Rome Vatican St Peter's Basilica & Dome Private Tour & Breakfast

Rome , Italy

Rome Vatican St Peter's Basilica & Dome Private Tour & Breakfast

Active

(7 reviews)

2h - 3h

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Visit the Vatican before the crowds descend. Discover St. Peter's Square, the most famous square in the world, surrounded by Bernini's imposing colonnade, composed of 284 columns, on top of which stand 140 statues, and admire the Vatican obelisk.
Reach the first level of the Dome and go to the panoramic balcony. Enter the Dome, admire the incredible mosaics, and see Bernini's Baldachin. Continue climbing the spiral staircase and, from the highest point in Rome, admire breathtaking 360-degree views.
Reach the roof of the Basilica and have breakfast with a cappuccino and a Cornetto.
After breakfast, reach the Portico of the Basilica, where you can pick up your audio guide to discover the interior.
This colossal Basilica, erected on the burial place of St. Peter, houses many masterpieces of the most influential artists: admire Michelangelo's Pietà, Bernini's Baldachin, and the tombs of the Popes. Descend into the crypts, where you can visit the tomb of St. Peter.

Available options

Rome Vatican St Peter's Basilica & Dome Private Tour & Breakfast

What's included

St. Peter's Square Guided tour

Breakfast on the roof of St. Peter's Basilica (Cappuccino and Cornetto)

Visiti of the Grottes

Panoramic balcony access and Spiral staircase climb to the top of the Dome

St. Peter's Dome Guided Tour and Tickets and Elevator to the roof of the Basilica

Guided tour of the Basilica

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Visit the Vatican at the quietest time before the crowds descend. Meet your guide and visit St. Peter's Square, the most famous square in the world that symbolizes the universal embrace of the Church. It is surrounded by the imposing colonnade of Gian Lorenzo Bernini, composed of 284 columns arranged radially in four rows, on top of which stand 140 statues over three meters high. In the center of the square, you can also admire the Vatican obelisk from the circus of Caligula and Nero.

Stop 2

Enter the Dome, admire the incredible mosaics inside, and look over Bernini's Baldachin and the splendid mosaics. Continue climbing the spiral staircase to the top of the Dome (320 steps) from the highest point in Rome and admire breathtaking 360-degree views of Rome, the Vatican City, and its gardens. Descend from the Dome, meet your tour guide on the roof of the Basilica, and have breakfast, a cappuccino, and a Cornetto in an incredible location.

Stop 3

Descend from the roof and reach the Portico of the Basilica, where you can take your audio guide to visit the interior of the Basilica. St. Peter's Basilica is an impressive symbol of religion and architectural genius. This colossal Basilica, erected on the burial site of St. Peter, houses many masterpieces of the most influential artists in art history—Marvel at Michelangelo's Pietà, Bernini's Baldachin, and the Popes' tombs and St. Peter. Head underground to the grottoes and crypts, where you can visit St. Peter's tomb and the monumental tombs of many popes over the centuries. You can enhance your visit to the 'Portico' of St. Peter's Basilica with an audio guide and a paper map. This convenient tool allows you to delve into the Basilica's rich history, uncover its hidden secrets, and marvel at its most extraordinary monuments. The audio guide is available in Italian, English, Spanish, and French from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., allowing you to explore at your own pace.

What's not included

Gratuities

Pick Up and Drop Off

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

7 reviews

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1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

The duration can be between 120/150 Minutes.

Everyone entering the basilica must pass through the security check that can take 10/60 minutes, depending on the season.

Vatican City dress code, which requires covered shoulders and knees.

Audio guide pickup between 9:00 and 16:00 at St. Peter's Basilica

Available audio guide languages: Italian, English, French, and Spanish.

You must leave an identity document (ID or passport), which will be returned to you when the device is returned.

If the Dome Guided tour is canceled due to adverse weather and the Basilica is closed for religious events, it can be rescheduled and partially refunded. However, you will receive a refund if you cannot change the date or if one or both services are canceled.

It will be sufficient to show your reservation to your tour guide

The dome's terrace might not be accessible in bad weather conditions.

The tour will not operate on religious holidays, and visiting the basilica during these holidays and ceremonies is impossible.

If the bar on the rooftop is closed, a partial refund of Euro 4,00 per person will be refunded.

Please be aware that large bags/backpacks/suitcases are not permitted. Only small bags are allowed.

Climbing the dome requires a spiral staircase with 320 steps. You can wait on the first terrace if you do not want to reach the top.

You must be on time at the meeting point. If you are delayed more than 10 minutes, the entire tour or part of it can be canceled.

Meeting point

The meeting is at Largo del Colonnato 5 (in front of the Galleria San Pietro Shop). Your tour guide will have a signboard reporting 'Tour in the City'.

Important notes

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
The meeting point is at Largo del Colonnato 5, in front of the Galleria San Pietro shop. Your tour guide will be holding a sign that reads “TOUR IN THE CITY.”

The tour duration is approximately 120–150 minutes.

• All visitors entering the Basilica must pass through a security check, which may take 10 to 60 minutes, depending on the season.
• A dress code is enforced in Vatican City: shoulders and knees must be covered.
• Audio guide pick-up is available from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at St. Peter’s Basilica.
• After passing security, the meeting point will be at the desk under the portico of St. Peter’s Basilica.
• Available audio guide languages: Italian, English, French, and Spanish.
• An identity document (ID or passport) is required as a deposit and will be returned upon device return.
• It is sufficient to show your reservation to the tour guide.

If the Dome guided tour is canceled due to adverse weather conditions or if the Basilica is closed for religious events, the tour may be rescheduled and partially refunded. A full refund will be issued if rescheduling is not possible or if one or both services are canceled.

• The Dome terrace may not be accessible in bad weather conditions.
• The tour does not operate on religious holidays, and access to the Basilica during ceremonies and holidays is not permitted.
• If the rooftop bar is closed, a partial refund of €4.00 per person will be provided.
• Large bags, backpacks, and suitcases are not allowed. Only small bags are permitted.
• Access to the Dome requires climbing a spiral staircase of 320 steps. Guests who do not wish to climb to the top may remain on the first terrace.
• Punctuality is essential. If you are more than 10 minutes late, the tour, or part of it, may be canceled.

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