Rome: Guided Tour of St. Peter's Dome Climb, Basilica & Vatacombs
Vatican City, IT
91% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Early access to St. Peter's Basilica
- Climb the dome for breathtaking views
- Expert Vatican guide to point out landmarks
- Descend into the "Vatacombs" and see papal crypts
- Concludes on St. Peter's Square
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Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
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Expert Vatican Guide
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Includes Dome Climb
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Small group max 20 travelers
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Admission to Vatacombs included
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Early access to St. Peter’s Basilica
Experience the thrill of the Original St. Peter's Dome Climb, Basilica & Vatacombs. Beat the crowds and enter St. Peter's Basilica as it opens for the day. Take the lift partway up and make the final ascent on foot, reaching the summit for a breathtaking view of Rome and beyond. Your expert Vatican guide will point out historical landmarks in every direction. Then, descend into the lower level of the basilica and explore the "Vatacombs," a fascinating series of grottoes housing papal crypts and incredible artwork. This 120-minute tour will leave a profound impression on your soul as you witness the beauty of St. Peter's Basilica and its surroundings. Don't miss this opportunity to have an unforgettable experience in Vatican City.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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2 hours 30 minutes
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English, Italian, French, Spanish; Castilian
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Mobile voucher
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Small Group tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Experience breathtaking views and history on a guided climb of St. Peter's Dome, including a unique tour of the Vatacombs beneath the Basilica.
Included
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Beat the crowds by getting an early start inside St. Peter’s -
Visit to St. Peter's Basilica (Admission Ticket Free)
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Marvel at astonishing works of art and architecture
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Incredible views of Rome and far beyond which most visitors to the Vatican never see
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Unique experience at the summit of St. Peter's Dome with an expert Vatican tour guide
Excluded
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Gratuities -
Hotel pickup and drop-off
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Necropolis (scavi)
Meeting Point
Meet at 7:45 AM for 8:00 AM departure by the Tiare fountain (Fontana delle Tiare), just beneath Largo del Colonnato and in front of the pillars which run around Saint Peter's Square. Your guide will be holding an ItaliaTours signboard. Google maps link: https://goo.gl/maps/vZvCNgmmozFLnzT3A
Largo del Colonnato, 1, 00193 Roma RM , Italy
End Point
The tour concludes on St. Peter's Square beside St. Peter's Basilica.
Piazza Papa Pio XII, 1, 00193 Roma RM , Italy
What to expect
Meet your expert Vatican tour guide on the threshold of St. Peter's Square and make your way across marble paving to the steps which wind up and around the dome. There are 551 in total so of course this is too much exertion for most. We take the elevator part of the way which cuts the step count by a sizable 171, leaving 380.
30 minutes
From St. Peter's Square, enter the passageways which lead up to the top of Michelangelo's magnificent dome for superb views of the Vatican City and Rome.
60 minutes
Admission Included
A fully guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica follows your dome climb. It's one of the most beautiful buildings in the world and it will leave a profound impression upon your soul.
60 minutes
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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Bring a small bottle of water with you for dome climb. -
Dome climb is a moderate exertion activity undertaken in a short space of time. Please be aware of this before you book.
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Dress comfortably, shoulders and knees must be covered for both men and women.
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Due to the route covered and/or transportation used, it is not possible to participate in this tour using a wheelchair, scooter, or other aid.
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Not recommended for pregnant travelers
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Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
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Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
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On days immediately surrounding religious holidays at the Vatican, alterations to tours may become necessary due to partial closings of areas normally included in this tour. In the event that the Papal tombs beneath St. Peter's Basilica are closed, the tour of the Basilica itself will be extended and no refunds made.
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Please note that essential travel documents and final itinerary details might be delivered electronically closer to the activity date.
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Please note: This description is provided as a general example. Actual experiences may vary slightly depending on the season, local conditions, and other factors beyond our control.
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Public transportation options are available nearby
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Specialized infant seats are available
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Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
What our experts say
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Wear comfortable shoes for climbing. -
Bring a small water bottle for the climb.
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Visit nearby Castel Sant'Angelo for views.
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Try local gelato at Gelateria Giolitti.
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Check dress code to avoid entry issues.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Experience the wonders of St. Peter's Basilica like never before with the Original St. Peter's Dome Climb, Basilica & Vatacombs tour. Beat the crowds and be among the first to enter the basilica as it opens for the day. Ascend the majestic dome, enjoying panoramic views of Rome and beyond. Your expert Vatican guide will lead you on an unforgettable journey through history, pointing out significant landmarks and sharing fascinating insights along the way.What to expect?
During this 120-minute tour, you'll have the opportunity to explore St. Peter's Square, climb the dome, and discover the hidden treasures of the Vatacombs. As you walk through the passageways leading to the top of Michelangelo's dome, marvel at the breathtaking views of Vatican City and Rome. Choose to take the elevator partway up, reducing the number of steps, or challenge yourself with the full climb. At the summit, immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring panorama and absorb the rich history surrounding you.Who is this for?
This tour is designed for history enthusiasts, art aficionados, and curious travelers of all ages. Whether you're visiting Rome for the first time or a seasoned traveler, this experience will captivate and inspire you. Due to its inclusive nature, anyone with a sense of adventure and a desire to immerse themselves in the cultural heritage of the Vatican should join this tour.Why book this?
Embarking on the Original St. Peter's Dome Climb, Basilica & Vatacombs tour offers a unique perspective on the iconic St. Peter's Basilica. By being among the first to enter the basilica, you'll have the opportunity to explore the stunning interior before the crowds arrive. Ascending the dome allows you to witness the beauty of Rome from a vantage point that few have experienced. Additionally, the descent into the Vatacombs offers a glimpse into the rich history and artistry that surrounds the papal crypts. This exclusive tour ensures a personalized and immersive journey, providing you with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Vatican's cultural significance.Good to know
It is important to meet at 7:45 AM for an 8:00 AM departure by the Tiare fountain, just beneath Largo del Colonnato. The duration of the tour is approximately 120 minutes, allowing ample time to explore St. Peter's Basilica, climb the dome, and visit the Vatacombs. Please note that there are 551 steps in total, but the elevator takes you partway, reducing the climb to 380 steps. Comfortable footwear is recommended for the ascent. The tour concludes on St. Peter's Square beside St. Peter's Basilica.Reviews
Visitors who have taken the Original St. Peter's Dome Climb, Basilica & Vatacombs tour highly praise the knowledgeable guides who bring the history and artistry of St. Peter's Basilica to life. Travelers have expressed their amazement at the stunning views from the dome and the unique experience of descending into the Vatacombs. This tour has left a lasting impression on many, offering a deeper understanding of the Vatican's cultural significance and providing unforgettable memories.
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