St Peter’s Basilica Tour, Dome Climb & Papal Tombs I Max 6 People
Active
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
Explore the world's largest church to it's full potential - from the very top with views of the entire city, to the tombs below. In your small group of 6 people and your expert guide, you can truly experience the breathtaking basilica as you climb to the top of the dome to explore Michelangelo's masterpiece, and then to the ground level to enjoy the basilica itself with Baroque and Renaissance art from masters like Bernini, Michelangelo and more. Your tour will also include a visit below to the Papal tombs, where the tombs of Pope's from the centuries past lay to rest. This tour is limited to just 6 people to enhance your overall experience and providing a friendly environment with your guide.
Available options
Private St Peter’s Option
Dome & Papal Tombs: Explore this magnificent basilica from underground crypts to the dome's peak on our St. Peter's Basilica tour. <br/>Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
St. Peter's Semi Private Tour
What's included
Tour in a Safe and Semi Private Group of 6 participants
Tour with a Professional, Local, Expert and Fun Guide
Descend into the Papal Tombs and Crypts
Climb to the top of the Dome!
PRIVATE Option is available!
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Your tour will begin in St Peter's square where you will meet your expert local guide before embarking on your journey. Learn all about the history and relevance of this square, its incredible architecture, and the optical illusions that it hides. Your expert guide will tell you all about the famous architects who were commissioned to work on this beautiful attraction. St Peter’s Square was designed so that the colonnades were replaced in a way that imitated a welcoming hug to the many pilgrims who visit Vatican City every year. After a quick walk through security, you are ready to enter the basilica named after the first Pope, and saint who is said to be the keeper of the keys to heaven – St. Peter.
2
Stop 2
Once inside St. Peter's your first stop will be the Dome. Make your way up the 281 steps to the top of Michelangelo's impressive dome which adorns the city skyline. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the city below and the gorgeous stained glass windows that casts beautiful light inside of the dome.
3
Stop 3
After enjoying the dome, make your way down to St Peter's Basilica where you can explore with your guide and learn of the history behind the largest church in the world. Adorned with artworks and architectural masterpieces from famous artists such as Michelangelo, Bernini and Raphael, your guide will explain the history and anecdotes behind the works that added to the basilica's grandeur.
Then, you will make your way underground to the famous Papal tombs. One of the most sought out sites for Christian pilgrims from around the world, these tombs hold the relics of beloved Pope's such as John Paul II and countless other Pope's from previous centuries dating as far back as the fifth century.
What's not included
Gratuities
Food and Drink
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
14 reviews
5★
12
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
5.0
125 reviews
5★
124
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Dress code is smart casual - both men and women are required to cover knees and shoulders
As part of the 2025 Jubilee celebrations, St. Peter’s Basilica may experience unexpected partial or complete closures. In the rare event that the Basilica cannot be visited, rest assured that your tour experience will remain exceptional. Your guide will seamlessly adapt the itinerary to include alternative highlights, ensuring the full duration and quality of your tour. Please note that, in accordance with our Terms & Conditions agreed upon at the time of booking, partial or full refunds cannot be issued due to Basilica closures.
Meeting point
Piazza della Città Leonina – at the green kiosk (drinks/snacks stand), just outside St. Peter’s Square near the archway into Via di Porta Angelica.
Your guide will be holding a LivTours sign.
IMPORTANT: You must bring photo ID to guarantee entry.
Important notes
• Please plan to arrive 10-15 minutes prior to your tour start time
• not wheelchair accessible
• ABOUT OUR 6 PEOPLE SMALL GROUP POLICY
In booking this tour you are guaranteed one tour guide per group of 6 people. Please bear in mind though that in order to accommodate traveling families and friends, we do on rare occasion make the exception of adding an additional one to two guests in order not to split groups who are traveling together. On that same note, you may find yourself on tour with less than six people. As we accept bookings in multiples of six, math doesn’t always work in our favor to help accommodate individual travelers and their families when on the same tour, so we hope you understand and apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
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
Instant confirmation
