St. Peter's Basilica with Dome Climb Grottoes private Guided Tour

Rome , Italy

St. Peter's Basilica with Dome Climb Grottoes private Guided Tour

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About this experience

Discover the incredible artistry and history of St. Peter’s Basilica on this guided tour. Marvel at masterpieces like Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s stunning statues, while learning about the basilica's spiritual significance. Take a journey underground into the Vatican Grottoes to visit the tomb of St. Peter and the resting places of 90 popes. Enjoy skip-the-line access to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, ensuring more time to soak in the beauty of this iconic location. Ideal for history enthusiasts and spiritual seekers alike, this tour accommodates a maximum of 22 travelers for a more intimate experience.

- Explore the stunning interior of St. Peter's Basilica with a knowledgeable guide
- Visit the Vatican Grottoes and touch the original 4th-century Basilica walls
- Enjoy skip-the-line tickets to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
- Perfect for groups, with a maximum of 22 participants for a personalized experience

Available options

St. Peter's Basilica with Dome Climb Grottoes private Guided Tour

What's included

Entry/Admission - Cupola di San Pietro

Visit St. Peter’s Tomb and touch the original 4th century Basilica walls

Live tour guide

Explore the underground grottoes and marvel at the ancient frescoes

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The Vatican Grottoes, located beneath St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, are a sacred and historically significant underground complex. This underground space serves as the final resting place for numerous popes, saints and important figures in the history of the Catholic Church. Visitors to the Vatican Grottoes can explore a labyrinth of burial chambers and tombs, including the traditional resting place of St. Peter, one of Jesus' apostles and the first Bishop of Rome (Pope). The caves are adorned with artistic and decorative elements that reflect the rich heritage and religious significance of the Catholic faith. Accessible to tourists and pilgrims, the Vatican Grottoes offer a unique opportunity to delve into the history of the Church and pay homage to its venerated figures. These underground chambers are a place of reverence, reflection, and historical exploration, offering a deeper understanding of the enduring legacy of the Catholic Church

Stop 2

Step inside the Basilica to encounter its breathtaking artworks. Traverse the vibrant marble floors, awestruck by the vastness of the structure and the opulent golden ceilings above.

Guided by your expert, navigate through the main highlights. Admire the Papal Altar crowned by Bernini's majestic Baldachin and be captivated by Michelangelo's iconic masterpiece, La Pietà, in this holiest of Christian sanctuaries

What's not included

Tickets to Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Piazza San Pietro is the square in front of St. Peter's Basilica. Located on the edge of the historic center of the city of Rome, of which it is a symbol, the square is part of the independent state of vatican

Important notes

Piazza della citta leonina , 5, 00193 Roma RM, Italy is opposite of St. Peter Square. The staff will wait holding our company SMART ROMA TOUR sign

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