dome tour rome

St. Peter’s Basilica from Top to Bottom with Dome Climb & Crypt

• Discover St. Peter's Basilica in its full glory with our comprehensive tour, covering the dome, crypts, and everything in between.
• Climb (or walk!) to the top of the dome and see one of the best views of Rome.
• Experience the beauty of the basilica without the crowds thanks to a strategically planned early start time.
• Get insight from your guide that will help you appreciate each magnificent detail of the basilica and the masterpieces held within its walls.

Preview the experience

Tour description, get to grips with christianity's most important church on this complete st. peter's basilica tour..

Explore St. Peter's Basilica from top to bottom with an expert guide and small group of 20 people or fewer. This is the most intimate and extensive St. Peter’s Basilica tour on the market, designed for lovers of great architecture and jaw-dropping churches. We’ll help you to understand the history of the building and point out the details that make the Basilica such a masterpiece. You'll go from the dome to the crypts, from the Pietà to the Baldachin—and everywhere in between.

Climb St. Peter's Basilica Dome for incredible views over all of Rome.

Your St. Peter's Basilica tour starts early in the morning with a stroll around St. Peter’s Square and an introduction to the Swiss Guard. Then it's up to the dome. You’ll arrive before the crowds gather and use your pre-reserved St. Peter’s Basilica dome tickets, which include an elevator ride to the first level. Here you’ll get an up-close look at the stunning mosaics and stucco embellishments inside the dome. These mosaics are beautiful even when seen from below at ground level, but up close, you’ll understand just how impressive they really are.

From there, it’s 281 steps up to the top of the dome. Before you head up at your own pace, your guide will give you some tips on what to look out for so you can better appreciate the view. From the top of the dome, you’ll see the most incredible panorama over St. Peter’s Square, along the straight avenue bulldozed by Mussolini and across the Tiber to the ancient heart of the city. There’s no competition—this is the #1 view in Rome.

Enjoy a 60-minute tour inside St. Peter's Basilica and venture down to the papal crypts.

Back on solid ground, your guide will take you on a full St. Peter’s Basilica tour. Explore the side chapels and the hidden crypts, see Michelangelo’s "Pietà" and hear why this is the only work he ever signed, understand the mastery in Bernini’s Baldachin, and learn how Michelangelo triumphed as the only person who could crown St. Peter’s Basilica with the perfect dome.

Your final stop is the Papal Crypt. This is where many of the Popes have been interred and is an important pilgrimage point for Catholics. Although your guide can’t lead the group here due to site rules, they’ll give you full details on the most important Popes to look out for.

For anyone who loves art, architecture, and amazing churches, this St. Peter's Basilica tour is a unique experience that will give you a different perspective on one of the most sacred sites in the world.

Please note that this description is an example and your experience may vary depending on the season, day of the week, and group size. Regardless of where your tour goes, you always have an excellent experience.

Sites visited

Verified guest reviews, sep 11, 2024.

Tour guide Cil was excellent in her informative history but made it fun and interesting. Highly recommended

The tour guide ( Siri)was excellent, knowledge & personality. Tour was a good length, a little bit of fitness for the steps but it wasn’t difficult, Walking into the dome is a big WOW factor, takes your breath away Highly recommend this

Sep 10, 2024

Jaber was fantastic!

Aug 27, 2024

This tour was excellent. Our guide very knowledgeable and made the tour memorable. The dome tour in particular was great. It was nice to be early and beat the big crowds. Highly recommended.

Jul 23, 2024

Sev was amazing! I felt like I was being taught from an Ivy League professor

Know before you book

Similar tours, pristine sistine at closing time: late entry vatican tour, pristine sistine™ early entrance small group vatican tour, the complete vatican tour with vatican museums, sistine chapel & st. peter’s basilica.

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VATICAN TOUR & ST. PETER'S DOME CLIMB

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• Hour Glass Duration: 5 Hours
• Tag Tour category: Vatican Tours

Begin your day at the Vatican with an ascent to the top of St. Peter’s Dome where you’ll take in the most unforgettable view of Rome before entering the Basilica itself to marvel at masterpieces by Michelangelo and Bernini. After a short break we’ll regroup in time for our top rated tour of the Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel to complete this unforgettable Vatican City experience.

Highlights:

• Tour the Vatican literally from “Top to bottom” with this exclusive guided tour
• Get up close and inside Michaelangelo’s majestic dome and experience a view of Rome like no other
• Visit the “Vatacombs,” the eerie resting place of former Popes beneath St. Peter’s Basilica
• Let the countless masterpieces of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel leave you speechless

Meet your expert Vatican guide by St. Peter’s Square and leave Rome behind you as you cross over into Vatican City and St. Peter’s Basilica just as they open to the public. Once inside, get ready to take in the most spectacular views of Rome as the elevator carries you up to the Terrace Level of the Basilica (or walk if you prefer and earn yourself a gelato later)! Suddenly the “tiny” mosaics you saw detailing the circumference of the dome from the ground level will appear massive in their golden splendor right before your eyes. 

