Rome: Padre Pio and Saint Michael the Archangel, Private Day Tour

Rome , Italy

Rome: Padre Pio and Saint Michael the Archangel, Private Day Tour

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13h

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

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About this experience

Visit two of Italy's sacred sites in one enriching day. This full-day spiritual tour takes you from Rome to the renowned Padre Pio Shrine in San Giovanni Rotondo and the UNESCO-listed Sanctuary of Saint Michael the Archangel in Monte Sant’Angelo. Enjoy a comfortable air-conditioned minivan ride with hotel pickup and drop-off, complemented by short stops for refreshments along the way. Delve into the history and significance of these spiritual destinations as you explore Padre Pio's legacy and the majestic grotto where Saint Michael appeared. Ideal for pilgrims, spiritual seekers, and anyone interested in Italian heritage.

- Full-day tour from Rome to San Giovanni Rotondo and Monte Sant’Angelo
- Comfortable transport with hotel pickup and drop-off included
- Guided visits to Padre Pio Shrine and Sanctuary of Saint Michael
- Suitable for adults, children, and spiritual seekers

Available options

Rome: Padre Pio and Saint Michael the Archangel, Private Day Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Visit to Sanctuary of Saint Michael the Archangel

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Visit to Padre Pio Shrine

Visit to Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie

Free transfer offered by Welcome Italy in air-conditioned Minivan

Tour assistant for the whole trip

Detailed itinerary

A large modern structure where the remains of Padre Pio rest
The Church of San Pio da Pietrelcina is the quintessential reference point for devotees of Padre Pio, beatified by John Paul II in 1999 and proclaimed a saint by the same pontiff three years later.
The large church, designed by architect Renzo Piano and completed in 2004, stands in San Giovanni Rotondo, where the Capuchin friar died after residing there for many years.
The imposing building was commissioned by the same Capuchin Friars Minor to whom Padre Pio belonged. Its purpose was to house the saint's relics and easily accommodate the thousands of faithful who choose to visit San Giovanni Rotondo as a pilgrimage destination, offering them an almost mystical experience.
The Church of San Pio is a large modern structure, surrounded by a huge churchyard and composed of an upper church, dedicated to liturgical celebrations, a smaller lower church, and a crypt, which houses the saint's remains.

The Sanctuary of Santa Maria delle Grazie, with its convent, is known as the place where Padre Pio of Pietrelcina lived and died from July 28, 1916.
The construction of the first church dates back to the 15th century; due to the increase in visitors, work on a new church began in 1956. The old church is rectangular with a simple façade; inside, it has a single nave in Baroque style with four chapels dedicated to saints. The high altar features a wooden fresco of the Madonna and Child, flanked by Saint John the Baptist and the Evangelist. The old church of Santa Maria delle Grazie houses the urn containing the remains of the martyr Saint Maximiana, beneath a minor altar.
The convent includes Padre Pio's cell, open to visitors, and the crypt where his body was kept before being transferred to the nearby sanctuary, designed by Renzo Piano. A tour inside the convent allows you to visit places significant to Padre Pio, such as the cell and the choir of the ancient church.

The Sanctuary of Saint Michael the Archangel is located in Monte Sant'Angelo, in the province of Foggia, and is part of the Archdiocese of Manfredonia-Vieste-San Giovanni Rotondo. The sanctuary consists of an upper basilica, which includes the Romanesque portal, the bell tower, and a lower basilica, which includes the cave where, according to tradition, the Archangel Michael appeared.

It is also known as the Celestial Basilica, as it is believed to have been consecrated by the Archangel Michael. This minor basilica is one of the main centers of worship dedicated to the Archangel in the West, and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011.

The sacred cave is accessible via a long staircase. The Archangel's words are engraved here: "Where the rock opens, there the sins of men will be forgiven."

What's not included

Lunch at a local restaurant

Personal expenses

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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