St. Peter's Basilica: Guided Tour + Dome & Vatican Grottoes Access

Explore St. Peter’s Basilica like never before with guided access to the dome, Vatican Grottoes, and Basilica interiors. Discover iconic art, breathtaking views, and historic tombs in under two hours.


  • Handpicked tour
  • Duration: 1.45 hours
  • Max. group size: 25
  • Free cancellation

What's included

  • Access to St. Peter's Basilica
  • Entry ticket to St. Peter’s Dome
  • Access to the Vatican Grottoes
  • Professional live guide  
  • Headset
  • Guided tour

What's not included

  • Entry to the Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
  • Skip-the-line access
  • Guided commentary at the Dome (self-guided section)

Important information

  • Access to St. Peter's Basilica is free. Expect long lines in summer (June–August).
  • Bring your own wired headphones for the audio system.
  • Tour is not suitable for those with claustrophobia or vertigo.
  • Please arrive 20 minutes early at the meeting point.
  • The itinerary may be adjusted if some sections (like the grottoes) are closed.

Description:

Begin your St. Peter's Basilica guided tour at St. Peter’s Square, then ascend to the top of the Basilica dome for unparalleled views of Rome. Admire intricate mosaics up close and enjoy a unique panoramic balcony experience.

Continue your visit inside the Basilica to discover masterpieces by Bernini and Michelangelo, including the famed Pietà. Head underground to the Vatican Grottoes, where Popes are buried and remnants of the original 4th-century basilica remain. This guided tour offers art, architecture, history—and an unforgettable view of the Eternal City.

Highlights:

  • Climb to the highest point in the Vatican City for 360° views of Rome
  • See Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s majestic altar up close
  • Access the Vatican Grottoes, including St. Peter’s tomb
  • Skip the main Basilica line by entering directly after the dome
  • Enjoy insightful commentary from a professional multilingual guide
  • Explore Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces inside one of the most iconic churches in the world
  • Visit the original foundations of Constantine’s 4th-century church

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Meeting point & Instructions

Meet your guide outside the Basilica at Largo del Colonnato 5, before entering security. Look for the yellow TOURIKS sign.

Do not go through metal detectors before meeting your guide. Arrive 20 minutes before your scheduled time and bring wired headphones for the tour audio system.

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Reviews & Rating

4.5/ 5 (1040+ reviews)

"Incredible guide in an incredible city. Don't think our experience could have been any better." - Bernie, March 2025

“The tour guide was very kind and knowledgeable and helped us a lot to understand the history If these wonderful places. The tour is well organized and the group was small (6 people) and this helps a lot.” Franceso - March 2024 >> See more reviews...

#1

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