Archbasilica of St. John Lateran tickets and tours

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Basilica of Saint John Lateran in Rome, Italy.
Interiors of Lateran basilica in Rome, Italy
Group of tourists on a guided tour exploring the ancient Roman Basilicas and mysterious Underground Catacombs on the Appian Way in Rome, Italy
Basilica of Saint Mary Major
Group of tourists on a Guided Tour of Roman Basilicas & Underground Catacombs on the Appian Way in Rome, exploring ancient architecture and history
Group of tourists on a Guided Tour of Roman Basilicas & Underground Catacombs on the Appian Way in Rome, Italy
Tourists exploring Roman basilicas and catacombs on the Appian Way, Rome.
Group of tourists on a guided tour of Roman Basilicas & Underground Catacombs on the Appian Way, exploring the ancient and mysterious Capuchin Crypts
Basilica of Saint John Lateran in Rome, Italy.
Interiors of Lateran basilica in Rome, Italy
Group of tourists on a guided tour exploring the ancient Roman Basilicas and mysterious Underground Catacombs on the Appian Way in Rome, Italy
Basilica of Saint Mary Major
Group of tourists on a Guided Tour of Roman Basilicas & Underground Catacombs on the Appian Way in Rome, exploring ancient architecture and history
Group of tourists on a Guided Tour of Roman Basilicas & Underground Catacombs on the Appian Way in Rome, Italy
Tourists exploring Roman basilicas and catacombs on the Appian Way, Rome.
Group of tourists on a guided tour of Roman Basilicas & Underground Catacombs on the Appian Way, exploring the ancient and mysterious Capuchin Crypts
Basilica of Saint John Lateran in Rome, Italy.
Interiors of Lateran basilica in Rome, Italy
Group of tourists on a guided tour exploring the ancient Roman Basilicas and mysterious Underground Catacombs on the Appian Way in Rome, Italy
Basilica of Saint Mary Major
Group of tourists on a Guided Tour of Roman Basilicas & Underground Catacombs on the Appian Way in Rome, exploring ancient architecture and history
Group of tourists on a Guided Tour of Roman Basilicas & Underground Catacombs on the Appian Way in Rome, Italy
Tourists exploring Roman basilicas and catacombs on the Appian Way, Rome.
Group of tourists on a guided tour of Roman Basilicas & Underground Catacombs on the Appian Way, exploring the ancient and mysterious Capuchin Crypts
Guided Tours
4.2(1,482)

Papal Basilicas, St. Callixtus & St. Sebastian Catacombs Tour with Transfers

from
€49
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 7 days before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
3 hr.
Transfers included
Itinerary
START POINT

Central Rome

Meet your guide in the city center and climb aboard for a value-packed tour. Good news, if your hotel is in central Rome, you could be picked up from your lobby!

2 km

10 minutes

1

Holy Stairs

Within the Sancta Sanctorum next-door to the Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran lies this revered relic believed to be the very steps where Christ stood before Pontius Pilate!

0.14 km

1 minute

2

Archbasilica of St. John Lateran

This is Rome’s oldest and most prestigious basilica, and the pope’s official seat! Discover its grand Baroque architecture, stunning mosaics, and rich history with your expert guide.

1.5 km

3 minutes

3

Basilica of St. Mary Major

Marvel at the 5th-century mosaics in the nave depicting scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary, as well as an intricately decorated altar that houses the relics of the Holy Manger, believed to be from the nativity scene.

5.7 km

19 minutes

4

Catacombs of St. Callixtus

60 min

Tickets included

This vast underground labyrinth reveals early Christian history with ancient passageways, exquisite frescoes, and the resting places of popes and martyrs.

0.6 km

2 minutes

5

Catacombs of St. Sebastian

Tickets included

Glimpse into its underground basilica, serene chapels, and the revered tomb of St. Sebastian. Look out for Bernini's Salvatore Mundi marble bust representing Jesus.

