St. Peter's Basilica

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St. Peter's Basilica

St Peter’s Basilica, located in the Vatican City, is considered one of the Catholic Church’s holiest temples and an important pilgrimage site .

St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the holiest temples for Christendom and one of the largest churches in the world. Besides, it's where the Pope presides many liturgies all year round.

The construction of the new basilica began in 1506 when the old basilica had been torn down and was finished in 1626. It was consecrated on 18 November 1626 . Several renowned architects designed the temple, highlighting the works of Bramante, Michelangelo, and Carlo Maderno.

The basilica was called St Peter’s after one of Jesus’s twelve disciples known as Saint Peter , who became one of the founders of the Catholic Church and was executed in Rome and buried where the Basilica now stands.

Inside the Basilica

St Peter’s Basilica can accommodate 20,000 people . It measures 190 m (624 ft) long and the central nave is 46 m (150 ft) tall. The dome stands 136 m (447ft) tall.

Inside, visitors will find extremely impressive pieces of art, including St. Peter’s Baldachin, a large bronze baldachin designed by Bernini, The Pietà, a sculpture by Michelangelo, and the statue of St Peter on his throne. St Peter has his right foot worn down due to the touches of the devoted.

One of the most impressive parts of the Basilica is its incredible dome. Its design was started by Michelangelo and continued by Giacomo Della Porta. Carlo Maderno finished the dome in 1614.

This dome has served as inspiration for many other cathedrals and buildings, for example, the Capitol in Washington and St Paul’s Cathedral in London .

Visiting St Peter’s Basilica

Visiting St Peter’s Basilica is an unforgettable experience when staying in Rome. Visitors mustn’t miss out on climbing to the top of the dome , where a stunning view of St Peter’s Square , and if the day is clear of most of the city, awaits them.

Climbing to the top might prove to be a little oppressive for some, as the last part of the ascent is a narrow and steep spiral staircase.

Taking a Tour

If you want to visit the Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel, with a local guide and skip lines that can sometimes last 4 hours - we recommend reserving a guided tour of the Vatican . You'll see all the essential sights , and save time which you can use to enjoy the city.

St Peter's Basilica

Piazza San Pietro . Vatican City.

October – March: 7 am - 6:30 pm April – September: 7 am – 7 pm The dome opens at 8 am and closes one hour before the Basilica.

The entrance to the Basilica is free . Climbing to the top of the Dome : Lift to the terrace plus 320 steps: € 8 ( US$ 8.80) Climbing 551 steps by foot: € 6 ( US$ 6.60)

St Peter's Basilica Guided Tour + Dome Climb € 41 ( US$ 44.80)

Metro station: Ottaviano , line A (red)

Nearby places

Sistine Chapel (95 m) Vatican City (201 m) St. Peter's Square (205 m) Vatican Museums (521 m) Castel Sant'Angelo (970 m)

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visit st peters basilica

How to Visit Saint Peter's Basilica in Vatican City

The Second-Largest Church in the World

visit st peters basilica

As one of the most important churches of the Catholic faith and the second-largest church in the world, Saint Peter's Basilica is one of the top sights to see in Vatican City  and in all of Rome . With its impressive dome, the focal point of Rome's cityscape, and its ornate interior, Saint Peter's is, without a doubt, pleasing to the eye. For many, it is the highlight of a visit to Rome, and with good reason.

Both the exterior and interior of the basilica were designed to overwhelm, and they succeed in doing so. The massive, oval-shaped Piazza San Pietro ( Saint Peter's Square ) serves as a monumental entrance to the vast basilica, with its soaring ceilings and intricately detailed marble, stone, mosaic and gilded ornamentation at every turn.

The church draws millions of visitors each year, including those who are drawn for religious reasons as well as those interested in its historical, artistic and architectural significance. It is also the resting place of many former popes including John Paul II and Saint Peter, Christendom's first pope and the founder of the Catholic Church. 