At the Terrace level decide whether to relax and take in the view or climb the remaining 320 steps up to the summit, where the breathtaking view of Rome and beyond is simply unparalleled. 

As what goes up must come down, join us on a descent into the lower level of the Basilica to experience the “Vatacombs,” where former Popes lie in ornate caskets and effigies crafted by the most celebrated artists of the centuries. Next on this adventure will be an in-depth visit of St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest Catholic Church in the world including world renowned masterpieces by Renaissance masters such as Michelangelo, Raphael and Bernini.

Enjoy a short break and a snack before we reconvene for skip-the-line entry to the Vatican Museums, arguably the most important collection of art in the world. Your guide will accompany you through the museum and navigate its more than 1,200 galleries while emphasizing the Rooms of Raphael, the Ancient Roman and Greek pieces in the Belvedere Courtyard, and the Gallery of Maps while ensuring that you stay on track with an eye on the ultimate prize: the Sistine Chapel. 

Much of this tour will be dedicated to the Chapel, from its commissioning to the finishing touches applied by none other than Michaelangelo Buonarroti, as your guide helps you to discern between myth, fact, and popular Hollywood fiction regarding this majestic work of art. 

5 hours (tour is broken into 2 segments, each 2 hours long with a 1 hour break in between).

What’s Included:  

• Expert local guide
• Tickets to St. Peter’s Dome
• Guided visit to St. Peter’s Basilica 
• Access to the Vatacombs, Papal crypts beneath St. Peter’s 
• Skip the line tickets to the Vatican Museums
• Guided tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel   
• Small groups of max 20 participants

Not Included:  

• Hotel pickup and dropoff 
• Visit to the Necropolis / Scavi 

Important to Know:

• The final ascent by foot to the Dome summit requires climbing 320 somewhat steep steps in a confined area. People suffering from claustrophobia or any other health conditions that could pose a problem should strongly consider remaining at the terrace level.
• Tour departs rain or shine
• Unfortunately, wheelchairs and strollers cannot be accommodated on this tour.

Important to Bring: 

• Comfortable shoes for walking and stair climbing

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More currencies, st. peter’s basilica dome guided tour.

Climb to the very top of Michelangelo’s St. Peter’s Basilica dome, and bask in unparalleled views of the rolling green Castelli Romani hills, the Tyrrhenian Sea, and the opulent Vatican!

An expert guide takes you on a journey through the world's largest church and beacon of the Vatican.

Get breathtaking views of the hills all around from your unique vantage point at the crest of the St. Peter’s Basilica's Dome, the highest point in Rome.

Discover the Papal Tombs and artistic wonders housed in the Basilica, like Michelangelo's Pieta sculpture.

Fuel up for the adventure ahead! Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast with an upgraded English or French guided tour.

Fun fact: Bernini designed the square so St. Peter's Basilica stays the focal point. Look closely, every line leads to the basilica!

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)

Entry to Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

Entry to the Necropolis / St. Peter’s Tomb / Scavi

Cancellation policy

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Your experience

Ascend to the top of st. peter’s basilica.

Avoid the crowds and get an intimate glimpse of the treasures of the Vatican on this early-morning guided tour. The tour begins with an exciting climb that involves both a staircase and an elevator to the highest point of Rome’s iconic St. Peter’s Basilica. The view from here is simply breathtaking. The city of Rome, a striking and glorious confluence of the ancient and the modern, stretches past the wetlands and forests of the Riserva Naturale, and all the way to the Tyrrhenian Sea in the southwest. You will see the Vatican and some of Rome’s most famous landmarks bordered by the Castelli Romani hills. Your guide will point out all the attractions and tell you more about these fascinating places in Rome.

Explore St. Peter’s Basilica and the Holy Papal Tombs

Walk back down to terra firma and enter the Basilica after a short break near the entrance. An artistic and architectural marvel designed by geniuses of the Renaissance like Donato Bramante, Lorenzo Bernini, and Michelangelo, St. Peter’s Basilica has become one of the world’s most ostentatious symbols of Christianity. Your guide will tell you all about the beliefs that surround the real location of the tombs of St. Peter and the first Bishop of Rome. Explore Piazza Risorgimento and Piazza San Pietro areas. Admire some of the artistic masterpieces of Bernini and Michelangelo before heading to see the Papal Sarcophagi of the Basilica.

Know before you go

What to bring.

• Comfortable shoes are recommended.