7.5 km

25 minutes

6

END POINT

Central Rome

Visit the seat of the pope, the opulent Basilica of St. Mary Major and two ancient catacombs with expert-guided insights and transfers.

  • Start at the Sancta Sanctorum, home to the Holy Stairs—believed to be where Christ stood before Pontius Pilate.
  • Step into the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, the pope’s official seat, and admire the grandeur of St. Mary Major atop Esquiline Hill.
  • Descend into the catacombs of St. Callixtus and St. Sebastian, where ancient Roman faith, art, and history intertwine.
  • Enjoy seamless transfers between landmarks, with an expert guide bringing each site’s story to life.

Visit the seat of the pope, the opulent Basilica of St. Mary Major and two ancient catacombs with expert-guided insights and transfers.

  • Start at the Sancta Sanctorum, home to the Holy Stairs—believed to be where Christ stood before Pontius Pilate.
  • Step into the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, the pope’s official seat, and admire the grandeur of St. Mary Major atop Esquiline Hill.
  • Descend into the catacombs of St. Callixtus and St. Sebastian, where ancient Roman faith, art, and history intertwine.
  • Enjoy seamless transfers between landmarks, with an expert guide bringing each site’s story to life.

Inclusions

  • Guided tour of the Holy Stairs at Sancta Sanctorum
  • Guided tour of St. John Lateran Archbasilica & St. Mary Major Basilica
  • Guided tour of St. Callixtus & St. Sebastian Catacombs with entry
  • Expert English, Italian, or Spanish-speaking guide
  • Round-trip AC coach transfers from central Rome
  • This experience is not wheelchair accessible, and not recommended for those with claustrophobia or serious mobility issues.
  • Strict dress code: Clothing that covers the knees and shoulders.
  • Photography and videography is prohibited inside the catacombs.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 7 days before the experience begins and get a full refund.
St. John Lateran Basilica interior with multilingual audio guide device in Rome, Italy.
St. John Lateran Basilica interior with multilingual audio guide, Rome, Italy, showcasing ornate architecture and religious artifacts.
Tourists exploring the Catacombs of St. Callixtus and St. John Lateran in Rome, with audio guide, before visiting the Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
Tourists exploring the Catacombs of St. Callixtus and St. John Lateran in Rome with an audio guide, with Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel tickets included in the combo tour
St. John Lateran Basilica interior with audio guide device in Rome, Italy.
St. John Lateran Basilica interior with multilingual audio guide device in Rome, Italy.
Tourists exploring the historic St. John Lateran complex in Rome with audio guides
St. John Lateran Basilica interior with audio guide, Rome, Italy.
St. John Lateran Basilica interior with visitors using audio guides in Rome, Italy.
The Holy Stairs in the Lateran Complex
St. John Lateran Basilica interior with multilingual audio guide device in Rome, Italy.
St. John Lateran Basilica interior with multilingual audio guide, Rome, Italy, showcasing ornate architecture and religious artifacts.
Tourists exploring the Catacombs of St. Callixtus and St. John Lateran in Rome, with audio guide, before visiting the Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
Tourists exploring the Catacombs of St. Callixtus and St. John Lateran in Rome with an audio guide, with Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel tickets included in the combo tour
St. John Lateran Basilica interior with audio guide device in Rome, Italy.
St. John Lateran Basilica interior with multilingual audio guide device in Rome, Italy.
Tourists exploring the historic St. John Lateran complex in Rome with audio guides
St. John Lateran Basilica interior with audio guide, Rome, Italy.
St. John Lateran Basilica interior with visitors using audio guides in Rome, Italy.
The Holy Stairs in the Lateran Complex
St. John Lateran Basilica interior with multilingual audio guide device in Rome, Italy.
St. John Lateran Basilica interior with multilingual audio guide, Rome, Italy, showcasing ornate architecture and religious artifacts.
Tourists exploring the Catacombs of St. Callixtus and St. John Lateran in Rome, with audio guide, before visiting the Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
Tourists exploring the Catacombs of St. Callixtus and St. John Lateran in Rome with an audio guide, with Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel tickets included in the combo tour
St. John Lateran Basilica interior with audio guide device in Rome, Italy.
St. John Lateran Basilica interior with multilingual audio guide device in Rome, Italy.
Tourists exploring the historic St. John Lateran complex in Rome with audio guides
St. John Lateran Basilica interior with audio guide, Rome, Italy.
St. John Lateran Basilica interior with visitors using audio guides in Rome, Italy.
The Holy Stairs in the Lateran Complex
Tickets
2.4(14)

