Caravaggio’s Art & Scandal: His Masterpieces in Rome’s Churches

Active

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Step into the dramatic world of Caravaggio on this 2-hour private tour, where his masterpieces come to life in the very churches that inspired them. Visit Santa Maria del Popolo, Sant’Agostino, and San Luigi dei Francesi to witness Caravaggio’s bold use of light and raw emotion as you stand before The Crucifixion of Saint Peter and The Madonna of the Pilgrims. Along the way, uncover the genius and scandalous life behind the art, from duels to exile. For an even deeper dive into the Baroque era, can you choose to extend your tour with a 1-hour visit to Galleria Doria Pamphilj, where you will see two more of Caravaggio’s masterpieces among other masterpieces from artists as Velázquez, Titian, and Bernini.

Available options

Extended German Tour

Churches + Galleria Doria P.: Select for a 3.5-hour private tour of three Caravaggio churches & Galleria Doria Pamphilj with a German-speaking guide.

 Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes

Regular Italian Tour

Three Caravaggio Churches: Select this option for a 2-hour private tour of three Caravaggio churches with an Italian-speaking guide.

 Duration: 2 hours

Extended Italian Tour

Churches + Galleria Doria P.: Select for a 3.5-hour private tour of three Caravaggio churches & Galleria Doria Pamphilj with an Italian-speaking guide.

 Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes

Regular German Tour

Three Caravaggio Churches: Select this option for a 2-hour private tour of three Caravaggio churches with a German-speaking guide.

 Duration: 2 hours

Extended Portuguese Tour

Churches + Galleria Doria P.: Select for a 3.5-hour private tour of three Caravaggio churches & Galleria Doria Pamphilj with a Portuguese-speaking guide.

 Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes

Extended English Tour

Churches + Galleria Doria P. : Select for a 3.5-hour private tour of three Caravaggio churches & Galleria Doria Pamphilj with an English-speaking guide.

 Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes

Extended French Tour

Churches + Galleria Doria P.: Select for a 3.5-hour private tour of three Caravaggio churches & Galleria Doria Pamphilj with a French-speaking guide.

 Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes

Regular English Tour

Three Caravaggio Churches: Select this option for a 2-hour private tour of three Caravaggio churches with an English-speaking guide.

 Duration: 2 hours

Extended Spanish Tour

Churches + Galleria Doria P.: Select for a 3.5-hour private tour of three Caravaggio churches & Galleria Doria Pamphilj with a Spanish-speaking guide.

 Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes

Regular Tour French

Three Caravaggio Churches: Select this option for a 2-hour private tour of three Caravaggio churches with a French-speaking guide.

 Duration: 2 hours

Regular Spanish Tour

Three Caravaggio Churches: Select this option for a 2-hour private tour of three Caravaggio churches with a Spanish-speaking guide.

 Duration: 2 hours

Regular Portuguese Tour

Three Caravaggio Churches: Select this option for a 2-hour private tour of three Caravaggio churches with a Portuguese-speaking guide.

 Duration: 2 hours

What's included

Headsets to hear the guide clearly.

Entrance fees & live guide at Galleria Doria Pamphilj (only if option is selected during purchase)

Expert live guide.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Begin your journey at Basilica di Santa Maria del Popolo, a historic gem located at Piazza del Popolo. Inside, you will discover the Cerasi Chapel, home to two of Caravaggio’s most gripping works: The Crucifixion of Saint Peter and The Conversion of Saint Paul. These dramatic works highlight his revolutionary chiaroscuro technique, where bold contrasts of light and shadow intensify the emotional impact of each scene. Your guide will also explore the symbolism and technique behind these masterpieces.

Stop 2

You will then continue to Basilica di Sant’Agostino, home to Caravaggio’s striking and once controversial Madonna of the Pilgrims. Unlike traditional depictions of the Virgin Mary, Caravaggio portrays her as an ordinary woman, welcoming two humble pilgrims with rough, dirt-stained feet. This radical departure from idealised sacred imagery was shocking in its time, yet it embodies Caravaggio’s power to bridge the divine and the human. Here, you’ll witness firsthand how his bold realism transformed religious art forever. 

Stop 3

Your next stop will be San Luigi dei Francesi, the French national church in Rome, where the Contarelli Chapel houses one of Caravaggio’s greatest triumphs: the Saint Matthew Cycle. These three monumental paintings - The Calling of Saint Matthew, The Inspiration of Saint Matthew, and The Martyrdom of Saint Matthew - unfold like a cinematic masterpiece, capturing the raw emotions of faith, doubt, and divine intervention. As you stand before these breathtaking works, your guide will reveal how Caravaggio’s dramatic storytelling and masterful use of light continue to captivate audiences centuries later. 

