Early Morning St Peter's Basilica with Dome and Crypt Group Tour

Rome , Italy

Early Morning St Peter's Basilica with Dome and Crypt Group Tour

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(5 reviews)

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

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About this experience

S.T PETER'S BASILICA'S MOST COMPLETE, AMAZING EARLY MORNING GUIDED TOUR.
St. Peter's Square, Basilica, Grotteos, Crypts, Tomb, and climbing the Dome guided Tour and Tickets.
Meet your guide early near St. Peter's Square, and visit St. Peter’s Basilica at its quietest before the crowds descend.
By an elevator, head up to the first level of the dome and the balcony. Admire the Basilica’s inside view of the dome on the Bernini’s canopy below and the array of incredible mosaics that circle the dome. Climb the spiral staircase to the top of the dome, the highest point within Rome, for breathtaking views of the Eternal City.
Come down from the Dome and enter the Basilica with your guide, walk through the highlights, and see the ‘Pietà’ of Michelangelo and all the masterpieces adorning the Basilica before descending to the underground crypts. Here, you can see Saint Peter's Tomb and the burial spot of hundreds of popes.
After the tour, spending extra time in the Basilica is possible.

Available options

ST PETER'S BASILICA & DOME

What's included

On-site assitance

Guided tour of St. Peter's Dome

Tickets to climb St Peter's Basilica Dome

Guided tour of St. Peter Basilica

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

St Peter's Square, the heart of Vatican City, the smallest state in the world, which was in antiquity occupied by Nero’s circus and gardens, where many Christians, including St. Peter, were martyred.

Stop 2

Churches don’t get bigger than St. Peter’s Basilica, in every sense of the word. Not only is it physically colossal, but it’s also the home of the Catholic Church. Enter the historic walls of Vatican City, the residence of the Pope, to discover the focal point of a historical and spiritual pilgrimage.

Stop 3

The dome was designed by Michelangelo who worked on the basilica's construction beginning in 1547.
Once on top of the Dome, you will have a bird's-eye view of Vatican City as well as a breathtaking panorama of Rome, spread out 136m below.

What's not included

Gratuities

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Food and drinks

Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel are not part of this tour

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

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

Customers have a mandatory meeting time stated 20 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time due to managing and organizational reasons.If you arrive late for the meeting time, it will not be possible to join the group or reschedule, unless you pay for the activity again. As per "No Show" rules you will not be entitled to a refund.

A dress code is required to enter places of worship and Vatican Museum. 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

The dome's terrace might not be accessible during bad weather conditions. In that case, you can either ask for a partial refund and visit the Basilica and the grottoes or decide to cancel the tour for a full refund

Children must be accompanied by an adult

The activity can suffer 20/30 min variation due to organizational resons

Please be advised capacity regulations and security may delay the tour departure This could also influence the smooth running of the tour especially on national holidays and events.

Cancellations, changes or issues due to weather, security and events held by the monument are beyond our control and are directly decided by their administration team. These issues will be reviewed by us and dealt with on an individual basis but are the responsibility of the monument.

Child discount is applied only with a valid ID card

Note: tour will not operate on religious holidays

WILL NOT BE POSSIBLE TO VISIT THE BASILICA DURING RELIGIOUS HOLIDAYS AND CEREMONIES (Audiences, Beatifications, Masses of the POPE). The Basilica is often subject to sudden closures. In these cases it is not possible to guarantee access to the Basilica.

Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair.

All visitors must pass through the monument/attraction security check please allow at least 20 minutes to clear security.

Please be aware that large bags/backpacks/suitcases are not permitted in the monument/ attraction. Only very small bags are allowed. Please do not bring these items with you on the day of your tour as there are no cloakrooms at the monument.

For security reasons all visitors and their luggage shall be screened. To facilitate the security checks please insert any object (including mobile phone) in the bag/backpack or in the tray to be included in the X-ray

No change on a booking can be accepted after 24hrs to the starting time of the tour. In that instance, no refund will be issued.

For the safety of all guests, the tour operator reserves the right to refuse service to passengers who are intoxicated or show signs of intoxication. If, as a result, your tour is canceled, you will not be entitled to a refund.

Pets are not allowed

Not recommended for travellers with claustrophobia

Not recommended for travellers with vertigo

Not recommended for people with those with walking disabilities or walker users

Meeting point

Please meet your guide at Largo del Colonnato 5. Please be at the meeting point 20 minutes before the starting time.

Important notes

Please arrive 20 minutes before your scheduled start time.
Please be aware that tour departures have strict timing. If you arrive late at the stated meeting time, joining the group or rescheduling will not be possible unless you pay for the activity again. As per "No Show" rules, you will not get refunded.

Knees & Shoulders MUST be covered for both men & women to enter! You may risk refusing entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements.
Please be advised capacity regulations and security may delay the tour departure; This could also influence the smooth running of the tour, especially on national holidays and events. All visitors must pass through the monument/attraction security check. Please allow at least 20 minutes to clear security.

Cancellations, changes, or issues due to weather, security, and events held by the monument are beyond our control and are directly decided by their administration team. These issues will be reviewed by us and dealt with on an individual basis but are the responsibility of the monument.
The Basilica of St. Peter's may be subject to unscheduled closings and late openings for religious ceremonies. Because these are often last-minute for security reasons, we do not have time to notify our guests.
The dome's terrace might not be accessible during bad weather conditions. In that case, you can either ask for a partial refund and visit the Basilica and the grottoes or decide to cancel the tour for a full refund.

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