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- Vatican Museums
- Castel Gandolfo Papal Palace
- Sistine Chapel
- Vatican Gardens
- Vatican Grottoes
- Apostolic Palace
- Villa Barberini
- Vatican Library
- Castle Gondolfo
- Vatican Archives
- History
- Inside
- Tours in Italian
- Vatican Easter Mass
- Vatican Necropolis
- Christmas Tree
- Vatican City
- Nativity Scene
- Secrets of Vatican
- Christmas
- Plan Your Visit
- Skip the Line Tours
- Guided Tours
- Night Tours
- Timings
- Directions
- Rules
- Entrances
- Facts
- Map
- Papal Audience
- Omnia Card
- Information at a glance
- Vatican Mass
- Things to do in Vatican
- Dress Code
- Private Tours
- Colosseum
- St. Peter's Basilica
- Castel Sant Angelo
- Rome Pantheon
- Roman Catacombs Tour
- Borghese Gallery
- Bioparco Rome
- Palazzo Barberini
- Musei Capitolini
- Leonardo da Vinci Museum
- Trevi Fountain Tours
- Altare della Patria
- Rome Underground Tours
- Mamertine Prison
- Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica
- Leonardo Express Rome
- Rome: Ostia Antica
Vatican Grottoes tours
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.
Reviews
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Marani
Dec 2024Verified booking
Very knowledgeable and engaging guide. Quiet visit because it was at the right time, 10:30 am. Huge crowds arrived later and would have been more uncomfortable. Vatican staff very efficient and helpful.
View original review in Italian
José
Dec 2024Verified booking
Everything went very well! We liked it very much! The guide (Valentina) was extraordinary! Always very helpful, very practical and enlightening, she made sure that our expectations were exceeded. I highly recommend this service! We'll be back.
View original review in Portuguese
Robert
Dec 2024Verified booking
Booking with Headout was fast simple. Staff was friendly and helpful upon arrival. Our tour guide, Eduardo, was both courteous and knowledgable. We used Headout for mulitple tours in Rome and they were fantastic!
Terpos
Dec 2024Verified booking
Absolutely perfect especially our guide Eduardo was very helpful and informed us about everything. Definitely recommended!!!!!
Roberto
Nov 2024Verified booking
Yes, very much so. Extraordinary visit. Laura as a guide excellent and very prepared. It is only impossible to avoid the long queue of 55 minutes to get to the security checkpoint.
View original review in Spanish
juan
Nov 2024Verified booking
Everything in general, but our guide was spectacular, the level of historical knowledge and the way she explained it, incredible.
View original review in Spanish
Kayli
Nov 2024Verified booking
Very smooth booking process and the location was easy to find. Our tour guide Brigitte was wonderful and so very passionate about what she does. She was the best tour guide of all the tours we did in Rome.
Assen
Nov 2024Verified booking
We were extremely satisfied from our St. Peter’s Basilica Guided Tour. Our tour guide Jennifer was polite, detailed with many interesting stories concerning out tour. I recommend this tour!
Steen
Nov 2024Verified booking
A good guide, who also managed diferent problems among other paticipants bad health condition. I had not expected to stand in waiting lines on a fast-track guided tour.
Eleonora
Nov 2024Verified booking
The guide who accompanied us on the tour of St. Peter's was very knowledgeable and available for questions. The possibility of having priority access for guided tours would be nice
View original review in Italian
TAUPIN
Nov 2024Verified booking
Great experience with our guide who gave us a lot of historical and artistic information. We were a small group (4 people), so we were able to see as much as possible in 1h30. The only tricky part was finding our guide at the entrance to the Basilica among all the groups present...
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Paulina
Nov 2024Verified booking
Very entertaining. The guide spoke very good Spanish. It happened to be just me on that tour so it was almost personalized. Very satisfied.
View original review in Spanish
Mary
Nov 2024Verified booking
Having this tour is a must if you are going to Rome. It was an unforgettable experience especially for a history geek like me. Bridgette, our guide, was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the history and art of the basilica. She took us through the stunning details of Michelagelo's dome, the intricarcies of Bernini's design, and the countless works of art that adorn the whole Basilica. Her storytelling is fantastic and clear that the history was brought to life.
Gianluca
Nov 2024Verified booking
The punctuality, the guys courteous and professional. In addition, our guide showed competence and passion for his work.
View original review in Italian
Karin
Oct 2024Verified booking
Incredible tour. I had never seen the Basilica with so many details. The guide was able to explain all the history excellently. To the point that she highlighted the importance of St. Peter's Basilica. And we were late because of the complicated entrance and they let us set a new time. Thank you. Fully recommended.
View original review in Spanish
Chritopher
Oct 2024Verified booking
Great tour guide with brilliant subject knowledge. It's a beautiful church. It would have been good to know the tickets don't "skip the line" as it took a 20-30 minute line up in the piazza to get through screening and to meeting place. Limited information from the desk at meeting place other than stand there and we'll call you. The good news was they did and it worked. Trustworthy tour.
Wilfing
Oct 2024Verified booking
Exciting, entertaining and competent guide named Anna perfectly conveyed the history from the beginnings as a cemetery through various stages to the present day, and the children also followed the explanations with great interest for no less than 3 hours.
View original review in German
Lynn
Oct 2024Verified booking
We were very happy with our tour and our guide was incredibly knowledgable and personable. it was a wonderful experience.
