Private Churches Tour San Clemente and San Giovanni & Scala Santa

Rome , Italy

Private Churches Tour San Clemente and San Giovanni & Scala Santa

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About this experience

Discover the spiritual treasures of the Eternal City on our Sacred Rome Private Tour: San Clemente, San Giovanni & Scala Santa. In 3.5 hours, explore iconic churches and holy sites with your private guide.

Begin at the Basilica of San Clemente, where three layers of history unfold beneath your feet, from a 12th-century church to ancient Roman houses.

Continue to the Archbasilica of San Giovanni in Laterano, Rome’s oldest papal basilica, famous for its stunning interior and historic baptistery.

End at the Scala Santa (Holy Stairs), a site of deep devotion believed to come from Pontius Pilate’s palace in Jerusalem.

With your private guide, enjoy a flexible and personal journey through Rome’s sacred past.

✨ Book now to experience history, faith, and art on this unique Sacred Rome Private Tour.

Available options

Private English Guided Tour

What's included

Professional licensed tour guide

Admission tickets to Basilica of San Clemente

Headsets (if needed for clarity)

Private guided tour of San Clemente, San Giovanni in Laterano & Scala Santa

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The Basilica of San Clemente in Rome offers visitors a unique journey through history. The church is known for its three-tiered structure, with the current 12th-century basilica sitting above an earlier 4th-century church. Beneath that, visitors can explore a 1st-century Roman house and a Mithraic temple. The basilica is rich in medieval frescoes, mosaics, and stunning architectural details, offering a fascinating glimpse into Rome's layered past.

Stop 2

The Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano, one of Rome's four papal basilicas, is a major historical and religious landmark. Visitors can admire its grand architecture, including the impressive façade and the beautiful interior with its vast nave, adorned with stunning mosaics. The basilica houses the papal altar and the Holy Stairs (Scala Sancta), which are believed to have been climbed by Jesus during his trial before Pontius Pilate. The basilica also contains the tombs of several popes, making it a significant site for both art and history enthusiasts.

Stop 3

The Scala Santa (Holy Stairs) in Rome is a sacred site for Christian pilgrims. These 28 marble steps are believed to be the very stairs that Jesus ascended during his trial before Pontius Pilate. The stairs are located next to the Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano and are traditionally climbed on the knees by visitors as an act of devotion. The steps are enclosed in a wooden structure to protect them, and visitors can also view beautiful frescoes that adorn the walls. The Scala Santa offers a deeply spiritual experience, rich in religious history.

Stroll through the square surrounding the basilica and take in the atmosphere of one of Rome’s most spiritual areas

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Transportation between sites

Food and drinks

Gratuities (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

3 reviews

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4★

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Tripadvisor 4.7

12 reviews

5★

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The meeting point will be in our office located in front of the Ludus Magnus site. .

Important notes

Be at the meeting point 30 mins before.
FOR UNDER 18 IT'S MANDATORY SHOW AN OFFICIAL ID O PASSPORT

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