What's not allowed

Strict dress code: knees and shoulders must be covered for all guests.

Mobile phones must remain in silent mode inside the Basilica.

Accessibility

This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and pram/strollers.

The climb to the Dome's top involves a substantial number of steps and requires a decent level of physical fitness. It is not recommended for people with heart/back conditions, mobility issues, or late-stage pregnancy.

Additional information

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.

Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.

Please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the scheduled time of your tour to avoid any delays.

Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the meeting point.

Meeting point

• Please check your final voucher for the meeting point details and specific instructions.

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St Peter's Basilica: Dome

--> st peter's basilica: dome, get climbing saint peter’s dome.

If you want to explore every last bit of Saint Peter’s Basilica, you won’t want to miss out on the dome. Steps will take you all the way to the top, where a spectacular view across the rooftops of Rome awaits! Keep reading for everything you need to know ahead of your visit and our top tips for skipping the queues…

Guided tour of the cathedral + crypt + dome ticket from EUR 42 (duration: 3 hours).

Only tickets for October left! Accompanied admission with audio guide (EN/ES/IT/FR/DE) for EUR 29!

The positives:

The view of Rome is simply stunning – even on a cloudy day. You’ll also be able to look down on the people inside Saint Peter’s Basilica from the dome.

The negatives:

It’s super busy! You’ll have to wait to get inside the basilica and then join a separate queue later for a ticket for the dome. And you’ll probably have to fight for one of the spots with a view of Saint Peter’s Square once you get to the top!

Don’t attempt to visit the dome if you can’t physically climb steps or if you’re claustrophobic. A lift takes you some of the way, but then you still have to tackle 320 steps (and space is a bit tight in places).

Last Modification: 10.01.2024 | Céline

St Peter's Basilica Dome Tickets

Buy on site ticket.

Free admission to the Basilica + ticket for the dome (long waiting times)

St Peter Dome + Audio guide

Access to the Dome + Audioguide (EN/ES/FR/DE/IT)

St Peter Dome + Crypt Tour

Guided Tour in EN/FRZ/IT/ES, great views. Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes

Be aware: there are no Skip the line tickets available. If you have booked a guided tour, you will also have to wait in line (up to 1/1.5 hours in peak season)

The details at a glance

Opening hours.

1 October – 31 March: 8.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m. April 1 – September 30: 8:00 a.m. – 6.00 p.m.

Elevator and 320 steps: EUR 10 Walk all 551 steps: EUR 8

Prices for the dome: Elevator and 320 steps: EUR 10 Walk all 551 steps: EUR 8

There is no online ticket for this, which is why you see extremely long queues here. Have cash ready – they don’t except credit cards!

Information

Access to St. Peter’s Basilica is not possible on most Wednesdays between 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.

Access to St. Peter’s Basilica is not possible on most Wednesdays between 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. The Pope then holds his weekly public audience .

In addition, the Pope can hold spontaneous masses: then online tickets are only partially valid. (But that doesn’t happen very often) And the dome cannot be visited either.

Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano

St Peter's Basilica Dome Photo Gallery

Is the dome worth climbing.

I thought I’d create a separate page for the dome at Saint Peter’s Basilica because I’m sure some of you will be asking the same questions I was asking before I went. Let me answer them for you…

1. Is it really worth climbing the dome? Is the view actually that good?

Absolutely! The view is simply stunning – even when the weather is not on your side and the sky is clouded over. I’m addicted to taking photos and I was in my element. I hate to think what I’d have been like if the weather was better or if I’d been lucky enough to time my visit with a beautiful sunset! No doubt I’d have been taking photos for hours! The view across the rooftops of Rome is incredible and admiring the dome from the inside is an experience not to be missed either.

2. What is included?

The situation always keeps changing. We’ll do our best to keep everything up to date here as things change. The audio guide + dome ticket has been available since 2023: normal queuing at the security check, admission to the dome, lift ride to the 1st level, audio guide for the dome, free stay in the cathedral after visiting the dome. Accompanied admission with audio guide for EUR 29 ! We will tell you more about this below.

3. Is it really worth booking online?

Back in April 2016, I was impressed by the fast-track price of EUR 19.50, and I wouldn’t hesitate to buy that ticket again next time. In 2017 I used the VIP dome ticket + audioguide for EUR 32. Now it is “only” EUR 29 , but without skip the line at the security check! But, to be fair, it ended up being worth every cent. I saved an hour of waiting around in front of the basilica (not in 2024!) and can then skip around another half an hour of queueing for the dome. The staff are on hand to help you find your way around, and you get an audio guide. You do feel sorry for everyone waiting, but that’s all forgotten once you start to feel a bit like a VIP.

