Private Jubilee Tour of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore

Visit the Holy Door, open only once every 25 years, with your personal guide

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· 2.00h · Rome, Italy

This private, bespoke tour of Santa Maria Maggiore is designed around you, offering a deeply personal experience during the Jubilee year. With your dedicated guide, explore the basilica’s awe-inspiring mosaics, sacred relics, and rich history at a pace that suits your needs. Enjoy moments for prayer and reflection as you pass by the Holy Door, embracing its profound message of grace and spiritual renewal.

Private Jubilee Tour of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore

Visitors admire an intricate mosaic inside a historic church, with golden accents and religious iconography decorating the walls.

The grand façade of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, with its twin bell towers standing against a clear sky.

A religious ceremony takes place inside a grand basilica, with clergy members dressed in ceremonial robes leading the congregation.

A close-up of a richly detailed mosaic inside a historic church, depicting religious figures in gold and vibrant colors.

A gilded angel statue with flowing ribbons and outstretched wings stands as an ornate decoration inside a sacred space.

A visitor stands inside a small, dimly lit chapel, gazing at an illuminated religious painting framed by classical architecture.

A spiral staircase with ornate stone steps winds downward, with a visitor making their way to the lower level.

An opulent church interior with gilded ceilings, intricate frescoes, and polished marble floors reflecting the warm glow of chandeliers.

A grand, symmetrical hallway in a historic church, adorned with golden details, marble columns, and religious artwork.

Meet your guide at the entrance to the Basilica
Lodge of Blessings
Bernini Staircase
Panoramic Terraces

Liberian Historical Museum
End inside the Basilica

You'll greet your personal guide at the entrance to Santa Maria Maggiore, located near Termini Station, before quickly learning about how the basilica stands as a testament to faith and artistry, with roots tracing back to the 5th century. This private tour offers an intimate exploration of the basilica’s grandeur, from its shimmering mosaics to its ornate chapels. Guided by an expert, delve into the fascinating legends surrounding its founding and conclude your tour inside the Basilica

Private Jubilee Tour of Santa Maria Maggiore Description

Your 2-hour tour includes:

Private guided tour of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore at your own pace
Marvel at 5th-century mosaics and ornate chapels
Learn the stories behind sacred relics like the Holy Crib of Christ
Explore the basilica’s history as one of Rome’s four papal basilicas
Tailored storytelling for an intimate and enriching experience

This tour does not include access to walk through the Holy Door, as it is reserved for registered pilgrims only. If you are wishing to partake in this holy event, please visit the official Jubilee website to learn more.

The Nave and Triumphal Arch Mosaics

Begin your journey in the vast nave of Santa Maria Maggiore, a breathtaking space that exudes the grandeur of early Christian Rome. Your guide will bring to life the basilica’s stunning 5th-century mosaics, which depict intricate biblical scenes rendered in shimmering gold and vibrant colors. These masterpieces, created by artisans of unparalleled skill, reflect the devotion and artistic innovation of their time. Gaze upon the triumphal arch, where mosaics celebrate pivotal moments in Christ’s life and Mary’s role in salvation history, a testament to the enduring faith and creativity of the early Church.

The Borghese Chapel and the Holy Crib

Step into the opulent Borghese Chapel, a masterpiece of Baroque splendor commissioned by Pope Paul V. Adorned with gilded details, marble sculptures, and radiant frescoes, this chapel is a celebration of both artistic achievement and religious devotion. At its heart lies one of the basilica’s most sacred relics: fragments of the Holy Crib of Christ. As your guide recounts the history and significance of this revered artifact, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for its role in Christian tradition and its connection to the basilica’s spiritual legacy.

The Sistine Chapel of Santa Maria Maggiore

Venture into the Sistine Chapel of Santa Maria Maggiore, a gem distinct from its Vatican counterpart yet equally magnificent. Built by Pope Sixtus V during the Counter-Reformation, this chapel showcases frescoes that burst with color and vitality, depicting scenes of devotion and divine triumph. Architectural details, from soaring arches to intricately carved stonework, reflect the era’s desire to inspire faith through grandeur. Your guide will explain how this chapel became a powerful symbol of papal authority and a beacon of artistic innovation during a transformative period in Church history.

The Crypt of the Nativity and Papal Tombs

Descend to the serene Crypt of the Nativity, a sacred space that weaves together artistic reverence and historical significance. Here, you’ll encounter stunning depictions of Christ’s birth alongside the tombs of influential pontiffs who shaped the Church’s legacy. This tranquil area is more than a burial site—it’s a reflection of centuries of faith, leadership, and devotion. Your guide will illuminate the stories of the saints and popes honored here, offering a profound connection to the spiritual and cultural heritage of Santa Maria Maggiore.

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What you get with this tour

Private English-speaking guide
Jubilee focused itinerary
Skip the line Basilica tickets
Bernini Staircase
Holy Door (exterior)
Private tour group
Hotel pick up
Meals
Guide gratuity

See what people are saying

6 total reviews

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5.0/5 (based on 6 reviews)

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1 stars

Great tour

13 August 2025

Reviewed by
Kathleen McNabb

Daniel was one of the best tour guides I’ve had the pleasure of having as a guide. He was extremely friendly, knowledgeable, easy going and loves what he does. Completely recommend Daniel and The Tour Guy.

19 July 2025

Reviewed by
Daniel Pharand

Beautiful Church

04 June 2025

Reviewed by
Debbie Sponsler

Our guide was passionate and charming What a treat to listen to her share everything about this amazing place Thank you

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Frequently Asked Questions

What to bring?

Please bring your voucher and a valid ID.

What to bring?

Please bring your voucher and a valid ID.

Is photography allowed inside the basilica?

Photography is permitted in most areas but restricted in some spaces. Your guide will provide guidance.

Are tickets to restricted areas included in the price?

Entry fees for the terraces and museum are included in the final ticket price.

Are the Panoramic Terraces accessible to everyone?

Access may be limited for individuals with mobility challenges due to stairs.

Is access to the Holy Door included?

Unfortunately this tour does not include acess to the Holy Door. If you'd like the right to enter, please visit the official Jubilee website to learn more.