moderate
2–3 hours
Participants should be comfortable with climbing multiple flights of stairs and minor physical exertion.
Climb St. Peter’s Basilica’s dome for unrivaled views and descend into the historic underground grottoes. Touriks offers a unique, in-depth experience of Rome’s architectural crown jewel.
from 46€ • 105 min • The best panoramic view of Rome
Experience an unforgettable guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica, the world's largest. Climb to the Dome for breathtaking views of Rome, explore stunning mosaics, and visit Michelangelo's Pietà. Delve into the underground grottoes and St. Peter's tomb, all while appreciating the architectural brilliance of this iconic site.
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..
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 bronze 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.
Go further down into the underground grottoes and visit St. Peter's tomb. Touch the ancient walls of the original 4th-century basilica and admire the beautiful frescoes.
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 created 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 climb to the Dome involves several narrow, winding staircases—wear comfortable shoes and watch your step.
Carry water to stay hydrated, especially during warmer months as the climb can be physically demanding.
Large bags or backpacks may not be permitted inside; travel light for easier access.
Visitors must dress modestly—shoulders and knees covered are required to enter sacred areas.
St. Peter's Basilica was completed in 1626 over the original Constantinian basilica and stands atop what is traditionally considered the tomb of Saint Peter.
Preservation efforts focus on careful visitor management to protect delicate mosaics and ancient stonework from wear caused by high foot traffic.
Essential for navigating the Dome’s spiral staircases and underground pathways safely.
Keeps you hydrated during the climb, especially in warm weather.
summer specific
Layers help adjust to changing temperatures inside and outside the basilica.
fall specific
Required for respecting dress codes within sacred spaces.