4. Will I make it to the top?

To be honest, I was pretty smug about the fact that I work out regularly. I managed to get to the top without really getting out of breath. And I’d say that (almost) anyone could manage it! It’s worth pointing out, though, that the steps get narrower as you get closer to the top, and you may feel a bit dizzy as you climb the last stretch of spiral steps. But it’s nothing you can’t handle! But remember: If you have any mobility issues, are claustrophobic or know that you tend to struggle with steps, make sure you think carefully about whether you will be able to make it to the top. Pregnant women are advised not to climb the dome. Remember that there are 320 steps after the lift! And once you’ve gone up, you’ll have to make your way back down!

Why not have a practice on your stairs at home?

Ticket options

My experience, on offer again access to the dome with audioguide.

Back when I wrote my field report, there was the offer with an audio guide. Then it was gone for a long time.

But since April 2023 it is back again. Although in a slightly different form, but for those who do not want a guided tour, a top alternative.

Price: EUR 29 Start time: 8 am (nothing for late risers). Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday You have to be there at least 15 minutes before the time!

Duration: 2 hours

What’s included: Audio-guided combined tour (Basilica and Dome) Ticket for the dome Assistance at the meeting point (like Vox Italy back then)

No skip the line , but as I understand the text, you meet the care outside the dome. Maybe you can skip the line after all. Anyone who tries it, please let me know 🙂 . Pack your own headphones.

The tour is not suitable for the following people: who suffer from claustrophobia for wheelchair users (over 300 steps to walk!) Families with kids have to think as well if the little one will make it.

The tour is also subject to weather and liturgical events.

Book audio guide tour!

other Ticket options

I’ve found two alternatives for you in case that the dome audio guide and a staff chaperone up to the lift is not available right now:

1. Buy both your tickets upon arrival and plan to wait for up to two hours.

This is the option that plenty of people end up going for on the day. Entry to Saint Peter’s Basilica is free this way, but you’ll end up having a long wait outside in the queue for security. And then you’ll have to face another queue inside to buy your tickets for the dome. Despite all the waiting, this option is by far the most cost-effective.

Prices: Entry to Saint Peter’s Basilica: Free Access to the dome: Steps only: EUR 8 Lift and steps: EUR 10

2. Guided tour in English and dome climb

If you go for this all-inclusive package, you don’t have to worry about anything other than turning up in the right place at the right time. The tour of inside Saint Peter’s Basilica and of the papal tombs lasts 3 hours and is delivered in English. You’ll get reserved tickets for the dome too. It’ll cost you more than the VIP dome ticket I mentioned before, but you do at least get a guided tour included.

Prices: guided tour and access to the dome: EUR 42 Length of tour: 3 hours Language: English

Getting started: How do you skip the queues? (my experince from 2017)

**Be aware: I tested this special offer in 2017 . This offer doesn’t exist any more. There are now other providers and there might be other access or procedures now – especially after Covid-19! Always take a look at the information the provider sends you with the ticket! The actual Audio guide tour offered is slightly different. **

Having printed out my ticket at home, I followed the instructions provided by Tiqets and arrived at Saint Peter’s Basilica a bit before my allotted time.

When you approach the basilica, you need to keep right and walk along the outside of the colonnade. At least this is what we were told to do in 2017. You’ll soon come to the Poste Vaticano post office. Around there, you need to head left and through the colonnade. Look out for Vox staff (wearing blue), but anyone else will be happy to point you in the right direction. You’ll be directed to a small stand (a folding table), where someone will tick your name off their list. It’ll then just be a case of waiting for anyone else who has booked to climb the dome at the same time as you. This would be a good time to go to the toilet!

You’ll get moving as soon as everyone has arrived. The next step will be to get through security and you’ll be able to skip the queue. Vox staff will be waiting to take you to the audio guide stand on the other side. Make sure you don’t get lost in the crowd!

At the audio guide stand, hand over your ticket for another thorough check. You’ll then be given an audio guide, headphones and a numbered map. Give the audio guide a quick go to check that it works.

Someone else from Vox will be waiting to take you to the dome lift. Once again, keep an eye on them to make sure you don’t get separated from the group!

Another queue at the lift? I don’t think so!

I was honestly shocked when I spotted the queue for the dome. I had no idea it would be so bad!

The staff took us past everyone who was waiting at super speed. We moved so fast that I could just take this blurred picture…

And all of a sudden we were standing in front of the lift. There was a tiny queue here just because not very many people can fit in the lift at once. The Vox representative gave one person in our group a ticket that we would need to show when it was our turn to go in the lift so that all 12 of us would be let in.

It took less than 15 minutes to get from the security check to the queue for the lift. It really was a slick operation with absolutely no time for dawdling. All of the staff members were friendly and happy to answer my questions.

