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Rome: St. Peter’s Basilica Tour, La Pietà, Papal Tombs and Dome

4.9 Excellent 127 reviews
|
1h–2h
|
German, English, Italian, French, Spanish
Free cancellation Instant confirmation Live guide

Ratings & Reviews

4.9
127 reviews
5
122
4
2
3
1
2
1
1
1
Ratings collected from Guidekin & Viator & Tripadvisor

Overview

Guidekin summary

Bernini's square, the Basilica with the Pietà and the Baldachin, then the papal grottoes, with an accredited historian on the headsets for €20 per person, and a 4.91 rating across 127 reviews. Entry to the Museums and the Sistine Chapel is not part of it, and the dome climb is bought separately. Security can take a long time at peak hours.

From the guide

Discover the wonders of St. Peter’s Basilica with a expert guide and uncover the stories behind Michelangelo’s Pietà, Bernini’s magnificent Baldachin, and the historic Papal Tombs.

Meet your guide outside St. Peter’s Square and begin with Bernini’s iconic colonnades, fountains, and the fascinating history of this legendary square at the heart of Vatican City.

Enter St. Peter’s Basilica and admire its breathtaking architecture, magnificent chapels, and extraordinary works of art. Stand before Michelangelo’s world-famous Pietà, marvel at Bernini’s monumental Baldachin, and hear fascinating stories about the artists, popes, and events that shaped this incredible church.

Continue beneath the basilica to explore the Papal Tombs, where many popes are laid to rest. Discover the history and traditions surrounding this remarkable part of St. Peter’s.

By the end of your experience, you’ll have a deeper appreciation of Vatican history, Renaissance art, and one of Rome’s spectacular landmarks.

Tour options

The operator sells this tour in 11 versions. Prices are the operator's current list for two travellers; the calendar shows the exact figure for your date and party.

Spanish Tour

from €20 / person
Guide: Spanish

English Tour

from €20 / person
Guide: English

German Tour

from €40 / person
Guide: German

French Tour

from €40 / person
Guide: French

Italian Tour

from €40 / person
Guide: Italian

Spanish Tour with Dome Climb

from €89 / person
Guide: Spanish

German Tour with Dome Climb

from €89 / person
Guide: German

English Tour with Dome Climb

from €89 / person
Guide: English

French Tour with Dome Climb

from €89 / person
Guide: French

Spanish Private Tour

from €399 / person
Guide: Spanish

Dome Climb Ticket included

English Private Tour

from €399 / person
Guide: English

Dome Climb Ticket included: English Private Tour Dome Climb Ticket included

Schedule & Availability

Runs daily
Departures: 9 start times between 08:30 and 15:00
Available year-round

This tour runs daily, with 9 start times between 08:30 and 15:00 depending on the date. 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.

What's Included

Headsets: Ensure clear communication for an immersive experience.
Guided Tour: Explore with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.
Official Guide Historian Expert: Learn from an accredited historian's expertise.
Obelisk Viewing: Admire the ancient Egyptian Obelisk in the heart of the square.
St. Peter's Square: Discover the grandeur of this iconic Vatican landmark.
St. Peter's Basilica: Immerse yourself in the opulent interiors and significant artworks.
Papal Grottoes: Descend into the crypt beneath the Basilica, uncovering centuries of history.

What's Not Included

Dome climb with elevator
Skip-the-line option

Itinerary

St. Peter's Basilica Stop 1
Next, enter the Basilica and witness its grandeur. Admire the golden ceilings and impressive mosaics that took 150 years to rebuild. Follow your expert guide through the renowned masterpieces of Renaissance and Neoclassic art, including Michelangelo's "Pietà". Stand in awe of the harmonious 30-meter-high canopy and appreciate the expressive power and delicate beauty of this iconic artwork.
45 min
La Pieta Stop 2
Discover the stunning Pietà, Michelangelo’s masterpiece, a poignant sculpture depicting Mary cradling Jesus, showcased within the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica
15 min
The Vatican Grottoes Stop 3
Descend into the underground grottoes and discover the final resting place of St. Peter. Trace the ancient walls of the original 4th-century basilica with your fingertips and imagine the history that surrounds you. Marvel at the beautiful frescoes that adorn the underground chambers and gain a deeper understanding of the significance of this holy site. Your expert guide will share fascinating insights into the history and spirituality of this sacred place, making this a truly unforgettable experience.
15 min
St. Peter's Basilica Stop 4
At the end of the tour, your guide will point you to the ticket desk where you can purchase optional tickets for the dome climb.
30 min

Departure & Return

Start point

Upon reaching the designated meeting point, look for the tour coordinator holding a Red sign labeled "TIX & TOUR". It's crucial to have your voucher ready for check-in. If you encounter any difficulty locating the tour coordinator, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Additional Information

  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • 1. Dress Code: Shoulders and knees must be covered as this is a religious site.
  • 2. Security: Airport-style checks are required, with wait times ranging from 10 to 120 minutes, especially during peak hours.
  • 3. Possible Closures: St. Peter’s Basilica may close for Vatican events. If this happens, we will reschedule your visit as soon as possible.
  • 4. Alternative Plans: If the underground is closed, we will extend the visit to the Basilica and St. Peter’s Square.
  • 5. Exclusions: This tour does not include entry to the Vatican Museums or Sistine Chapel.
  • 6. Dome Climb (Optional): The dome climb closes at 4:00 PM. The 3:00 PM tour does not include the dome climb option. For the 8:30 AM & 12:30 PM tours, the guide can show you where to purchase dome climb tickets (€15, including elevator access) at the end of the tour.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

1+ daysFull refund
0-1 daysNo refund
From € 20 / person