What You'll See
- St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican
- St. Peter’s Dome - a viewpoint over Rome
- St. Peter’s Square - the monumental heart of the Vatican
- Michelangelo’s Pietà - the basilica’s most famous sculpture
- Bernini’s Baldachin - a Baroque masterpiece above the main altar
- Vatican Grottoes - burial place of many popes
- Panoramic view of Rome and the Vatican
- Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces inside St. Peter’s Basilica
What’s included
- Guide service
- Access to the Vatican Grottoes
- Entry to St. Peter’s Dome
- Entry to St. Peter’s Basilica
- Headset
Not included
- Entry to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel
- Guided tour of St. Peter’s Dome
- Transfers
Program Description
St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican is one of the most important churches in Christianity and one of the most impressive religious buildings in the world. This monumental basilica captivates visitors not only with its scale, but also with extraordinary works of art created by the greatest masters of the Renaissance and Baroque periods. A visit here is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the history, art and spiritual atmosphere at the heart of the Vatican.
You will meet your guide at St. Peter’s Square, one of the most recognisable squares in the world. From here, your visit to one of Christianity’s most significant churches begins. First, you will head towards the basilica’s dome to start a remarkable journey to one of the most spectacular viewpoints in Rome. From the upper level you will look down on the interior of the basilica – the marble floor, Bernini’s monumental baldachin and richly decorated chapels. You will also have the chance to see the mosaics decorating the dome up close.
After reaching the highest balcony, you will see a panoramic view of Rome and the Vatican, offering a completely different perspective of the Eternal City. From this vantage point you can spot the characteristic rooftops of Roman buildings, the domes of many churches and the squares and streets surrounding the Vatican.
You will then descend directly into the basilica, avoiding the long queues at the main entrance. Inside, you will admire marble floors, gilded ceilings and impressive mosaics that decorate the interior of the basilica. Your guide will introduce you to the most important works of art housed inside the church, including the famous Michelangelo’s Pietà – the only artwork the artist ever signed. This remarkable sculpture depicts the Virgin Mary holding the body of Christ.
During the visit you will also see Bernini’s Baldachin, the monumental bronze canopy rising above the main altar and one of the most recognisable features of the basilica’s interior. You will also learn more about the history of the church, whose origins date back to the 4th century.
Finally, you will descend to the Vatican Grottoes, where the tombs of many popes are located, including the site traditionally believed to be the burial place of St. Peter. Walking through this part of the basilica allows you to see remnants of the earlier church and experience the unique atmosphere of one of the world’s most important pilgrimage sites.
At the end of the tour you will return to St. Peter’s Square, where you can take a moment to admire the monumental architecture and the extraordinary atmosphere of the Vatican.
The order of visits and the programme may be subject to change.
Important information
- This tour is not suitable for people suffering from claustrophobia or vertigo.
- Entry to St. Peter’s Basilica is free of charge, however all visitors must pass through security checks at the entrance, which may take between 15 and 120 minutes.
- The site is not wheelchair accessible.
- The tour may be cancelled due to weather conditions or liturgical events taking place in the basilica.
- Access to the dome requires climbing approximately 320 steps.
- Pets are not allowed.
- Meet your guide at the meeting point at Largo del Colonnato 5, before entering St. Peter’s Square and before the security check. Do not pass through the security gates before meeting your guide.
- Look for the yellow sign with the TOURIKS logo.
- Please arrive 20 minutes before the scheduled start time.
- Please bring your own wired headphones.
- From June to the end of August, long queues at the basilica entrance should be expected.
- Note: if the Vatican Grottoes or some areas of the basilica are closed, the guide may adjust the tour route and highlight alternative places and artworks inside the basilica. The duration and quality of the tour will remain unchanged.
Vouchers
- You'll receive your voucher via email, immediately after booking.
- Your voucher contains all key information, such as pickup times and meeting points.
- Use the digital voucher on your mobile device or print it for convenience. Be sure to reach the pickup point 15 minutes ahead of time to avoid delays and ensure a smooth start to your tour.
Cancellation Policy
Get full refund if you cancel up to 48h before the excursion begin. read terms
Provider / Organizer
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