Anna
Oct 2024Verified booking
Anna, our guide, showed us the treasures of the cathedral with incredible dedication!
View original review in German
Veronica
Oct 2024Verified booking
The guide made the long line a great experience by giving history about the Vatican. He continued giving great information while I side the Vatican. He was very knowledgeable.
Sandra
Oct 2024Verified booking
The tour guide was knowledgable, detailed and willing to answer all questions. We had a long wait to get into the Basilica but the tour guide joined us early and gave us interesting facts while we waited which greatly improved the experience.
Ann
Oct 2024Verified booking
Brigid our guide was fantastic. She kept us informed and entertained throughout the long wait in the queue. She was a mine of interesting facts and information and really interacted so well with the group. It's not an easy thing to be able to do so I really commend for doing such a great job and looking after us so well, thank you.
Rosemary
Oct 2024Verified booking
Experience with Headout was very good and efficient. Our Guide Brigette was a very competent guide, extremely Knowledgeable and entertaining. She was very interactive with the group and kept the group motivated and interested for almost 2 hours while queuing. She shared lots of interesting facts about Rome, The Vatican City, Italian Culture, ltalian Language and Italian people. It was a Wonderful experience. I would recommend Brigette to others.
Maassen
Oct 2024Verified booking
For the visit to St. Peter's Basilica, our French-speaking guide Barbara was fantastic. She knows her subject perfectly and shares her passion with a smile. She is very attentive and caring towards her "tourists". She makes the visit very enjoyable. You don't notice the time passing. A big thank you to Barbara for an excellent time, rich in cultural and human resources.
View original review in French
Lucie
Oct 2024Verified booking
The Basilica is superb, even if part of it is being restored. A guided tour is a plus. However, you should be aware that there is a standing line that runs slowly around St. Peter's Square (duration 1h30). With or without guide. No ticket-cutting possible.
View original review in French
Asked and answered
0+
SMART TRAVEL TIPS
Line lindgreen eriksen
Bring comfortable shoes. Bring a scarf to cover your shoulders in the church. Remember to buy a bus ticket before entering the bus to the Vatican.
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TRAVEL HIGHLIGHTS
Cassidy devrieze
We also went to castel st angelo and enjoyed the views there, we walked across the bridge and saw the staues, we climbed the dome at st.peters
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FOOD & BEVERAGES
Pavla baumgartnerová
I went to Clementina restaurant. It was great and not filled with tourists. Also the prices were fair. I had cacio e pepe, really good.
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Explore Vatican City's top 3 sites on a guided tour with optional access to St. Peter's Basilica.
- 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 on a guided tour with optional access to St. Peter's Basilica.
- 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
- Expert English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, or Portuguese-speaking guide
- Headphones
Exclusions
- Gratuities
- Entry to St. Peter's Basilica 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!
- Please be aware that during the Jubilee Year, certain areas of the Vatican Museums may be inaccessible due to religious ceremonies. Additionally, entrance to St. Peter's Basilica may also experience unannounced closures. These circumstances are beyond our control. Thank you for your understanding.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Reviews
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Zak
Dec 2024Verified booking
Such a great tour of the Vatican. A wonderful tour guide, Cosimo, very knowledgable and also keeping the information fun as well. He added a lot to the experience and I would thoroughly recommend him.
fabienne
Dec 2024Verified booking
Marco, our French-speaking guide, gave us a wonderful tour with well researched commentaries and was always ready to listen to his group's questions.
View original review in French
Mayra
Dec 2024Verified booking
The tour was full of history and very good. The only thing was that for the Basilica we did not get a tour. Definitely the Basilica is a wonderful place.
View original review in Spanish
STEFO
Dec 2024Verified booking
Everything. Everything about the guided tour was first class. Laura from City Wonders EUR was the best tour guide. Explained everything so well and her english is fantastic. Her knowledge of the the Vatican and all it has to offer is amazing. Very very happy we made the decision to book this guided tour.
Crouzet
Dec 2024Verified booking
The guide we had was remarkable, very interesting, knowledgeable and patient in answering all our questions.
View original review in French
Jessica
Dec 2024Verified booking
best decision to go with a guided tour for vatican. our guide Maurizio (if i heard it right), explain everything well and always remember not to leave every single person in our group behind. definitely recomended! we go on early december and the crowd are still okay, our guide said that this time are the low season and not to crowded
eros
Dec 2024Verified booking
We sincerely thank Dario,due to a problem on Frecciarossa we arrived three hours late,he immediately put us on another group making sure we were able to see the show of Vatican museums . we will definitely come back to use headout .see you next time
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Sabrina
Dec 2024Verified booking
It was the best choice we made for our trip, the guided tour was perfect! The guide was wonderful and we even got to see a mass in the basilica!
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NOELIO
Dec 2024Verified booking
We had an incredibly knowledgeable and art-loving guide. I had a good experience and increased my knowledge a lot. Buying the ticket was easy.
View original review in Portuguese
Larissa
Dec 2024Verified booking
Yesterday, December 4th, we took part in the tour with Alba in the Vatican Museum and the Sistine Chapel. It was a very informative tour. You could tell that ALBA was very knowledgeable and was able to explain the special aspects. For us, the special highlight was the visit to the Tapestry and the adjoining hall with the Italian landscapes from all over Italy. Personally, we would perhaps replace the animal sculptures room with an in-depth look at the modern part of the Vatican Museum. In other words, the 20th century. We would recommend Alba without reservation. The organization was also very good.
