Dome Climb & St. Peter's Basilica Private Tour

At a glance

Dome Climb & St. Peter's Basilica Private Tour is a 2h private experience in Vatican City, , operated by Tours of the Vatican with Francesco & his team. Travellers rate it 4.5 out of 5 across 10 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor. Prices start from $349.31 per person. Included: Private tour, Professional art historian guide, Guaranteed to skip the long lines.

Quick facts

Duration

2h

Group

Private tour — only your group

Languages

English, Italian

Pickup

Meet at the start point

Confirmation

Confirmed within 48 hours

Ticket

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

Cancellation

See cancellation policy

Overview

Itinerary

1. Stop 1 · 30m

   The Dome of St. Peter's Basilica is best seen from an up-close perspective. A short lift ride will take you to the main level inside the vault. From here, you’ll have a fantastic view of the staggering mosaics and stunning elaborate embellishments. This view affords the best perspective to appreciate the artisans’ skills and techniques used to create such intricate work.
   
   Climb up the 281 steps to the highest point of the Dome for one of the best views of the entire city of Rome, and your guide will show you landmarks and points of interest from this birds-eye view.

2. Stop 2 · 30m

   is traditionally an entrance portal located within the Papal major basilicas in Rome. The doors are normally sealed by mortar and cement from the inside so that they cannot be opened. They are ceremoniously opened during Jubilee years designated by the Pope, for pilgrims who enter through those doors may piously gain the plenary indulgences attached with the Jubilee year celebrations.

3. Stop 3 · 1h

   It is then time for a tour of St. Peter’s Basilica where you will explore the numerous side chapels with their hidden crypts. You will see Michelangelo’s Pietà and your guide will explain why this is the only work that he signed. You will gain an appreciation of the mastery that went into the creation of Bernini’s altarpiece and learn how Michelangelo triumphed over his contemporaries for the honour to paint St. Peter’s magnificent dome.
   
   There is still more to see though below ground level. You guide will lead you below ground to the papal crypt where, over the centuries, many of the Popes have been interred. This special place is a site of pilgrimage for many Catholics. Although talking is allowed, before you enter the crypt you guide will tell you where the most important popes are laid to rest.

Meeting point

Good to know

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements
• READ CAREFULLY: Because of the Papal events in the Vatican some areas might get closed last minute without previous notice. This has already happened this year and can happen again during your Vatican tour: the Sistine chapel and/or the Basilica of Saint Peter might not be accessible. In case of such events our tour guide will provide you with a valuable alternative focusing the tour inside the Vatican museums.

Cancellation policy

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Frequently asked questions