What is the significance of the Holy Door during the Jubilee year?

The Holy Door, traditionally opened only during Jubilee years, symbolizes entry into a time of renewal and forgiveness. Millions of pilgrims pass through this doorway to mark the start of their Jubilee pilgrimage.

How can I get a Pilgrim's Card for Jubilee events?

You can register online to get a Pilgrim’s card. Bonus - it doesn’t cost a dime!

What are the security procedures for entering the basilica during the Jubilee?

Security procedures might be heightened during the Jubilee. Expect lines and thorough checks. Security checks would be conducted by the Italian State Police before entering the Basilica. These are located in the right hemicycle of Saint Peter's Square.

Why was St Peter's Basilica built?

The Old St Peter's Basilica was built between 319 AD and 333 to commemorate Saint Peter, who is believed to have been buried there. In the 16th century, at the behest of Pope Julius II, the current St. Peter’s Basilica was built after the old one fell into disrepair.

Do I need a ticket to attend papal ceremonies during the Jubilee?

Yes, tickets are needed to attend papal audience at St. Peter’s Square. Some papal masses can be free to attend and would only need a registration.

Is there a dress code for entering St. Peter's Basilica?

There is a strict dress code for entering St. Peter's Basilica. Both men and women must cover their shoulders and knees. This means no sleeveless tops, shorts, or short skirts. Bringing a light scarf to cover your shoulders if needed is advisable, especially during the summer months.

What is the Confessio area, and why is it important?

The Confessio area, located below the high altar of St. Peter's Basilica, is believed to be the closest accessible point to the tomb of St. Peter, the apostle and first pope of the Catholic Church. The area is a focal point for pilgrims, who come to pay their respects and offer prayers.

Are there any accommodations or services for disabled visitors?

St. Peter's Basilica is accessible by wheelchair with ramps and elevators. A dedicated entrance with a ramp is located on the right side (north side) of St. Peter's Square for easier access. You can also find accessible restrooms near this entrance. While wheelchairs are available for free, reserving one in advance is recommended.

What can I see inside the St. Peter's Basilica?

The St. Peter's Basilica Dome or the Cupola, Vatican Grottoes, Michelangelo's Pieta, St. Peter’s Baldachin, Statue of St. Longinus, St. Peter’s Tomb and the Chair of St. Peter are some of the main attractions inside St. Peter's Basilica.

Are there any recommended itineraries for a visit to St. Peter's Basilica?

Yes, a recommended itinerary for visiting St. Peter's Basilica starts with an early morning arrival to avoid crowds. Begin by exploring the main basilica, marveling at Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini's Baldachin. Next, take the guided tour to access the Papal tombs beneath the basilica (if it is accessible). Afterward, ascend to the dome for panoramic views of Rome, using the elevator to the base and climbing the remaining steps. Finally, spend some time in St. Peter's Square, taking in the impressive architecture and obelisk. Allow 3-4 hours for a thorough visit. Consider a guided tour that includes both the basilica and the Vatican Museums for a more comprehensive experience.

St. Peter’s Basilica | Tickets, Tours & Pilgrimage Guide

Visitors at the St. Peter’s Basilica Dome Terrace

Tour guide leading a group towards the St. Peter’s Basilica Dome in Rome, highlighting its architectural grandeur

Statues on the St. Peter’s Basilica Terrace

Tour guide leading a group towards the entrance of St. Peter's Basilica Dome in Rome, Italy

St. Peter's Basilica Dome interior view during guided tour, Rome, Italy.

Tour guide leading a group towards the St. Peter’s Basilica Dome in Rome, Italy

Statue of St Sebastian at St. Peter’s Basilica

Details of the Interiors of St. Peter’s Basilica

Guided Tours

4.2(3K)

St. Peter’s Basilica Guided Tour with Dome Access

from

€35

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

2 hr. - 3 hr.

Experience Basilica's Dome and uncover its stories with an expert guide.

Admire Michelangelo's genius up close while climbing the Dome and learn all about its legends in a guided tour.
This is one photo op you won't want to miss! Enjoy unparalleled views of the Eternal City, from the top of the Dome.
Explore the intricate art-filled interiors of St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Papal Crypts in the Vatican Grottoes.
Choose from 5 language options. On a French or English tour, you can opt to relish a sumptuous breakfast before you begin.

Experience Basilica's Dome and uncover its stories with an expert guide.

Admire Michelangelo's genius up close while climbing the Dome and learn all about its legends in a guided tour.
This is one photo op you won't want to miss! Enjoy unparalleled views of the Eternal City, from the top of the Dome.
Explore the intricate art-filled interiors of St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Papal Crypts in the Vatican Grottoes.
Choose from 5 language options. On a French or English tour, you can opt to relish a sumptuous breakfast before you begin.

