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Discover St. Peter’s Basilica on a guided tour—admire the Obelisk, explore its wonders, visit the Papal Grottoes, and climb the dome for breathtaking views of Rome!

Highlights

• Feel the grandeur of St. Peter’s Square, designed by Bernini in the 17th century
• Admire the 2500-year-old Egyptian Obelisk, a relic of antiquity in the square
• Explore St. Peter’s Basilica, a masterpiece of devotion and artistic genius
• See Michelangelo’s La Pietà, a tender masterpiece created when he was 24
• Descend into the Papal Grottoes, the final resting place of popes and saints

Description

Begin your journey at the heart of Vatican City—St. Peter’s Square. As you step into this monumental space, the sheer grandeur of its architecture commands attention. Designed by the masterful Gian Lorenzo Bernini in the 17th century, the square is a triumph of Baroque vision and symbolism. The massive colonnades, arranged in an embracing oval, represent the Church’s open arms, welcoming pilgrims from around the world. At the center of the square stands an awe-inspiring relic of antiquity: the 2500-year-old Egyptian Obelisk. Originally erected in Heliopolis and brought to Rome by Emperor Caligula, this towering monument has stood in the square since 1586. It silently bears witness to centuries of history, from the Roman Empire to the present day. Cross the threshold into St. Peter’s Basilica and prepare to be moved by its magnificence. Beneath your feet, vibrant marble mosaics form intricate patterns across the vast floor, while the golden ceiling above glows with divine splendor. Every surface speaks of devotion and artistic genius, reflecting the faith and ambition that built this architectural wonder. With your expert guide leading the way, delve into the Basilica’s most treasured highlights. At the crossing of the nave and transept, gaze up at the magnificent Papal Altar. Rising above it is Bernini’s Baldachin, an ornate bronze canopy that seems to defy gravity, marking the site of St. Peter’s tomb beneath. Not far from the altar, find Michelangelo’s La Pietà, a sublime sculpture capturing the Virgin Mary cradling the lifeless body of Christ—a tender and powerful masterpiece created when Michelangelo was just 24 years old. As your tour draws to a close, descend beneath the grandeur into the solemn silence of the Papal Grottoes. This crypt, lying directly beneath the Basilica’s central nave, serves as the final resting place for dozens of popes, saints, and European royalty. Here, amidst the hushed reverence of ancient stone, walk among centuries of history. Pause at the tomb of St. Peter himself, a sacred site revered by millions, and reflect on the legacy of those who have shaped the Catholic Church through the ages. End of the Tour guide will bring you to the Dome. It’s own time. You can wander as long as you want

Includes

Guided tour of St. Peter’s Square Visit to St. Peter’s Basilica Viewing of the Egyptian Obelisk Exploration of the Papal Grottoes Viewing of Michelangelo’s La Pietà Visit to the Papal Altar and Bernini’s Baldachin Dome Climb

Important Information

• Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & Necropolis are not included. knees & shoulders must be covered Please note that skip the line isn't possible. All visitors must pass through security check line like airport. It might take 10-120 minutes during high season. Including Dome Option- In the event of unfavorable weather conditions, access to the dome for climbing might be restricted. Should this occur, please feel free to request a partial refund. St. Peter's Basilica is subject to unforeseen closures due to Vatican affairs. In the event this happens, the tour operator will contact you as soon as possible to reschedule. In the rare event the underground is closed, you will spend extra time in the basilica and St. Peter's Square You will also need to wait in line to climb up to the dome. The wait time may range from 5 to 70 minutes.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund