moderate
2–3 hours
Moderate fitness needed; the climb involves navigating tight, steep staircases with uneven steps.
Skip the crowds and climb to the top of St. Peter's Basilica Dome with Touriks, uncovering Renaissance masterpieces and panoramic views over Rome. This guided experience mixes rich history with a rewarding challenge.
40€ • 1.5 hrs • Tour in English
Experience the grandeur of St. Peter's Basilica on a guided tour that includes a climb to the Dome for breathtaking panoramic views of Rome. Marvel at exquisite mosaics, Renaissance art, and the iconic Pietà by Michelangelo, all while avoiding long lines and gaining insights from a professional guide.
Combine a quality-guided experience of St. Peter's Square and Basilica with a climb to the top of the Dome for the best panoramic view of Rome. Choose a small-group tour and be impressed by these art & architecture masterpieces.
Meet your guide in St. Peter's Square and start your tour climbing your way up to the top of the dome of the Basilica. Enjoy a bird's-eye view over the marble floor and get the chance to take an exclusively close look at the mosaics of the dome.
Go even higher to find yourself at the top balcony and be amazed by the spectacular panorama over Rome and beyond it. From the height of 136 meters, spot the Colosseum, the Pantheon, Castel Sant'Angelo, and other iconic monuments and see the boundaries of the Vatican State. Take delight in a breathtaking view of St. Peters Square and the Vatican gardens.
Descend directly into the Basilica and avoid the long lines at its entrance. Be humbled by its magnificence and understand why it took 150 years to rebuild. Marvel at colorful marbles, golden ceilings, and impressive mosaics all around you.
Get guided through renowned works of Renaissance and Neoclassic art by Canova and Bernini among others. Be impressed by the harmonious 30-meters-high canopy and discover its connection with the Pantheon. Get emotional in front of the Pietà of Michelangelo and appreciate its expressive power and delicate beauty.
Finish your tour in St. Peters Square and perceive the all-embracing character and purpose of its majestic architecture. Understand the game of visual effects as were thought by its designer, Bernini, and find the two "special" spots in the square.
Meet your guide in Largo del Colonnato 5. Look for the yellow label with the TOURIKS logo on it. Please arrive 20 minutes before your scheduled start time. The meeting point is outside the Basilica before entering St. Peter's square and the security checks. Do not go through the metal detectors before meeting the guide.
The Dome climb involves narrow, steep stairs—ensure your footwear supports grip and mobility.
Morning tours often face fewer crowds and cooler temperatures inside the basilica and Dome.
Photography is allowed, but be mindful of personal space and respect restricted areas.
The Dome climb can be physically demanding; drink water before your tour but note that inside the basilica drink and food are prohibited.
St. Peter's Basilica was completed in the 17th century and is built over the traditional tomb of Saint Peter, one of Jesus's apostles.
Vatican City maintains strict preservation guidelines to protect its artworks and architectural heritage amidst millions of annual visitors.
Supports stable footing on stairs and inside the basilica.
Carry essentials like water and camera without encumbrance.
Hydrate before the climb; water not allowed during the tour inside.
summer specific
Prepare for cooler temperatures inside the church and on the exposed Dome.
fall|winter|spring specific