Rome travel guide: tickets, best time & real costs
St. Peter's Basilica & Papal Tombs Tour with Optional Dome Climb
At a glance
- Duration
- 2h 30min
- Price from
- $46 / person
- Location
- Rome, Italy
- Languages
- EN
- Group
- Small group, up to 20
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Confirmation
- Instant
- Ticket
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Operator
- Infinity Tours
- Meeting point
- From Ottaviano Metro Station, walk along Via Ottaviano toward Piazza del Risorgimento, then continue onto Via di Porta Angelica. The meeting point is in front of Galleria Mariana, Via di Porta Angelica 69, just before the archway into St. Peter’s Square. Look for our colleagues in purple shirts.
Description
Your journey begins with an expert-led tour of St. Peter's Basilica, the heart of the Catholic Church, showcasing stunning mosaics, grand columns, and richly decorated chapels. Afterward, proceed to the Grottoes, where many Popes, including St. Peter, are buried. This calm area offers historical insights and stories about the Popes' lives and influences. For an unforgettable view of Rome, opt for the dome climb. Ascend 551 steps, or take an elevator to reduce it to 320, pass through narrow passageways and spiral staircases, and witnessing the stunning architecture up close and enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the eternal city at the top.
Schedule & prices
- Runs
- Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, and Fri
- Start times
- 8:30 AM, 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 3:30 PM
- Next available
- Mon, Nov 2
- Adult (ages 18+)
- $46
- Child (ages 7–17)
- $34
- Infant (ages 0–6)
- $6
Prices change with the date; the lowest is shown.
Out at sunset: the 3:30 PM departure is under way when the sun sets, around 4:59 PM in the coming weeks.
In demand: 12 of the next 54 departures are already sold out.
From the operator’s live schedule on Viator, checked Oct 24.
Tour Options
Itinerary
St. Peter's Basilica
Your journey begins with an expert-led tour of St. Peter's Basilica, an architectural masterpiece and the heart of the Catholic Church. Inside, you'll be awed by the basilica's magnificence. The guide will share insights into this sacred place's history, art, and symbolism. The basilica contains a wealth of artistic and architectural marvels, such as stunning mosaics, grand columns, and richly decorated chapels. These features demonstrate the talent and dedication of the individuals who crafted them. During the tour, the guide will share tales of the basilica's construction, tracing its evolution from early Christianity to its redesign by Renaissance and Baroque maestros. The magnificence of St. Peter's Basilica is stunning and leaves an endless impression.
The Vatican Grottoes
After visiting the basilica, you will proceed to the Grottoes, the location of the Popes' tombs. This calm and respectful area is the final resting place for numerous popes, including St. Peter. While walking through the Grottoes, your guide will offer historical background and share stories about the lives and influences of the popes buried here. This part of the tour provides a meaningful chance to reflect on the lasting significance of the papacy. The atmosphere in the Grottoes is somber and tranquil, providing a space for quiet contemplation.
St. Peter's Basilica
The optional dome climb is a must for those seeking an unforgettable view of Rome. The climb to the top of St. Peter's Dome is an adventure, with 551 steps, though an elevator reduces this to 320. As you climb, you'll pass through narrow passageways and spiral staircases, seeing the stunning architecture up close. Reaching the top will grant you a breathtaking, panoramic view of the eternal city. From this vantage point, you can see the Vatican Gardens, the River Tiber, and the sprawling cityscape of Rome. The sight of the city from above, with its ancient ruins, historic churches, and bustling piazzas, is a tour highlight, offering a unique perspective on Rome's timeless beauty.
What's included
Included
Audio System for an enhanced guided experience
Guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica and Papal tombs.
Entry Tickets to the Dome (If option selected)
Professional Tour Guide
Not included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Food and drinks
How it compares in Rome
- Starting price $46 is 60% below the typical $113 for tours of similar length in Rome
Excurgo comparison of 8,095 Viator tours, recalculated daily.
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
1+ days before100% refund
0–1 days before0% refund
Frequently asked questions
How long does this tour take?
St. Peter's Basilica & Papal Tombs Tour with Optional Dome Climb lasts about 2h 30min. The itinerary has 3 stops.
How much does this tour cost?
Prices start at $46 per person for this Rome experience, booked through Viator with the price shown before checkout. There are 2 booking options, so the final price depends on the option you choose.
What days does this tour run?
According to the operator’s current schedule, it runs on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, starting at 8:30 AM, 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 3:30 PM.
How much does this tour cost for children?
Children aged 7–17 pay from $34, adults from $46.
Does this tour sell out?
It can: 12 of the next 54 departures are already sold out, so booking ahead is a good idea.
Can I cancel this tour for free?
Yes. Cancel at least 1 day before the start for a full refund. Later cancellations are non-refundable.
Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is From Ottaviano Metro Station, walk along Via Ottaviano toward Piazza del Risorgimento, then continue onto Via di Porta Angelica. The meeting point is in front of Galleria Mariana, Via di Porta Angelica 69, just before the archway into St. Peter’s Square. Look for our colleagues in purple shirts. Hotel pickup is not part of this experience.
What languages is this tour offered in?
The experience is available in EN.
Is this a private or a group tour?
It is a small-group experience with a maximum of 20 participants.
Will my booking be confirmed immediately?
Yes, bookings are confirmed instantly.
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| Tour | Duration | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| St. Peter's Basilica & Papal Tombs Tour with Optional Dome Climb | 2h 30min | — | $46 | |
 St Peter’s Basilica Tour, Dome Climb & Papal Tombs I Max 6 People | 2h 30min | 5.0 (207) | $182 | View |
 St. Peter's Basilica, Papal Tombs Tour and Optional Dome Climb | 2h 30min | 4.5 (2) | $46 | View |
 Rome: St. Peter’s Basilica, Pietà, Papal Tombs & Dome Tour | 1–2 hours | 4.9 (202) | $23 | View |
 Skip the Line St Peters Basilica, Papal Tombs & Dome Guided Tour | 1h 30min | 4.8 (285) | $18 | View |
 Tour of St Peter's Basilica with Dome Climb and Grottoes | 1h 45min | 4.6 (2,604) | $62 | View |
 Private Saint Peter’s Basilica Tour + Optional Dome & Tombs | 1h 30min | 5.0 (118) | $78 | View |
from$46
Free cancellation