Private Tour of the Four Papal Basilicas

Rome , Italy

Private Tour of the Four Papal Basilicas

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About this experience

Explore the Four Papal Basilicas of Rome with us! Live a unique experience with our exclusive tour of art, history and spirituality. Rely on the expertise of our certified and specialized tour guides who will make your visit unforgettable and accompany you to discover the beating heart of the Eternal City.

Available options

Private Tour of the Four Papal Basilicas

What's included

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The group will be accompanied by the guide, as the first stop of the tour, to the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls, an imposing building built in the first half of the fourth century AD.C. by the will of Emperor Constantine on the place that tradition indicates as the tomb of the Apostle Paul. The guide will point out and describe all the most characteristic points of this place, involving the group through the history of this important monument.

Stop 2

The group will be accompanied by the guide, as the second stop of the tour, to the Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano, Cathedral of Rome built by the will of Emperor Constantine and whose origins are linked to an ancient legend. The guide will point out and describe all the most characteristic points of this place, for example the great restoration by the famous architect Francesco Borromini on the occasion of the celebration of the Jubilee of 1650, involving the group through the history of this important monument.

Stop 3 Pass by

The group will be accompanied by the guide, as the third stop of the tour, to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, the largest and oldest basilica dedicated to the figure of the Virgin Mary. The guide will point out and describe all the most characteristic points of this place, for example the precious mosaics and the two large papal chapels surmounted by two domes, commissioned by Sixtus V and Paul V, involving the group through the history of this important monument.

Stop 4

The group will be accompanied by the guide, as the fourth and last stop of the tour, to St. Peter's Basilica, the largest and most important of the four papal basilicas. The guide will point out and describe all the most characteristic points of this place, such as the large square with the colonnade by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, the imposing facade erected by Carlo Maderno between 1607 and 1614 and the large dome designed by Michelangelo Buonarroti. At the end of the explanation, the tour will be finished and the group will be free to leave or stop again to independently tour inside the basilica.

What's not included

Snacks

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.3

4 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

WARNING: IT IS MANDATORY TO WEAR COMFORTABLE CLOTHING AND SHOES AND CONSONANT WITH THE RULES IMPOSED BY THE RELIGIOUS ENVIRONMENTS THAT WILL BE VISITED.

Meeting point

The address provided is that of our agency. You can reach us by getting off at the Colosseum stop of Metro B and then walk in about 5 minutes.

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