I was just relieved that I’d managed to go to the toilet beforehand…

A wow moment inside the dome

After a short wait, it was time to step inside the lift. The ride didn’t take very long at all, but it saved us 231 steps. Once you leave the lift, you have to walk over a section of the roof towards the dome. Climb up a few steps from there and you’re inside the dome. Wow is all I can say!

You’re standing 70 or 80 metres above everyone inside Saint Peter’s Basilica and they all look like little ants scuttling around. Standing directly underneath the dome and above Bernini’s baldachin is an incredible experience. In one of the photos below, you can see the text written on the base of the inside of the dome. The strip is 2 metres in height and the letters are around 1.5 metres tall. You can’t appreciate the sheer size of the text when you’re standing with your feet firmly on the ground. The diameter of the dome is 42.34 metres! That may make it a little smaller than the Pantheon’s dome but believe me when I say that this dome is much, much higher!

Best foot forward and up the steps!

Once I was absolutely sure that I’d taken everything in at this height, it was time to get going again. 320 steps were just waiting to be climbed! They take you round the dome – you can clearly see the angle in the photo on the right below.

The climb was tough, but there are plenty of convenient little stopping points where you can have a rest and let other people overtake you 😉 The stairs are monitored by cameras in case anything happens.

Note that the final stretch of the climb is not suitable for people who suffer from claustrophobia, as the spiral steps are just so narrow. Thankfully, you don’t have to worry about anyone coming the opposite way as there are separate stairs for people going up and down.

View across the rooftops of Rome

Finally, you’ll make it to the top and it will all have been worth it!

Your reward? A panoramic view of the city!

If the weather is on your side, you’ll be in for a real treat. But don’t panic even if it’s a cloudy day, as nothing could spoil this view.

Just be warned that you’re not exactly going to be alone up there! Chances are that it’ll be packed full of people especially on the side of Saint Peter’s Square. You might just have to be patient and work your way to the front to take photos.

Don’t get distracted so much that you forget to listen to the audio guide. That almost happened to me ;). Switch it on for information about all the sights you can see from the top of the dome like Saint Peter’s Square , the Sistine Chapel and Castel Sant’Angelo .

We had booked the last slot of the day on Tiqets and so we knew we had to hand in our audio guides after just 90 minutes. That’s what prompted us to start making our way back down. Believe me when I say that going down was much faster than going up!

Once we reached the roof again, we stopped for another little break and made the most of the chance to take a look at the giant statues looking down on Saint Peter’s Square from behind. We decided against taking the lift back down and instead stuck with the steps. I don’t know if that would have been the quicker option as there wasn’t a lot going on around the lift.

We handed in our audio guides in return for my ID and sauntered into the basilica. A mass service was underway but (luckily) it wasn’t being led by the Pope, as we wouldn’t have been allowed in!*

A leisurely look around Saint Peter’s Basilica

After all that excitement up high, it was time to explore the basilica at ground level. I’d been before, but it was my husband’s first time inside Saint Peter’s Basilica and I could see that he was impressed! The size of the place is enough to take your breath away… And you’re free to take your time and wander around for as long as you like.

I tend to be very (very) excitable and so I wanted to share my husband’s thoughts with you here since he’s usually a little more reserved when it comes to sights and attractions.

“Saint Peter’s Basilica was seriously impressive, especially the view looking down from the dome. At least now we know that some good came out of selling indulgences. The ticket may not have been cheap, but I’m really glad we could skip both the queues as they were really long.”

Yes, the price is on the high side. But I personally think it’s worth the money. It’s up to you to decide if you’d rather save money and wait (for ages) or spend a bit extra to skip the queues for Saint Peter’s Basilica and the dome with the audio guide as a bonus!

Don’t forget this interesting alternative: If you’re not happy about paying so much to climb the dome, you could always just book a tour of the basilica . That would cut down your waiting time by one hour and you’d just need to queue up for the dome as normal once you’re inside. That’s a pretty good compromise if you ask me! Your other option would be to go for the all-inclusive package complete with guided tour.

*Notes on mass: The Pope sometimes holds impromptu masses in Saint Peter’s Basilica. It may not happen very often, but it’s bad news for ticket sellers and tourists when it does. You may not be granted entry to the basilica or allowed to climb the dome even though you’ve already bought a ticket. This is to keep the numbers down and keep the Pope safe. Unfortunately, there’s nothing the ticket companies can do and you won’t be able to get a refund. If you’ve managed to get in already and just have to miss out on the dome climb, you can at least say you’ve seen the Pope hold mass. Bit of a bonus, right?

