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Audio guide
Guided tour
4.2/5
(4,574)
Axelle
Omar
Nikola
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Skip the long free-entry lines and walk right into the world’s most visited church.
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Explore all three levels—Basilica floor, underground Papal Tombs, and the Dome.
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Admire iconic works like Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s Baldachin with rich audio commentary.
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Climb to the top of the Dome for breathtaking views over Vatican City and Rome.
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Choose your experience—go fully self-guided with audio or upgrade to a guided tour or elevator access.
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Reserved entry to St. Peter's Basilica
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Access to Papal Tombs
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Digital audio guide
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Access to the Dome by lift or staircase (as per option selected)
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Guided tour of Basilica (as per option selected)
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- Food and drinks
These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
- 4,574 reviews
How do we collect reviews?
These ratings include verified reviews from both Headout guests and our trusted partners who operate this experience locally. All reviews come from real travelers who've taken this experience.
2.9K796216150467Guests from Germany, United States, France and over 10 countries have loved this experienceWhat our guests say
Jeethandran
Jan 2026Verified booking
Maria
Jan 2026Verified bookingAnna
Jan 2026Verified bookingOrefice
Jan 2026Verified booking
Marco
Jan 2026Verified booking
Start your visit with priority entry—no waiting in the long general access queues. Simply show your ticket and head through the airport-style security.
St. Peter’s Basilica
Step into one of the most iconic churches in the world, known for its soaring dome and deep ties to Catholic history.
The Basilica Floor
Explore artistic and spiritual highlights including Michelangelo’s Pietà, Bernini’s Baldachin, and the high altar, guided by expert audio commentary.
The Papal Tombs
Descend into the solemn crypt beneath the Basilica where many Popes, including John Paul II, are buried.
The Dome
Climb by foot or take the elevator (as per your ticket) to the terrace and dome summit for panoramic views of Rome.
Extras
Upgrade to include elevator access and skip 231 steps to the dome terrace—or join a live guided tour for deeper historical insight.
What to bring
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A valid photo ID or passport is required for security checks.
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Wear comfortable walking shoes—expect stairs and long stretches on foot.
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Dress modestly: both men and women must cover shoulders and knees. Sleeveless tops, shorts above the knee, and miniskirts are not allowed.
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Bring your own earphones/headphones to use the digital audio guide on your smartphone.
What’s not allowed
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Large bags, backpacks, suitcases, and luggage are not permitted inside the Basilica or Dome.
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No flash photography, food, drinks, glass items, or smoking on the premises.
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Animals are not allowed, except registered service animals.
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There is no cloakroom service.
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After 6pm, access to the Vatican Grottoes and explanations inside the Basilica are restricted.
Accessibility
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This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
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The Dome climb involves 551 steep, narrow stairs and confined spaces. It is not suitable for infants, pregnant individuals, or visitors with mobility concerns, heart conditions, vertigo, or claustrophobia.
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The elevator only reaches the terrace—an additional 320 steps are required to reach the summit.
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Minimum recommended age for the Dome climb is 6; all minors up to 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Additional information
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All guests must pass through airport-style security. During peak season, lines may exceed 30 minutes—arrive 15–45 minutes early.
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The Dome and roof terrace may close in bad weather.
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Entry to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Dome may be suspended without notice due to religious ceremonies or Vatican events. If this happens, suitable alternatives will be arranged.
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The special access passage between the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica is closed on Wednesdays and during major events like Easter. In such cases, your guide will take you to the Pinacoteca Gallery instead.
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QR codes for entry and audio guide activation are required—check your email (and spam folder) before arrival.
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No refunds or date changes are allowed in case of visitor cancellations or closures due to religious events.
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All visitors must pass through security checks at the Basilica. Please allow for wait times of up to an hour, as this may extend the overall tour duration.
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Your voucher will be emailed to you.
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Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the starting point.
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Please check your final voucher for the starting point details & specific instructions.
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