Pilgrims also flock to Saint Peter's during religious holidays, such as Christmas and Easter, as the pope performs special masses at the basilica during these times. He gives blessings at Christmas and Easter, as well as his first blessing when he is elected, from the balcony of the central window above the entrances to the atrium.

Saint Peter in Rome

Christian theology holds that Peter was a fisherman from Galilee who became one of the 12 Apostles of Christ and continued to promote the teachings of Jesus after his death by crucifixion. Peter, along with the Apostle Paul, journeyed to Rome and built up a congregation of followers of Christ. Fearing persecution for his teachings, Peter allegedly fled Rome, only to encounter a vision of Jesus as he was on his way out of the city.

This convinced him to turn back to Rome and face his inevitable martyrdom.  Both Peter and Paul were executed by order of Roman Emperor Nero, sometime after the Great Fire of Rome in 64 AD but before Nero's own death by suicide in 68 AD. Saint Peter was crucified upside down, allegedly at his own request.

Peter was martyred at the Circus of Nero, a site for tournaments and games on the western side of the Tiber River. He was buried nearby, in a cemetery used for Christian martyrs. His tomb soon became a site of veneration, with other Christian tombs built around it, as the faithful sought to be interred near Saint Peter. For Catholics, Peter's role as an Apostle, and his teachings and martyrdom in Rome earned him the title of the first Bishop of Rome or the first Catholic Pope.

Saint Peter's Basilica History

In the 4th century, Emperor Constantine, Rome's first Christian emperor, oversaw the construction of a basilica on the burial site of Saint Peter. Now referred to as Old Saint Peter's Basilica, this church stood for more than 1,000 years and was the burial place of almost every pope, from Peter himself through to the popes of the 1400s.

In a dire state of disrepair by the 15th century, the basilica underwent a series of modifications under several different popes. When Pope Julius II, who reigned from 1503 to 1513, took oversight of renovation, he aimed to create the greatest church in all of Christendom. He had the original 4th-century church destroyed and ordered the construction of an ambitious, magnificent new basilica in its place.

Bramante made the first plans for the main dome of Saint Peter's. Inspired by the dome of the Pantheon, his plan called for a Greek cross (with 4 arms of equal length) supporting a central dome. After Julius II died in 1513, artist Raphael was put in charge of the design. Using the form of the Latin cross, his plans extended the nave (the part where worshipers gather) and added small chapels on either side of it.

Raphael died in 1520, and various conflicts in Rome and the Italian peninsula stalled progress on the basilica. Finally, in 1547, Pope Paul III installed Michelangelo, already considered a master architect and artist, to complete the project. His design used Bramante's original Greek cross plan and includes the massive dome, which remains the largest in the world and one of the greatest achievements of Renaissance architecture. 

Michelangelo died in 1564, his project only partially complete. Subsequent architects honored his designs to complete the dome. The elongated nave, the facade and the portico (the vaulted entrance) were the contributions of Carlo Maderno, under the direction of Pope Paul V. Construction of "New Saint Peter's"—the basilica we see today—was completed in 1626, more than 120 years after its outset.

Is Saint Peter's the Most Important Church in Rome? 

While many think of Saint Peter's as the mother church of Catholicism, that distinction actually belongs to Saint John Lateran (Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano), the cathedral of the Bishop of Rome (the Pope) and therefore the most hallowed church for Roman Catholics. Yet because of its history, relics, proximity to the Papal residence in Vatican City and its sheer size, Saint Peter's is the church that attracts droves of tourists and faithful. In addition to Saint Peter's and Saint John Lateran, the other 2 Papal Churches in Rome are the  Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore  and  Saint Paul Outside the Walls .