Text and image rights: © Céline Mülich, 2016 – 2024

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Written by: Kate Zusmann

Climbing to the top of the cupola (dome) of St. Peter’s Basilica is a must-do attraction during your Roman holiday. The dome is the highest viewpoint in Rome, situated within the Vatican. From its observation deck, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city. To make the most of your visit, it’s best to arrive in the morning to enjoy the views without crowds and avoid long lines.

Things to Know Before Visit

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The dome opens at 7:30 am, and you must pass a security check before starting your ascent. After the security check, look right for a sign directing you to the ticket kiosk for the dome. Payment is cash only.

On the way to the ticket desk, you will pass the entrance to the Basilica on the right side of the colonnade, followed by the Holy Door. Turn left to find the place to purchase tickets. After a 30-second elevator ride, you can stop for coffee or use the restroom at the dome.

The climb to the top involves progressively narrower and sloping stairs, which can be challenging for those with claustrophobia.

It can also be crowded and hot during summer. Fortunately, small windows offer fresh air and rest spots along the way.

Despite the difficulty, the climb is worth it for the spectacular views of Rome and the Vatican.

You can even send a postcard from the highest point of the Vatican. Postcards start at 50 cents, with stamps costing 2.30 euros for the US and 1 euro for Europe.

The souvenir shop sells themed postcards featuring the Vatican Museums , the Sistine Chapel , Popes, and the Swiss Guard .

Inside the Dome

The Great Dome is above the altar, and the Baldacchino is adorned with mosaic and stucco ornaments. Four structural piers, each with a perimeter of 71 meters and a height of 120 meters from the ground to the roof, support it. The dome features large inscriptions: “Hinc una fides mundo refulgent” (From here, a single faith shines throughout the world) and “Hinc sacerdotii unitas exoritur” (From here, the unity of the priesthood).

The dome is divided into sixteen ribs and segments, decorated with impressive figures, including:

• Busts of the 16 popes buried in the Basilica.
• Figures of Christ, the Virgin Mary, St. Joseph, St. John the Baptist, and various Apostles.
• Faces of angels.
• Custodians of St. Peter’s tomb.
• Faces of cherubim and seraphim.
• Angels bearing the instruments of Jesus’ Passion.

There are 96 figures in total, set against a blue sky with stars.

Above them, the lantern bears a Latin inscription: “To the glory of St. Peter, Pope Sixtus V in the year 1590, the fifth of his pontificate.” Many artists contributed to the dome’s decorations after Michelangelo’s death, with Pope Clement VIII commissioning Giuseppe Cesari (Cavalier d’Arpino) to finish the upper part.

For a unique experience, consider a private tour to the Vatican at sunrise , which includes a climb up to the dome.

Interesting Facts

• The dome of St. Peter’s Basilica reaches a maximum height of 133.3 meters from ground level , making it one of the tallest domes in the world. In Rome, a rule dictates that no building can be constructed higher than this dome, a decree issued by Pope Paul V .
• The interior height of the dome is 117.57 meters , allowing for a grand and expansive internal space that is both awe-inspiring and architecturally significant.
• The inner diameter of the dome measures 41.5 meters , creating a vast circular area beneath the dome that is emblematic of Renaissance architectural innovation.
• The total weight of the dome is approximately 14,000 tons . Ingenious architectural techniques, including the use of double-shell construction, support this immense weight.
• Remarkably, the construction of the dome was completed in just two years , from 1587 to 1589. This rapid completion was due to the efficient planning and skilled labor force of the time.
• Michelangelo’s design for the dome was inspired by the renowned domes of the Florence Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore) and the Pantheon in Rome. These influences are evident in the dome’s harmonious proportions and classical beauty.
• The dome features two significant inscriptions: “Hinc una fides mundo refulgent” (From here a single faith shines throughout the world) and “Hinc sacerdotii unitas exoritur” (From here the unity of the priesthood arises). These inscriptions highlight the symbolic importance of the Basilica as a center of faith and unity.

History of Design and Creation

Michelangelo Buonarroti designed the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica, inspired by the domes of the Florence Duomo and the Pantheon, designed by Brunelleschi. Michelangelo envisioned a dome that combined classical beauty with innovative engineering. When he died in 1564, the new Basilica lacked the corner chapels, façade, and dome, with only the columns and drum completed.

In 1587, Giacomo della Porta, assisted by Domenico Fontana, took over the project. They faced the challenge of realizing Michelangelo’s vision while dealing with the structural constraints of the existing drum. Their modifications included a steeper curvature and an elongated lantern to enhance verticality. After two years, the dome was completed, standing as a testament to Renaissance ingenuity. According to legend, Michelangelo designed his dome 1.5 meters (5 feet) shorter than the Pantheon, stating, “I could build one bigger, but not more beautiful, than that of the Pantheon.”