St. John Lateran Ticket with Audio Guide

from
€14
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
1 hr.
Audio guide

Explore Rome’s oldest basilica at your own pace with an audio guide and learn about its sacred relics.

  • Step into Rome’s oldest and most revered basilica, the “Mother of all Churches,” as your audio guide brings Christian history to life.
  • See the Cloister, featuring exquisite inlaid marble columns crafted by the legendary Vassalletto family—each with its own unique story.
  • Climb the Holy Stairs, believed to have been walked by Jesus, leading to the Sancta Sanctorum, a private papal sanctuary.
  • Upgrade to visit the Lateran Palace, once the grand residence of popes, and feel the legacy of Roman pontiffs around every ornate corner.

Explore Rome’s oldest basilica at your own pace with an audio guide and learn about its sacred relics.

  • Step into Rome’s oldest and most revered basilica, the “Mother of all Churches,” as your audio guide brings Christian history to life.
  • See the Cloister, featuring exquisite inlaid marble columns crafted by the legendary Vassalletto family—each with its own unique story.
  • Climb the Holy Stairs, believed to have been walked by Jesus, leading to the Sancta Sanctorum, a private papal sanctuary.
  • Upgrade to visit the Lateran Palace, once the grand residence of popes, and feel the legacy of Roman pontiffs around every ornate corner.

Inclusions

  • Access to Basilica of St. John Lateran and Cloister (as per option selected)
  • Access to Papal Chapel of the Sancta Sanctorum (as per option selected)
  • Entry to Lateran Palace (as per option selected)
  • Audio guide in English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, and Portuguese

Exclusions

  • Live guide
  • Admission to the Archbasilica itself is free. Tickets are needed for specific areas like the Cloister, Baptistery, and the Sancta Sanctorum chapel.
  • It's advisable to arrive at least 15 minutes early for ticket redemption, which can be done via smartphone.
  • Note that the Sancta Sanctorum chapel is closed on Sundays and during specific hours on weekdays. Various sections of the complex—such as the Basilica, Cloister, Baptistery, and Treasury museum—have different timings, so be sure to check before visiting.
  • This is a sacred site, so dress modestly. Both men and women must cover shoulders and knees.
  • The Basilica is wheelchair accessible.
  • The entrance to the Lateran Palace is located on the right side of the main façade of St. John in Lateran Basilica. Arrive atleast 15 minutes before your time for a smooth check-in.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled. However, they can be rescheduled up to 24 hours before the experience begins.
Interior view of the Basilica of Saint John in Lateran
Exterior view of the Basilica of Saint John in Lateran
Interior view of the Basilica of Saint John in Lateran
Interior view of the Basilica of Saint John in Lateran
Interior view of the Basilica of Saint John in Lateran
Interior view of the Basilica of Saint John in Lateran
Interior view of the Basilica of Saint John in Lateran
Exterior view of the Basilica of Saint John in Lateran
Sculptures on the Basilica of Saint John in Lateran
Interior view of the Basilica of Saint John in Lateran
Exterior view of the Basilica of Saint John in Lateran
Interior view of the Basilica of Saint John in Lateran
Interior view of the Basilica of Saint John in Lateran
Interior view of the Basilica of Saint John in Lateran
Interior view of the Basilica of Saint John in Lateran
Interior view of the Basilica of Saint John in Lateran
Exterior view of the Basilica of Saint John in Lateran
Sculptures on the Basilica of Saint John in Lateran
Interior view of the Basilica of Saint John in Lateran
Exterior view of the Basilica of Saint John in Lateran
Interior view of the Basilica of Saint John in Lateran
Interior view of the Basilica of Saint John in Lateran
Interior view of the Basilica of Saint John in Lateran
Interior view of the Basilica of Saint John in Lateran
Interior view of the Basilica of Saint John in Lateran
Exterior view of the Basilica of Saint John in Lateran
Sculptures on the Basilica of Saint John in Lateran
Guided Tours
NEW

