome and Michelangelo’s renowned Pietà statue.

Visitors can also opt to climb up to the Dome’s observation deck for panoramic city views at an additional cost of €10.

Throughout the tour, the guide will share insights about the Basilica’s 150-year construction and its remarkable Renaissance artworks.

St. Peters Square
Michelangelo’s Pietà
Optional Dome climb

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes a guided walk through St. Peter’s Square and Basilica, as well as access to Michelangelo’s Pietà statue.

Visitors will also enjoy exclusive access to the Vatican Underground.

Exclusive access to the Vatican Underground is part of the tour experience.

However, the tour excludes admission to the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and Vatican Necropolis.

Plus, the option to climb the Basilica’s Dome comes at an extra cost of €10.

Participants should note that the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with back or heart problems.

Comfortable shoes and modest clothing covering knees and shoulders are recommended.

Security checks may cause lengthy wait times, so travelers should plan accordingly.

Important Information for Participants

Participants should be aware that this tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or individuals with back or heart problems.

To enjoy the tour comfortably, visitors should wear comfortable shoes and bring headphones.

Plus, the Basilica has a modest dress code – knees and shoulders must be covered.

Entering the Basilica involves passing through metal detectors, and visitors may encounter security lines that can take 15-120 minutes.

Despite these considerations, the tour offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the magnificent St. Peter’s Basilica and its underground wonders.

Comfortable shoes
Headphones
Modest clothing (knees/shoulders covered)

More Great Tours Nearby

Customer Reviews and Feedback

According to the available customer reviews, the St. Peters Basilica tour has received an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 7 reviews.

Travelers have praised the tour guides for their exceptional knowledge and humor, making the experience both informative and enjoyable.

Tour guides’ exceptional knowledge and humor make the St. Peters Basilica tour both informative and enjoyable.

However, some customers expressed confusion regarding the optional Dome climb ticket, which costs an additional €10.

The wait times for entrance were generally manageable, averaging around 30 minutes, although security lines could take up to 2 hours during peak times.

There's plenty more to explore in Rome

Getting to the Starting Location

To reach the starting point of the St. Peters Basilica tour, visitors have several options:

Take the Metro Line A and exit at the Ottaviano-San Pietro station, which is a 5-minute walk to the tour starting point.
Catch the Hop-on Hop-off bus and get off at the "St. Peter’s Basilica" stop, which is right at the tour meeting point.
Walk from nearby attractions like the Vatican Museums or Castel Sant’Angelo, as the starting location is centrally located near St. Peter’s Square.

Regardless of the transportation method, arrive at the tour meeting point at Via di Porta Cavalleggeri, 61 a few minutes prior to the scheduled start time.

What to Expect During the Tour

After meeting the guide at the designated starting point, visitors embark on a captivating journey through the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica.

The tour begins with a guided walk through St. Peter’s Square, where the guide shares insights into the Basilica’s history and architecture.

Once inside, the tour explores the Basilica’s stunning interior, marveling at the intricate mosaics, gilded ceilings, and Michelangelo’s renowned Pietà.

For those seeking a panoramic view, an optional climb to the Basilica’s Dome offers a breathtaking perspective of the city.

Throughout the tour, the guide provides engaging commentary, bringing the Basilica’s rich past to life.

Tips for Visiting St. Peter’s Basilica

Visiting St. Peter’s Basilica can be a memorable experience when you’re prepared. Consider these insider tips:

Arrive early to beat the crowds and long security lines. Aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before opening.
Dress modestly with knees and shoulders covered. This is required to enter the basilica.
Pack light and leave large bags at your hotel. This will streamline the security process.

With some advance planning, you can maximize your time in this awe-inspiring cathedral and explore its hidden gems.

Follow these simple steps to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to St. Peter’s Basilica.

Common Questions

Can I Use a Camera or Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, visitors can take photos during the tour, though flash photography is generally not allowed inside the basilica. It’s best to check with the tour guide for any specific rules or restrictions on photography.

Are Audio Guides Available for the Tour?

Yes, audio guides are available for this tour. Participants can rent an audio guide to enhance their experience and learn more about the art and history of St. Peter’s Basilica at their own pace.

Is There an Option to Skip the Line at the Entrance?

There’s no mention of a skip-the-line option for this tour. However, the tour does include priority entry, helping to minimize wait times at the security line, which can take 15-120 minutes according to the provided information.

Can I Bring Food or Drinks Inside the Basilica?

No, you can’t bring food or drinks inside St. Peter’s Basilica. The dress code requires modest clothing, and outside food and beverages are prohibited to maintain the sanctity and cleanliness of the sacred space.

Are There Any Discounts or Reduced Prices for Students or Seniors?

The tour operator offers discounted prices for students and seniors. Students can get a 10% discount, while seniors aged 65 and above can receive a 5% reduction on the regular tour price of $21.84 per person.

The Sum Up

The "Rome: St. Peter’s Basilica Tour With Underground" offers an enriching opportunity to explore one of the world’s most iconic religious sites. With a guided tour of the Basilica and exclusive access to the Vatican Underground, this experience provides an in-depth look into the rich history and stunning artistry of this renowned destination. Whether you opt for the dome climb or not, this tour is a must-do for any visitor to Rome.