St. Peter’s Basilica: Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone (without ticket)
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Enjoy a hassle-free visit to one of the most dynamic attractions of Rome with a fascinating self-guided audio tour on your smartphone and follow, at your own pace, the riveting background of St. Peter’s Basilica. Start your tour from the stunning St. Peter’s Square, outside the Basilica, and then continue to explore its interior and the mesmerizing decorations. Follow in the footsteps of erstwhile pilgrims to discover the holiest Cathedral of Christendom and let the beauty of its Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces unfold before your eyes! Before leaving this magnificent site, you will have the chance to explore the famed Vatican grottoes and admire the impressive tombs of more than a hundred popes, kings, and saints. This is an unmissable opportunity to experience at your own pace the religious and visual power of St. Peter’s Basilica with a captivating audio tour on your phone.
Available options
St. Peter’s Basilica: Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone (without ticket)
What's included
Αctivation link to access your audio tour
Self-guided audio tour for your smartphone (Android & iOS) in English
Offline content with an offline interactive map to avoid roaming charges
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Enjoy a grand beginning at the impressive Piazza to marvel at Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s imposing design. As you admire the colossal collonades and the Egyptian obelisk, you’ll learn about the fascinating background of the Basilica and its transformations through the centuries.
2
Stop 2
Michelangelo’s Pietà
Throughout your walk, you’ll gaze in awe exquisite works of Renaissance art and architecture designed by Bramante, Giacomo Della Porta, and Maderno among many many others. One of the tour highlights will be, of course, the jewel of the Basilica, Michelangelo’s Pietà!
3
Stop 3
St. Peter's Statue:
Discover the Medieval bronze statue of St. Peter, a truly remarkable work of art that has been kissed and touched by millions of pilgrims during the Basilica’s long and exciting history.
St. Peter’s Baldachin:
Standing below the enormous dome of the church you’ll marvel at the monumental canopy that marks St Peter’s tomb. As you examine Bernini’s impressive creation, you’ll gain valuable insights into its religious symbolism and detailed motifs.
Vatican Grottoes
Your tour ends inside the vast underground graveyard, which is home to the tombs of the rich, the famous and the holy! Discover the stories of the powerful kings, queens, popes, and saints that rest in peace in the famed Vatican Grottoes.
What's not included
Entrance fee to St. Peter’s Basilica
Live Guide
Smartphone or headphones
Food and drinks
Transportation
Available languages
Audio guide
DE
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
5 reviews
5★
3
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
3.0
2 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please consider that admission fees for the St. Peter’s Basilica are not included.
This is a downloadable self-guided audio tour for your smartphone (accessible through our app)
No live guide or meeting point provided.
You will receive an email from the local supplier with important audio instructions. on how to access and download your audio tour. Please check your email spam folder as well
Book per device to be used, not per participant
An Android (version 5.0 and later) or iOS smartphone is required. The audio tour is not compatible with Windows Phones, iPhone 5/5C or older, iPod Touch 5th generation or older, iPad 4th generation or older, iPad Mini 1st generation
You will need storage space on your phone (100-150 MB)
Please note that your TripAdvisor - Viator Voucher is not your entry ticket. Admission fees are not included in this product
Receive an email from the local supplier with important audio instructions. Check your spam folder as well.
Keep in mind that internet access might be unavailable & mobile signal may be weak. So please download the mobile app and your audio tour on your smartphone prior to your visit in order to enjoy it offline
Also, prior to your visit, make sure that your smartphone is fully charged & that you bring on a pair of earphones/headphones.
Bookings received from 17.00 - 8.59 (Time in Greece) will be served from 9.00 and on
Non refundable once activated
Meeting point
There is no meeting point. The tour is designed to start at St. Peter’s Square (Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City). The tour ends at the Vatican Grottoes below St. Peter’s Basilica.
The easiest way to get there is by Metro (station Ottaviano-S. Pietro).
Important notes
Please note that VIATOR VOUCHER is NOT your entry TICKET for the site. This is a self-guided walking city tour and admission fees are not included.
Check the email that you have received from Clio Muse Tours and prior to your visit, follow the instructions to access your audio tour. Please check your email spam folder as well and ensure you have internet access in order to download your tour and enjoy it offline.
An Android or iOS smartphone is required. You also need to ensure you have enough storage space (required size for the app & tour: 100-150 MB). The audio tour can be used repeatedly both online and offline and travelers may use their headphones to best enjoy!
There is no meeting point. The tour is designed to start at St. Peter’s Square (Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City).
The tour ends at the Vatican Grottoes below St. Peter’s Basilica. (Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City).
Hours of Operation:
Apr-Sep 7:00-7:00pm
Oct-Mar 7:00-6:30 pm
**Grottoes: Apr-Sep 7:00-6:00 pm & Oct-Mar 7:00-5:00 pm
Bear in mind that no live guide will escort you and that no extra equipment (smartphone, headphones, etc.) will be provided.
In case you need any assistance, please contact support@cliomuseapp.com
Enjoy!
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
