Ultimate St. Peter's Basilica Dome Climb

See Rome atop Michelangelo's masterpiece

5 / 5 See All 9 Reviews · 1.5h 16 max · Vatican, Italy

If you’re looking for amazing views of Rome and the Vatican, St. Peter’s Dome is the best spot to see them. This tour offers an amazing perspective of the city as well as a guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world.

Tour Details

Ultimate St. Peter's Basilica Dome Climb

Climb St. Peter's Dome
Explore scenic views of Vatican City

Guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica
Michelangelo's Pietà
Bernini's Baldacchino

The Vatican houses many amazing sights, including St. Peter’s Basilica and its stunning dome. It can be difficult to visit this dome, especially later in the day when lines grow long, as most people visit after touring the Vatican Museums. This tour helps you avoid the lines with entry right when St. Peter’s Basilica opens so that you can see the best views in Rome without a wait. This 1.5-hour tour includes:

A professional English-speaking guide
Guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica
Tickets to climb St. Peter's Dome
A maximum group size of 16

Climb St. Peter’s Dome

To get to the first level of the dome, you have two options: you can climb the 231 steps with your guide or take an elevator. Once you reach the first level, you can see the amazing details around the dome as well as stunning views of the Vatican. From there, you’ll have the option to descend back into the Basilica, stay on the second level, or continue climbing to the top. The continued climb can be a bit claustrophobic and it is another 320 steps, but the top of the dome affords incredible views of the city, making it completely worth it.

Guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica

Your tour will end with a guided exploration of St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world—the size of two American football fields! Your guide will explain some of the amazing artwork housed within, like Michaelangelo’s La Pieta and Bernini’s Baldacchino. The church itself is stunning and you’ll have plenty of time to explore the basilica on your own after the tour concludes.

Please note: In order to enter St. Peter’s Basilica, both men and women must cover their knees and shoulders, otherwise you may be refused entry. One good option during the hotter months is to bring a scarf/shawl/sweater so that you can cover up when necessary.

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Average customer rating

5.00 / 5 based on 9 total reviews

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1/13/2020

Beautiful!

I really wanted a tour to climb the dome as I had hesitations about doing it on my own. The guide was lovely and though it was a lot of steps, I thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

Reviewed by
Carl D.

1/12/2020

Beautiful!

It was a lot of steps but so worth it. Its great from the top, I recommend anyone who goes to Rome see the amazing view

Reviewed by
Patrick

9/24/2019

Great View

Even though the hike up to the top was a bit tough, the views at the top made it all worth it. Loved that The Roman Guy took care of purchasing the tickets for us. Definitely bring some water and wear comfortable shoes... and enjoy!

Reviewed by
Ethan Richards

Frequently Asked Questions

Where to meet?

In front of St. Peter's Basilica by Bernini's North fountain

What to bring?

Sneakers, a bottle of water and a great camera!

Q: Does this tour visit the Vatican Museums?

A: This tour does not visit the Vatican Museums. However, if you're interested in touring the Vatican after your tour, consider our Skip the Line Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica.

Q: Does this tour run on Wednesdays?

A: This tour will not run on Wednesdays due to Papal Audience, which is held every Wednesday morning.

See more frequently asked questions