Inclusions

Guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica and Dome with entry
Expert English, Spanish, French, German or Italian-speaking guide
Access by elevator to the base and stairs to the top
Breakfast (for French and English options, if selected)

Exclusions

Entry to Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
Entry to the Necropolis / St. Peter’s Tomb / Scavi

Tip: While climbing the Dome, peek through special windows for rare views of the Basilica’s interiors below.
Strict dress code: Knees and shoulders must be covered for all guests.
The Dome is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with vertigo or claustrophobia. Even with elevator access, 320 steps must be climbed to reach the cupola.
Expect extended wait times at security, especially during peak hours, which may exceed 2 hours. Patience is key!

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Tourists exploring the Catacombs of St. Callixtus in Rome, included in the combo tour with St. John Lateran and Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Tickets

Tourists exploring the interior of St. Peter's Basilica Dome with audio guide in Rome

Tourists enjoying the panoramic view of Rome from St. Peter's Basilica Dome, with audio guide tickets available

View from St. Peter's Basilica Dome overlooking Vatican City, included with audio guide tickets

Tickets

3.3(341)

St. Peter's Basilica Dome Tickets with Audio Guide

from

€29

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

Flexible duration

Audio guide

Explore the Basilica and its iconic Dome at your own pace with a multilingual audio guide.

Reach the dome’s base by elevator for close views of the Papal Altar and Bernini's bronze canopy—key symbols of Christendom.
Climb to the dome's summit for panoramic views of the Vatican gardens, election chimney, railway station, and helipad.
The audio guide adds depth and context to your Basilica visit. Connect to the story adorning its sacred walls in 6 languages.
Admire the nave leading to the gilded apse, Michelangelo's Pieta sculpture, the Papal Tombs, and more at your own pace.

Explore the Basilica and its iconic Dome at your own pace with a multilingual audio guide.

Reach the dome’s base by elevator for close views of the Papal Altar and Bernini's bronze canopy—key symbols of Christendom.
Climb to the dome's summit for panoramic views of the Vatican gardens, election chimney, railway station, and helipad.
The audio guide adds depth and context to your Basilica visit. Connect to the story adorning its sacred walls in 6 languages.
Admire the nave leading to the gilded apse, Michelangelo's Pieta sculpture, the Papal Tombs, and more at your own pace.

Inclusions

Entry to St. Peter's Basilica Dome
Access by elevator to the base and stairs to the top
Audio guide in English, German, French, Italian, Spanish & Chinese
Digital map of the Vatican area
Assistance at the meeting point

Exclusions

Smartphone and earphones
Skip-the-line access
Live guide

Tip: Download the multilingual audio guide and sightseeing app via the QR code on your voucher before arriving.
While general entry to the Basilica is free, access to the Dome and select attractions require tickets.
Strict dress code: knees and shoulders must be covered for all guests.
This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and pram/strollers.
Mobile phones must remain on silent mode inside the Basilica. Scan the QR code on your voucher to download the sightseeing app and audio guide prior to arrival.
Note: The elevator takes you to the dome’s first level, but the final ascent requires climbing 300 steps. This is not recommended for children under 7, adults over 75, or anyone with claustrophobia, vertigo, or mobility challenges.
Be prepared for extended security checks during peak hours, which can take over 2 hours. Patience is key!

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Tour guide leading a group of tourists towards St. Peter’s Basilica under a clear blue sky

Tour guide leading a group of tourists towards the entrance of St. Peter’s Basilica on a sunny day in Vatican City

Tour guide leading a group of tourists towards the entrance of St. Peter’s Basilica under a clear blue sky

English guided tour group exploring St. Peter's Basilica, Square and Papal Tombs in Vatican City, highlighting unique architecture and historical landmarks

Tour guide leading a group of tourists in front of St. Peter’s Basilica during a guided tour

Guided tour group exploring the interior of St. Peter’s Basilica and Papal Tombs in Vatican City

Tour group exploring the St Peters Basilica Tomb in the Grottoes, Rome

Statue of Veronica holding the Veil, a significant landmark inside St. Peter's Basilica, Rome

Guided Tours

3.8(3.5K)

St. Peter’s Basilica Guided Tour

from

€15

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

1 hr.

Explore the chapels, altars, and crypts of St. Peter's Basilica with an expert guide.

An expert guide will lead you through the best of St. Peter's Basilica, from its chapels and altars to the sacred Papal Crypts.
Dive into art and architecture by Renaissance greats such as Donato Bramante and Carlo Maderno in your preferred language.
As you walk through the mosaic floors that tell the stories of saints and martyrs, keep an eye out for the awe-inspiring Baldachin by Bernini.
You can opt for a guide in your preferred language, with tours available in English, French, Spanish, and Italian.
After the tour, you can descend to the Vatican Grottoes and explore the Papal Tombs, learn about the legacy of the Clementine Chapel, and more.

