St Peter's Basilica, Dome Climb & Papal Tombs Tickets Rome

St Peter's Square and its colonnades

Your tour begins in St Peter's Square, the great open space designed by Bernini in the seventeenth century. Two curving colonnades of 284 columns seem to embrace the visitor, and at the centre stands an Egyptian obelisk that was carried from Egypt to Rome under Caligula and re-erected here in 1586.

If you are searching for a St Peter's Basilica tour or how to get to St Peter's Basilica, the square is a short walk from Ottaviano metro station, or it can be reached by buses from the centre. The guide will point out the Apostolic Palace, the Swiss Guard and the papal windows before you enter.

St Peter's Basilica: art, architecture and history

St Peter's Basilica was built between 1506 and 1626 on the site traditionally associated with the tomb of the Apostle Peter, with Bramante, Michelangelo, Maderno and Bernini among its architects. Your guide explains the huge nave, Michelangelo's Pietà, made in 1498 and 1499, and Bernini's bronze canopy over the papal altar.

The basilica is often described as the largest church in the world, and the sheer scale is impressive. A guide helps you understand what you are looking at, which is difficult on your own in such a crowded space. The dedicated entrance in the default option applies to the security check only, so some waiting should still be expected.

The dome climb: Michelangelo's dome and views of Rome

Michelangelo designed the dome, although it was completed after his death by Giacomo della Porta. It rises to about 136 metres, and you climb it by stairs that grow steeper and narrower as the curve of the dome closes in. On the way you look down into the basilica from an inner gallery.

At the top, a terrace gives sweeping views across St Peter's Square, the Vatican Gardens and the rooftops and domes of Rome. Is the dome climb worth it? Yes, for the view and the sense of scale, but it is physically demanding and the queue for the dome cannot be avoided, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a wait.

The papal tombs and practical tips

Below the basilica, the Vatican Grottoes hold the tombs of many popes, in a quiet, low-ceilinged space beneath the main floor. The tour includes this visit when it is open, and the guide gives context on why so many popes are buried close to St Peter.

The best time to visit St Peter's Basilica is early in the morning or late in the day. Opening hours change for papal ceremonies and holidays. The dress code is strictly enforced: shoulders and knees must be covered. The tour lasts about 105 minutes, though the dome and queues can add time, and you should carry a small bag only.