St. John Lateran Basilica Guided Tour

from
€15
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
1 hr.

Unravel 1,700 years of history on a guided tour of Christianity's oldest basilica

  • Skip the ticket lines and step straight into a masterpiece of faith—marvel at gilded ceilings, Baroque sculptures, and centuries-old mosaics.
  • Walk in the footsteps of popes as you uncover the basilica’s papal past, its golden mosaics, and its deep significance in Catholic history.
  • Wander through the serene Cloister, where medieval sculptures and graceful arcades whisper stories of faith and monastic life.

Unravel 1,700 years of history on a guided tour of Christianity's oldest basilica

  • Skip the ticket lines and step straight into a masterpiece of faith—marvel at gilded ceilings, Baroque sculptures, and centuries-old mosaics.
  • Walk in the footsteps of popes as you uncover the basilica’s papal past, its golden mosaics, and its deep significance in Catholic history.
  • Wander through the serene Cloister, where medieval sculptures and graceful arcades whisper stories of faith and monastic life.

Inclusions

  • Guided tour of the Cloister and St. John Lateran Basilica
  • Expert guide in English and Italian
  • Earphones

Exclusions

  • Guided tour of the Baptistery, the Holy Stairs, and the Chapel of the Sancta Sanctorum
  • Note that the tour does not cover visits to the Baptistery, Holy Stairs, or Chapel of the Sancta Sanctorum. These require separate tickets if you wish to explore them
  • This is a sacred site, so dress modestly. Both men and women must cover shoulders and knees.
  • Earphones are provided to ensure you don’t miss a word of your guide’s fascinating stories.
  • The Basilica is wheelchair accessible.
  • The entrance to the Lateran Palace is located on the right side of the main façade of St. John in Lateran Basilica. Arrive atleast 15 minutes before your time for a smooth check-in.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled. However, they can be rescheduled up to 24 hours before the experience begins.
Vatican TicketsArchbasilica of St. John Lateran

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.

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!

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.

Plan your visit to the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran

Timings
Mass
Location
Facilities
Tips
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

How can I get a pilgrim’s card for Jubilee 2025?

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.

Are there any specific rituals or ceremonies associated with the Archbasilica for me to see?

From the annual Feast of the Dedication honoring its status as "mother of all churches" to the grandeur of Papal Masses, the basilica offers a profound spiritual experience. Pilgrims can participate in Eucharistic adoration or witness the opening of the Holy Door during Jubilee years. 

Can I receive a blessing from the Pope during my visit?

While it's unlikely to receive a personal blessing from the Pope during a casual visit, the basilica often hosts papal events. Check the schedule for any opportunities.

How can visitors stay informed about events and schedules related to the Jubilee at the Archbasilica?

To stay informed about events and schedules related to the Jubilee at the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran you can stay updated with the Jubilee calendar. Also, you can contact your local parish or diocese for information on pilgrimages, Masses, or other Jubilee-related events being organized in your area. Many dioceses will be hosting their own Jubilee celebrations in addition to the ones in Rome.

Other Holy Doors

St. Peter's Basilica

St. Peter's Basilica

Basilica of St. Paul's Outside the Walls

Basilica of St. Paul's Outside the Walls

Basilica of St. Mary Major

Basilica of St. Mary Major