Highlights of a Visit to Saint Peter's

To examine every tomb and monument, read every inscription (assuming you can read Latin), and admire every priceless reliquary in Saint Peter's would take days, if not weeks. If you have just a couple of hours to devote to a visit, look for these highlights:

  • The Nave.  Upon entering the basilica, you'll be astounded by the dimensions of the nave, the long, main part of the cathedral where worshipers are seated during mass. It's more than 600 feet long (nearly the length of 2 soccer fields) and almost 90 feet wide, and richly embellished on every surface.
  • The Pieta.  Rivaling David as Michelangelo's best-known sculpture, this poignant portrayal of Mary holding the body of the dead Christ is in the first chapel on the right, as you enter the basilica. The artist carved the work when he was just 24 years old.
  • Bronze Statue of Saint Peter.  Near the right pier or massive support for the transept, stands a bronze statue of Saint Peter, thought to date to the 1200s. His right foot has been worn shiny and smooth by centuries of worshipers who rub or even kiss it as they pass. 
  • The Baldacchino.  The massive canopy, the work of sculptor and architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini, was crafted from bronze taken from the Pantheon. It covers the basilica's main altar, where only the pope is permitted to say mass. The altar is built over the tomb of Saint Peter and is the symbolic and spiritual heart of the basilica.
  • The Dome.  Ringed by 16 windows and inscribed with letters more than 6 feet tall, Michelangelo's dome, which he never saw completed, is nearly 400 feet tall from its floor to its lantern, or cupola.
  • Monument to Alexander VII.  Of the many magnificent papal tombs in Saint Peter's, Bernini's monument to Pope Alexander VII is perhaps the most haunting. A pious pope prays while a skeletal figure of Death emerges from beneath a blanket carved from jasper stone. He holds an hourglass, as a reminder to the pope (and to onlookers) that his time has passed.
  • Sacristy and Treasury Museum.  To view some of the many treasures of the Vatican, including crosses, papal vestments (clothing), jewels and reliquaries, visit the Sacristy and Treasury Museum. It costs 5 euro for adults and 3 euro for children 12 and under.
  • Vatican Grottoes.  As you exit the basilica, follow signs for the Vatican Grottoes and Cupola (dome). The underground grottoes contain the tombs of dozens of popes, including John Paul II. An elaborate gilded altar is built over what is considered to be the tomb of Saint Peter. The main altar and Baldacchino are directly above this spot. Entrance to the grottoes is free.
  • Climbing to the Cupola.  If you're feeling energetic, you can climb the 551 steps (or just 320 if you take the elevator part way) to the cupola, or the top of Saint Peter's dome, to be rewarded with stunning views of Rome. It costs 10 euro if you take the elevator or 8 euro if you climb the entire way.

Saint Peter's Basilica Visiting Information

Even when there aren't papal audiences or other special events happening, the basilica is almost always crowded. The best time to visit without crowds is usually in the early morning, from 7 to 9 am. 

  • Information: The basilica opens at 7 am and closes at 7 pm in the summer and 6:30 pm in the winter. Before you go, it's a good idea to check the  Saint Peter's Basilica website  for current hours and other information.
  • Location:  Piazza San Pietro (Saint Peter's Square). To arrive by public transportation, take the Metropolitana Line A to the Ottaviano “San Pietro” stop.
  • Admission:  It's free to enter the basilica and the grottoes, with fees (see above) for the sacristy and treasury museum, and the climb to the cupola. The cupola is open from 7:30 am to 6 pm April to September, and to 5:00 pm October to March. The sacristy and treasury museum are open from 9 am to 6:15 pm April to September and to 5:15 pm October to March.
  • Dress code:  Visitors who are not dressed in the appropriate attire will not be allowed entry into the basilica. Refrain from wearing shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless shirts when you're visiting Saint Peter's and/or bring a shawl or other cover-up. Those rules go for all visitors, male or female.

What to See Near Saint Peter's Basilica

Visitors often visit Saint Peter's Basilica and the  Vatican Museums , including the Sistine Chapel , on the same day. Castel Sant'Angelo , at various times in history a mausoleum, a fortress, a prison and now, a museum, is also close to Vatican City.

