St Peter's Basilica Express Guided Tour, includes Dome Climb
Active
1h - 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
Experience the magnificent St Peter’s Basilica by joining an express guided tour in English or French. With a multilingual audio guide included, listen in your own language as you uncover Rome's greatest church.
Start your journey near the heart of Vatican City at Borgo Santo Spirito 17 (Al San Michele), where you’ll meet your friendly guide who will escort you to the Basilica.
Take in 2000 years of history with delicate mosaics, elaborate architecture, papal tombs and intricate sculptures before ascending up to see Michelangelo’s Cupola – the crowning dome. Keep an eye out for the chance to take a scenic snap from the very top of the eternal city.
Finish off your tour inside the Basilica, where you can chat with your guide or continue exploring the iconic site with an audio tour.
Available options
Entry + English guided tour
Entry + guided tour (English): Select this option for entry to the St Peter's Basilica and the Cupola with a guided tour in English
What's included
Audio guide of the Basilica and Papal Tombs
Multilingual audio commentary: English, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Polish & Spanish
Small group tour
Coffee or juice (for children)
Entry to the Dome by elevator
Headset
Live tour guide (choose English or French at checkout)
Guided tour of St Peter’s Basilica and Dome
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Start your journey near St Peter’s Square by meeting your tour guide at Borgo Santo Spirito 17 (Al San Michele)
2
Head towards the Square, where you’ll catch a glimpse of the Bernini Fountain, which influenced the design of fountains across Europe
3
Stop 3
Look up at the Vatican Obelisk, the centre of the Square and an ancient Egyptian monument made of red granite
4
Stop 4
Journey into St Peter’s Basilica, one of the holiest sites in Christianity, with your guide sharing its history and hidden secrets
5
Stop 5
Take the elevator up to the dome carefully designed by Michelangelo, where you can climb 300 steps to the top and enjoy the scenic view of the surrounding city
6
Stop 6
Finish your tour inside the Basilica, with an option to continue enjoying the Basilica at your own pace
What's not included
Access to the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel
Skip-the-line access
Mobile device
Available languages
Audio guide
DE
CMN
JA
EN
IT
PL
FR
ES
Guide guide
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.2
578 reviews
5★
358
4★
96
3★
42
2★
23
1★
59
Tripadvisor
4.8
1,106 reviews
5★
973
4★
70
3★
22
2★
14
1★
27
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Public transportation options are available nearby
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Entry to the Vatican adheres to a strict dress code: shoulders and knees must be covered, low-cut or sleeveless tops and shorts are not permitted for both men and women. Visitors that do not adhere to the dress code could be denied entry to the Vatican
Entry to the Vatican requires passing through a security check. During high season, queues for security can take up to 150 minutes
Meet your guide at Borgo Santo Spirito 17 (Al San Michele), where you can enjoy a coffee
The visit inside St Peter's Basilica and the cupola will be led by a tour guide
The papal tombs can be explored independently via a digital tour
After the elevator ride towards the Cupola, there will be a 300-step climb to reach the very top
Please note the guided tour is in English. The digital tour is available in English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Mandarin, Polish, and Japanese
Meeting point
Meet your guide at Borgo Santo Spirito 17 (Al San Michele) and enjoy a complimentary breakfast of a pastry and drink before you are escorted to the Basilica for your tour.
Important notes
Meet your tour guide at Borgo Santo Spirito 17 (Al San Michele), where you can enjoy a complimentary breakfast of a pastry and drink before your guide escorts you over to St Peters Basilica.
Please arrive 10 minutes before your booked slot.
Please note this is not a skip-the-line service and queues should be expected.
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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