Beat the crowds and admire St. Peter's Basilica in all its glory as you explore the solemn grandeur at the heart of the Vatican. With a small group, special reserved access, an up-close look at the cathedral, and a visit to the papal tombs, you get these remarkable sights almost to yourself. Meet your guide just outside the entrance to St. Peter's Square and head past the crowds, straight into the grand Renaissance-era elegance of the basilica. For the next two hours, you'll journey through the basilica itself as your guide shows you the grandeur that defines one of the holiest sites in the Catholic world. Admire the exquisite detail of the baldachin designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, standing amid the space designed by Michelangelo, and then visit the famous bronze statue of St. Peter with the keys to heaven in his hand. Another special experience is waiting for you beneath the basilica as your guide gives you a rare look at the crypts of the Vatican grotto. With more than 100 tombs holding popes, Catholic monarchs, and famous figures, the crypts let you look back through almost 2,000 years of the church's history.Before parting ways with your guide, they'll lead you to the elevator that carries you to the dome's first terrace to begin your dome climb. You'll be surrounded by its beautiful artwork, and then 320 steps lead you up to one of the best views you can get of the city of Rome—from the square below you all the way across the Tiber.
VIP St. Peter's Basilica tour with Dome climb and Papal Crypt
- Get priority reserved access to St. Peter's Basilica.
- Experience St. Peter's Square before the crowds arrive.
- See stunning views of Rome from the top of the basilica.
- Explore Rome's most famous church in exquisite detail.
- Get an up-close look at the beautiful mosaics.
Guided walking tour
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Entrance ticket
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Individual headset
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Local guide
Guided walking tour
Tips (optional)
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Hotel pick-up/drop-off
Tips (optional)
Piazza della Città Leonina, 7, 00193 Roma RM, Italy
Not suitable for:
- Guests with mobility impairments, wheelchairs, and strollers
Know in advance:
- Due to the religious nature of the Vatican, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. The tour operator cannot be held responsible for those denied entry
- After the terrace where the lift stops, there are still 320 steps to climb to reach the very top
- This tour operator is an Accredited Tour Operator with an official ticketing agreement with the Vatican Museums.
- The full names of all participants must be provided at the time of booking and must match the names on the ID/Passport. Name changes are not permitted.
Remember to bring:
- A valid ID (that applies also to any children booked on the tour)
What people say about this experience
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