Rome: St. Peter’s Basilica Tour with Dome Climb and Crypt

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Rome: St. Peter’s Basilica Tour with Dome Climb and Crypt
Likely to sell out
Top rated
4.7
1459 reviews

Access all areas of St. Peter's Basilica on a guided tour and learn about its fascinating history and architecture. Climb up 231 steps to the top of the dome for panoramic views of Rome.

About this tour

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later
Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Duration 3 hours
Check availability to see starting times.
Skip the ticket line
Live tour guide
English

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

S
Sheonagh – United Kingdom

We both thoroughly enjoyed the challenge of the climb to the top! We both opted for the stairs rather than waiting in the long queue for the lift! Great way to spend a morning and the views were spectacular!

L
Lubomir – United States

The tour was quite nice: the tour giude seemed to be quite knowlegeable. We enjoyed it.

Itinerary

  • Timeline stop icon

    Starting location:

    Piazza della Città Leonina, 6

  • Timeline stop icon

    Saint Peter's Square

    Guided tour, Sightseeing, Walk, Scenic views on the way (30 minutes)

  • Timeline stop icon

    St Peter's Basilica Dome

    Photo stop, Visit, Guided tour, Sightseeing, Scenic views on the way (1.5 hours)

  • Timeline stop icon

    St. Peter's Basilica

    Visit, Guided tour, Sightseeing (1 hour)

  • Arrive back at:

    Piazza della Città Leonina, 6

Main stop

For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.

Highlights

  • Discover St. Peter's Basilica on a comprehensive guided tour, with dome access
  • Experience the sacred atmosphere of St. Peter's Square before the crowds arrive
  • Admire the artistic treasures like Bernini’s Baldachin and Michelangelo’s Pietá
  • See the wonderful mosaics that adorn the interior of the magnificent dome
  • Climb to the top of the dome of St. Peter's Basilica for stunning views of Rome

Full description

Discover St. Peter's Basilica in an in-depth guided tour as you explore its vast interiors full of hidden treasures. Marvel at the stunning architecture, admire its beautiful artwork, and enjoy the fantastic views of the city of Rome from atop its magnificent dome. Start early and experience the sacred atmosphere of St Peter’s Square before the crowds arrive. Explore its vast interior with your guide, discovering some of its highlights like Bernini’s Baldachin and Michelangelo’s Pietá. Explore every tiny detail of the historic building and enjoy a comprehensive insight into the basilica's storied history. Then, head to the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica to take the special elevator to the first terrace of the dome to get a close look at the mosaics. After your guided tour comes to an end, climb the 231 steps to the top of the magnificent dome. Take in the sweeping panoramic views of the city of Rome and the Vatican City below. You can also return to the basilica to explore the papal crypts at your own pace. 

Includes

  • Guided tour
  • Guide
  • Pre-reserved tickets to the dome at St. Peter’s Basilica
  • Hotel pickup and drop off
  • Tips

Not suitable for

  • People with mobility impairments
  • Wheelchair users

Select participants and date

Meeting point

Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of your tour, your guide will be holding a green Walks sign. This tour meets at Caffè Leonina, Piazza della Città Leonina, 5. The closest metro stop is Ottaviano. ALL participants must provide full names, dates of birth, and passport/nationality details at the time of booking. The information must match the ID or passport. Name changes are not allowed, and failure to provide this will result in booking cancellation.

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Important information

What to bring

  • Passport or ID card

Not allowed

  • Shorts
  • Baby strollers
  • Short skirts
  • Sleeveless shirts

Know before you go

  • After the terrace where the elevator stops, there are still 320 steps to climb to reach the very top
  • Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour, it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or with wheelchairs, or strollers
  • Due to the religious nature of the Vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. Walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry
  • Please note: starting December 2024, access to St. Peter's Basilica may be limited due to the Vatican's Jubilee Year 2025, which includes special events and ceremonies. These closures are determined by the Vatican
  • All participants must provide full names, dates of birth, and passport/nationality details at the time of booking. The information must match the ID or passport. Name changes are not allowed, and failure to provide this will result in booking cancellation.

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.7 /5

based on 1459 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.9/5
  • Transportation
    4.5/5
  • Value for money
    4.4/5

Customer photos

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Recommended
S
Sheonagh – United KingdomMarch 15, 2025 – Verified booking
We both thoroughly enjoyed the challenge of the climb to the top! We both opted for the stairs rather than waiting in the long queue for the lift! Great way to spend a morning and the views were spectacular!
L
Lubomir – United StatesDecember 28, 2024 – Verified booking
The tour was quite nice: the tour giude seemed to be quite knowlegeable. We enjoyed it.
M
Michael Glen – United StatesOctober 14, 2024 – Verified booking
One of the best tour guides I have ever had (over 40 tours). Sev is spot on with the material and presentation. I learned so much. Sev is your go-to man for this tour. Great tour layout. GO EARLY AS POSSIBLE.

Product ID: 78613

Activity provider:Walks of Italy

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