Rome: St. Peter's Basilica & Papal Tombs Express Tour
Description
St. Peter's Basilica, located within Vatican City, is a symbol of religious devotion and architectural grandeur. A guided tour of this iconic basilica provides an immersive encounter with its historical, artistic, and spiritual dimensions. Marvel at the Renaissance and Baroque architecture of this monumental church, including the awe-inspiring dome designed by Michelangelo. Discover the religious importance of St. Peter's Basilica as the burial site of St. Peter and a hub for major papal ceremonies. Descend into the Vatican Grottoes to pay homage to the tombs of popes and saints, including the traditional resting place of St. Peter. Ascend to the top of the dome for panoramic vistas of Vatican City and Rome, offering a unique perspective on the Eternal City.
Tour Options
Itinerary
St. Peter's Basilica St. Peter's Basilica is one of the holiest sites in Christianity. It is traditionally believed to be built on the burial site of Saint Peter, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus and the first Bishop of Rome (Pope). The basilica holds great religious and historical importance for Catholics. The basilica is renowned for its stunning Renaissance and Baroque architecture. It was designed by notable architects like Donato Bramante, Michelangelo, Carlo Maderno, and Gian Lorenzo Bernini.
The Vatican Grottoes, located beneath St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, are a sacred and historically significant underground complex. This subterranean space serves as the final resting place for numerous popes, saints, and notable figures from the history of the Catholic Church. Visitors to the Vatican Grottoes can explore a labyrinth of burial chambers and tombs, including the traditional resting place of St. Peter, one of Jesus' apostles and the first Bishop of Rome (Pope). The grottoes are adorned with artistic and decorative elements that reflect the rich heritage and religious significance of the Catholic faith. Accessible to tourists and pilgrims, the Vatican Grottoes provide a unique opportunity to delve into the history of the Church and pay homage to its revered figures. These underground chambers are a place of reverence, reflection, and historical exploration, offering a deeper understanding of the enduring legacy of the Catholic Church.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(26)
I’m not one to spend time submitting reviews of company’s but I had to post this because of my experience with one of your tour guides . She was leading a French language group into St. Peter’s Basilica today June 24 2026 at 1pm Rome time . Never have I been treated with utter disrespect . She really should know better to make jokes about people in French assuming that the brunt of her joke doesn’t understand the language . Fortunately , I am from Canada and French is one our official languages. Your company should be more cautious as to who you hire to represent you . Her photo is below- sure you can figure out who she is !
Excellent guide, Sophie spoke perfect English and was so knowledgeable. The supplied microphone ear reception worked perfectly. A must do activity.
Claudio was our guide and from the first moment he was super attentive. The explanations of the history of the whole tour was amazing, we loved how.it was taking the whole excursion. Super recommended and Claudio a total genius! Thank you.
Visited St Peter's Basilica with this organization Highly recommended with special mention for our guide Frederico A top performer in his profession
My husband and I really enjoyed this tour. Frederico was our guide and he was great. He was very knowledgeable and explained everything in a way that kept the tour very interesting and easy to follow. He also gave us so many interesting facts that we would have never found out through all our research before our visit. He was attentive to all, kept things upbeat, and had a great sense of humor but he was also serious and respectful when necessary like when we visited the tombs of the popes and Saint Peter. We specifically chose this express tour because we were limited on time. It was about 2 hours which was perfect for our time limit and we felt we got to see a lot in that time. We also felt the price was very reasonable for all we got to see and learn, and not having to wait in line. There were couples and families in the group and it was great for all. The group was about 13 people, so not too crowded but we also had headsets so we didn’t miss anything the guide said. I highly recommend this tour.
Claudio is a very good tour leader. Very knowledgeable. Choose him for English tour. ❤️❤️❤️❤️😊😊😊😊😊
Great people work there. So helpful Great experience. Although there was a very large crowd there they made the best of it Impressed by their concern and help.
I liked having a French guide. He was very interesting. The explanations for different images or parts of the basilica were clear.
Had a tour with Federico, amazing tour guide made everyone on the tour feel welcomed and always allowed us to get right stuck into the sometimes crowded areas and didn’t feel pressured by the large crowds ‘this is your moment’ as he says. Would recommend for anyone visiting Rome.
Olga was great, very knowledgeable and fun. Had a lot longer than expected and was real value for money 100% would recommend
