Explore Vatican City with St. Peter's Basilica Walk

Rome , Italy

Explore Vatican City with St. Peter's Basilica Walk

Active

(19 reviews)

1h - 1h

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the Wonders of St. Peter’s Basilica with a Guided Tour

Experience one of the world’s most iconic landmarks with an expert-guided visit to St. Peter’s Basilica, the spiritual heart of Vatican City and a symbol of Renaissance brilliance.

Your tour begins in St. Peter’s Square, where history greets you with the towering Egyptian obelisk brought to Rome by Emperor Caligula.

Surrounded by Bernini’s majestic colonnade, the square sets the stage for the monumental beauty of what lies ahead.

Step inside the Basilica — the largest church in the world — and be captivated by its grandeur.
Your guide will lead you to the most important highlights, from Michelangelo’s stunning dome to his delicate Pietà, sculpted when he was just 24.

Stand beneath Bernini’s bronze Baldachin, marking the site of St. Peter’s tomb, and uncover the artistic genius and spiritual meaning behind each masterpiece.

Available options

Explore Vatican City with St. Peter's Basilica Walk

What's included

Guided tour with a licensed guide

Headsets to hear the guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Begin your journey in St. Peter’s Square, where you’ll be captivated by the grandeur of its architecture. Discover Bernini’s ingenious play on perspective as you uncover the two signature spots of the square, and admire the 2,500-year-old Egyptian obelisk standing as a testament to time.

Next, step inside the Basilica to explore its breathtaking artworks. Wander along colorful marble floors and marvel at the vastness of the space, with ceilings lavishly adorned in gold. As you follow the key highlights, take in the majesty of the Papal Altar beneath Bernini’s iconic Baldachin and stand before Michelangelo’s timeless masterpiece, La Pietà.

Your tour culminates with a visit to the Papal Grottoes—a sprawling crypt located three meters below the Basilica, right under the great altar in the central nave. Here, you’ll glimpse the final resting places of countless popes and revered figures, adding a profound layer of history to your experience.

What's not included

Gratuites/Tips

Food and drink

Dome access

Skip the line

Hotel pick-up and drop-off service

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.7

19 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Not wheelchair accessible

A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements

Liability: We do not accept any responsibility for any mistakes made during the booking process. If the visitor's name is entered incorrectly, the ticket will be invalid and no refunds or corrections can be made.

Security: Visitors must pass through airport-style security. The wait at the security checkpoint can last more than 30 minutes, depending on Vatican security.

All visitors must pass through a security check line like an airport. It might take 10-120 minutes during high season

In the rare event the underground is closed, you will spend extra time in the basilica and St. Peter's Square

St. Peter's Basilica is subject to unforeseen closures due to Vatican affairs. If this happens, the activity provider will contact you as soon as possible to reschedule.

Meeting point

From St. Peter’s Square, walk east on Via della Conciliazione. After 300m, turn left onto Borgo Pio. Walk 200m and turn right onto Vicolo del Farinone. Continue straight, and you’ll find number 23 on the left. Close to Vatican City and Castel Sant'Angelo!

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