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St. Peter’s Basilica

Tickets sell out fast in Rome: check availability now »

Visit the Pope’s church in the Vatican City .

St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the biggest churches in the world and the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church. Whether you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of the pope or examine the breathtaking art and architecture, this holy site is unmissable.

Shot of St Peters Basilica from distance

  • Admire the realism of Michelangelo’s sculpture ‘ La Pietà ’.
  • Be stunned by Bernini ’s Baldacchino – a bronze canopy over the High Altar, built over the tomb of St. Peter.
  • Marvel at the Cupola designed by Michelangelo – one of the largest domes in the world.

Tickets & Prices

St. Peter’s Basilica is not just any old church, it’s the most important one in the world for the Catholic church. Its impressive history, priceless works of art, and jaw-dropping architecture are all best discovered with a guided tour.

Discover which St. Peter’s Basilica ticket best suits your needs.

  • Guided Tour – Tour the famous building with a guide.
  • St. Peter’s Guided Tour: Basilica, St. Peter’s Square & Papal Grottoes – Guided tour of the Basilica, St. Peter’s Square & Papal Grottoes.
  • Dome Climb with Guide – Climb the dome of the Basilica and get optional time in the crypts.
  • Rome Tourist Card (bestseller) – See the best of Rome with this popular combi-ticket. Includes access to The Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica (official guided tour), and more…
  • The Vatican City Pass – Explore the best of the Vatican City. Includes access to St. Peter’s Basilica (official guided tour), Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel (last-minute tickets), and more…

A few things to keep in mind:

  • Live guides are available in English, Italian, French, German, or Spanish.
  • Children between the ages of 7-17 (with a valid photo ID) get a discounted ticket.
  • You have free cancellation up to 24 hours before your scheduled tour.
  • Select your date and time slot online and arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled tour. ​​
  • Tickets are sent via email which you can then show either printed out or in digital form.
  • You will meet your guide at the welcome desk in the atrium of the basilica.

St. Peter’s Basilica: Guided Tour Tickets

Learn about the wonders of the world’s largest church on this 1-hour guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica with an official Vatican guide, and enjoy unlimited free time after the tour to explore the Basilica at your own pace.

Rome Tourist Card

Get this nifty card and enjoy a guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica with an official live guide.

With the same pass, you can also enjoy visiting other famous Roman attractions, such as skip-the-line access to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel ; an audio guide to the Pantheon ; and priority entrance to the Colosseum , Roman Forum , and Palatine Hill .

Important Ticket Information:

  • Includes a headset so you can always hear your guide.
  • Select your visit dates online and receive tickets by email. Arrive at least 15 minutes before your designated time.
  • Free time afterward to explore the basilica at your own pace.

The Vatican City Pass

Discover the holiest country in the world with this handy pass . Book your visit dates online and receive tickets by email. Valid for three days from the starting date.

What’s included:

  • Skip-the-line access to the collections of the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel.
  • Guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica with an official Vatican guide.
  • Rome: City Audio Guide App with over 130 hotspots to discover.

5 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting St. Peter’s.

visit st peters basilica

  • There is no such thing as skipping the line. Only the Pope himself has that privilege. 
  • Security lines are long. Everyone has to go through metal detectors before going in. There’s no way to speed it up.
  • It gets hot in summer in St Peter’s Square. Go for a morning tour if you can. Bring a hat and an umbrella. It can get pretty brutal waiting in the square to go through the metal detectors. 
  • There is a dress code. Despite the heat, rules stipulate no bare shoulders and no overly exposed legs. Staff will check before you enter. Your guide will let you know if you’re OK.
  • St Peter’s Tomb is behind a glass screen. There’s conflicting information on the internet about this. Basically, you will see it, but you can’t get up close to it, that’s all. 

Getting There

This guide assumes you have pre-booked a guided tour. I used the Tiquets App, which comes with very helpful instructions and a map showing you the precise location of your meeting point.

