Rome: St. Peter's Basilica, La Pietà, and Papal Tombs Tour

Rome: St. Peter's Basilica, La Piet, and Papal Tombs Tour

Explore St. Peter's Basilica, admiring Michelangelo's dome, Bernini's masterpiece, and the papal tombs. You can also choose to climb the dome for breathtaking panoramic views of Rome.

Activity Information

  • document-signed_15399607 Cancellation policy

    Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

  • duration-alt_14246718 Duration

    1.5 - 2.5 hours

  • guide_13794414 Live tour guide

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  • calendar-salary_14227546 Reserve now & pay later

    Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.

Your experience

Discover the stunning beauty of St.

Peter's Basilica and the Vatican.

Step right inside the heart of the Vatican and experience for yourself the breathtaking beauty of St.

Peter’s Basilica.

Begin at St.

Peter’s Square, with narration from an expert guide about the background and importance of its massive colonnades and fountains designed to welcome thousands upon thousands, indeed millions, who come as pilgrims every year.

The square is infused with both spiritual and historical importance as it is here that Vatican City finds its centerpiece.

Walk into the famous church and look at the great works made by well-known artists.

See Michelangelo's Pietà, a moving statue showing Mary with Christ, and Bernini's grand Baldachin-the loved bronze cover over the high altar.

Your guide will share interesting stories about these pieces giving deep insight into the skill, past, and spirit of this holy place.

Go into the Tombs of Popes who have greatly led not only the Church but also the flow of world history.

Listen to interesting stories about their lives, what they left behind, and how they helped which clearly bring to light many years of Vatican history.

For a remarkable view, choose the Dome climb.

Get to the top of St.

Peter's Basilica and enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of Rome with its famous skyline, old churches, and the beautiful city that waits beyond.

Great for lovers of art, history buffs, and travelers who want to immerse themselves deeply at Vatican City, this tour is an engaging encounter with culture, history, and spirituality.

Whether viewing the basilica from ground level or from the Dome above, this experience guarantees memories that will last a lifetime.

Itinerary

Starting location:

St. Peter's Gallery

2
Saint Peter's Square

Photo stop, Visit, Guided tour ()

3
St. Peter's Basilica

Photo stop, Visit, Guided tour ()

4
La Pieta

Photo stop, Visit, Guided tour ()

5
Tomb of Saint Peter

Photo stop, Visit ()

6
Vatican Grottoes

Photo stop, Visit ()

7
St Peter's Basilica Dome

Photo stop, Visit, Free time ()

8
Saint Peter's Square

Photo stop, Visit, Free time ()

9
Vatican City

Photo stop, Visit, Free time ()

Rome

Photo stop, Visit, Free time ()

Meeting Point

Highlights

  • Marvel at masterpieces by Michelangelo, Bernini, and many more
  • Listen to stories about the popes buried in the Papal Tombs
  • Admire the Basilica's array of impressive marble, ceilings, and mosaics
  • Explore St. Peter's Basilica with an art historian guide
  • Optional Dome Climb at the end of the tour: Stunning panoramic views of Rome!
Not Suitable for
  • Children under 2 years
  • People with claustrophobia
  • Wheelchair users
  • People with vertigo
What's Included
  • Official guide
  • Headsets where appropriate, so you can always hear your guide
  • Tickets for the dome climb can be purchased at the end of the tour for 15 euros (includes elevator access)
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Skip-the-line entry

To Remember

What to bring

  • Comfortable shoes
  • Long-sleeved shirt

Not allowed

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

Know before you go

  • 1. Dress Code: Shoulders and knees must be covered as this is a religious site.
  • 2. Security: Airport-style checks are required, with wait times ranging from 10 to 120 minutes, especially during peak hours.
  • 3. Possible Closures: St. Peter's Basilica may close for Vatican events. If this happens, we will reschedule your visit as soon as possible.
  • 4. Alternative Plans: If the underground is closed, we will extend the visit to St. Peter's Basilica and St. Peter's Square.
  • 5. Exclusions: This tour does not include entry to the Vatican Museums or Sistine Chapel.
  • 6. Dome Climb (Optional): The dome climb closes at 4:00 PM. The 3:00 PM tour does not include the dome climb option. For the 8:30 AM & 12:30 PM tours, the guide can show you where to purchase dome climb tickets (€15, including elevator access) at the end of the tour.
  • 7. Meet your tour coordinator at Galleria San Pietro, in front of the shop, holding a red Tix & Tours sign. Avoid speaking with or buying from street vendors.
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