Ultimate St. Peter's Basilica Dome Climb and Tour with Papal Crypts

Afterwards, your guide will give you an in-depth tour inside the basilica itself, where you’ll learn its history and see the artistic masterpieces of Michelangelo and Bernini. Finally, you’ll head down to the Papal Crypts underneath the church, where the elaborate tombs of many former popes are housed.

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 tour includes:

• Entry to St. Peter's Basilica

• Guided climb to the top of the dome

• Guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica and Papal Crypts

• A friendly, knowledgeable, English-speaking guide

• 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.

Guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica

You'll return to ground level for a more in-depth look into the largest church in the world. Your expert guide will show you around the various areas inside and point out the most iconic 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.

Visit the Papal Crypts

After touring the Basilica and seeing La Pietà, it's time to descend to the Papal Crypts! Buried in beautiful caskets and effigies below the Basilica are the remains of many of the Catholic church's former popes. Your guide will tell you all about the men buried here and the part they played in Catholic history, and you'll be able to admire the intricate details of the tombs, many of which were designed by Michelangelo and Bernini. 

On occasion, the papal crypts can be closed to the public at very short notice. But don't worry, your guide knows every inch of the Basilica and will use the time to explore other fascinating areas and artworks.