Vatican: St. Peter’s Basilica, Dome & Tombs Reserved Entry & Tour
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Visit sites like St. Peter’s Square and Basilica with reserved entry.
Meet your guide in Piazza della Città Leonina and dive into the ancient history of the Vatican City. Admire the statuesque columns and majestic pilasters in St. Peter’s Square. Walk through the walk close to the 1st balcony which is decorated with amazing frescoes.
Enter the Basilica and reach the summit of the Dome after 320 steps, where you are rewarded for the climb with views of the city center. Have some free time to enjoy views of monuments like the Roman Colosseum and Pantheon.
Be captivated by the Basilica's interiors which are filled with masterpieces from masters like Bernini and Michelangelo. See pieces from the Renaissance and Baroque periods.
Follow your guide towards the Vatican’s historic Grottoes to get a closer look of the rooms, chapels, and the papal tombs, where many Popes, royals, and other dignitaries are laid to rest.
Available options
Vatican: St. Peter’s Basilica, Dome & Tombs Reserved Entry & Tour
What's included
Guided Tour to the St. Peter’s Dome
Small groups of 15 person
Expert English speaking guide
Visit to the Papal Tombs
St. Peter’s Basilica Reserved Access (NO skip-the-line)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Enjoy an early morning tour with our local guide starting from the statuesque St. Peter's Square all the way through the famous Basilica.
2
Stop 2
Set foot on the summit of the majestic St. Peter's Dome and get a 360 degree view of the city centre and its main archeological attactions such as the Colosseum and the Pantheon.
3
Stop 3
Head back to the Basilica with an easy access, marvel around the sacred church and witness the acclaimed masterpieces of Michelangelo and Bernini, as well as some of mosaics, paintings and structures of the Renaissance and Baroque era.
To end the journey, get ready to walk through the emblematic Papal tombs, a resting place of the majority of the deceased Popes at your own leisure.
What's not included
Food and beverage
Hotel Pick up and Drop off
Gratuities
Skip-the-line access to Basilica and Dome
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.8
12 reviews
5★
7
4★
1
3★
1
2★
0
1★
3
Tripadvisor
3.8
13 reviews
5★
7
4★
2
3★
1
2★
1
1★
2
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Provide each participant’s full name as on their passport when booking; tickets are nominative and valid only for the assigned participant.
- Present a valid ID or passport for verification during the visit.
- Entrance to St. Peter’s Basilica is free. This ticket grants access through a designated entry point but does not include skip-the-line privileges.
- All guests are required to undergo airport-style security. During high season the wait may be up to 2 hours.
- Late arrivals will neither be accommodated nor refunded.
- The elevator of the Dome only takes you to the first balcony, to climb up to the main Dome you will have to use the stairs (320 steps) which require 20 extra minutes
- The St. Peter's Basilica Dome might not be accessible during bad weather conditions
- The Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and Vatican Necropoli are not part of this tour
- Wear clothing that covers at least the shoulders and knees, if your clothing does not comply with the rules, you may be denied entry
- Some parts might not be accessible & are subject to unexpected closures until further notice due site’s restrictions
- What to bring: Passport or ID card (mandatory), Comfortable shoes, Weather-appropriate clothing
- Not allowed: Shorts, Baby strollers, Luggage or large bags, Short skirts, Sleeveless shirts, Backpacks, Umbrellas, Tripod, Animals, Potentially dangerous objects
Not suitable for wheelchair users and people with serious medical condition (vertigo and heart problems)
Meeting point
• Please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the activity starts
• Our staff will be meeting you holding a “Loving Rome” flag and will be stationed at the “black tables” of Caffè Leonina (front row), situated beyond the white tables of the kiosk.
Important notes
- To exchange your voucher and receive your entry ticket(s), please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes prior to your selected entrance time.
- Our staff will be meeting you with a “Loving Rome” flag and will be stationed at the “black tables” of Caffè Leonina (front row), situated beyond the white tables of the kiosk.
- The meeting point is near the arches, where the square meets via di Porta Angelica. It is located at the corner of the square, on the left-hand side.
- All guests must pass through mandatory airport-style security. During peak season, wait times can reach up to 2–3 hours.
- Late arrivals or no-shows will neither be accommodated nor refunded.
- Present a valid ID or passport for verification during the visit.
About Rome
Rome, the capital of Italy, is a city of ancient ruins, artistic masterpieces, and vibrant culture. Known as the Eternal City, it is a living museum where every corner tells a story of its rich history spanning over 2,500 years.
Top Attractions
Colosseum
The Colosseum is an iconic symbol of Rome and one of the most famous ancient amphitheaters in the world. It was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles.
Historical
1-2 hours
€16 (combined ticket with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill)
Vatican City
Vatican City is an independent city-state enclaved within Rome. It is the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church.
Religious
Half day
€17 (Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel), Free (St. Peter's Basilica)
Roman Forum
The Roman Forum was the political, commercial, and legal hub of the Roman Republic and Empire. It is a sprawling ruin of temples, basilicas, and arches.
Historical
1-2 hours
€16 (combined ticket with Colosseum and Palatine Hill)
Pantheon
The Pantheon is a former Roman temple, now a church, known for its large dome and oculus. It is one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in Rome.
Historical
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is a Baroque masterpiece and the largest fountain in Rome. It is a popular spot for visitors to throw coins and make wishes.
Architecture
15-30 minutes
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cacio e Pepe
A simple yet delicious pasta dish made with Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper.
Pasta
Vegetarian
Carbonara
A rich pasta dish made with eggs, Pecorino Romano, guanciale (cured pork cheek), and black pepper.
Pasta
Contains pork and eggs
Supplì
Fried rice balls filled with mozzarella and tomato sauce.
Snack
Vegetarian (some variations may contain meat)
Carciofi alla Romana
Artichokes braised with garlic, mint, and olive oil.
Vegetable
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Appian Way Regional Park
Biking along the Tiber River
Rock climbing in the nearby mountains
Picnicking in Villa Borghese Gardens
Boating on Lake Albano
Enjoying a spa day at a luxury hotel
Visiting the Vatican Museums
Attending an opera at the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the summer peak. Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
15-30°C
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, Spanish, French
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Rome is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing and scams can be a problem in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use official taxis or ride-sharing services
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or bracelets
Getting there
By air
- Leonardo da Vinci International Airport • 35 km from city center
- Ciampino Airport • 15 km from city center
By train
Roma Termini, Roma Tiburtina
By bus
Tiburtina Bus Station, Roma Termini
Getting around
Public transport
The metro system is efficient and covers major tourist areas. It operates from 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Trastevere
Monti
Prancipio
Testaccio
Day trips
Ostia Antica
30 km from Rome • Half day
An ancient Roman port city with well-preserved ruins, including a theater, baths, and mosaics. It offers a glimpse into daily life in ancient Rome.
Tivoli
30 km from Rome • Full day
A picturesque town known for its stunning villas and gardens, including the famous Villa d'Este with its elaborate fountains and gardens.
Orvieto
120 km from Rome • Full day
A charming hilltop town known for its stunning cathedral, underground caves, and local wine. It offers a mix of history, culture, and scenic views.
Festivals
Natale di Roma • April 21
Festa de' Noantri • July
Rome Film Festival • October
Pro tips
- Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
- Use public transport or walk instead of taking taxis to save money and experience the city like a local
- Try local specialties and ask for recommendations from locals and restaurant staff
- Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and be respectful of local customs and traditions
- Be aware of pickpockets and scams, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots
$60
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