That said – I get it. You have a lot on. There’s a lot to see. You’re still tired from your trip, so allow me to break it down. Rome is amazing, but we’re not exactly working with a grid system here. The GPS on your phone will definitely have a meltdown or two, so best to sharpen up those orienteering skills. 

Let’s Get Started

My tour was arranged by a local tour operator called Touriks (partnered with Tiqets). I booked a guided tour of St Peter’s Basilica, which included the Dome Climb. 

The meeting point (on Largo del Colonnato, just outside St Peter’s Square) is used by many other tour operators too, so it’s quite likely that if you book a guided tour, you’ll be meeting there too. 

Public Transport

  • Bus: 40 – Traspontina/Conciliazione

64 – Cavalleggeri/S. Pietro

32, 81, 982 – Piazza del Risorgimento

492, 990 – Via Leone IV / Via degli Scipioni

  • Tram: 19 – Piazza del Risorgimento
  • Train: San Pietro
  • Metro – closest station, Ottaviano. 10-minute walk.

visit st peters basilica

From Ottaviano Metro, take the Via Ottaviano exit and walk all the way down Via Ottaviano until you arrive at Piazza del Risorgimento (a big oval-shaped piazza in the middle of a thoroughfare). 

On the way, you’ll pass the gourmet food store Castroni on your right (which is how you’ll also know you’re going in the right direction). 

visit st peters basilica

Cross over to Piazza del Risorgimento and continue straight on to Via di Porta Angelica. 

Keep going until the end of the street. On your left, you will see a fountain, this is where the short street Largo del Colonnato begins (veering to your right). Follow it all the way down until you see a gift shop called Galleria San Pietro. You will have the colonnades of St Peter’s Square on your right-hand side. 

visit st peters basilica

The exact address of the meeting point is Largo del Colonnato 5. You can see the tiny number 5 on the wall. (Or 5 Largo del Colonnato if that makes more sense in your head). It’s the address of a popular and well-stocked gift shop called Galleria San Pietro. 

Largo, in this context, means plaza/street . Kind of something in between. (It also means ‘wide’ in more everyday contexts). 

Street numbers are placed at the end of the street names in Italian. 

Finally, Colonnato means colonnade. So Largo del Colonnato 5 in English would be 5, Colonnade Street (and not column no. 5). 

visit st peters basilica

If your tour happens to be with local tour operator Touriks, you will find friendly multilingual ground staff holding yellow labels like these opposite the gift shop Galleria San Pietro. 

Go over, introduce yourself, and you will be assigned to a group. You will then be instructed to wait at a designated spot for your guide, who will hand out your radio sets and earpieces. 

  • Top Tip: I used my own earphones – if you choose to as well, you’ll need the old-fashioned kind with a jack. Bluetooth earphones won’t work. Otherwise, earphones will be provided. 

visit st peters basilica

Our guide was a giant Roman called Marco, with charming English and thoughtful touches like pausing for bathroom breaks and water whenever possible in and around the basilica.

He kept us entertained in the midday heat with non-stop history and trivia. 

When I went (in late May,) all in all, it took around forty minutes from the time I started queuing up to when I physically entered the church. In peak season, you can expect to wait at least an hour.

St Peter’s Basilica is located in the Vatican City, which is a different country. Therefore you have to go through security just like at the airport. You won’t, however, need to show your passport. 

Security is manned by Italian Police under the colonnades in the shade. Once you’ve gone through this, you’re in a different country, and you will be in the hands of the Swiss Guard (Vatican City Police). 

visit st peters basilica

A Swiss Guard. If there’s any trouble, he’s your man.

visit st peters basilica

The imposing entrance to St Peter’s Basilica. It gets pretty busy. 

What Not To Miss At The Basilica

There are countless things to see and take in, but here are the standout moments from my tour. Our guide Marco was fantastic, but the great thing about guided tours is that no two are ever the same. Even with the same guide. 

