Rome: St. Peter's Basilica Dome Climb & Papal Tombs Guided Tour

Highlights

• Climb the Dome
• Guided Basilica visit
• Vatican Grottoes & papal tombs

What's included

Itinerary

1. 1

   St. Peter's Square

   Pass by

   St. Peter’s Square is one of the most iconic and impressive public spaces in the world, located at the heart of Vatican City. Designed in the 17th century by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, the square is renowned for its grand scale, perfect symmetry, and powerful symbolism. The vast elliptical colonnade, made up of four rows of Doric columns, appears to embrace visitors as they enter, representing the Church. At the centre of the square stands a towering ancient Egyptian obelisk, flanked by two elegant fountains that add balance and harmony to the space. From here, visitors enjoy a breath-taking view of the façade and dome of St. Peter’s Basilica. St. Peter’s Square serves as a gathering place for major religious ceremonies, papal audiences, and celebrations attended by thousands of people from around the world. Whether visited for its architectural beauty, spiritual significance, or historical importance, the square offers a powerful and memorable introduction to Vatican City.

2. 2

   St. Peter's Basilica

   1h

   St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the most important religious landmarks in the world, located in Vatican City. Built over the tomb of Saint Peter, it is a powerful symbol of faith and history. The basilica is famous for its grand architecture and masterpieces by artists such as Michelangelo and Bernini, including the iconic dome and Michelangelo’s Pietà. With its vast interior and spiritual atmosphere, St. Peter’s Basilica offers an unforgettable experience for visitors and remains a central site for major papal ceremonies.

3. 3

   The Vatican Grottoes

   30min

   Vatican Grottoes, also known as the Papal Tombs, are located beneath St. Peter’s Basilica and hold great historical and spiritual significance. This sacred area is the final resting place of many former popes, as well as important figures in the history of the Church. The grottoes offer a quieter and more reflective atmosphere compared to the basilica above, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the Vatican’s religious heritage. Walking through this underground space provides a meaningful insight into centuries of tradition, faith, and history at the heart of Vatican City.

4. 4

   St. Peter's Basilica

   20min

   St. Peter’s Basilica Dome is one of the most iconic architectural features in Rome and a defining symbol of the Vatican skyline. Designed by Michelangelo, the dome rises majestically above St. Peter’s Basilica and represents a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Visitors who climb to the top are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views over Vatican City and the city of Rome. Inside the dome, you can admire impressive mosaics and gain a unique perspective of the basilica below. The dome experience combines artistic brilliance with unforgettable views, making it one of the highlights of any visit to the Vatican.

Before you go

Location