Vatican: St. Peter’s Basilica, Dome Climb & Papal Tombs Tour

4.3407187 out of 5 stars
4.3
4.3407187 out of 5 stars
2031 reviews
Vatican: St. Peter’s Basilica, Dome Climb & Papal Tombs Tour
4.3407187 out of 5 stars
4.3
4.3407187 out of 5 stars
2031 reviews

Discover the rich history of Vatican City on this early bird tour. Climb the Basilica's Dome with a guide and enjoy panoramic views. Then explore St. Peter’s Basilica and Papal Tombs.

About this activity

Free cancellation
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Duration 1 - 2 hours
Check availability to see starting times
Live tour guide
English

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

J
Jean – United States

Suggest starting time reflect actual start of tour. We were told to meet for check in by 8am however we did not start tour until almost 9am. The tour guide was excellent and very knowledgeable.

A
Al – United States

I did the Dome Tour and Valerio our guide was excellent. He was knowledgeable and very helpful.

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Highlights

  • Experience sprawling views of Rome from the roof of St. Peter's Basilica
  • Step back in time to discover the Vatican Grottoes and Papal Tombs
  • Entry to St. Peter's Basilica, the world's largest church
  • Admire the frescoes, statues, and mosaics of the Basilica and its square
  • Discover Renaissance and Baroque art by Bernini and Michelangelo

Full description

Uncover the history, art, and architecture of the Vatican City. Visit sites like St. Peter’s Square and Basilica in the morning light before the crowds arrive for the day. 


Meet your guide in Piazza della Città Leonina and dive into the ancient history of the Vatican City. Admire the statuesque columns and majestic pilasters in St. Peter’s Square. Walk through the walk close to the 1st balcony which is decorated with amazing frescoes.


You can choose between two options, together with an expert guide enter the Basilica, and if you selected the full option, reach the summit of the Dome after 320 steps, where you are rewarded for the climb with views of the city center. Have some free time to enjoy views of monuments like the Roman Colosseum and Pantheon.


At your own leisure be captivated by the Basilica's interiors which are filled with masterpieces from masters like Bernini and Michelangelo. See pieces from the Renaissance and Baroque periods.


Continue to explore the Vatican’s historic Grottoes to get a closer look of the rooms, chapels, and the papal tombs, where many Popes, royals, and other dignitaries are laid to rest.

Includes

  • St. Peter’s Basilica tour
  • Dome Tour (if option is selected)
  • Papal Tombs
  • Guided Tour
  • Headsets if needed
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Food and drinks
  • Tips

Not suitable for

  • People with claustrophobia
  • People with heart problems
  • Wheelchair users
  • People with vertigo

Meeting point

• Please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the activity starts • Late arrivals will not be accommodated & not be refunded. • Our staff will be meeting you holding a “Loving Rome” flag and will be stationed at the “black tables” of Caffè Leonina (front row), situated beyond the white tables of the kiosk. • The meeting point is at Piazza Della Città Leonina 00193 near the arches, where the square meets via di Porta Angelica. It is located at the corner of the square, on the left-hand side.

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Important information

What to bring

  • Comfortable shoes

Not allowed

  • Shorts
  • Weapons or sharp objects
  • Luggage or large bags
  • Short skirts
  • Sleeveless shirts

Know before you go

  • All visitors must pass through airport-style security check before entering the Basilica, during high season the waiting time may be up to 2 hours.
  • The elevator's Dome only takes you to the first balcony, to climb up to the main Dome you will have to use the stairs (320 steps) which requires and 20 extra minutes
  • Please take note that this service exclusively offers an entry ticket to the Dome & not skip-the-line access to the Basilica.
  • As per the attraction's regulations, please provide each participant's full name, ideally as on their passport, during booking.
  • The roof might not be accessible during bad weather conditions
  • The Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and Vatican Necropoli are not part of this tour

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.3 /5

based on 2031 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.6/5
  • Transportation
    4.6/5
  • Value for money
    4.1/5

Customer photos

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J
Jean – United StatesJune 17, 2025 – Verified booking
Suggest starting time reflect actual start of tour. We were told to meet for check in by 8am however we did not start tour until almost 9am. The tour guide was excellent and very knowledgeable.
A
Al – United StatesJune 6, 2025 – Verified booking
I did the Dome Tour and Valerio our guide was excellent. He was knowledgeable and very helpful.
J
Jacklyn – United StatesMay 25, 2025 – Verified booking
Valerio was such a wonderful guide!! Super knowledgeable, funny, and willing to take any questions. He keeps you engaged and makes this such a fun experience. The climb to the top really isn’t bad and is so worth it.

Product ID: 415708

Activity provider:Loving Rome

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