View original review in German
Karl
Dec 2024Verified booking
Really loved our guide Natliana (I think that's the spelling). The place is fascinating, but she really added to the epxerience.
Carlos
Dec 2024Verified booking
The women that gave us the tour Elena was great at informing us in the many historical features during the tour. She allowed many opportunities to look around and explore the room we were in which was amazing as my family wanted to take as many photos as possible. All in all the tour was great.
Maksym
Dec 2024Verified booking
Our guide Fabrizio was with historical education, local guy, who got his knowledge directly from Vatican when studying. Very interesting facts he told was not known by my friend who visited twice already Vatican. So I really appreciate his tour and him as funny interesting and intelligent guide. About the tour was everything in time, well organized, and within declared tour like on website. Highly recommend
Carlen
Dec 2024Verified booking
Our tour guide, Rita took us around the long lines and straight into the entrance. She was very knowledgeable and showed us more than we would've seen on our own.
Ruth
Dec 2024Verified booking
Four of us "first timers" in Rome booked this tour through the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St Peter's Basilica 2 weeks ago. Our tour guide was amazing! I cannot remember her name (because I am terrible with names) but she was born in America and had lived in Italy for 18 years or so. She was EXTREMELY knowledgeable....she knew so much about the art and little nuances about each artist. She has long dark hair and carried a yellow feather! She was brilliant! We honestly picked the perfect season to visit Rome...the crowds were not too much, the weather was perfect, and even though they are preparing for the Jubilee I didnt feel like we missed anything! I would definitely book with Headout again! They were extremely easy to find, friendly and knowledgeable! Prices were great as well! Ciao until next visit!!
Davin
Dec 2024Verified booking
OUr tourguide was incredible. She clicked well with each of the people in our group and was very patient with us. She was incredible at being informative while also catching our attention and making us laugh! It was overall very fun and joyful!
Karen
Dec 2024Verified booking
The guide was well prepared with a lot of information, but it is really too expensive for what it is..... in the end you can do the tour alone, it's easy.
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cristina
Dec 2024Verified booking
It was a 'very interesting experience, the very professional guide immersed us in the history of the Vatican and its wonderful works .
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Gladys
Nov 2024Verified booking
Other than the awesome things to see, Claudia, our guide is knowledgeable and speaks English well, making our tour of the Vatican museum and Sistine chapel a memorable and immersive experience.
Evangelina
Nov 2024Verified booking
The history behind the artworks were explained in detail and it gave us a deeper understanding of the artists and their works.
Yawen
Nov 2024Verified booking
The guide Ferninando was excellent! Very nice and excellent explanations especially a good guide to interpret the Sistine Chapel.
View original review in Spanish
Fabricio
Nov 2024Verified booking
It wasn't difficult to find the meeting point, there was a slight delay of 5 minutes (but it was super quiet), we were a relatively small group and it helped a lot to interact with the Guide, including the fact that the Guide was very kind, helpful and friendly and showed a good level of knowledge of the topics presented.
View original review in Portuguese
Claude
Nov 2024Verified booking
The agency maintained the visit despite the lack of customers and gave us a private tour. Showing great professionalism. Many thanks to Jonathan
View original review in French
Paul
Nov 2024Verified booking
The guide "Fred" was so knowledgeable and entertaining. The pace was just right for me (70 years) and the equipment easy to ues.
Linda
Nov 2024Verified booking
Christina was very sweet and informative about everything. She knew all about the art and kept the tour moving at a good pace. My daughter and I loved every minute! Thank you!
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.
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Iasmina
Dec 2024Verified booking
Very thorough explanations, lots of time to walk around, and the guide was available to answer any questions from the group. I initially wanted to book a tour from the official website but it was sold out (I did get it for the Vatican Museums so I have a reference point) and I was a bit skeptical about this one, but totally recommend!
BARBARA
Dec 2024Verified booking
It was a very positive experience. Our guide Edoardo De Biasi was very knowledgeable and provided a lot of information without being heavy but on the contrary made us spend two hours immersed in art and history with nice anecdotes. We recommend this experience Barbara Marco Greta and Filippo from Vicenza
View original review in Italian
Anthony
Dec 2024Verified booking
Maria provided the best tour that I have experienced in my life. We are returning in July for the jubilee and if we could get her again, I will do the same tour once again with additional members of my family. We'll done to everyone and wish you the best.
Lilian
Dec 2024Verified booking
Our tour guides were fantastic! Loved the explanations and stories shared. They were also accomodating to keep the group together and honoring everyone's level of physical capability. Very thankful for their care and friendliness.
Catharina
Dec 2024Verified booking
Very knowledgeable guide with a passion for the topic which was infectious and inspiring. My 15 and 18 year old sons found it equally fascinateing. The Basilica and its history is incredible.
St
Dec 2024Verified booking
Claudio made the experience unforgettable and had an amazing depth of knowledge about St Peter's Square, the Basilica and crypt. Not only did he present knowledge on the religious meaning behind the history of the church and its mosaic artwork, but he also provided the artistic perspective. We did the tour early and made it to the top of the dome before the crowds and just after sunrise, which made it more special. We highly recommend this tour!
