Guided Tour through St. Peter's Basilica, visit of the Dome, Terrace & Crypt, Duration 2,5 hours, language English.
Guided Tour through St. Peter's Basilica, visit of the Dome, Terrace & Crypt, Duration 2,5 hours, language English.
Access all areas of St. Peter's Basilica with priority entry and immerse yourself in the history and architecture of one of the most important religious monuments in the world. Climb up 231 steps to the top of the dome for panoramic views of Rome.
Make the most of your time at visit St Peter’s Basilica, climb its dome, and see the papal crypt on this all-access tour complete with priority entry. Starting early, you’ll see St. Peter’s Square without the large daytime crowds, then head to the top of the dome for panoramic vistas over the capital. Tour the basilica to admire Michelangelo’s ‘La Pietà’ among other highlights, then finish with a visit to the papal crypt — a site normally missed by other tour groups. Numbers are limited to 20 for a group experience. Walks Tours is proud to be an Accredited Tour Operator with an official ticketing agreement with the Vatican Museums.
Your tour starts early, before the crowds arrive. After exploring St Peter’s Square and seeing the Swiss Guard, you’ll head for St. Peter’s Basilica dome. You and your intimate group will take the special elevator to the first terrace of the Dome to admire the beautiful mosaics up close as your guide points out details you might otherwise miss.
To reach the top of the dome you have to climb 231 steps (there’s no elevator) but the view alone is worth the effort. In fact, it’s the single best view of Rome, stretching from St Peter’s Square across the Tiber and beyond.
When you come down from the dome your expert guide will lead you on a full tour of the Basilica, from Bernini’s colossal baldachin to Michelangelo’s heart-wrenching Pietá. You’ll also discover the small details, stories, history and lore that are packed into every nook and cranny of this nearly 400-year-old building, including why everyone is so intent on rubbing the foot of a certain statue.
Finally your tour will include a rare visit to the Papal Crypt where your guide will point out the most significant tombs. It’s forbidden to speak inside the Crypt (it’s a sacred site) but before you enter, your guide will tell you the stories of the men buried in them.