Archbasilica of St. John Lateran tickets and tours

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Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
























































From happy customers

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Christina Victoria Hiromoto
US

Christina

United States
Jan 2026

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#I've been to the Vatican Museums before, and both times have really been a great experience. The first time I had a 4:30pm booking on a weekday and the crowds were very little. There was still a line outside the museums we had to wait in, and another line inside to scan our passes. This time we booked with Headout for 8:30am on a tuesday morning. It felt much easier as we were escorted as a group through the lines by simply scanning our tickets. It was also not too crowded during that time! We personally wanted to have an entire morning and Headout had tickets left (The Vatican website did not) for those times. It was nice because we were not rushing at all. Definitely avoid the lunch hours to beat the crowds! Also they have a cafe/food area--lifesaver!
Nikolay Mitev
BG

Nikolay

Bulgaria
Jan 2026

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Visiting the Vatican was an unforgettable experience, made even smoother by purchasing tickets through the Headout app. The booking process was quick, clear, and stress-free, with instant confirmation and detailed instructions that were easy to follow. Skipping the long queues saved us a huge amount of time and allowed us to fully enjoy the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica without feeling rushed. The artwork and history are simply breathtaking, far beyond what photos can capture. Everything was well organized, and the staff were helpful and professional. If you’re planning a visit to the Vatican and want a seamless, efficient experience, I highly recommend using the Headout app for your tickets.
Pablo Farias de la Torre
PE

Pablo

Peru
Jan 2026

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+2 more

It was a great experience, the guide was very attentive and dedicated. The staff were also very attentive. I highly recommend it, it was a great time.
Patrícia Duarte Damato
BR

Patrícia

Brazil
Jan 2026

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I loved the guide's attention to our group. The tour was conducted entirely in Portuguese and was full of content, interesting facts, and historical information. You could tell she was very knowledgeable. We loved the locations chosen for our tour. I had already done one before, but today's tour exceeded our expectations.
Kelsey Keating
GB

Kelsey

United Kingdom
Jan 2026

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The shear beauty and magnitude of the building and really it was walking up the steps that brought me this moment of awe.
Antonio rotella

Antonio

Jan 2026

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This is the first time I've used Headout for a booking. What can I say? I had a great experience. At the agreed time, I met one of their representatives, who was very friendly, helpful, and MULTILINGUAL. She gave me my tickets and explained all the steps I needed to take to access the facilities without any problems. I recommend this host.
Mary Twomey

Mary

Jan 2026

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Great tour with a great guide. Wasn't too crowded until we got to the sistine chapel which was uncomfortably packed and made it very hard to see anything and we were rushed out by the security guards so a bit underwhelmed by that. No fault of our guide who was a wealth of knowledge about all things related to the Vatican
Paul Jeffrey wilkie
GB

Paul

United Kingdom
Jan 2026

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This trip is one I've been waiting for my whole life and all I can say is it was mind blowing. Alex our guide was both knowledgeable and funny and kept us entertained. If you have a Bucket list this has to be on it. 👍

Top things to do in Rome

Archbasilica of St. John Lateran as a pilgrimage site

The Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, consecrated in 324 AD, is the oldest public church in Rome, turning 1700 years old on November 9, 2024 - the Feast Day St. John Lateran. It serves as the cathedral of the Diocese of Rome and holds the title of "mater et caput" (mother and head) of all churches in the Catholic Church, making it the highest-ranking basilica.

Attending Jubilee 2025 guide

Significance of the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran during Jubilee 2025

Jubilee 2025 is a time of spiritual renewal, drawing millions to Rome in search of indulgences, forgiveness, and grace. As the cathedral of the Bishop of Rome and the highest-ranking church in Catholicism, St. John Lateran holds deep significance—having hosted the first Jubilee in 1300. In 2025, it will again be a spiritual epicenter, offering pilgrims hope and renewal, with the Holy Door opening on December 29, 2024, marking the Jubilee’s commencement.

Holy door & pilgrimage route

  • The Holy Door of St. John Lateran, opened only during Jubilee years, represents a passage into divine grace. Walking through it is a powerful act of faith and devotion.
  • The basilica is one of Rome’s Seven Pilgrimage Churches, making it a key stop for those completing the traditional pilgrimage.
  • Pilgrims believe that stepping through the Holy Door with true repentance allows them to receive a Jubilee indulgence—a remission of sins.
Explore all five holy doors in Rome

How to receive a Jubilee indulgence?