Andreas
Dec 2024Verified booking
It was very entertaining. We learned a lot of new information, even though we've been to St. Peter's Basilica many times before and know a lot about art history. This was mainly due to the unconventional and lively manner of our guide Michaela. Thank you very much, we enjoyed it so much that we booked another tour with your agency for Tuesday, this time to the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. We are already very excited.
View original review in German
Tim
Dec 2024Verified booking
I needed the toilet and was refuse entry via a fast route Maybe consider notifying visitors prior? Apart from that it's magnificent
Rajmonda
Nov 2024Verified booking
The tour to the St. Peter's Basilica and the dome was marvellous and spectacular. It was the highlight of our visit in Rome. Our guide, Eduardo, was highly knowledgeable, informative, but most importantly funny. He was engaging and talking to us all the time, making the tour even more interesting. During our visit, we saw the tombs of various popes, the Basilica and its main works like the Pietà or the mosaics and sculptures found there and after that we went to climb the dome (which was in fact a bit tiring) and enjoyed the breathtaking view of Vatican and Rome. I wolud recommend this experience to everyone who wants a nice tour of the Basilica.
YASUSHI
Nov 2024Verified booking
Our guide, Claudio, dedicated a great guiding tour to us, with his prenty knowledge about St. Peter’s Basilica. We loved it!
ANTONIO
Nov 2024Verified booking
The French guide Valerio made the visit very good. A very cultured person and very knowledgeable about the history and other questions about the basilica. My sincere congratulations for his work. NOTE: My wife could not go up to the dome for health reasons. The guide did not buy the ticket (10€), please inform me how to recover the money paid to go up to the dome. Thank you very much and have a nice day. Antonio-Jesús Escudero Blanco
View original review in Spanish
Lückert
Nov 2024Verified booking
Maria was a wonderful guide and was able to bridge the one hour wait in the queue with her charming personality, stories and excellent information. Thank you! 🤩
Rochefort
Nov 2024Verified booking
Valentina B., our guide, was perfect and gave us a very interesting and lively tour. The ascent to the dome is a must if you're in good physical condition.
View original review in French
Cristiane
Nov 2024Verified booking
The guide was wonderful, friendly and very knowledgeable. I felt sick during the tour and he was very attentive to me.
View original review in Portuguese
Philipp
Nov 2024Verified booking
Everything was well organized. Especilally the guide Karen. She is just fantastic and knows everything and she makes waiting times enjoyable.
Stephanie
Nov 2024Verified booking
Thank you to this agency for its kindness. Our guide was fascinating and allowed us to discover the basilica in a different way.
View original review in French
Sandra
Nov 2024Verified booking
Our guide, Michaela (Michele) was awesome. Historically so knowledgeable, good personality! Check in was weird.....discrepancies about when to arrive & the staff did not appreciate early birds. Check in needs improvement. Fortunately our guide made up for all that. We highly recommend our guide
VALDECI
Nov 2024Verified booking
The visit was very pleasant! The view of St. Peter's Square from the top of the dome is incredible! Valentina was our tour guide, and she was very friendly and professional! It was very worthwhile! I recommend it!
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Karola
Nov 2024Verified booking
Anna, our guide was so incredibly great. All four of us were in Rome for the first time and her enthusiasm, her friendliness and her emotional descriptions reached us, touched us and made us enthusiastic about St. Peter's Basilica, Rome and Anna. This 19-year-old art student is on fire for the cause and is simply great. All the highest possible scores from Susi, Rita, Anette and Elke
View original review in German
Linda
Nov 2024Verified booking
Great visit to St Peter's & the dome climb was awesome. Guide was very informative & did a good job, only let down was some parts of the church inside covered up for restoration & Saint Pope John Paul ll tomb covered by curtains.
valentino
Nov 2024Verified booking
The truth is that the guide Valerio (I don't know if it is written like that) French, a genius, speaks perfect Spanish and made the wait and the whole tour of the basilica was excellent. Highly recommended.
View original review in Spanish
Lau
Nov 2024Verified booking
Our guide told us a lot of things and interaction was great. It was a small group, not many people in Vatican City that morning in November 2024. The dome is a must. Thank you
Andrés
Nov 2024Verified booking
Great tour that we did, in Spanish, by the guide Lili, very recommendable experience to know a little more of the Basilica. Climbing the dome is a must of the visit, definitely a great experience.
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Dietrich
Nov 2024Verified booking
Guide Fabian made the tour a very entertaining, varied and entertaining experience with lots of information.
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Eric
Nov 2024Verified booking
Our guide Federico was spectacular, very knowledgeable helpful and friendly. He took us on a journey through time with all the descriptions and anecdotes of the place, he is passionate about history and art, he revealed very interesting little tidbits about the works, statues and paintings. The view from the top of the city is fantastic Experience to be recommended! (Ask for Federico!)
View original review in Italian
Combo (Save 5%): Castel Sant'Angelo + St. Peter's Basilica Guided Tour
from €62
€58.90
5% off
An unbeatable combo for neighboring 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 neighboring 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.
- Keep in mind that your ticket is nominative, and you must present a valid ID matching your full name on the ticket for entry.
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.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
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Robert
Dec 2024Verified booking
Booking with Headout was fast simple. Staff was friendly and helpful upon arrival. Our tour guide, Eduardo, was both courteous and knowledgable. We used Headout for mulitple tours in Rome and they were fantastic!
