Ultimate St. Peter's Basilica Dome Climb and Tour
See Michelangelo's La Pietà up close and climb the dome for stunning views of Rome and the Vatican
Visiting St. Peter’s Basilica and its dome on your own can mean dealing with crowds and waiting in line for hours. Our early-morning tour, led by a captivating local guide, ensures you skip the hassle with privileged access and insider knowledge, including the best times to climb for awe-inspiring views. Explore the stunning Basilica, take in breathtaking panoramas and take it all in. This is a a truly immersive experience.
- Meet your guide at Largo Del Colonnato
- 1st level of St. Peter's Dome
- Top of the St. Peter's Dome
- St. Peter's Basilica
- La Pietá
- Baldacchino
- St. Peter's Statue
- End your tour inside the St. Peter's Basilica
You’ll meet your friendly local guide at Largo Del Colonnato, near St. Peter's Square. Then, you'll begin your journey to the top of the Dome. Taking the elevator to the first level to admire the elaborate mosaics, you can ascend the narrow, ancient stairway to the very top, where you’ll have an unbeatable view of Rome and the Vatican.
Afterwards, your guide will give you an in-depth tour inside the Basilica itself before entering, where you’ll learn its history and see the artistic masterpieces of Michelangelo and Bernini.
Looking for more? Book our money-saving combo tour to climb St. Peter's before visiting the Vatican and Sistine Chapel.
St. Peter’s Dome Climb Tour Description
Your 2.5-hour small group tour includes:
Friendly, English-speaking guide
Entry to St. Peter's Basilica
Climb to the top of the dome
Elevator access
Guided explanation of Peter's Basilica before entering
A maximum group size of 25
Climb St. Peter’s Dome
Get ready for the best view in all of Rome! Once inside St. Peter's Basilica, you'll follow your guide up the elevator to lower level of the dome. This first level is filled with incredibly elaborate mosaics that cover the inside of the dome, and you'll also get a chance to step outside onto the terrace and embrace an iconic view of the Vatican City.
From the first tier, you’ll have the option to climb even higher, with 320 ancient stone steps leading you to very top of the dome. It's a little strenuous on the legs and the stairway gets narrow and a little claustrophobic in parts, but the reward at the top will make it all worthwhile! This is a truly epic view of the Vatican and the historic center of Rome, and it's our favorite way to introduce travelers to the Eternal City.
Explanation of St. Peter’s Basilica
You'll return to ground level for a more in-depth look into the largest church in the world. You'll see various areas inside and witness legendary artworks of the Basilica, including Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s Baldacchino. Among the most famous things you'll see in the Basilica are the spectacular throne and high altar of St. Peter—built directly above his final resting place. Your ticket also allows you to marvel in the elegance of St. Peter’s Basilica for as long as you’d like after the tour has finished, so you can return for a closer look at any of the artwork or important features here.
The Adventure Continues
Now that you've seen Rome from above and explored the Basilica, it's time to continue your journey. You can remain inside and continue to explore the Basilica or grab a coffee and relax.
What you get with this tour
See what people are saying
163 total reviews
Leave a reviewVery knowledgeable!
Paige Shreeve
Great guide—super knowledgeable, friendly, and funny!! Great views from every level of the basilica!
Taryn Marie Hynek
Heather brekke
Frequently Asked Questions
What to bring?
Comfortable shoes, a bottle of water, and a great camera!
What to bring?
Comfortable shoes, a bottle of water, and a great camera!
Does this tour visit the Vatican Museums?
This tour doesn't include the Vatican Museums. However, if you're interested in touring the Vatican after your tour, consider our Skip the Line Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica.
Does this tour run on Wednesdays?
This tour isn't available on Wednesdays due to Papal Audience, which is held every Wednesday morning.
Is there an elevator I can take instead of climbing?
On this guided tour, everyone will enjoy the use of the elevator to skip the first 231 steps and emerge at the landing inside the dome. From there, you can either admire the view from the terrace or climb the remaining 320 steps on foot.
What if have claustrophobia?
Some parts of the stairway to the very top of the dome become very narrow and may not be suitable for people with severe claustrophobia. If you don't think this climb is for you, you're welcome to skip this part and stay on the first level, where you'll still have a fantastic view of the Vatican from the terrace.
What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?
The dome climb is optional and you're welcome to just take the elevator to the first level, but anyone wishing to climb should be prepared for 320 steps up and down. Otherwise, the tour will move at a fairly gentle pace with a few small stairways and uneven floors. If you're unsure, we'd suggest considering a private Vatican, St. Peter's Basilica, and Sistine Chapel Tour so we can tailor it to your needs.
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