St. Peter’s Basilica Express Tour with Papal Crypts

Your tour begins at Fontana delle Tiare

You'll meet your guide in front of the Fontana delle Tiare, located next to St. Peter's Square. Your guide will introduce the deep history of St. Peter's Basilica and explain how this grand church was built over St. Peter's burial site, setting the stage for your journey below and above ground.

Papal Crypts

Descend beneath St. Peter's Basilica into the sacred Papal Crypts, where centuries of popes have been laid to rest. Walk through intricately carved tombs, medieval inscriptions, and ancient chapels while learning about the most influential popes who shaped Vatican history.

Enter St. Peter's Basilica

After exploring the crypts, you'll step into the magnificent St. Peter's Basilica itself. Your guide will help you appreciate the sheer scale and grandeur of this sacred space, pointing out architectural highlights and explaining how the Basilica became the center of Christianity.

Michelangelo's Pietà

Stand face-to-face with Michelangelo's Pietà, one of the most breathtaking sculptures in the world. Carved from a single block of Carrara marble, this Renaissance masterpiece captures Mary cradling Christ. Hear the incredible story behind its creation and restoration.

Bernini's Baldachin and the High Altar

Next, you'll walk toward the High Altar and stand beneath Bernini's immense bronze canopy that soars above St. Peter's Tomb. Discover the bold symbolism behind its twisted Solomonic columns and learn how Bernini designed this masterpiece to visually link Heaven and Earth.