Explore the chapels, altars, and crypts of St. Peter's Basilica with an expert guide.

An expert guide will lead you through the best of St. Peter's Basilica, from its chapels and altars to the sacred Papal Crypts.
Dive into art and architecture by Renaissance greats such as Donato Bramante and Carlo Maderno in your preferred language.
As you walk through the mosaic floors that tell the stories of saints and martyrs, keep an eye out for the awe-inspiring Baldachin by Bernini.
You can opt for a guide in your preferred language, with tours available in English, French, Spanish, and Italian.
After the tour, you can descend to the Vatican Grottoes and explore the Papal Tombs, learn about the legacy of the Clementine Chapel, and more.

Inclusions

Guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica
Expert English, French, Italian or Spanish-speaking guide
Assistance at meeting point

Tip: Check out Pietro Cavallini's Madonna della Bocciata fresco in the Vatican Grottoes and hear the story behind its unique name.
Strict dress code: knees and shoulders must be covered for all guests.
Mobile phones must remain on silent mode inside the Basilica.
This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible. The right semicircle of Saint Peter’s Square is equipped with ramp access to the Basilica. For any special requirements, contact accoglienza@fsp.va in advance.
Sign language guided tours are available in Italian at the Basilica. This service must be booked at least 48 hours in advance at the following email address: visiteguidate@fsp.va.
Expect a long wait at security, especially during peak times. Patience is key, it could take up to 2 hours!
Around religious holidays at the Vatican, parts of the tour, such as the Papal Tombs, may not be open. In this case, the tour of the Basilica itself will be extended.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Visitors exploring the Vatican Museums with a guide, viewing art and architecture, Rome, Italy.

Tour guide showing a group the Sistine Chapel ceiling during the Jubilee Gold Pass tour in Vatican Museums, Rome

Vatican Museums guided tour group viewing Sistine Chapel ceiling.

Vatican Museums guided tour group viewing Sistine Chapel ceiling artwork.

Guided Tours

4.2(30.4K)

Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica Guided Tour

from

€62

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

2 hr. - 3 hr.

Explore Vatican City’s top 3 sites & Entry to the Basilica with a guided tour

Get the complete Vatican City experience on a guided tour of its three iconic sites: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica.
Fast-track entry ensures you spend more time exploring and less time waiting at the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.
Marvel at Renaissance masterpieces in the Sistine Chapel, including Michelangelo's ceiling frescoes and The Last Judgment.
Get the flexibility to choose either the guided tour or a self-paced exploration of St. Peter's Basilica.
Head to St. Peter's Basilica via a secret door from the Sistine Chapel, saving you 20 minutes of walking and skipping a 2-hour queue.

Explore Vatican City’s top 3 sites & Entry to the Basilica with a guided tour

Get the complete Vatican City experience on a guided tour of its three iconic sites: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica.
Fast-track entry ensures you spend more time exploring and less time waiting at the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.
Marvel at Renaissance masterpieces in the Sistine Chapel, including Michelangelo's ceiling frescoes and The Last Judgment.
Get the flexibility to choose either the guided tour or a self-paced exploration of St. Peter's Basilica.
Head to St. Peter's Basilica via a secret door from the Sistine Chapel, saving you 20 minutes of walking and skipping a 2-hour queue.

Inclusions

Guided tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel with skip-the-line entry
Skip-the-line entry or guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica (as per option selected)
Expert English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, or Portuguese-speaking guide
Headphones

Exclusions

Gratuities
Guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica and the Dome

Strict dress code: Knees, shoulders, and back must be covered for all guests.
Accessibility: While the tour is not accessible to wheelchair users, the Vatican Museums offer free wheelchair hire and free entry for visitors with mobility impairments (certified invalidity exceeding 74%) and a companion if required.
Inside the Sistine Chapel, maintain silence—no chatter, phones, or photos allowed. Don’t worry, your guide will brief you beforehand.
Expect a considerable wait at the security line, especially during peak times. Patience is key, it could take up to an hour!

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Papal Audience Viewing Experience showcasing the Pope greeting a crowd at the Apostolic Palace in Vatican City

Papal Audience Viewing Experience at St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City during Jubilee Festivities

Papal Audience Viewing Experience featuring a crowd of tourists in St. Peter's Square, Vatican City, waiting for the Pope's address

Tourists enjoying the Papal Audience Viewing Experience at St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City

Papal Audience Viewing Experience in St. Peter's Square with a clear view of St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican City

Papal Audience Viewing Experience with Pope Francis at St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City during Jubilee Festivities

Guided Tours

4.0(752)

Papal Audience Viewing Experience

from

€28

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

3 hr. - 5 hr.

