St Peter's as it opens: in before the crowds, up by lift to the terrace and on foot to the top of the dome if you choose, then the Basilica and the papal tombs below with a Vatican guide. Guide and dome access are included at €69 per person, the necropolis is not. Not advised for pregnant travellers or anyone with heart or back trouble.
Beat the crowds at St. Peter’s Basilica as it opens for the day. Take the lift partway up and make the final ascent on foot—the reward at the top is worth it.
Meet your expert Vatican guide by St. Peter’s Square and leave Rome behind you as you cross into Vatican City and enter St. Peter’s Basilica just as it opens to the public.
At the terrace level you can decide whether to relax and take in the view or climb the remaining 320 steps up to the summit, where the breathtaking view of Rome and beyond is simply unforgettable. Your guide will point out all the most interesting historical landmarks in every direction, be they in Vatican City, the wider city of Rome, or further afield.
As what goes up must come down, join us on a descent into the lower level of the basilica to experience the “Vatacombs,” a series of grottoes containing papal crypts and effigies crafted by the most celebrated artists of the centuries.
This tour runs Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, departing at 08:00. It runs year-round. These are the operator’s scheduled departures, not a live seat count: availability is confirmed at checkout. Schedule last checked September 12, 2026.
Meet at 7:45 AM for 8:00 AM departure by the Tiare fountain (Fontana delle Tiare), just beneath Largo del Colonnato and in front of the pillars which run around Saint Peter's Square. Your guide will be holding an ItaliaTours signboard. Google maps link: https://goo.gl/maps/vZvCNgmmozFLnzT3A
The tour concludes on St. Peter's Square beside St. Peter's Basilica.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
| 1+ days | Full refund |
| 0-1 days | No refund |