Private Tour of St Peter's Basilica with Dome Climb and Grottoes

Rome , Italy

Private Tour of St Peter's Basilica with Dome Climb and Grottoes

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(42 reviews)

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

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About this experience

Combine e thorough guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica with a climb to the top of the dome for the best panoramic view of Rome.

Discover marvels of art and architecture created by world-famous masters of the Renaissance with a private art historian.

PLEASE NOTE: In the event that the grottoes or certain areas of St. Peter’s Basilica are closed, your guide will adapt the itinerary by highlighting alternative sites and artworks within the basilica. As a result, the overall duration and quality of the tour will remain unchanged.

Available options

Spanish Tour

Private tour: Select this option for Private guided tour in Spanish

English Tour

Private tour: Select this option for Private guided tour in English

German Tour

Private tour: Select this option for Private guided tour in German

Portuguese Tour

Private tour: Select this option for Private guided tour in Portuguese

French Tour

Private tour: Select this option for Private guided tour in French

Italian Tour

Private tour: Select this option for Private guided tour in Italian

What's included

Thorough guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica

Sterilized headsets to hear clearly your guide

Guided tour of St. Peter Dome

Entry fees to the top of the Dome

Private art-historian guide

Full on-site assistance

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Start your tour in St. Peters Square and perceive the all-embracing character of its majestic architecture. Understand the game of visual effects as were thought by its designer, Bernini, and find the two "special" spots in the square.

Stop 2

Then head towards the Basilica to be amazed by its magnificence. See why it took 150 years to rebuild and marvel at the golden ceilings and the impressive mosaics all around you.

Let your art-historian guide lead you through renowned masterpieces of Renaissance and Neoclassic art. Be impressed by the harmonious 30-meters-high canopy and appreciate the expressive power and delicate beauty of Michelangelo's "Pietà".

Stop 3

Descend into the underground grottoes and visit St. Peter's tomb. Touch the ancient walls of the original 4th-century basilica and admire the beautiful frescoes.

Stop 4

Then climb your way up to the top of the Dome. Enjoy a bird's-eye view over the marble floors and take an exclusive and close-up look at the mosaics of the dome.

Go even higher to find yourself at the top balcony and be amazed by the spectacular panorama over Rome and beyond. Spot the Colosseum, the Pantheon, Castel Sant'Angelo, and other iconic monuments from the height of 136 meters. Enjoy a breathtaking view of St. Peters Square and the Vatican gardens.

What's not included

The Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel are not part of this tour

This tour does not skip the line (both the security check one and the dome elevator one)

Available languages

Guide guide

DE PT EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

11 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

31 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Please note that you will be required to pass through metal detectors at the entrance of the square

Wear comfortable walking shoes: a moderate amount of walking is involved

Please be aware that the lines to clear security checks at the entrance of the square might take 15-120 minutes

The dome's terrace might not be accessible during bad weather conditions. In that case, you can either ask for a partial refund and visit the Basilica and the grottoes or decide to cancel the tour for a full refund

An appropriate dress-code is required in order to enter the churches: knees and shoulders should be covered

The meeting point is outside the Basilica before entering St. Peter's square and the security checks

Please note that this is not a skip-the-line tour

St. Peter Basilica or its dome can be subject to partial unforeseen closures due to Vatican Administration

Please provide the full names of all travellers when booking. The tickets are nominative, therefore, failure to present a voucher with all travellers' full names may result in denied entry

Each traveller must present a valid passport or ID document that matches the same name provided at the time of booking for a successful entry

PLEASE NOTE: In the event that the grottoes or certain areas of St. Peter’s Basilica are closed, your guide will adapt the itinerary by highlighting alternative sites and artworks within the basilica. As a result, the overall duration and quality of the tour will remain unchanged

Pets are not allowed inside the Basilica

Not recommended for travellers with claustrophobia

Not recommended for travellers with vertigo

Meeting point

Meet your guide at Largo del Colonnato, 5, by the first columns of the Colonnade. Look for a yellow label with TOURIKS written on it. Please be at the meeting point 5 minutes before the starting time. The meeting point is outside the Basilica before entering St. Peter's square.

Important notes

- Please arrive at the meeting point 5 minutes before the activity starts
- The meeting point is outside the Basilica before entering St. Peter's square and the security checks
- The dome's terrace might not be accessible during bad weather conditions. In that case, you can either ask for a partial refund and visit the Basilica and the grottoes or decide to cancel the tour for a full refund
- An appropriate dress-code is required in order to enter the churches: knees and shoulders should be covered
- Wear comfortable walking shoes: a moderate amount of walking is involved
- Please be aware that the lines to clear security checks at the entrance of the square are not skippable and might take 15-120 minutes
- Please note that you will be required to pass through metal detectors at the entrance of the square
- For environmental reasons, it is preferable that you bring your own earphones (regular wired jack, no usb one, no bluetooth) and do not print your voucher. We will provide earphones in case you forget yours
- We suggest you bring your own refillable bottle as you can find drinkable-water fountains everywhere in Rome
- Please note that this tour does not skip the line

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