St. Peter's Basilica and Dome Group Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore St. Peter's Basilica's art and architecture
- Climb to the Dome for panoramic city views
- Visit the Vatican Grottoes beneath the basilica
- Learn about Vatican history from expert guides
- Enjoy skip-the-line access to major sites
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica
- Access to the Dome of St. Peter's Basilica
- Skip-the-line entry to Vatican Grottoes
- Food and beverages
Itinerary
Let yourself be fascinated while learning about the marvelous columns of St. Peter’s and the imposing square
Travellers will admire the interiors of the Basilica and its most remarkable highlights
Discover the history behind Michelangelo's sculpture
Marvel at the St. Peter's Baldachin by Bernini, in front of the altar and underneath the Dome. Learn the history behind the marble sculpture from your tour guide.
Climb on top of the dome and see the wonderful panoramic view.
Meeting point
Start Location
Unknown location
Important information
Know before you book
- Tour operates in English; check availability for other languages
- Climbing the Dome involves 551 steps; consider your fitness level
- Photography is allowed; tripods and flash are prohibited
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for the tour and Dome climb
- Dress modestly; shoulders and knees should be covered
- Bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated during the tour
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Easy Public Transport
- Infants Required On Laps
Good to know
- All guests must present a valid photo ID at the security checkpoint.
- Latecomers will not be allowed in and no refunds will be issued.
- Dress code: shoulders and knees must be covered at all times while inside Vatican premises.
- Access to St. Peter’s Basilica may be limited or suspended without prior notice due to religious ceremonies.
- All visitors must pass through airport-style security checks. During peak season, wait times for security checks and elevators may be longer.
Traveler reviews
Not at all what we paid for
This was the worst tour and completely inaccurate according to our itinerary. First, it was supposed to start at 8::15 and last about 90 minutes. We received a text early in the morning that we had a change in start time and location, which was very confusing for us, web. We met our guide she said we couldn’t get Iinto the Basilica until 9:30 and we had to stay outside for an hour. Our itinerary included a dome tour but she told us that was not included in the price. I spent the entire time trying to contact the tour operator through Viator for a refund as this was completely inaccurate according to our itinerary that was sent to us- and we had a Vatican tour scheduled at 10:30. Very disappointing that I only received a partial refund as I literally spent the entire time inside the Basilica on my phone trying to get a refund. I would not recommend this tour at all.
Extremely happy
Out of all of our tours in Rome, St. Peter Basilica and Dome Small Group Tour was our favorite. We had an amazing guide who was very knowledgeable. We (even my husband who is very hard to please) are extremely happy with our experience.