The first thing that will strike you as you enter the basilica is the immense scale of the place. 

visit st peters basilica

The central hall leading up to Bernini’s bronze canopy and the Altar of the Chair of St Peter behind.

La Pieta – Michelangelo

Visitors viewing the Chapel of the Pieta inside St. Peter’s Basilica

The first stop on any tour is always La Pieta , completed by Michelangelo in 1499. 

In 1972 an extremely mentally unwell person, under delusions of being Jesus Christ, brutally attacked this beautiful sculpture with a hammer. It was painstakingly restored and has been housed behind a bulletproof acrylic screen ever since.

An anachronistic portrayal of Mary (who looks far too young to have a 33-year-old son, the age that Jesus died); some art historians argue that her face is actually a rendering of Michelangelo’s own mother, who died when he was just a boy. 

Take a moment to appreciate the heartbreaking realism of her facial expression. 

Ancient Bronze Statue of Saint Peter (Thirteenth Century)

Catholic tradition has pilgrims kiss and touch the right foot of Saint Peter when they visit the church. This has been going on since the 1300s, so you’ll understand why his right foot is now visibly worn down. 

He’s had a break from all the foot kissing since the pandemic for obvious reasons. When I visited in May 2023, he was still cordoned off. But take a second to notice the worn-down foot.

Baldacchino di San Pietro – 1634

View of the alter in St. Peter's Basilica

This enormous bronze canopy, standing at 20 meters (66 feet), was designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini and completed in 1634. Its precise location marks Saint Peter’s tomb.

Michelangelo, referred to as ‘The Divine’ even in his own lifetime, does, in fairness, live up to the hype. But do some groundwork on Bernini. You’ll be hearing his name a lot too. 

Tomb of Pope Alexander II by Bernini – 1678.

visit st peters basilica

Bernini. See. There he is again. There’s a lot of hype about St Peter’s Tomb – but honestly, I don’t know why the Tomb of Pope Alexander doesn’t get more press. It is absolutely wild. 

Pope Alexander sits atop a doorway in prayer above the figure of death seen here as a gilded bronze skeleton holding an hourglass draped in fabric (actually painstakingly carved jasper). 

There are also four statues representing the Virtues. But look out for the Virtue of Truth on your right. She’s got her foot on a globe, with a thorn coming out of England stuck in her big toe. 

This represented the Pope’s ongoing battle with the Church of England (the thorn in Pope Alexander’s side) 

Seriously, there’s a lot going on. It’s a wild, wild ride. 

Papal Grottoes

No pictures were allowed down there, so I obeyed the rules. 

You’ll see St Peter’s Tomb from behind a screen. 

Unless you have a passion for this kind of thing, I think it’s the most overrated part of the tour. Maybe if it wasn’t for all the Bernini and the Michelangelo, I’d have been more impressed. But as it stands, papal tombs and old crypts don’t really do it for me. 

visit st peters basilica

The elevator rides up to the interior of the dome to see the mosaics.

If you’ve opted for the Tour of Basilica + Dome Climb, it will be included in your guided tour. 

However, it’s only possible to buy the elevator tickets on the day. So you’ll have to line up with your guide and wait for them to get all your tickets and then go back inside again and line up for the elevator (there’s only one). This is going to be the most tedious part of the tour….but it will be worth it. 

You’ve waited in longer lines at theme parks. You’re going to see something amazing, I promise. Keep the faith. 

visit st peters basilica

The elevator takes you to the roof of the Basilica. It’s pretty exciting already up here though you won’t be able to see much yet. 

There’s a gift shop and bathrooms up here in case you need a mini pit-stop before seeing the inside of the dome up close and bracing yourself for the demanding Dome Climb.

