Complete St. Peter's Basilica Tour with Dome Climb

Rome , Italy

Complete St. Peter's Basilica Tour with Dome Climb

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(33 reviews)

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

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About this experience

Prepare for an awe-inspiring adventure that will elevate your Vatican experience to new heights—literally! Climbing the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica is a journey like no other, offering breathtaking views that stretch far beyond the Vatican and across the Roman skyline.

Led by an expert local guide, you’ll ascend to the top of the Dome, uncovering fascinating stories and little-known details along the way. As you climb higher, the grandeur of Michelangelo’s architectural vision unfolds before you, culminating in a panoramic vista that will leave you speechless.

Afterwards, Descend to the ground floor and take time to explore the basilica’s majestic interior at your own pace, where centuries of art, history, and devotion converge in one of the world’s most iconic sacred spaces.

From the soaring heights of the dome to the timeless beauty within, this is more than a tour—it’s an unforgettable journey through faith, history, and wonder.

Available options

English Guided Tour

Duration: 1 hour

What's included

Early Entry to St. Peter's Basilica

Guided Climb to the top of the Dome (Tickets Included!)

Knowledgeable, English-Speaking Guide

Small Group of Maximum 25!

Enjoy free time to explore the Basilica and its masterpieces within

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Get ready to kick off your day with an unforgettable experience at St. Peter’s Basilica. As the sun rises over Rome, you’ll meet your group and start your journey into one of the most iconic landmarks in the world.

From the climb to the dome to the beauty inside the Basilica, you’ll uncover the stories, art, and history that make this place so legendary. It’s a deep dive into something truly special—an experience that sticks with you long after it ends.

Stop 2

Ready for entry to St. Peter's Basilica?
You'll walk with our guide from the meeting point, passing over famous St. Peter's square which is home to the famous Sunday Mass of the Pope.

Stop 3

Your top-to-bottom experience begins at the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica, offering the most stunning view in all of Rome. Ride the elevator to the lower dome, where brilliant mosaics shimmer overhead, then step onto the terrace for a sweeping view of Vatican City.

Feeling adventurous? Take on the final 320 steps to the very top—through narrow, winding stairways—for an unforgettable panorama of the Eternal City. It’s a view that’s absolutely worth the climb.

Stop 4

After your dome climb, step into St. Peter’s Basilica—the largest and most iconic church in the world.

Get an up-close look at Michelangelo’s emotional Pietà, and take in the grandeur of Bernini’s towering Baldacchino. Beneath it lies the high altar, marking the sacred site believed to be St. Peter’s tomb.

You’ll have time to explore at your own pace, surrounded by centuries of art, history, and meaning. It’s more than a visit—it’s an experience you won’t forget.

What's not included

Hotel Pick Up / Drop Off

Food & Beverages

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.1

9 reviews

5★

4★

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Tripadvisor 4.1

24 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

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 a high level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Please arrive 10 minutes early. Meet your guide at Largo Del Colonnato. This is the area just outside of the St. Peters Square colonnades, on the right side when looking at St. Peter’s Basilica. Our staff will be there holding a “The Tour Guy” sign standing between the fountain and the green kiosk.

Important notes

*DRESS CODE: Entrance into any religious site requires a strict dress code. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. We will not be held responsible for refused entry due to unsuitable dress.
• Please read our meeting point directions thoroughly in advance. It is the responsibility of all visitors to be at the meeting point 10 - 15 minutes before departure. Guests arriving after departure cannot be accommodated, & missed tours or tickets cannot be refunded.
• Mandatory: Everyone is required to carry a copy of the identification page of their passports on all tours.
• Large bags, backpacks, luggage, and tripods cannot be brought inside. There is a no coat check at the Basilica's. We encourage you to leave such items and anything similar at your accommodations.
• We regret that we are unable to accommodate guests with wheelchairs or any walking impairments that require special assistance on our group tours. We are also unable to accommodate strollers or baby carriages on our group tours.
• We will be subject to a security check at the entrance to all sites. Depending on the volume of visitors, we may have a short wait in the security line.
• The museums, sites and monuments we visit on our tours are among the most popular in the world. Careful planning helps limit crowd exposure, but please be aware that some locations may be unavoidably busy during standard hours/high season.
• We will be subject to a security check at the entrance to all sites. Depending on the volume of visitors, we may have a short wait in the security line.
• TTG reserves the right to alter itineraries for reasons of safety, restoration, maintenance, adverse weather conditions or occasional events.

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