Terpos
Dec 2024Verified booking
Absolutely perfect especially our guide Eduardo was very helpful and informed us about everything. Definitely recommended!!!!!
Clayton
Nov 2024Verified booking
Alex was an amazing guide with a wealth of knowledge on Castel St Angelo and the Vatican/ Rome connections. Highly recommended
Analia
Nov 2024Verified booking
Buy the St. Peter's Basilica and Castel S Angelo Combo Tour. The first tour started at 8.20 am but until 9.30 am groups are not allowed to enter the basilica so I spent 15 minutes and had to run to the other tour. I almost didn't make the first one. I wrote and sent WhatsApp the night before because I had doubts and nobody answered me. The guide Martina from Castel S Angelo was wonderful. The visit was excellent.
View original review in Spanish
Kayli
Nov 2024Verified booking
Very smooth booking process and the location was easy to find. Our tour guide Brigitte was wonderful and so very passionate about what she does. She was the best tour guide of all the tours we did in Rome.
Assen
Nov 2024Verified booking
We were extremely satisfied from our St. Peter’s Basilica Guided Tour. Our tour guide Jennifer was polite, detailed with many interesting stories concerning out tour. I recommend this tour!
Steen
Nov 2024Verified booking
A good guide, who also managed diferent problems among other paticipants bad health condition. I had not expected to stand in waiting lines on a fast-track guided tour.
Andrew
Nov 2024Verified booking
The ticketing online was simple and straightforward. The tour guide was on time and easily identified at meeting site. He was very knowledgeable of the subject and added many interesting details as well as humour to make it an enjoyable experience.
Mary
Nov 2024Verified booking
Having this tour is a must if you are going to Rome. It was an unforgettable experience especially for a history geek like me. Bridgette, our guide, was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the history and art of the basilica. She took us through the stunning details of Michelagelo's dome, the intricarcies of Bernini's design, and the countless works of art that adorn the whole Basilica. Her storytelling is fantastic and clear that the history was brought to life.
Chritopher
Oct 2024Verified booking
Great tour guide with brilliant subject knowledge. It's a beautiful church. It would have been good to know the tickets don't "skip the line" as it took a 20-30 minute line up in the piazza to get through screening and to meeting place. Limited information from the desk at meeting place other than stand there and we'll call you. The good news was they did and it worked. Trustworthy tour.
Lynn
Oct 2024Verified booking
We were very happy with our tour and our guide was incredibly knowledgable and personable. it was a wonderful experience.
Veronica
Oct 2024Verified booking
The guide made the long line a great experience by giving history about the Vatican. He continued giving great information while I side the Vatican. He was very knowledgeable.
Sandra
Oct 2024Verified booking
The tour guide was knowledgable, detailed and willing to answer all questions. We had a long wait to get into the Basilica but the tour guide joined us early and gave us interesting facts while we waited which greatly improved the experience.
Ann
Oct 2024Verified booking
Brigid our guide was fantastic. She kept us informed and entertained throughout the long wait in the queue. She was a mine of interesting facts and information and really interacted so well with the group. It's not an easy thing to be able to do so I really commend for doing such a great job and looking after us so well, thank you.
Rosemary
Oct 2024Verified booking
Experience with Headout was very good and efficient. Our Guide Brigette was a very competent guide, extremely Knowledgeable and entertaining. She was very interactive with the group and kept the group motivated and interested for almost 2 hours while queuing. She shared lots of interesting facts about Rome, The Vatican City, Italian Culture, ltalian Language and Italian people. It was a Wonderful experience. I would recommend Brigette to others.
Lucie
Oct 2024Verified booking
The Basilica is superb, even if part of it is being restored. A guided tour is a plus. However, you should be aware that there is a standing line that runs slowly around St. Peter's Square (duration 1h30). With or without guide. No ticket-cutting possible.
View original review in French
Maria,
Oct 2024Verified booking
We had been able to book tickets for St. Peter's online that very day! We were met by a Dutch guy who told us that Stefano would be our guide in English. Everything was well arranged! We had to wait in line for about 45 minutes before we were inside but Stefano filled that up completely with history of the Basilica. The time passed in no time. Furthermore, he showed us around and told us all at once, he knows a lot about it! A whole lot wiser we walked out again. A great experience for us!
View original review in Dutch
Karen
Oct 2024Verified booking
Good guide but very long wait to enter Basilica so didn't get a guided tour inside as guide had to leave for his next tour
Galina
Oct 2024Verified booking
The guide was very friendly and knowleadgeable. He managed to keep us entertained during the 1 hour wait in front of the Basilica. Downside of the experience was that it has not been explained that there is no skip the line possibility for the Basilica and that there is no dome climb included.
Luis
Oct 2024Verified booking
Eduardo, our assigned guide, was super attentive and made the unavoidable queue waiting very entertaining. He also provided lots of details and data, and was open to questions and comments all the time.
Gary
Oct 2024Verified booking
The guide Matteo did a fantastic job of explaining the history of the castle and the symbolism of the art work throughout the castle
Isabella
Oct 2024Verified booking
I loved the tour! Edoardo our tour guide was fantastic! he knew so much of the history, and he also gave us great dining recommendations. 10/10 experience overall!
