Vatican St Peters Basilica Papal Tombs and Dome Climb Tour
Active
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
Discover the wonders of St. Peter’s Basilica on this immersive guided tour that takes you through one of the world’s most iconic religious and artistic landmarks. Begin by exploring the vast interior of the Basilica, where your expert guide will reveal the stories behind masterpieces such as Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s grand works.
You will then descend to the Papal Tombs, the sacred resting place of former Popes, where you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the Basilica’s history and spiritual significance.
Your journey continues with an unforgettable ascent to the top of the dome. As you climb, admire the intricate details of the dome’s interior before stepping outside to breathtaking panoramic views over Rome one of the most rewarding sights in the city.
This tour offers a complete and enriching experience for travelers who want to explore the heart of the Vatican, combining art, history, spirituality, and stunning scenery in one unforgettable visit.
Available options
Standard rate
Vatican: St. Peter’s Basilica & Papal Tombs (No Dome Access)
No dome access: Guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Papal Tombs. Same itinerary as the standard option BUT No dome access.
What's included
Expert licensed guide
Entry to the dome climb (lift + stairs)
Visit to the Papal Tombs
Headsets (for listening clearly)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Join a guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica, the heart of Vatican City. Marvel at its stunning Renaissance architecture, breathtaking mosaics, and iconic artworks by Michelangelo and Bernini. Learn the fascinating history of the basilica and its significance in the Catholic Church from your expert guide. This experience offers an up-close look at one of the world’s most famous churches, combining art, history, and culture in a single visit.
2
Stop 2
Descend into the Vatican Grottoes, the sacred Papal Tombs beneath St. Peter’s Basilica. Explore the final resting place of numerous popes and learn about their lives, contributions, and the history of the Catholic Church. Your expert guide will provide fascinating insights into the architecture, symbolism, and stories behind this spiritual and historical site, offering a unique perspective on Vatican history.
3
Stop 3
Climb the iconic dome of St. Peter’s Basilica and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Vatican City and Rome. On this guided experience, ascend step by step while your expert guide shares insights about the basilica’s architecture, history, and artistic masterpieces. From the top, capture stunning vistas of the Eternal City and appreciate the scale and grandeur of one of the world’s most famous landmarks.
What's not included
Vatican museum & sistine chapel entry
Food & drinks
Available languages
Audio guide
DE
EN
FR
ES
Guide guide
DE
EN
FR
ES
Written guide
DE
EN
FR
ES
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
About Vatican City
Vatican City, the world's smallest independent state, is the spiritual and administrative headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church. Nestled within Rome, Italy, it's home to iconic landmarks like St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums, which house some of the world's most renowned art collections, including the Sistine Chapel.
Top Attractions
St. Peter's Basilica
St. Peter's Basilica is one of the most renowned churches in the world and a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. It is a significant pilgrimage site and a must-visit for its stunning interior, including Michelangelo's Pietà and the dome offering panoramic views of Rome.
Religious/Architecture
1-2 hours
Free entry (€8 for dome climb)
Vatican Museums
The Vatican Museums house an extensive collection of art and artifacts amassed by the Catholic Church over the centuries. Highlights include the Sistine Chapel, the Raphael Rooms, and the Gallery of Maps. It's a treasure trove for art lovers and history enthusiasts.
Museum/Art
3-4 hours
€17 (includes entry to St. Peter's Basilica)
Castel Sant'Angelo
Originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, Castel Sant'Angelo is now a museum and fortress. It offers fascinating exhibits and panoramic views of Rome from its terrace. The passage leading to the Vatican, known as the Passetto di Borgo, is a historical highlight.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
€15
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cacio e Pepe
A classic Roman dish made with pecorino cheese and black pepper, creating a creamy and flavorful sauce.
Pasta
Vegetarian
Supplì
Fried rice balls filled with tomato sauce and mozzarella, similar to Sicilian arancini.
Appetizer
Vegetarian (some versions contain meat)
Tiramisu
A popular Italian dessert made with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cheese.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in nearby parks
Biking tours
Strolling through historic neighborhoods
Visiting parks and gardens
Museum visits
Art tours
Historical site exploration
Boat tours on the Tiber River
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
The best time to visit is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the tourist crowds are manageable. These months offer the best conditions for sightseeing and exploring the city's outdoor attractions.
15-30°C
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian, Latin
- Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Vatican City is generally safe, with a strong police presence and low crime rates. However, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas, so it's important to stay vigilant.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services.
Getting there
By air
- Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport • 30 km from Vatican City
By train
Roma San Pietro Station
By bus
Roma Termini Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The metro system in Rome is efficient and connects to Vatican City via the Ottaviano Station, which is a short walk from St. Peter's Basilica.
Taxis
Available • Apps: FreeNow, MyTaxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Borgo
Prati
Day trips
Rome
0 km (Vatican City is an enclave within Rome) • Full day or more
Rome, the capital of Italy, is a treasure trove of ancient history, art, and culture. It offers iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Trevi Fountain, as well as world-class museums and vibrant neighborhoods.
Ostia Antica
30 km from Vatican City • Half day
Ostia Antica is an ancient Roman port city that offers a fascinating glimpse into Roman life. The well-preserved ruins include homes, shops, and public buildings, providing a unique historical experience.
Festivals
Easter Celebrations • March or April (dates vary)
Christmas Celebrations • December 24-25
Pro tips
- Book tickets for major attractions like the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica in advance to skip the lines.
- Dress modestly when visiting religious sites to show respect and avoid being turned away.
- Use public transportation or walk to get around Vatican City and Rome, as driving can be challenging and parking is limited.
- Learn a few basic Italian phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals.
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