Be a part of the Wednesday Papal audience with guaranteed seats.

Witness the Pope lead serene hymnal prayers at St. Peter's Square as you join in on mass.
Immerse in a beautiful gathering surrounded by magnificent architecture. If you choose, an expert guide will let you in on everything taking place.
Make the most of your visit to St. Peter's Square with a guided tour of the basilica, its chapels, and papal tombs.

Be a part of the Wednesday Papal audience with guaranteed seats.

Witness the Pope lead serene hymnal prayers at St. Peter's Square as you join in on mass.
Immerse in a beautiful gathering surrounded by magnificent architecture. If you choose, an expert guide will let you in on everything taking place.
Make the most of your visit to St. Peter's Square with a guided tour of the basilica, its chapels, and papal tombs.

Inclusions

Invitation to the Vatican Papal Audience & guaranteed seating
Guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica or the Papal Audience (as per option selected)
Expert English or Spanish-speaking guide (as per option selected)

Tip: Try to grab an aisle seat. The Pope will come through the crowd, so you have a better chance of getting a closer look.
Strict dress code: knees and shoulders must be covered for all guests.
Mobile phones must remain on silent mode inside the Basilica.
This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

$View of the Castel Sant Angelo\view of the St. Peter's Basilica$

Castel Sant'Angelo, Hadrian's Mausoleum, ROme

Tour guide showing Jubilee Silver Pass holders around the historic Castel Sant'Angelo in Rome, Italy

St. Peter's Basilica dome view with Castel Sant'Angelo in Rome during guided tour.

St. Peter's Basilica dome view during Vatican Gardens guided tour with Papal Audience, Rome.

Tour guide showing tourists around Castel Sant'Angelo in Rome, Italy, part of the Jubilee Silver Pass tour including Vatican Museums and Catacombs

$View of the Castel Sant Angelo\view of the St. Peter's Basilica$

Combos

4.1(2.2K)

Combo (Save 5%): Castel Sant'Angelo + St. Peter's Basilica Guided Tour

from €68

€64.60

5% off

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

Guided tour

An unbeatable combo for neighbor sites in Rome!

Visit the riverside Castel Sant’Angelo, and St. Peter’s Basilica – the largest church in the world.
Your guide leads a group of under 20 guests to unravel the fortified passageways and gardens of Castel Sant’Angelo, a royal mausoleum-turned-fortress.
Inside the castle, be met with celestial sculptures and interesting rooms like the Grand Loggia, the breezy yet sheltered Courtyard of the Angel, and more.
Less than 1 km away yet in a different nation lies St. Peter’s Basilica, the crown jewel of the Vatican! Your guided tour continues here.
From the Papal Tombs to Bernini’s breathtaking bronze canopy and numerous niche chapels, absorb every nuance of the basilica’s narrative.

An unbeatable combo for neighbor sites in Rome!

Visit the riverside Castel Sant’Angelo, and St. Peter’s Basilica – the largest church in the world.
Your guide leads a group of under 20 guests to unravel the fortified passageways and gardens of Castel Sant’Angelo, a royal mausoleum-turned-fortress.
Inside the castle, be met with celestial sculptures and interesting rooms like the Grand Loggia, the breezy yet sheltered Courtyard of the Angel, and more.
Less than 1 km away yet in a different nation lies St. Peter’s Basilica, the crown jewel of the Vatican! Your guided tour continues here.
From the Papal Tombs to Bernini’s breathtaking bronze canopy and numerous niche chapels, absorb every nuance of the basilica’s narrative.

Inclusions

Castel Sant’Angelo

Guided tour of Castel Sant'Angelo with entry
Expert English-speaking guide
Group of up to 20 guests

St. Peter’s Basilica

Guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica and the Papal Tombs
Expert English-speaking guide

Tip: Keep an eye out for the discreet Passetto di Borgo which connects Castel Sant’Angelo to Vatican City!

Castel Sant’Angelo

Only some areas of the castle are suitable for the use of prams/strollers and wheelchairs.
If you are visiting with a baby or a toddler, get a carrier.

St. Peter’s Basilica

Strict dress code: knees and shoulders must be covered for all guests.
This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible. The right semicircle of Saint Peter’s Square is equipped with ramp access into the Basilica. For any special requirements, contact accoglienza@fsp.va in advance.
Sign language guided tours are available at the Basilica. This service must be booked at least 48 hours in advance at the following email address: visiteguidate@fsp.va.
Expect a long wait at security, especially during peak times. Patience is key, it could take up to an hour!
Around religious holidays at the Vatican, parts of the tour such as the Papal Tombs may not be open. In this case, the tour of the Basilica itself will be extended.