To obtain the indulgence, pilgrims must:
✔ Pass through the *
Holy Door of St. John Lateran.
✔ Attend
Mass or spend time in prayer inside the basilica.
✔ Confess their sins and receive the
Sacrament of Reconciliation.
✔ Pray for the
Pope’s intentions (Our Father, Hail Mary, and the Creed).
✔ Perform an
act of charity** or reflect on spiritual teachings.

*A Jubilee indulgence is a special grace that removes the spiritual consequences of past sins, granted to pilgrims who follow certain acts of faith, such as passing through a Holy Door, confessing, praying, and performing good deeds.

Special Jubilee Masses & religious events

As the Pope’s official cathedral, St. John Lateran will host:

  • Daily Jubilee Masses and special liturgies.
  • Sacramental celebrations, including confessions and blessings.
  • Spiritual teachings and prayer services, deepening the Jubilee experience.

💡 Plan ahead: Major feast days and Jubilee events will attract large crowds—arrive early to secure a good spot!

Papal visits & major events

Given its status as the mother church of Catholicism, the basilica will be at the heart of the Jubilee celebrations:

  • Opening of the Holy Door by Pope Francis on December 29, 2024, marking the start of the Jubilee.
  • Papal blessings, processions, and special ceremonies held at the basilica.
  • Pilgrimage gatherings, where the faithful come together in devotion.
    💡 The Jubilee will bring millions of visitors to Rome—book guided tours and accommodations early to enhance your experience!
Attend Papal audience at Vatican

Things to know before you book your Archbasilica of St. John Lateran tickets

  • You can visit the main basilica for free, but access to the Cloister, Lateran Treasury, and Scala Sancta (Holy Stairs) require a ticket or guided tour.
  • While self-guided visits are possible, a guided tour enriches your experience with expert insights into the basilica’s history, architecture, and role as the oldest papal church in Rome. Many tours include restricted areas and nearby sites like the Sanctuary of the Holy Stairs, where pilgrims climb the steps believed to have been walked by Jesus before His crucifixion.
  • Pilgrims attending special masses and events during the Jubilee 2025 must register online for a free pilgrim’s card.

Archbasilica of St. John Lateran highlights

Ancient Facade of the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
Egyptian Obelisk near the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
Fresco on the Nave of the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
The Altar of the Sacrament of the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
Mosaic Cloister Building of the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
Lateran Baptistery San Giovanni in Fonte near the Archbasilica of St John Lateran
Scala Sancta Stairs of the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
The Achiropita Painting inside Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
Sancta Sanctorum Chapel, Chapel of St Lawrence of the Lateran Palace
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Ancient Facade

The giant bronze doors guarding the Basilica have been taken from the Roman Senate Forum and are older than the Church itself. The entrance has a 7-meter-tall statue of Jesus, surrounded by his saints and disciples, with Latin inscription, “Christo Salvatori.”

Biggest Egyptian Obelisk

One of the most noteworthy highlights of the Lateran Basilica is the towering Egyptian obelisk in front of the northern facade. It originally belonged to the Karnak Temple in Egypt. Much later, it was sent to Constantinople and then erected at Circus Maximus.

St John’s Five Naves

As you step through the entrance, you will see St John’s long five naves, separated by towering marble columns. The golden painting above symbolizes Pagan traditions like doves holding an olive branch, laurel, and crossed palms.

The Altar of the Sacrament

The Altar could either have been shipped from Jerusalem or could be an adaptation of the Pagan Altar in the Capitoline Jupiter Temple. One of the most poignant relics in the Basilica is the wood fragment contained in the tympanum. It is said to have been a part of the Last Supper table, where Jesus dined with his 12 Apostles.

Mosaic Cloister Building

The cloister adjacent to the Lateran Archbasilica is almost 36 meters wide on both sides. They were carved by the Vassalletti, the most talented stonemasons of Rome. The most striking feature is the intimacy and pinching silence of the 800-year-old establishment.

San Giovanni in Fonte

Originally established in the 4th century, the Baptistery connects to a church called St John in Fonte. A two-tier colonnade at the center of the structure gives it an octagonal shape and forms a dome. Throughout centuries, the mosaics have worn off and many artists like Borromini, Rainaldi, and Sacchi have left their frescoes on these walls.

Scala Sancta Stairs

Scala Sancta Stairs, also known as the Holy Stairs, are a series of 28 steps on the right side of the St. John entrance. They are believed to be the ones Jesus climbed on his way to Pontius Pilate’s Office during his trial. The walnut plates and rich layering of frescoes are the main highlights of these stairs.

