St. Peter's Basilica Tour: History, Art, and Dome Views

Explore St. Peter’s Basilica, visit papal tombs, and climb the dome for stunning Rome views. Discover history, art, and architecture with an expert guide.

Duration: 3 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • St. Peter’s Square - Your journey begins with an expert-led tour of St. Peter’s Basilica, an architectural masterpiece and the heart of the Catholic Church. Inside, you’ll be awed by the basilica’s magnificence. The guide will share insights into this sacred place’s history, art, and symbolism.
  • St. Peter’s Basilica - The basilica contains a wealth of artistic and architectural marvels, such as stunning mosaics, grand columns, and richly decorated chapels. These features demonstrate the talent and dedication of the individuals who crafted them. During the tour, the guide will share tales of the basilica’s construction, tracing its evolution from early Christianity to its redesign by Renaissance and Baroque maestros. The magnificence of St. Peter’s Basilica is stunning and leaves an endless impression.
  • Vatican Grottoes - After visiting the basilica, you will proceed to the Grottoes, the location of the Popes’ tombs. This calm and respectful area is the final resting place for numerous popes, including St. Peter. While walking through the Grottoes, your guide will offer historical background and share stories about the lives and influences of the popes buried here. This part of the tour provides a meaningful chance to reflect on the lasting significance of the papacy. The atmosphere in the Grottoes is somber and tranquil, providing a space for quiet contemplation.
  • Cupola di San Pietro - The optional dome climb is a must for those seeking an unforgettable view of Rome. The climb to the top of St. Peter’s Dome is an adventure, with 551 steps, though an elevator reduces this to 320. As you climb, you’ll pass through narrow passageways and spiral staircases, seeing the stunning architecture up close.
  • Vatican City - During the tour, you will have the opportunity to visit some remarkable sites, all of which are situated within the perimeter of Vatican City.
What's Included
  • Audio System for an enhanced guided experience
  • Guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica and Papal tombs
  • Entry Tickets to the Dome (If option selected)
  • Professional Tour Guide
What's Not Included
  • This tour does not enter Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Food and drinks
Additional Information

Start with an expert-led tour of St. Peter’s Basilica, a masterpiece of architecture and the heart of the Catholic Church. Inside, you’ll marvel at its greatness while the guide shares insights into its history, art, and symbolism. Learn about the basilica’s construction, evolving from early Christianity to its Renaissance and Baroque redesigns, leaving a lasting impression. Visit the Grottoes, where many popes, including St. Peter, are buried. This calm and respectful area allows for reflection on the papacy’s significance. The guide will provide historical context and stories about the popes’ lives and influences. For those seeking an unforgettable view of Rome, the optional dome climb is a must. The climb involves 551 steps, though an elevator reduces this to 320. Passing through narrow passageways, you’ll see the architecture up close. At the top, enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Rome.

Location
Piazza del Sant'uffizio, 6/7
Piazza del Sant'uffizio
Meet us at Piazza del Sant'uffizio, 6/7, approximately 2 minutes from the Vatican Museums. Look for our colleagues wearing purple shirts with the Crown Tours logo to guide you on your tours.
Cancellation Policy

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

Customer Ratings
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Zarabracegirdle
Aug 27, 2024
Brilliant tour a must do - Fantastic tour, Selenia was informative and patient with all my questions. Really the best way to visit. I cannot thank Selenia enough for making all of the amazing art understandable.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Select Date and Tickets
up to 15 guests
1 Adult
September 2024
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