Vasile
Oct 2024Verified booking
Of course, all together it is always enchanting to visit Rome and the Vatican. Its a bliss! BUT! First of all, it was crazy overcrowded. You cannot imagine how overcrowded if you were not there. And then some gentlemen working inside to keep the crowd in the right direction were so rude! I mean if they talk to you on the street like this you call the police or you put them in their places yourself. I guess some training with them it would help.
Falk
Oct 2024Verified booking
The tour started in front of a large souvenir store in front of St. Peter's Square. The young guide was very friendly and easy to understand and told us lots of interesting facts about the square, the grotto and the cathedral. This made the waiting time in the queue very entertaining. This is not a skip-the-line offer!
View original review in German
Janine
Oct 2024Verified booking
Meeting point was easy to find in all the crowds. Laura, the guide, is fun to talk to and knows a lot. Compliments for that! The tour was a very nice experience.
View original review in Dutch
- Head to Rome's renowned spots Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill on this expertly crafted tour.
- Admire masterpieces by Renaissance maestros at the Vatican Museums followed by a visit to the Sistine Chapel and time to explore St. Peter's Basilica.
- Head to the top of Palatine Hill for spectacular views of this ancient city.
- At the Colosseum, your tour guide will offer intuitive commentary on the ancient amphitheater and the larger-than-life shows hosted here in the past.
- Finish your full-day tour with a walk down the ancient path of the Roman Forum along the Via Sacra.
- Head to Rome's renowned spots Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill on this expertly crafted tour.
- Admire masterpieces by Renaissance maestros at the Vatican Museums followed by a visit to the Sistine Chapel and time to explore St. Peter's Basilica.
- Head to the top of Palatine Hill for spectacular views of this ancient city.
- At the Colosseum, your tour guide will offer intuitive commentary on the ancient amphitheater and the larger-than-life shows hosted here in the past.
- Finish your full-day tour with a walk down the ancient path of the Roman Forum along the Via Sacra.
Inclusions
- Full-day guided tour of Rome
- Expert English-speaking guide
- Access to the Colosseum floors 1 & 2
- Access to Palatine Hill & Roman Forum
- Access to Vatican Museums
- Access to Sistine Chapel
- Access to St. Peter’s Basilica
- Audio headsets
Exclusions
- Transport
- Tip: Don't miss checking out Pietà by Michelangelo in St. Peter's Basilica, one of the most famous sculptures to exist in the world.
- All visitors must carry a photo ID for security checks.
- Please note that in case of unexpected closures of some of the areas inside the Museums, the guide may have to modify the itinerary slightly.
- Please note that you will be able to visit St. Peter’s Basilica on your own. Your guide will not take you inside, since direct access from Vatican Museum is not possible.
- St Peter’s Basilica is an active place of worship and may be closed without prior notice for religious events: in this case, the visit will be substituted by a visit to the Vatican Library.
- Due to heightened security measures, you may experience delays in clearing security checks when entering venues. Guests with a pacemaker will need to show a certificate to bypass security screening
- Facilities: Cloakroom at Vatican Museums
- The experience is not accessible for wheelchair users, people with mobility issues.
- Strict Dress Code: In order to enter St.Peter's Basilica and Vatican Museums, one must abide by a dress code. Sleeveless blouses, miniskirts, shorts, and hats are not permitted. Knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women.
- Note that the following are not allowed inside Colosseum: large backpacks or pieces of luggage.
- Note that the following are not allowed inside Vatican Museums: suitcases, backpacks, containers, umbrellas, walking sticks (except those required by disabled visitors), tripods for cameras and video cameras, signage of any kind.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
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What our guests say
Janie
Dec 2024Verified booking
It was amazing. Learned so much. Monica was simply fantastic, so knowledgeable, friendly and funny, made the experience wonderful. Highly recommend. Thank you for an unforgettable experience
Lars
Dec 2024Verified booking
Roberta our guide had really good knowledge of the subjects. Sometimes little hard to hear the information due to traffic, poor technical quality of mic and headset
Shehrazaan
Oct 2024Verified booking
Our guide Maria was fantastic. She gave us a great overview. We got to see everything in time. There were clear signs at the meeting point .
Taylor
Oct 2024Verified booking
The tours were very efficient and the guides were extremely knowledgeable! All places we visited were extremely busy with long lines and both guides did a good job of navigating the crowds all while still pointing out important/interesting pieces of art. Doing the all day tour does make for a long day but it was nice getting it all done. Obviously both locations are at different parts of the city but they did give us time to have lunch and get to the other end of the city for the other half of our tour.
Fiona
Sep 2024Verified booking
We had an incredible experience on the Rome in a Day: Vatican Museums & Colosseum Guided Tour! The guides for both the Vatican and the Colosseum were extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and approachable, making the tours informative and enjoyable. They shared fascinating details and historical insights that added so much depth to the visit, and they were more than happy to answer all our questions. It was a perfect way to explore two of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, and we truly had a great time. I highly recommend this tour for anyone looking to make the most of their time in Rome!
Anna
Jun 2024Verified booking
Everything about our "Rome in a day" experience was fantastic! If you only have one day to see as much as possible, you've gotta use a guide to navigate through all the main attractions and the crowds/massive lines. Thank goodness we booked this tour and didn't try to do it all ourselves in one day. Our guide Erturk was absolutely phenomenal, vastly knowledgeable and thorough. I don't know how he could remember everything he told us at each location- he was like an encyclopedia that you were able to ask questions! Can't say enough positive things about Erturk and the way the tour was structured! Thank you so much for this incredible experience!