The dome reaches a height of 133.3 meters from ground level, with an interior height of 117.57 meters and an inner diameter of 41.5 meters. The total weight is 14,000 tons. The double-shell design, with an inner and outer layer, provides both stability and aesthetic appeal. The inner shell is made of lightweight tufa, while the outer shell is composed of heavier travertine. This combination ensures the dome’s durability and reduces stress on the supporting structures.

Originally, the dome was intended to symbolize the heavens, encapsulating divine perfection through its harmonious proportions. Michelangelo’s plan called for a hemispherical dome similar to the Pantheon, but the final design was slightly more pointed to reduce lateral thrust on the supporting drum. The double-ribbed construction technique used in the dome’s design is a marvel of engineering, distributing the immense weight and allowing for the inclusion of large windows at the base of the dome, flooding the interior with natural light. These technical and aesthetic considerations make the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica an enduring icon of Renaissance architecture.

TOP 13 Domes in The World by Maximum Inner Height

The following table lists notable domed structures around the world, sorted by their maximum inner height in meters. St. Peter’s Basilica holds the first place in terms of internal height, showcasing the architectural marvels of different eras and regions.

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Private Vatican, Sistine Chapel and Saint Peter's Dome Climb Complete Tour

Climb st. peter's dome then tour the vatican museums and sistine chapel.

Looking for a Vatican tour that’s a cut above the rest? Then this extended private tour with a St. Peter’s Dome climb is the perfect choice! You’ll be envy of the long line of waiting tourists as you skip the line to scale the iconic basilica dome for an unbeatable view of Rome, before your expert private guide shows you the famous art and hidden gems of the Vatican. See the best of the Vatican Museums, admire the beauty of the Sistine Chapel, see the intricate Papal Crypts, and more!

• An in-depth private Vatican experience
• Meet near St. Peter's Square for skip-the-line entry
• Explore St. Peter's Basilica
• Climb the Dome for incredible views
• Michelangelo's La Pietá
• Bernini's Baldacchino
• Skip-the-line Vatican Museums tour
• Galleries of the Maps, Tapestries, and Candelabras
• Raphael Rooms
• Sistine Chapel

You'll meet your expert Vatican guide near St. Peter's Square early in the morning. The lines to enter St. Peter's Basilica and climb its famous dome can be hours long in busy months, but this private guided tour lets you skip the line to be one of the first of the day to enjoy the Basilica and climb the dome! Afterwards, you'll skip the line again to take a detailed tour of the famous galleries of the Vatican Museums, before gazing in awe at the frescoes inside the Sistine Chapel.

There aren't many tours that give such an in-depth experience of the Vatican, and as a private tour, the pace and the things you'll see can be tailored just for you!

Private St. Peter's Dome and Vatican Tour Description

Your 5-hour Vatican tour includes:

Skip-the-line early entry to St. Peter's Basilica

Access to the elevator and stairs to the top of St. Peter's dome

Guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica and papal crypts

Skip-the-line entry to the Vatican Museums

Tailored guided tour of Vatican Museums

See inside Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel

An engaging English-speaking private guide

Climb St. Peter’s Dome

Get ready for the best view in all of Rome! Once inside St. Peter's Basilica, you'll follow your private guide up the elevator to lower level of the dome and skip past the first 231 steps. This first level is filled with incredibly elaborate mosaics that cover the inside of the dome, and you'll also get a chance to step outside onto the terrace and enjoy an iconic view of the Vatican City and St. Peter's Square.

From the upper terrace, you’ll have the option to climb even higher, with 320 ancient stone steps leading you to very top of the dome. The stairway gets narrow and a little claustrophobic in parts, but the reward at the top will make it all worthwhile! This is a truly epic view of the Vatican and the historic center of Rome, and it's our favorite way to introduce travelers to the Eternal City.

Guided Tour of St. Peter’s Basilica with Papal Crypts

You'll return to ground level for a private tour of the largest church in the world. Your expert guide will point out the most iconic artworks of the Basilica, including Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s Baldacchino . Among the most famous things you'll see in the Basilica are the spectacular throne and high altar of St. Peter—built directly above his final resting place.

From the top of St. Peter's Basilica, you'll descend to the bottom! Buried in beautiful caskets and effigies below the Basilica are the remains of many of the Catholic church's former popes. Your guide will tell you all about the men buried here and the part they played in Catholic history, and you'll be able to admire the intricate details of the tombs, many of which were designed by Michelangelo and Bernini.

There are times that the basilica closes the crypts to public access. If this happens, your guide will ensure you see other amazing places at the Basilica.

