St. Peter’s Basilica Tour with Dome Climb and Papal Crypts

Highlights

  • Climb the iconic Dome of St. Peter’s for magnificent panoramas over Rome and the Vatican City.

  • Guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica, including Michelangelo’s Pietà, the famous Baldachin and the tomb of St. John Paul II.

  • Visit the tombs of the most important Popes in a special crypt beneath St. Peter’s Basilica

  • Hear enlightening commentary from a local Vatican expert guide throughout the tour.

Summary

Climb the dome of St. Peter's Basilica to gaze at the incredible views of Rome from its tallest building and explore the beauties of the basilica on this expertly guided tour of the Vatican. 

Tour info

Duration
3 hours
Group Size
25
Pricing (From)
Commentary
English

Why take this tour?

Climb to the top of the highest point in the Vatican City, the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica, and enjoy panoramic views of historic Rome from the viewpoint of this Renaissance masterpiece. Discover St. Peter's Basilica alongside your expert english-speaking guide who will provide you with direct entry into the basilica up to its dome. Admire the mosaics of St. Peter's, the stunning views of Rome, and the historic masterpieces like Bernini’s bronze canopy, Michelangelo’s Pietà and the Papal Crypts. Your expert guide will share the stories behind the magnificent details of St. Peter's Basilica before you enjoy time on the scenic viewing deck above. A memorable and unique tour of one of the Vatican's most breathtaking masterpieces that you must experience for yourself.  

What’s included?

  • Expert English-speaking tour guide

  • Dome entrance ticket with access to 1st level and top of the dome

  • Instant access to St. Peter’s Basilica after your climb

  • Guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica and Vatican Crypts

  • Headsets when appropriate, so you can always hear your guide

  • Hotel pick-up/drop-off

  • Gratuities

Things to know

Before you book

  • We are unable to accommodate guests with wheelchairs or any impairments requiring special assistance.

  • We are unable to accommodate strollers or baby carriages on our tour.

  • This tour is not suitable for those who suffer from claustrophobia and/or vertigo, heart or other serious medical conditions.

  • The dome’s elevator only takes you to the first terrace. In order to climb to the top of the dome you will have to use stairs (320 steps)

  • There is no skip-the-line to the Dome’s ticket office or at St. Peter’s Basilica’s security line, hence there may be some waiting time before we access the dome.

Before you go

  • It is the responsibility of all visitors to be at the meeting point 15 minutes before departure.

  • Our City Wonders coordinators will holding a sign and wearing blue City Wonders polo shirts or jackets to be easily recognizable at the meeting point.

  • Entrance into the Basilica and Dome complex requires a strict dress code. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women.

Cancellation Policy

    This tour is subject to a 24-hour cancelation policy. If you wish to cancel or amend your booking, you can do so without charge by contacting us up to 24 hours in advance of your expected departure time.

Redemption information

    - Please note that the dome’s elevator only takes you to the first terrace. In order to climb to the top of the dome you will have to use stairs (320 steps).
    - This tour is not suitable for those who suffer from claustrophobia and/or vertigo, heart or other serious medical conditions.
    - Extra measures may be implemented at some venues due to heightened global security. As a result, we may experience delays in getting through mandatory security checks when entering these venues. Extra measures may also restrict the size of bags that can be brought inside. To avoid disruptions or possible denied entry, we strongly suggest that you avoid bringing large purses, bags, or backpacks on your tour. The Vatican only permits very small bags, and specifically prohibits large bags, tripods, umbrellas, and backpacks. Any such items must be checked into the free luggage storage area which may result in your having to leave the tour early to retrieve them at the entrance.
    - It is the responsibility of all visitors to be at the meeting point 15 minutes before departure. Guests arriving after departure cannot be accommodated & missed tours or tickets cannot be refunded.
    - Please note that there is no skip-the-line to the Dome’s ticket office or at St. Peter’s Basilica’s security line, hence there may be some waiting time before we access the dome.
    - For help with meeting points or other urgent issues, please phone +39 06 8336 0561.
    - Our City Wonders coordinators will holding a sign and wearing blue City Wonders polo shirts or jackets to be easily recognizable at the meeting point.
    - This tour involves a fair amount of walking and stairs; comfortable shoes are recommended.
    - We regret that we are unable to accommodate guests with wheelchairs or any impairments requiring special assistance. We are also unable to accommodate strollers or baby carriages on our group tours.
    - Entrance into the Basilica and Dome complex requires a strict dress code. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. City Wonders cannot be held responsible for refused entry due to improper dress.


    Your voucher will be collected or scanned on redemption

About operator:

Created for travel enthusiasts with inquisitive minds, City Wonders is a global tour operator specializing in exclusive and expert tours throughout Italy, France, Spain and the UK. Its intimate tours and day trips invite travelers to go beyond sightseeing, bringing the wonders of each destination to life through behind-the-scene experiences. All City Wonders tours are guided by local experts that know the ins and outs of their city.