Fabrice
May 2024Verified booking
It was a great experience and Kate our guide was so knowledgeable and helpful. She answered all of our questions and gave us good tips. We learned a lot from her, the history of the city, it was simply tremendous.
John
Nov 2024Verified booking
Our guide, Cristiana, was very knowledgeable and she did a great job bringing Rome alive.
Christopher
Dec 2024Verified booking
Natallia
Nov 2024Verified booking
John
Oct 2024Verified booking
Francisco
Aug 2024Verified booking
Ricardo
Aug 2024Verified booking
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Andy
Jul 2024Verified booking
Experience the Vatican with a skip-the-line private tour tailored to your interests, at your pace.
- Your Vatican, your way! Customize your tour to explore the sections that fascinate you most, like the Borgia Apartments or the Braccio Nuovo.
- Bypass the ticketing lines and head straight to the Vatican Museums, giving you more time to explore.
- Explore leisurely with lesser crowds, and delve deeper into the Vatican's wonders with ample time to appreciate each area.
- Benefit from an expert guide as they bring the Vatican's history to life at the Pinoteca Gallery or Raphael's Rooms.
Experience the Vatican with a skip-the-line private tour tailored to your interests, at your pace.
- Your Vatican, your way! Customize your tour to explore the sections that fascinate you most, like the Borgia Apartments or the Braccio Nuovo.
- Bypass the ticketing lines and head straight to the Vatican Museums, giving you more time to explore.
- Explore leisurely with lesser crowds, and delve deeper into the Vatican's wonders with ample time to appreciate each area.
- Benefit from an expert guide as they bring the Vatican's history to life at the Pinoteca Gallery or Raphael's Rooms.
Inclusions
- Private guided tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel with skip-the-line access
- Entry and private guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica (as per option selected)
- Expert English/Spanish/French/German/Italian-speaking guide
- Headsets
- Tip: Unwind in the tranquil Cortile della Pigna, a hidden gem within the Vatican, featuring ancient sculptures like the iconic bronze pine cone.
- 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, it's all about the quiet vibes. No chatting, no phones, and no photos, just pure admiration. But don't worry, an expert guide will fill you in on all the cool details before you step inside.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
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Top things to do in Rome
Why visit the Vatican Grottoes?
The Grottoes contain the tombs of over 90 popes, several monarchs, and other church dignitaries, dating back to the 10th century.
Key highlights include the marble statue of St. Peter Enthroned, the funerary monument of Calixtus III, the sepulcher of St. Peter, and remnants of the Old St. Peter’s Basilica.
Note: Your ticket to St.Peter’s Basilica/Vatican Museums includes access to Vatican Grottoes.
St.Peter’s Basilica/Vatican Museums TicketsPlan your visit to Vatican Grottoes
Location
The Vatican Grottoes are located beneath St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. You can access them through the main church by entering near the statues of St. Helen and St. Andrew and heading down towards the papal tombs.
Directions to St. Peter's Basilica
Timings
The Vatican Grottoes are open during the same hours as St. Peter’s Basilica:
7am to 7pm from April to September
7 am to 6pm from October to March.
Ensure you complete your visit at least half an hour before closing time.
St. Peter's Basilica TimingsOrigin of Vatican Grottoes
The Grottoes were established during the construction of the current St. Peter’s Basilica in the 17th century, built over the Old St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Necropolis, and Saint Peter’s tomb.
It took about 120 years to complete the Basilica, including the construction of the papal tombs and necropolis below the structure.
What’s inside the Grottoes?
Clementine Chapel (Chapel of St. Peter)
Clementine Chapel is the precious gem of the Vatican Grottoes, holding the chest that protects the sepulcher of Peter the Apostle. It makes up the center of the peribolos and is the only part of the cathedral to maintain its original purpose and function. Just like back in the day, people of faith make their way to the chapel to pay their respects. It is believed that the head of St. Peter lay above the tomb towards the back of the monument. The chapel gets its name from Clement VIII, who modified the ancient chapel in 1592.
Tomb of John Paul II (previous)
After the funeral of Pope John Paul II on April 8, 2005, his first tomb was placed towards the north end of the Grottoes, less than 100 feet from the tomb of St. Peter. He was placed in the spot where Pope John XXII previously lay, until he was moved to the St. Jerome Altar on June 3, 2001. A few years later in 2011, John Paul II was declared blessed and moved under the Altar of St. Sebastian. His body was placed in a cypress coffin as part of three traditional coffins that lay together. The outermost zinc casket was encrypted with three bronze plaques and a cross and placed in a larger casket which was shut using nails made of pure gold.
Chapel of the Madonna of Bocciata
The Chapel of Madonna of Bocciata is the oldest in the area around St. Peter’s sepulcher, commissioned by Gregory XIII in 1580. Inside the chapel is an elegant fresco painted by Pietro Cavallini, a renowned 14th-century artist. He called it the “Madonna della Bocciata” because Mary’s face is swollen in the painting. It is believed that a drunken soldier once threw a bowl at the image after losing a game, which made her face bleed.