Stop 4

For those eager to explore more, an optional 1-hour extension takes you to the magnificent Galleria Doria Pamphilj, a private palace brimming with artistic treasures. Here, you’ll find two more of Caravaggio’s works - Rest on the Flight into Egypt and Penitent Magdalene - displayed in an opulent setting. Beyond Caravaggio, the gallery showcases other Baroque gems by artists as Velázquez, Titian, and Bernini, providing a rare opportunity to immerse yourself into the grandeur of Baroque art.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Pick-up and drop-off is not included

Optional gratuities

Entrance to and a guided tour of Galleria Doria Pamphilj (unless option is chosen during purchase)

Available languages

Guide guide

DE PT EN IT FR ES

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Entrance to and a guided tour of Galleria Doria Pamphilj is not included unless specifically chosen during purchase

Please note that Galleria Doria Pamphilj is closed on the third Wednesday of each month. As a result, the option to visit the gallery will not be available on this day

Please note that the Church of San Luigi dei Francesi is closed on the morning of the first Wednesday of each month and therefore cannot be visited during this time

Your phone should be put on silence before visiting the basilicas

Photography is allowed, but flash photography is not permitted

Pets are not allowed inside the basilica’s

Bringing food, drinks, luggage or large bags is not allowed

Modest clothing is required to enter the basilica’s (knees and shoulders should be covered)

We recommend you to bring your own headphones in order to minimise plastic waste

Wear comfortable shoes as there is a moderate amount of walking involved and you will be walking on uneven surfaces and climbing some steps and stairs

This tour is subject to weather conditions and/or liturgic-calendar events. If canceled you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund

It’s recommended to have a moderate level of fitness to join this tour since there is a moderate amount of walking involved

Meeting point

Meet us at the Flaminio Obelisk in the middle of Piazza del Popolo, Piazza del Popolo, 00187 Rome. Look for a member of staff holding a yellow Touriks sign.

Important notes

Meet us at the Flaminio Obelisk in the middle of Piazza del Popolo, Piazza del Popolo, 00187 Rome. Look for a member of staff holding a yellow Touriks sign.

About Rimini

Rimini is a vibrant coastal city in Italy's Emilia-Romagna region, renowned for its stunning beaches, rich history, and lively atmosphere. It's a perfect blend of ancient Roman heritage and modern seaside resort charm, offering something for every type of traveler.

Top Attractions

Arco d'Augusto

This ancient Roman arch is one of the oldest surviving Roman structures in Rimini. It marks the entrance to the city and is a symbol of its rich history.

Historical 30 minutes Free

Tiberius Bridge

Built in 21 AD, this ancient bridge is an engineering marvel and a testament to Roman architecture. It spans the Marecchia River and is still in use today.

Historical 30 minutes Free

Rimini Beach

Rimini's beaches are famous for their golden sand, clear waters, and vibrant atmosphere. They offer a variety of activities and amenities for all ages.

Beach Half-day to full day Free to €30 per sunbed

Federico Fellini Museum

Dedicated to the famous filmmaker Federico Fellini, this museum showcases his life and work. It includes personal artifacts, film memorabilia, and interactive exhibits.

Museum 1-2 hours €10

Castello Sismondo

This medieval castle was built in the 15th century and played a significant role in Rimini's history. It now hosts cultural events and exhibitions.

Historical 1 hour €5

Must-Try Local Dishes

Piadina

A traditional flatbread filled with various ingredients like cheese, cured meats, and vegetables.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Pasta al Forno

Baked pasta with a rich tomato sauce, often topped with cheese and sometimes meat.

Dinner Vegetarian options available

Gnocchi di Patate

Potato dumplings served with a variety of sauces, such as tomato, cream, or pesto.

Dinner Vegetarian

Tortino di Pesce

A savory fish pie made with fresh local seafood, potatoes, and vegetables.

Dinner Contains seafood

Popular Activities

Water sports Hiking in nearby nature parks Cycling along the coast Sunbathing on the beach Spa treatments Strolling through the city center Visiting museums and historical sites Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the peak tourist season with warm weather, clear skies, and vibrant beach life. The city is bustling with events and activities.

25°C to 32°C 77°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French, German
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

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

Rimini is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas and on public transportation.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with offers or requests

Getting there

By air

Federico Fellini International Airport • 8 km from city center

By train

Rimini Station

By bus

Rimini Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network is efficient and covers most parts of the city and surrounding areas. Buses are a convenient way to get around Rimini.

Taxis

Available • Apps: MyTaxi, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Marina Centro Borgo San Giuliano

Day trips

San Marino

15 km • Half day to full day

A historic microstate and UNESCO World Heritage Site, San Marino offers stunning views, medieval architecture, and a rich history.

República de San Marino

20 km • Full day

A small independent state surrounded by Italy, known for its medieval architecture, stunning views, and rich history.

Riccione

10 km • Half day to full day

A popular seaside resort town known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and family-friendly attractions.

Festivals

Rimini Summer Festival • July to August Festa di San Giovanni • June 24 Rimini Wellness • May to June (biennial event)

Pro tips

Visit the Federico Fellini Museum to learn about the famous filmmaker's life and work
Explore the charming streets of Borgo San Giuliano and admire the artistic murals
Try local specialties like piadina and pasta al forno at traditional eateries
Take a day trip to San Marino, a historic microstate with stunning views and medieval architecture
Enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Marina Centro, with beach clubs and bars open late into the night