Santa Maria Maggiore Upper Areas Open Time Skip the Line ticket

Rome , Italy

Santa Maria Maggiore Upper Areas Open Time Skip the Line ticket

Active

(19 reviews)

1h - 2h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Visit the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore at your convenience according to the opening hours without waiting in line, with our flexible and priority skip-the-line and open-time ticket which includes the special access to the Upper Areas of the Basilica.
While you may be asked to select a specific time slot during booking, you are free to visit the Basilica at any time on your chosen date — before or after the chosen time during reservation, or whenever it suits you during the day!

*PLEASE SEE BELOW THE BASILICA OPENING HOURS*

Opening hours

°°° Monday - Saturday :
08:00 AM - 06:30 PM

°°°Sunday :
12:30 PM - 05:30 PM

Please note:
**On SUNDAYS, the upper area will be open from 12:30 p.m.
The Basilica will be open in the morning for the Holy Mass, and access during the service is free and open to all.
After the Mass, you are welcome to visit the UPPER AREA from 12:30 p.m. until 5:30 p.m.

Available options

Santa Maria Maggiore Upper Areas Open Time Skip the Line ticket

What's included

Open time tickets - you can go at any time during your chosen date!

SKIP THE LINE AND OPEN TIME TICKET

Entrance at any time during the opening hours

Skip the line and enjoy a flexible visit to the upper areas of Santa Maria Maggiore!

SPECIAL AND PRIORITY ACCESS TO THE UPPER AREAS OF THE BASILICA

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Discover the Hidden Treasures of Santa Maria Maggiore's Upper Areas.

Step into one of Rome’s most revered basilicas and be captivated by its extraordinary beauty. From the Loggia of Blessings, admire the stunning medieval mosaics by Filippo Rusuti and enjoy panoramic views of the historic square below, rich in stories of the Basilica's miraculous foundation.

Walk through the splendid Hall of the Popes, a gallery showcasing portraits and memorabilia linked to Popes, Cardinals, and the Spanish monarchy. Then, ascend the graceful Bernini Staircase, a travertine spiral symbolizing spiritual ascent.

Finish your visit at the Liberian Historical Museum, where priceless artworks, rare musical manuscripts, and sacred artifacts tell the Basilica’s rich cultural and spiritual history.

A fascinating journey through art, history, and faith, to explore at your own pace.

With priority access to the Papal Basilica, enjoy the flexibility of visiting at any time during the day.

What's not included

PICK UP, GUIDED TOUR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.7

18 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 2.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

*PLEASE SEE BELOW THE BASILICA OPENING HOURS*

°°° Monday - Saturday : 08:00 AM - 06:30 PM °°°Sunday : 12:30 PM - 05:30 PM

Important notes

You will receive your personalized SKIP-THE-LINE SANTA MARIA MAGGIORE OPEN-TIME TICKET on WhatsApp.

The ticket must be presented to the staff at the entrance, in printed or digital format. Each participant must show their personal, named ticket along with an ID verifying their first and last name.

Instructions for using the voucher for access to the upper areas:
1.⁠ ⁠Upon arrival at Santa Maria Maggiore, skip the line and proceed through security checks.
2.⁠ ⁠It is mandatory to go to the desk located on the right, where an operator will convert your voucher into a ticket and allow you to visit the upper areas of the Basilica.
3.⁠ ⁠You will be granted access to the upper areas of the Basilica, which should be visited before entering the church.
4.⁠ ⁠Please follow the instructions provided to ensure a proper and complete visit.

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