St. Peter’s Basilica from Top to Bottom with Dome Climb & Crypt
Access all areas of St. Peter's Basilica and immerse yourself in the history and architecture of one of the most important religious monuments in the world. Climb up 231 steps to the top of the dome for panoramic views of Rome.
Highlights
- Experience St. Peter's Square before the crowds arrive.
- See stunning views of Rome from the top of the basilica.
- Explore Rome's most famous church in exquisite detail.
- Get an up-close look at the beautiful mosaics.
- Take a rare tour of the papal crypts.
What's included
- Expert English-speaking guide
- Skip the line access to St. Peter’s Basilica
- Pre-reserved ticket to St. Peter’s Basilica dome (with elevator access)
- Headsets
- Gratuities
- Hotel Pick-Up/Drop-Off
Overview
Visit St Peter’s Basilica, climb its dome, and see the papal crypt on this all-access tour. Starting early, you’ll see St. Peter’s Square without the large daytime crowds, then head to the top of the dome for panoramic vistas over the capital. Tour the basilica to admire Michelangelo’s ‘La Pietà’ among other highlights, then finish with a visit to the papal crypt — a site normally missed by other tour groups. Numbers are limited to 20 for a small-group experience.
Beat the crowds and admire St. Peter's Basilica in all its glory as you explore the solemn grandeur at the heart of the Vatican. With a small group, early admission, an up-close look at the cathedral, and a visit to the papal tombs, you get these remarkable sights almost to yourself.
Your guide meets you just outside the entrance to St. Peter's Square and whisks you past the crowds for your trip to the grand Renaissance-era elegance of the basilica. An elevator carries you to the dome's first terrace, where you're surrounded by its beautiful artwork, and then 231 steps lead you up to one of the best views you can get of the city of Rome—from the square below you all the way across the Tiber.
Next, it's time for a journey through the basilica itself as your guide shows you the grandeur that defines one of the holiest sites in the Catholic world. Admire the exquisite detail of the baldachin designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, standing amid the space designed by Michelangelo, and then visit the famous bronze statue of St. Peter with the keys to heaven in his hand.
Another special experience is waiting for you beneath the basilica as your guide gives you a rare look at the crypts of the Vatican grotto. With more than 100 tombs holding popes, Catholic monarchs, and famous figures, the crypts let you look back through almost 2,000 years of the church's history before you part ways with your guide at the tour's end.
Points of interest :
Vatican City
Rome, Italy
Basilica di San Pietro, Piazza San Pietro, Vatican City
St Peter's Square, Vatican City
La Pietà, Piazza San Pietro, Vatican City
Tomba di San Pietro, Piazza San Pietro, Vatican City
Additional Information
Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments, or for wheelchairs or strollers. Please contact the Guest Experience team to make alternative arrangements.
Walks and Devour comply with all local government regulations; please refer to the government website in the country of your tour for the most up-to-date information.
After the terrace where the elevator stops, there are still 320 steps to climb to reach the very top.
Before you travel, please read the "Know Before You Go" section for essential information, requirements, and possible disruptions regarding your tour.
Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments, or for wheelchairs or strollers. Please contact the Guest Experience team to make alternative arrangements.
Required to bring: Valid photo ID
Mobile tickets will be accepted
Know before you go
This tour is in English.
This is a walking tour. Guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty.
The tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. No refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows.
If you cannot join your tour at the last minute (running late, etc), please contact us. We may be able to reschedule your tour with a small amendment fee depending on availability.
We ask all guests (including children) to bring ID on the day of their tour.
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.
Only small backpacks and handbags are allowed inside St. Peter's Basilica. Bag check is available at the entrance.
Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments, or for wheelchairs or strollers. Please contact the Guest Experience team to make alternative arrangements.
Tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.
Walks and Devour comply with all local government regulations; please refer to the government website in the country of your tour for the most up-to-date information.
Cancellation policy
Cancellations received greater than 24 hours prior to tour commencement are fully refundable.
