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Tours & experiences

Tour of St Peter Basilica and Papal Tombs and Grottoes

About this experience

Go beyond a self-guided visit and discover the stories, symbolism, and hidden details that make St. Peter's Basilica one of the world's most extraordinary landmarks. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this experience combines art, history, architecture, and centuries of papal tradition in an engaging and easy-to-follow tour.

Explore the breathtaking interior of the basilica, admire masterpieces such as Michelangelo's Pietà and Bernini's magnificent Baldachin, then descend into the peaceful Vatican Grottoes to visit the Papal Tombs, where many popes have been laid to rest. Along the way, your guide will share fascinating insights, historical context, and little-known facts that bring every space to life.

Whether you're passionate about history, art, architecture, or religious heritage, this tour offers a deeper understanding of one of the most iconic sites in Vatican City.

At a glance

  • Duration: 1 hr 30 min

Choose your tour option

Select a date and travellers to compare current prices and departure times.

English Tour without Dome
English Guided Tour
Dome is not Included.
French Tour without Dome
French Guided Tour
Dome is not Included.
Spanish Tour without Dome
Spanish Guided Tour
Dome is not Included.

Plan your experience

Time on the tour1 hr 30 min
Guide languagesEnglish (audio guide), English (live guide), French (audio guide), French (live guide), Spanish (audio guide), Spanish (live guide)

Set aside 1 hr 30 min for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.

Compare the available options before choosing: their itinerary, inclusions and pickup arrangements can differ. Check the price for your date and whole group.

Before you go

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

What is included

  • Live guided experience.
  • Access to the Papal Tombs
  • Guided visit inside St. Peter's Basilica
  • Access to the Vatican Grottoes
  • Expert local licensed guide

Not included

  • No Skip-the-line access
  • No Hotel pickup and drop Service
  • No Food & Drinks

Itinerary and highlights

Step inside one of the world's most celebrated churches on a guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica and discover centuries of history, art, and faith. Learn about the basilica's remarkable architecture, admire masterpieces including Michelangelo's Pietà and Bernini's Baldachin, and hear the stories behind the symbols and traditions that make this an unforgettable landmark.

Continue beneath the basilica to the Vatican Grottoes, where generations of popes have been laid to rest. Visit the Papal Tombs while your guide shares fascinating insights into the history of the papacy and the significance of this sacred site.

Throughout the tour, your expert guide will bring the basilica to life with engaging commentary, pointing out details that many visitors overlook. You'll have opportunities to admire the magnificent interior, take memorable photos where permitted, and experience the spiritual atmosphere of one of Christianity's holiest places.

Meeting and pickup information

  • The meeting point is a 7–8 minute walk from Ottaviano Metro Station (Line A).

Languages and tickets

  • English — Audio
  • English — Guide
  • French — Audio
  • French — Guide
  • Spanish — Audio
  • Spanish — Guide
  • Mobile Only

Tour operator

  • NR City Rome Tours

Meeting points and locations

Accessibility and practical details

  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Questions about this experience

How long is this experience?
The supplier lists a duration of 1 hr 30 min. Check your chosen tour option for its specific itinerary.
Which guide languages are listed?
English (audio guide), English (live guide), French (audio guide), French (live guide), Spanish (audio guide), Spanish (live guide).
What ticket format is listed?
Mobile ticket.
What ticket age bands are listed?
Child tickets: age 7–17; Adult tickets: age 18+. Check the practical details for participation requirements.
What is the cancellation policy?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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