Climb St. Peter's Dome and Explore Rome's Colosseum: An Unforgettable 2-in-1 Adventure

Duration

2.5 hours (not including self-guided Colosseum visit)

About

Beat the crowds and start your day with a climb to the top of St. Peter's Dome for the most stunning panoramic view of Rome, then regroup later for a self-guided visit to the Colosseum of Rome!

Highlights

• Tour St. Peter’s Basilica literally from “Top to bottom” with this exclusive guided tour
• Get up close and inside Michaelangelo’s majestic dome and experience a view of Rome like no other
• The perfect combination of fully guided and DIY exploring!

Itinerary

The panoramic views from the top of St. Peter's dome are truly breathtaking. You'll enjoy a 360% view of the Eternal City like no other, including iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Tiber River. It offers a unique perspective on the city's layout and architecture that you simply can't get from ground level or anywhere else in Rome.

The first steps up to the top of Michelangelo's dome begin just off St. Peter's Square. There are 551 steps in total so we take the elevator partway and reduce the steps count to 380. St. Peter's Basilica itself is an architectural masterpiece, and climbing its dome allows you to appreciate its grandeur up close. You'll have the opportunity to see the intricate details of the dome's construction, including the stunning mosaics and sculptures that adorn its interior. After taking in the remarkable views from the dome, rest awhile before entering St. Peter's Basilica, where Bernini's sculptures and Michelangelo's art rise above Holy Papal tombs and the perceived necropolis of St. Peter himself.

After a break for lunch, make your way “back in time” to ancient Rome where you'll enjoy pre-reserved entry to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. Explore these incredible sites at your leisure, and be sure to immortalize this epic day in Rome with plenty of photos—this is one day you won’t want to forget!

Includes

• Fully guided part-elevator / part-stairs tour to the summit of St. Peter's Dome!
• In depth tour of St. Peter's Basilica with an expert Vatican guide
• Access to Papal crypts beneath St. Peter's
• Pre-reserved entry to the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill (€18 value)

Excludes

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Gratuities

Know before you book

• Max group size: 20 *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. Please contact us to inquire about customized tour options for guests with mobility challenges.
• Dome climb is a morning tour, Colosseum timed entry will be in the afternoon.
• Prefer to book a private tour instead? Contact us for details.

Know before you go

• Dress comfortably, shoulders and knees must be covered for both men and women.
• Due to events and ceremonies associated with the 2025 Jubilee, access to St. Peter's Basilica might be restricted. Such closures are beyond our control.