The Achiropita Painting

The Achiropita, literally meaning ‘not created by mankind’ is a painting located inside the chapel that shows Jesus holding the New Testament. Its origin is unknown, however this ancient relic has been around since the 8th century. The silver and gold wrappings over this fresco are truly spectacular.

Sancta Sanctorum Chapel

Pilgrims undertake the reminiscent Sancta Stairs journey on their knees to this day. Upon reaching a thick glass wall at the top, pilgrims can see the most sacred place of Christianity, the chapel of St. Lawrence. It functioned as the personal chapel of the early Popes of the Lateran Palace.

Plan your visit to the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran

Visitors inside the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
  • Basilica: 7am – 6:30pm
  • Cloister: 9am – 6pm (last admission at 4:30pm)
  • Baptistery: 7am – 12:30pm and 4pm – 7pm
  • Sancta Sanctorum: April – September: 8am – 12pm and 4pm – 6pm (Closed on Sundays and public holidays)
  • Treasury: Monday – Friday: 10am – 5:30pm; Saturday: 9am – 1pm (Closed on Sundays); Museum of the archbasilica: 10am - 5:30pm; Lateran Palace: 9:30am - 6pm and closed on Sundays and Wednesdays

Best time to visit

Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.  Visit early in the morning (7-10 am) to avoid crowds. If you're lucky enough to visit during a Jubilee year, you'll experience its special significance as the birthplace of this tradition. Jubilee years happen every 25 years or at the Pope's discretion.

Pilgrim praying at the Archbasilica of St John Lateran during a Vatican Jubilee 2025 mass

Daily Mass: 7am, 8am, 9am,10am, 11am, 12pm, 5pm

Sunday Mass:, 7am, 8am, 9am, 10am, 11am, 12pm, 6pm

  • Entry to the basilica is free, but beware of security checks. Items such as glass bottles and aerosol cans are prohibited, which may lead to queues similar to airport security.
  • As a place of worship, modest attire is recommended. Avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless tops, or revealing clothing.
  • During significant liturgical events, such as the Feast of the Dedication of the Archbasilica on November 9th, attendance may be higher, and special services may be held.
  • If visiting during a Jubilee year, register online and get a pilgrim’s card to attend special Masses and events held there. Also, arrive well in advance to secure a good spot, as these services can draw large crowds.

Address: Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano, 4, 00184 Roma RM, Italy

Getting there

  • By bus: Take bus lines 714, 792, 81, or 85, 87, F02
    Nearest stop: Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano
  • By train: Board on trains along the FL1, FL3, FL4, and RV lines.
    Nearest stop: Piazza di Porta Maggiore
  • By metro: Take the Line A metro and stop at San Giovanni.
    Nearest stop: Vittorio Emanuele (3 mins) or San Giovanni (5 mins)
  • By car: The Lateran Complex is 28.9km from Rome Airport.
    Nearest stop: INPS Roma Parcheggio Auto or Super Rimessa Metronio
Audio Guide Facility at the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
  • Public restrooms are available inside the basilica for visitors.
  • There is a small gift shop located inside the basilica where you can get religious items, souvenirs, and books related to the church.
  • Audio guides in multiple languages are available for rent, allowing visitors to take a self-guided tour of the basilica and learn about its history and significance at their own pace.
  • The basilica is accessible to visitors with mobility challenges. 
  • While general photography is allowed for personal use, tripods and flash photography is prohibited. 
Visitor tips for the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
  • While the main basilica is impressive, don't miss the treasures beyond. Explore the Baptistery, a beautiful example of early Christian architecture. Climb the Holy Stairs on your knees for a spiritual experience. See the Sancta Sanctorum, a papal chapel brimming with history. 
  • Consider a guided tour to fully understand and appreciate the basilica's rich history and significance.
  • The Archbasilica is one of the four major basilicas in Rome. Consider visiting St. Peter's Basilica and Santa Maria Maggiore on the same day for a comprehensive experience of Rome's ecclesiastical heritage.
  • Pack a water bottle for refreshment, particularly during warm weather. Food and drinks aren't allowed inside, so plan breaks for sustenance.
  • Silence is key during Mass. Avoid using phones or taking photos during services.
  • Take a break in the peaceful cloister or nearby gardens to reflect and recharge, away from the bustling crowds.

Frequently asked questions about Archbasilica of St. John Lateran

You can register online to get a free of cost pilgrim’s card. It is the key to attending key Jubilee celebrations throughout the four major basilicas.

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