Icon of the Madonna Dolorosa & Reliefs of the Doctors of the Church
A massive depiction of the Holy Madonna is present in one corner of the Vatican Grottoes towards the south end. Here you can see Madonna painted in red and black clothes, slightly raising her arms, with an orange halo above her head. This image is surrounded by reliefs of the Doctors of the Church, preserved for many centuries.
Archaeological Rooms of Vatican Grottoes
Although the Old St. Peter’s Basilica was gravely destroyed, some parts of it remain buried below the new cathedral. Paul V extended the Vatican Grottoes in the 16th century with parts of the old basilica placed on its walls. There are six Archeological Rooms in total containing tombs, frescoes, and other structures from the old cathedral.
Funerary Monument of Calixtus III
A funerary monument of Pope Calixtus III lies at the south end of the grottoes, before the exit. Calixtus was the head of the Church and Papal States in the 14th century until his death. Although his remains were kept at Santa Maria in Monserrato, a funerary monument was built in his honor at St. Peter’s Basilica.
Marble Statue of St. Peter Enthroned
The marble statue of St. Peter is a famous image throughout the world. Located right before the exit of the grottoes, the statue shows the apostle sitting with his arms crossed and his feet adorned with sandals. Almost everyone who visits the Vatican Grottoes is known to perform the gesture of kissing feet of the Apostle.
Clementinian Peribolos
In between the Chapel with the Tomb of Pius XII and the Chapel of St. Veronica is the beautiful Clementinian Peribolos. The roof of the area is adorned with bright and colorful holy images that stretch along the corridor.
Georgian Peribolos
The Georgian Peribolos, unlike the Clementinian one, is worn down with many parts of its walls having fallen off. However, the structure still holds strong even centuries later.
1. Chapel with Tomb of Pius XII
2. Chapel of St Veronica
3. Clementinian Peribolos
4. Chapel of St Helen
5. Clementine Chapel (Chapel of St Peter)
6. Gregorian Peribolos
7. Chapel of the Madonna of Bocciata
8. Opening onto the Archeological Remains of the Confessio (ex Chapel of Salvatorello)
9. Irish Chapel of St Columbanus
10. Chapel of the Madonna of Partorienti
11. Southern Corridor of the Confessio
12. The Confessio - Pallium Niche
13. Northern Corridor of the Confessio
14. Polish Chapel of Our Lady of Czestochowa
15. Lithuanian Chapel of Mater Misericordiae
16. Peribolos - Last Section
17. Mexican Chapel of Our Lady of Guadeloupe
18. Tomb of Pius VI
19. Chapel of the Madonna between Peter and Paul
20. Peribolos - First Section
21. Chapel of the Patron Saints of Europe
22. Chapel of St. Andrew (Grottoes Entrance)
23. Opening in front of the Confessio
24. Chapel of St Longinus
25. Tomb of Pius XI
26. Central Altar
27. Tomb of John Paul II (previous)
28. Tomb of Cardinal Merry del Val
29. Tomb of Queen Charlotte of Cyprus
30. Queen Christina of Sweden
31. Tomb of the Stuarts
32. Tomb of Cardinal Francesco Tedeschini
33. Tomb of Benedict XV
34. Tomb of Innocent IX
35. Archeological Room VI
36. Archeological Room V
37. Archeological Room IV
38. Tomb of Innocent XIII
39. Tomb of John Paul I
40. Tomb of Marcellus II
41. Tomb of Urban VI
42. Tomb of Paul VI
43. Chapel of Our Lady, Queen of the Hungarians
44. Entrance to Scavi from Piazza Braschi
45. Archeological Room I
46. Archeological Room II
47. Archeological Room III
48. Early Christian Sarcophagus
49. Mosaic of John VII
50. Gallery of Clement VIII
51. Sarcophagus of Pius III
52. Sarcophagus of Paul II
53. Polyandrium under the floor
54. Tomb of Hadrian IV
55. Tomb of Innocent VII
56. Tomb of Nicholas V
57. Tomb of Monsignor Ludvig Kaas
58. Tomb of Gregory V
59. Tomb of Emperor Otto II
60. Tomb of Julius III
61. Statue of Pius VI
62. Tomb of Nicholas III
63. Tomb of Boniface VIII
64. Icon of the Madonna Dolorosa and Reliefs of the Doctors of the Church
65. Dividing wall of Paul III and the Remains of two Columns from the Old Basilica
66. Funerary Monument of Calixtus III
67. Marble Statue of St Peter Enthroned
68. Exit from the Grottoes to the Patio
Frequently asked questions about Vatican Grottoes
What are the Vatican Grottoes?
Under St. Peter’s Basilica is a massive papal burial ground (separate from the Vatican Necropolis) referred to as the Vatican Grottoes.
Are the Vatican Grottoes free to visit?
Yes. The papal tombs are free to visit during the opening hours of St. Peter’s Basilica.
How to visit the Vatican Grottoes?
You can plan your visit to the Vatican Grottoes as part of your visit to St. Peter’s Basilica. It is located below the cathedral, so make sure you head there towards the end of your tour.
Do I need separate entry tickets to Vatican Grottoes?
No. You do not need separate tickets to enter the Vatican Grottoes. Once you enter St. Peter’s Basilica, you can make your way below towards the papal tombs.
Is photography allowed in the Grottoes of the Vatican?
No. Photography is strictly prohibited at the Vatican Grottoes.
