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Guided Tours

St. John Lateran Basilica Guided Tour

Cloister and Basilica of Saint John in Lateran facade in Rome, Italy.
Pilgrims ascending the Holy Stairs at the Basilica of Saint John in Lateran, Rome.
Interior of the Basilica of Saint John in Lateran with ornate columns and visitors seated.
Interior of the Basilica of Saint John in Lateran, showcasing ornate frescoes and architectural details.

Duration

1 hr

Open today

9:00am - 4:30pm

Guided tour

Explore Rome’s oldest Christian basilica and the Cloister, on a tour with fast track entry.

    • Step into 1,700 years of history on a guided tour of Christianity’s oldest basilica.
    • Skip the lines and dive right into this stunning landmark—soak in the grandeur of gilded ceilings, Baroque sculptures, and centuries-old mosaics.
    • Follow in the footsteps of popes as you explore the basilica’s rich past, from its sacred golden mosaics to its deep-rooted role in Catholic history.
    • Stroll through the peaceful Cloister, where medieval sculptures and elegant arcades share timeless stories of faith and monastic life.
    • Guided tour of the Cloister and St. John Lateran Basilica

    • Expert guide in English and Italian

    • Earphones

    • Guided tour of the Baptistery, the Holy Stairs, and the Chapel of the Sancta Sanctorum
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

  • Step inside the historic Basilica

    Your adventure begins in the world’s oldest Christian basilica, consecrated by Emperor Constantine in 324 AD. With your guide’s fascinating stories, you’ll uncover the spiritual significance of this sacred site, marvel at golden mosaics that gave it the nickname “Aurea,” and feel history’s weight as you learn about the Baptistery, where early Roman Christians were baptized, and the Papal residence that once anchored faith and power here for centuries.

    Find peace in the Cloister

    Next, you move into the Cloister, a hidden sanctuary of peace and beauty. Here, you’ll have time to explore the beautiful garden and walk through the elegant medieval arcades adorned with intricate carvings. Your guide will point out sculptures with rich backstories that reveal Rome’s glorious past, and you can marvel at centuries-old craftsmanship. The ninth-century well at its center adds a rustic charm, inviting you to pause and reflect amidst lush greenery—a rare find in the heart of Rome. Whether you're there for spiritual reasons or simply to appreciate architectural beauty, this experience will leave a lasting impression.

  • St. John Lateran Complex

    Monday9:00am - 4:30pm
    Tuesday9:00am - 4:30pm
    Wednesday9:00am - 4:30pm
    Thursday9:00am - 4:30pm
    Friday9:00am - 4:30pm
    Saturday9:00am - 4:30pm
    Sunday9:00am - 4:30pm
  • What to bring

    • Bring a photo ID for ticket verification.
    • Keep your smartphone charged for digital ticket access and audio guide usage.
    • Expect to do a fair amount of walking, so wear shoes suitable for both indoor and outdoor exploration.
    • Stay hydrated, especially if you plan to explore the area surrounding the basilica.

    What's not allowed

    • Large items exceeding 40x30x20 cm dimensions are not permitted inside the complex; opt for a small bag or purse.
    • Consuming food or beverages inside is not allowed.
    • Dress modestly, ensuring shoulders and knees are covered to respect the Basilica’s dress code.

    Accessibility

    • The main areas of the basilica are wheelchair accessible.
    • Basilica staff are available to assist with accessibility needs throughout the complex.

    Additional info

    • While entry to the basilica is free, there may be small fees for the cloister or other specific areas like the Baptistery and Lateran Treasury.
    • Arrive 15 minutes before entry for ticket redemption; smartphone tickets are accepted.
    • The Basilica is open from 7 AM to 6 PM daily. The cloister has specific hours from 9 AM to 5 PM (last entrance at 4:30 PM).
    • The Treasury Museum is temporarily closed— if you're planning to see it on your own plan accordingly.
    • Tip: If you're short on time, start with the Basilica and its Cloister, then continue to the Holy Stairs and the Sancta Sanctorum.
    • Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.

    • Please arrive at the meeting point 15 mins before the scheduled time of your tour to avoid any delays.

    • Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the meeting point.

    Meeting point

    • Meet your guide inside Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano.

    • Address: P.za. San Giovanni In Laterano, 00184 Roma RM, Italy.

    • Landmark: On the left side at the Cloister's entrance.

    Get directions to the meeting point

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