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Tours & experiences

St Peter’s Basilica and Cupola Guided Tour

About this experience

Visit the attractions of the Vatican early in the morning for a quiet and intimate experience, before the crowds are granted entry.
Get breathtaking views of Rome and splendid sights of the hills all around from your unique vantage point at the crest of the St. Peter’s Basilica, the highest point in Rome.
You will be accompanied by an expert local guide who will describe the various interesting aspects of the Papal Tombs and Michelangelo’s dome.
Explore the St. Peter’s Basilica’s charming interiors and the Papal Sarcophagi after your visit to the top of the dome.
This is one of the only tours that will take you to the top of the dome and to visit the Papal tombs.

At a glance

  • Duration: 2 hr–3 hr

Choose your tour option

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

FRENCH Tour
Duration: 2 hours
SPANISH Tour
Duration: 2 hours
GERMAN Tour
Duration: 2 hours
ENGLISH Tour
Duration: 2 hours
Italian guided tour
Duration: 2 hours

Plan your experience

Time on the tour2 hr–3 hr
Guide languagesGerman (live guide), English (live guide), Italian (live guide), French (live guide), Spanish (live guide)

Set aside 2 hr–3 hr 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

  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

What is included

  • Visit the tombs of the popes
  • Dome climb
  • Audio headset
  • Licensed tour guide
  • Admission to the St. Peter’s Basilica

Not included

  • Pick-up and drop-off services
  • Food and drinks
  • Visit to the Necropolis / St. Peter’s Tomb / Scavi
  • Gratuities

Itinerary and highlights

St. Peter's Basilica is one of the most important places in the entire world. It's a heart of the Catholic Church and the residence of the Pope.
Be led inside with a professional licensed guide. Go back in time with the fascinating stories of the history of Vatican, full of intrigues and remarkable events. Admire the incredible beauty of the cathedral, designed by world famous Michelangelo, Gian Lorenzo Bernini and Carlo Maderno. Feel delight exploring many masterpieces, tombs of popes and many relics. This church hosts famous Pieta by Michelangelo.

Climb on the top of the Cupola-one of the biggest in the world. Admire the fascinating 360 degrees panorama, from where you can see the whole Rome, which is spread before your eyes, and take the most famous and recognisable photos of Vatican.

Meeting and pickup information

  • Please come to the meeting point at least 15 minutes before the tour starts

Languages and tickets

  • German — Guide
  • English — Guide
  • Italian — Guide
  • French — Guide
  • Spanish — Guide
  • Mobile Only

Tour operator

  • Italy Pass tours

Accessibility and practical details

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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 2 hr–3 hr. Check your chosen tour option for its specific itinerary.
Which guide languages are listed?
German (live guide), English (live guide), Italian (live guide), French (live guide), Spanish (live guide).
What ticket format is listed?
Mobile ticket.
What ticket age bands are listed?
Child tickets: age 3–9; Adult tickets: age 12+. 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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