Vatican Museums Tour

After your St. Peter's experience, you'll skip the line and begin your in-depth exploration of the rest of the Vatican City. You'll follow your guide through the Candelabra Gallery, Gallery of the Tapestries, and Gallery of Maps, admiring the ancient Roman and Greek statues, the Flemish tapestries created by Raphael's students, and the gorgeous topographical depictions of Italy. You'll hear the stories behind these treasures from your expert guide as the Vatican secrets are slowly unveiled to you.

Want to see more of a particular artist's work or spend a little longer in a certain gallery? Just let your guide know! As a fully private tour, everything can be tailored to your wants and needs.

Pio-Clementino Museum

This museum houses some of the world's most famous statues, including Laocoön and His Sons and the Belvedere Torso. Your guide will tell you all about the history and legends surrounding the art, as well as Emperor Nero’s bathtub—an opulent 25-foot tub made of rare red marble. And you'll see the incredible sarcophagus of St. Helen, the mother of Constantine.

The Raphael Rooms

After the Middle Ages, Europe saw a new age of amazing art, literature, and thought. Raphael is one of the most famous Renaissance artists and some of his most well-known works of art reside in the Vatican Museums. Your guide will show you the rooms he frescoed and one of his most famous works of art, The School of Athens .

Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel

The Sistine Chapel is the most famous chapel in the world, and it’s easy to understand why. Michelangelo’s collective masterpieces include over 600 figures, and words cannot do it justice. Take in the wonder of the chapel and examine the vivid depictions of biblical stories from Genesis to Revelations. You'll also see see the famous Creation of Man and the Last Judgement .

As the Sistine Chapel is a place of worship, speaking inside is forbidden. Your guide will give you an overview before entering, and we'll also provide you a map/handout to identify each fresco you look at.

As a deeply religious site, everyone who enters the Sistine Chapel must cover their knees and shoulders. Otherwise, you may be refused entry to this portion of your tour. A great option is to bring a shawl/scarf/sweater with you. That way, you can cover your knees and shoulders when necessary.

Want to See More?

After the Sistine Chapel, you'll have the option to re-enter St. Peter’s Basilica by following your guide through the passageway that leads back to the basilica, or stay in the Vatican Museums to continue exploring on your own.

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66 total reviews

Very enjoyable

We came on a very busy day - our guide moved us efficiently through the crowds and provided interesting insights into the history of the Vatican.

Excellent Private Tour

It was an extremely crowded and hot day to visit St Peter’s and Vatican museum. Our guide was wonderful in navigating us through crowds, knowledgeable about the history and meaning of sites, and catered to our needs despite things out of her control. Our tour started at 7:15am on August 1st, due to the large crowd, took 1.5 hrs to get through security, no skip the lines at St Peters Basilica, and there was another line once inside for ticket line to climb the dome. Our guide made the wait time go by faster by educating us on the history of the Vatican. She helped navigate the crowd and was on point in directing us and finding routes to make the most of our time. So glad we booked the private tour!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What to bring?

In addition to wearing or bringing clothing that covers your knees and shoulders, it's recommended to wear comfortable shoes. You're also welcome to bring a water bottle as it can get hot inside the Vatican during the summer months.

In addition to wearing or bringing clothing that covers your knees and shoulders, it's recommended to wear comfortable shoes. You're also welcome to bring a water bottle as it can get hot inside the Vatican during the summer months.

Will the Vatican Museums be crowded during this tour?

While we do our best to arrange the order of the tour to avoid the largest crowds, there is a chance the museums may be crowded while we are inside since the tour begins with the dome climb and visit to St. Peter's.

Does the Vatican ever experience unexpected closures?

During state visits or special religious events, parts of the Vatican may be closed unexpectedly and without much notice. If an area normally visited during a tour is suddenly closed, our guide will still provide explanations of the closed areas from outside. They will even show you another gallery to compensate for the lost time in a usual location.

Is there a dress code to enter the religious sites on this tour?

We ask both men and women to cover knees and shoulders, otherwise you may be refused entry to religious sites and miss out on a portion of your tour. We understand the summers in Rome can be hot, so a great alternative is to bring a shawl/scarf/sweater with you. That way, you can cover your knees and shoulders when necessary.

I have some doubts about my mobility. Is this tour right for me?

If you have any doubts about your mobility, a private tour like this is your best bet. Private Vatican tours are more easily customized to the needs of people with reduced mobility. To get to the top of dome you'll have navigate a narrow stairway, but you're welcome to stay on the first floor which has wonderful views and can be reached by elevator.

Is there an elevator I can take instead of climbing?

On this guided tour, everyone will enjoy the use of the elevator to skip the first 231 steps and emerge at the landing inside the dome. From there, you can either admire the view from the terrace or climb the remaining 320 steps on foot.

Why doesn't this tour operate on Wednesdays?

That's because St. Peter's Basilica will be closed for the Papal Audience.

Free 24-hr cancellation on group tours! Learn more

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