Vatican: St. Peter’s Dome Access & Audioguide

Vatican City , Italy

Vatican: St. Peter’s Dome Access & Audioguide

Active

(5 reviews)

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 iconic St. Peter's Dome and embark on an immersive journey enriched by an informative audioguide. At your own pace ascend to the dome's summit, marveling at its architectural grandeur as you climb. Along the way, the audioguide illuminates the dome's history, detailing its construction and the visionaries behind its design

Gaze out from the panoramic viewpoint atop the dome, where breathtaking vistas of Vatican City and Rome unfold before you. Descend into the heart of the basilica, where you'll encounter masterpieces of art and architecture, each with its own story to tell

As you conclude your visit, the audioguide leaves you with a newfound appreciation for St. Peter's Dome, its role in shaping the religious and cultural landscape of Rome, and the enduring legacy of its creators. Whether a devout pilgrim or a curious traveler, this immersive experience leaves an indelible impression, offering a deeper connection to one of the world's most revered architectural wonders

Available options

Dome Access by Stairs

By choosing this option you will reach the Dome via stairs, through the 551 steps.
(NO ELEVATOR & NO SKIP-THE-LINE)

Dome Access by Elevator

You will reach the Dome by Elevator. Please note that, there are still 320 steps to arrive at the top.
(NO SKIP-THE-LINE)

What's included

Assistance at the meeting point

Entrance ticket to St Peter's Dome

Access to St Peter's Basilica and Square (no skip-the-line for the Basilica & Dome)

Downloadable Audioguide (Dome, Basilica & Square)

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Explore St. Peter's Basilica & Dome with an informative audioguide included in your entry ticket for an enriched visit.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Gratuities

Available languages

Audio guide

DE PT JA EN ZH-CN IT PL FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 2.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

What to bring: Passport or ID card Headsets Fully Charged Phone Internet Access Comfortable shoes Weather-appropriate clothing

Not allowed: Shorts Baby strollers Luggage or large bags Short skirts Sleeveless shirts Backpacks Umbrellas Tripod Animals Potentially dangerous objects

Know before you go: • All guests must undergo airport-style security. During high season the wait may be up to 2 hours. • Please take note that this service exclusively offers an entry ticket & audio guide to the Dome and not skip-the-line access to the Basilica. •You must download the audio guide app on your smartphone at least a day before the activity. The app is compatible with IOS and android • Late arrivals will not be accommodated & not be refunded • Wear clothing that covers at least the shoulders and knees, if your clothing does not comply with the rules, you may be denied entry • Some parts might not be accessible & are subject to unexpected closures until further notice due site’s restrictions • The St. Peter's Dome might not be accessible during bad weather conditions • The Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & Vatican Necropoli are excluded

In accordance with attraction’s "mandatory" regulations, we kindly request that you provide the complete name(s), preferably as stated on your passport, for "each" participant during the booking process.

People with Vertigo

People with walking difficulties

Claustrophobic

Important notes

***Meeting Point Info:

(DOME OPTIONS)
• Meeting Point: Piazza Della Città Leonina 5, 00193
• Please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the activity starts
• Late arrivals will not be accommodated & not be refunded.
• Our staff will be meeting you holding a “Loving Rome” flag and will be stationed at the “black tables” of Caffè Leonina (front row), situated beyond the white tables of the kiosk
• The meeting point is at Piazza Della Città Leonina 00193 near the arches, where the square meets via di Porta Angelica. It is located at the corner of the square, on the left-hand side.
• For the verification process, please present a valid passport or identification during the activity.

***Audioguide Info:
•You must download the PopGuide app (Vox S.p.a) on your smartphone at least a day before the activity
•Insert the code:
•Username: BHH-000238
•Password: 29378
•In case of any issues, ask the qr/alphanumeric code directly with our staff on the spot
•Recommended that phone is fully charged & has internet access
•You must bring your own headsets for a better experience
•You will need up to 150 MB of free space for the download

***Know before you go:
• All guests must undergo airport-style security. During high season the wait may be up to 2 hours.
• Please take note that this service exclusively offers an entry ticket & audio guide to the Dome and not skip-the-line access to the Basilica.
•Late arrivals will not be accommodated & not be refunded
• Wear clothing that covers at least the shoulders and knees, if your clothing does not comply with the rules, you may be denied entry
• Some parts might not be accessible & are subject to unexpected closures until further notice due site’s restrictions
• The St. Peter's Dome might not be accessible during bad weather conditions
• The Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & Vatican Necropoli are excluded

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.