St. Peter’s guided tour of the Basilica and Papal Crypts
Attractions & guided tours

St. Peter’s guided tour of the Basilica and Papal Crypts

4.7/5
Excellent
Based on 23 reviews
from
£55.00
Free cancellation
Language: English
Mobile voucher accepted
Duration: 3 hours
Why you’ll love this…
  • Enjoy a guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica, the famous Baldachin and the tomb of St. John Paul II
  • Visit the tombs of the most important Popes in a special crypt beneath St. Peter's Basilica
  • Hear enlightening commentary from a local Vatican expert guide throughout the tour
What to expect

Experience the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica with this guided tour that brings to life the history, art, and spirituality of one of the most iconic sites in Rome. Begin your day with a relaxed stroll through St. Peter’s Square alongside your expert English-speaking guide, who will share the fascinating stories behind its design and symbolism—including Bernini’s famous optical illusion and the balcony from which the Pope delivers his public blessings.

With reserved access already secured, bypass the long lines and step straight into the awe-inspiring interior of the Basilica. Inside, discover the breathtaking Papal Altar beneath Bernini’s majestic bronze Baldachin, and admire Michelangelo’s La Pietà, a masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture. Your guide will illuminate the artistic and spiritual significance of these treasures and more as you explore the heart of the Catholic world.

The experience continues with a visit to the Basilica’s ancient crypts, where generations of Popes lie in monumental tombs steeped in history. As your tour concludes, take time to admire the basilica’s stunning façade from the outside and reflect on the layers of art, devotion, and architecture that make this sacred space unforgettable.

Read more
What's included
  • check Entrance to St. Peter's Basilica
  • check Entrance to Papal Crypts
  • check Expert, English-speaking tour guide
  • check Headsets when appropriate
What's not included
  • x_not_included Gratuities
  • x_not_included Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Where

Piazza della Città Leonina, 00193 Rome RM, Italy

Meeting point:
Your meeting point is at Piazza della Città Leonina, near the arches, where the square meets Via di Porta Angelica. Facing the arches, the meeting point is located at the corner of the square, on the left-hand side, next to the newspaper stand. The closest metro stop is Ottaviano – Musei Vaticani, on Line A. Please arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before the tour starts.
What to remember

Accessibility:

  • This activity is not recommended for those who suffer from claustrophobia and/or vertigo, heart problems or other serious medical conditions
  • This tour is not suitable for guests with wheelchairs or any impairments requiring special assistance

Not allowed:

  • The Vatican only permits very small bags and specifically prohibits large bags, tripods, umbrellas, and backpacks. Any such items must be checked into the free luggage storage area
  • It is not possible to bring strollers or baby carriages

Know in advance:

  • Please be advised that access to St. Peter's Basilica will not be guaranteed unless the names of all participants in the booking are provided in advance. This requirement is essential for security and the Venue organizational purposes. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable visit.d
  • Extra security measures may be implemented, and you may experience delays getting through mandatory security checks. To avoid disruptions or possible denied entry, you are strongly suggested to avoid bringing large purses, bags, or backpacks with you
  • Entrance to the Basilica requires a strict dress code. Knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women
Read more
Provider
City Wonders
Booking fee
Good news! No extra fees are applied to this booking.
Cancellation policy
Receive a 100% refund if you cancel up to 48 hours before the experience begins.

What people say about this experience

Excellent

4.7/5

Based on 23 reviews from verified customers

87%
9%
4%
0%
0%

Review categories

Service

4.7/5

Safety

4.7/5

Staff

4.7/5

Value for money

4.4/5

  • lisa

    From United States of America - May 2025

    35 - 44 years old

    Excellent

    Overall rated

    5/5

    maria from city wonders was great only six of us on the tour which was good .Great meeting point easy to find she was great at explaining things very ...

  • Marieke

    From United States of America - March 2025

    Travelled as a couple

     

    25 - 34 years old

    Excellent

    Overall rated

    5/5

    Een hele leuke afwisselende tour door de combinatie van het bezoek aan de cryptes, de binnenkant van de Basiliek en de beklimming van de koepel. Onze ...

  • Miranda

    From United States of America - October 2024

    Travelled as a couple

    Excellent

    Overall rated

    5/5

  • Karlheinz

    From Germany - October 2024

    Travelled with family

     

    65 - 74 years old

    Great

    Overall rated

    3/5

    Da ich Englisch kaum verstehe, aber ich wenig mitbekommen. In Deutsch wäre die Tour super gewesen.

  • Melanie

    From Germany - July 2024

    Travelled with family

     

    25 - 34 years old

    Excellent

    Overall rated

    4/5

    Maria macht es toll. Die Wartezeit wird gut mit interessanten Infos überbrückt.

  • Jurgen

    From United States of America - June 2024

    Travelled as a couple

     

    35 - 44 years old

    Excellent

    Overall rated

    5/5

    Onze gids , Maria van Wonder tours, was geweldig , zeer interessante verhalen

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