VIP St. Peter's Basilica tour with Dome climb and Papal Crypt

Overview

Immerse yourself in the history, architecture and lore of St. Peter’s Basilica with this all-access tour. Not only will you enjoy a fully-guided tour of the Basilica and Papal Crypt with an expert guide, you’ll avoid long lines to climb up into the titanic dome early in the morning and gape at the amazing views of Rome.Your tour starts early, before the crowds arrive. After exploring St. Peter’s Square and seeing the Swiss Guards, you’ll head for St. Peter’s Basilica Dome. You’ll take the special elevator to the first terrace of the dome to admire the beautiful mosaics up close as your guide points out details you might otherwise miss. To reach the top of the dome you have to climb 231 steps, but the view alone is worth the effort. In fact, it’s the single best view of Rome, stretching from St. Peter’s Square across the Tiber and beyond.When you come down from the dome, your expert guide will lead you on a full tour of the Basilica, from Bernini’s colossal baldachin to Michelangelo’s heart-wrenching Pietá. You’ll also discover the small details, stories, history and lore that are packed into every nook and cranny of this nearly 400-year-old building, including why everyone is so intent on rubbing the foot of a certain statue.Finally, your tour will include a rare visit to the Papal Crypt, where your guide will point out the most significant tombs. The Crypt is a sacred site so that it’s forbidden to speak in it, but before you enter, your guide will tell you the stories of the men buried in them. Sites Visited: - St Peter’s Basilica - Dome of St Peter’s Basilica - Papal crypt (NOT the Scavi) - St Peter’s Square

What's included

Expert local guide

What's Not included

Hotel Pick-Up/Drop-Off

Where

Rome, Italy

Meeting point:

Meet us 15 minutes before departure time in front of 'Caffè Leonina, in Piazza Citta' Leonina, just outside St. Peter's Square. Take the Red Line metro and get off at the "Ottaviano/San Pietro" stop.

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What To Expect

Enjoy a fully-guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica and Square in a small group of 15 people
Pre-reserved tickets to climb St. Peter's Basilica Dome and see the amazing view
Descend into the Papal Crypt for a rare guided tour

Availability and prices