Rome: St. Peter's Basilica Dome to Underground Grottoes Tour

Your experience

Highlights

• Scale the dome's heights for views over the Vatican gardens.
• Ascertain from a local guide well versed in art history: note the marble make of the basilica; pay attention to the impressive ceilings and mosaics that you see before your very eyes.
• Probe deep into the underground grottoes and admire frescoes that have withstood many centuries' trials, while being regaled with interesting tales recounting its long history.

Full description

A location that unveils the burial site of hundreds of popes and royalties since the 11th century. First explore the view, then ascend to the dome through the elevator — marvel at the intricacies over marble floors and get a closer look at mosaics adorning the dome (crafted by Michelangelo). Standing at Vatican's highest point, indulge in awe-inspiring panoramas of the city including Vatican Gardens down below. There is a place where the tombs of many popes and princes since the 11th century can be seen. Climb to the top of the dome after walking on this beautiful marble floor and look at these mosaics close-up: designed by Michelangelo. After reaching this altitude, higher than any other edifice in the Vatican City, revel in panoramic views of Rome in every direction— with St. Peter's Basilica enclosed by its own square on one side and the Vatican Gardens down below!

Includes

• Papal Basilica of St. Peter's tour
• Entry to the dome tickets
• Guide
• Headsets

Not includes

• The point of entry for both the Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums is a common one.

What to bring

• Shoes that do not cause pain when worn.
• Clothes made of soft materials.

Not allowed

• Shorts
• Skirts are short.
• Shirts are sleeveless.

Know before you go

• The dome can only be accessed if you cover your knees and shoulders. All visitors have to go through security check, the duration of which may vary between 10 - 120 minutes in peak seasons.
• If the weather is bad, it may not be possible to climb up to the dome after all. In such cases you are entitled to ask for a partial refund.
• The unexpected closures of St. Peter's Basilica are caused by the internal affairs of Vatican City, and should it happen then the agency will get in touch with you without delay to make another appointment.
• On the rare occasion that the underground is closed— you will have more time to explore both the basilica and St. Peter's Square, anyway.