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Tours & experiences

St. Peter’s Basilica and Papal Tombs Guided Tour

About this experience

Start your day with a small group guided tour and explore the world’s most iconic Basilica in the peaceful morning hours. Discover the hidden wonders of one of Vatican City’s most extraordinary landmarks without the usual crowds.

Meet your expert guide, who will take you on a fascinating journey through St. Peter’s Basilica, its magnificent Square, Michelangelo’s stunning Pietà, the grand Baldacchino, the mysterious papal grottoes, and much more. Each step offers a chance to learn something new, capture beautiful photos, and create lasting memories.

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 with the Dome
with Dome, English
French with Dome
with Dome, French
Spanish with the Dome
with Dome, Spanish
French regular
without Dome, French
German with Dome
with Dome, German
Spanish regular
without Dome, Spanish
German regular
without Dome, German
English regular
Without dome, English

Plan your experience

Time on the tour1 hr 30 min
Guide languagesGerman (live guide), English (live guide), French (live 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

  • Professional art historian guide
  • guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica
  • Dome is included when choosing the option "with Dome"
  • Informations to climb the dome at the official price

Not included

  • Skip the line is not included
  • This tour does not include entry to the Vatican Museums or Sistine Chapel.

Itinerary and highlights

start your visit with explanations on St. Peter's Square. Listen to the explanations on Bernini's colonnade

Join an expert guide for an unforgettable tour and explore the stunning artworks within. Admire the majestic Baldacchino, Michelangelo’s breathtaking Pietà, the intriguing papal grottoes, and many other incredible masterpieces.

Meeting and pickup information

  • You just have to reach the meeting point, Via del Mascherino, 20. You'll find our coordinator standing at this point wearing a blue/white jacket. Our coordinator will also be holding a blue flag that says "Once Upon A Time Tours". You just have to go up to them and they will check you in.

Languages and tickets

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

Tour operator

  • Diamond tours

Meeting points and locations

Accessibility and practical details

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 24 travelers
  • Please select the right option for the Dome climb or no Dome climb option
  • Possible Closures: St. Peter’s Basilica may close for Vatican events. If this happens, we will reschedule your visit as soon as possible
  • Dress code: knees and shoulders covered since it's a Holy place.

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?
German (live guide), English (live guide), French (live guide), Spanish (live guide).
What ticket format is listed?
Mobile ticket.
What ticket age bands are listed?
Adult tickets: age 10+. 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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