St. Peter’s Basilica Tours: Visit the Dome and Papal Grottos

St. Peter’s Basilica Tours: Which One to Choose

Ticket Types

St. Peter’s Basilica ranks among the most sacred places in Christianity and stands as a Renaissance masterpiece, enriched by works by Michelangelo, Bernini, and other celebrated artists. Access to the main body of the Basilica is generally free, but certain areas or specific experiences require purchasing dedicated tickets or booking guided tours.

Basic tours of St. Peter’s Basilica may include:

A visit to the main nave and chapels
Access to the Dome (via stairs or elevator for an additional fee)
Entry to the Treasury (housing vestments and relics)
Optional entrance to the Vatican Grottoes

For some special areas or time slots—such as limited evening visits or access to spaces normally closed to the public—specific tours are required. These include:

Visits at exclusive times
Guided tours dedicated to the Dome
Access to restricted areas (e.g., the Vatican Necropolis, subject to authorization)
Private tours with in-depth explanations

Where to Buy Tickets for St. Peter’s Basilica?

Admission to the main nave of St. Peter’s Basilica is free, but to avoid long security lines—especially in high season—consider booking a priority tour that includes entrance with a guide. Moreover, the Dome and certain areas (such as the Treasury or the Necropolis) may require specific tickets.

Key channels for purchasing or booking are:

Online
Information offices adjacent to the Basilica or in the Vatican area
Authorized tour operators offering combined packages with other attractions

Purchasing tickets online through ArcheoRoma for visiting St. Peter’s Basilica allows you to:

avoid queues at security, particularly if you opt for guided tours with priority admission
secure a spot for popular time slots and for visiting the Dome, Treasury, or Necropolis

P.S. Some guided tours also include access to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel, making for a complete Vatican itinerary.

Basic Tours of St. Peter’s Basilica

Basic tours of the Basilica focus on its main highlights and historical background. Typically lasting from one to one and a half hours, they provide an essential overview of the world’s largest church. These tours often do not include ascending the Dome or other special areas, but they represent an excellent introduction for first-time visitors.

17 €

3.9 /5 | 275 reviews

Discover the wonders of St. Peter’s Basilica with a 1-hour guided tour featuring golden ceilings, iconic sculptures, and a walk through the Vatican Grottoes

Tours Including a Visit to the Dome

Certain tours offer the chance to ascend the Dome of St. Peter’s, one of Rome’s most captivating experiences. You can choose to climb on foot or use the elevator (which covers only part of the journey). From the top, you’ll enjoy a unique panoramic view of the Vatican and the Eternal City.

24 €

3.6 /5 | 576 reviews

Join a guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica and explore its magnificent art, architecture, and spiritual legacy with insightful commentary from an expert guide

54 €

4.5 /5 | 804 reviews

Guided tour of one of the wonders of the Italian Renaissance: St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican and his dome

47 €

4.6 /5 | 332 reviews

Experience an early morning tour of St. Peter's Basilica, including the dome and Papal Crypts. Led by an expert guide, explore these iconic areas before the crowds

39 €

3.9 /5 | 113 reviews

Experience a guided journey through St. Peter’s Basilica, with special access to the dome for breathtaking city views. Discover the basilica’s rich art and architecture with an expert guide

49 €

4.7 /5 | 990 reviews

Enjoy a guided journey through St. Peter’s Basilica with a dome climb offering stunning views, artistic highlights, and entry to the sacred Papal Tombs for a unique experience in Rome

54 €

4.5 /5 | 987 reviews

This exclusive guided tour provides priority access and an unforgettable dome climb. Visitors can marvel at the stunning architecture, explore intricate details, and gain valuable insights throughout the experience, making this tour a must for those seeking a unique and memorable journey.

Special Tours

For those seeking a deeper experience, there are special tours, often with restricted access or at quieter times of day. These might include:

Early morning or evening tours with small groups
Entry to the Vatican Necropolis (limited)
Private tours with art historians or specialized guides

Note: These tours are highly sought after and availability is limited, especially in peak seasons. Book well in advance to ensure a spot.

Combined Tours

Many combined tours allow you to see St. Peter’s Basilica along with other key sites, such as the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, or Castel Sant’Angelo. These bundles optimize your time and enable you to have a comprehensive cultural experience in a single day.

99 €

4.5 /5 | 555 reviews

This exclusive early-access Vatican tour offers guided entry to the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica, providing a peaceful experience of iconic masterpieces

99 €

4.1 /5 | 23 reviews

Explore the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica with fast-track entry on a guided tour, offering insight into world-renowned art and architecture

99 €

4.6 /5 | 11 reviews

Experience a semi-private guided tour of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica with priority entry, an expert guide, and a small group setting.

48 €

4.3 /5 | 71 reviews

Experience St. Peter's Basilica with a guided tour of the Dome and Papal Tombs. Discover unique perspectives of Vatican City and Rome from Michelangelo's masterpiece.

54 €

4.5 /5 | 987 reviews

47 €

4.6 /5 | 332 reviews

Experience an early morning tour of St. Peter's Basilica, including the dome and Papal Crypts. Led by an expert guide, explore these iconic areas before the crowds

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Why Buy Tickets on ArcheoRoma?

Buying tickets through ArcheoRoma offers several advantages:

Free cancellation on most tickets, enabling a full refund in case of unforeseen circumstances.
A broad selection of tickets, including combined tours and special visits for a more comprehensive experience.
Exclusive discounts available to those booking via our platform.

The purchasing process is straightforward and secure, with instant booking confirmation and assistance if needed.

Should I Book Basilica Tours in Advance?

Yes, particularly if you want to avoid queues or gain access to special areas (such as the Dome or the Necropolis). St. Peter’s Basilica is one of Rome’s most visited attractions, and booking a tour in advance ensures guaranteed entry, along with more convenient time slots.

Can I Visit the Basilica Without a Guide?

Access to the main nave of the Basilica is free (aside from queueing for security), but a guided tour offers insights into historical and artistic details you might otherwise miss, helping you fully appreciate treasures like Michelangelo’s Pietà or Bernini’s Baldachin.

What Is the Dress Code for St. Peter’s Basilica?

When visiting the Basilica (and any sacred place), visitors must wear proper attire: shoulders and knees must be covered, and hats or other clothing deemed disrespectful are not allowed. Security may deny entry to anyone who does not meet the dress code.

Are There Evening or After-Hours Visits?

At certain times of the year, evening tours or special events may be organized, generally with limited admission and high demand. It’s advisable to check in advance for available dates and book early if places are restricted.

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