Prepare to be wowed. 

visit st peters basilica

The interior of the main dome (cupola) depicts the saints and is awesome in the literal sense of the word. 

visit st peters basilica

Details of the mosaics you can literally reach out and touch. Above, detail from floral decoration. Below is one of the keys of Saint Peter. 

visit st peters basilica

I give you keys. Translation of Latin inscription all in mosaics.

visit st peters basilica

From the viewing balcony, which loops around the interior of the dome, you really get a sense of the scale of this place. Visitors down below, antlike and indistinguishable. 

  • Next: Time to climb.

It’s not just the amount of steps. It’s that the stairwell gets extremely narrow at various points, and then as you ascend the dome, there’s a point when the walls start to cave in slightly, and you find yourself having to bend over to the side as you climb to accommodate the curve of the dome. 

However, if you’re not claustrophobic, then you will be rewarded when you get to the top.

visit st peters basilica

Breathtaking view. Literally. The Dome Climb is a rewarding workout. 

Fittingly, by the time we made it to the top of the Dome, the heavens were about to open. That said, even though the sky was grey, it was still mesmeric and beautiful. Somehow I found it more pleasing with grey skies. Perhaps after all that visual stimuli from the dome mosaics. 

The sky matched the general colour palette of the city from up high; the buildings’ pastels and creams and the charcoal cobblestones of St Peter’s Square and the Via della Conciliazione straight ahead.

Recommended Souvenirs And Gift Shops 

There is a gift shop on the roof by the cupola after you take the lift and before you go in again to see the mosaics. 

visit st peters basilica

  • Vatican City stamps – once a unique selling point because technically, Vatican City is a separate country. Despite being quite a Boomer thing to flaunt, a lot of tour guides still have it as part of their repartee. I actually think it makes for a nice souvenir for the right person.

If interested, head to the Vatican Museums Information Point, located at the exit of St Peter’s on the right of the square (if you have the Basilica behind you). 

Best for Bibles, pope biographies, postcards, and stamps. You can also send your postcards from here. 

If it’s figurines to add to your (or your nana’s) Nativity Set, try Galleria San Pietro (the meeting point for the tour). Also good if you’re looking for a generic Rome sweatshirt or T-shirt. 

visit st peters basilica

You’ll find a more traditional scene here. I love this store at number 129 for religious icon art on papyrus. It just feels very much stuck in time. Opposite is another store (Turella Adriana) selling religious artifacts if rosary beads or icons of the Virgin Mary are what you’re looking for.

If you have a penchant for Catholic religious artifacts verging on the kitsch (I totally do), it’s worth having a little wander around Borgo Pio, Galleria San Pietro, and countless other souvenir stores along the Via della Conciliazione. 

Beware of inflated prices – the holiness of the location won’t necessarily mean honesty in prices. But if you shop around, you might just walk away with something memorable. 

And finally ….

visit st peters basilica

We need to talk about the ‘hot priests’.

Now in its 20th year of publication, the ‘ hot priest calendar ‘  (not its official name) is officially a classic Roman souvenir.

Since 2023 saw the release of its 20th-anniversary edition, they have been selling like hotcakes (priests).  Photographed by Piero Pazzi, It’s not ironic, and it’s not even affiliated with the Vatican. 

It’s just a guy who likes taking very good black-and-white pictures of priests who are, objectively speaking, not bad to look at.

Make of that what you will, and if it appeals, good luck finding one. (You’ll find them dotted around most kiosks and souvenir shops in the historical centre and near St Peter’s). 

Nearby Attractions 

Castel sant’angelo – 10 minute walk.

visit st peters basilica

Formerly the site of Emperor Hadrian’s tomb and erected around AD 134, subsequent emperors and popes converted it into a fortress and then a castle. It’s now a museum, housing two millennia of history, and has pretty nice views from the top. 

visit st peters basilica

The bridge adorned with angels leading up to it is dreamy, especially at dusk. 

If going in feels like too much, the surroundings are still worth spending time in. There’s a library / outdoor bar on the right as you walk along the river called Bibliobar, which has a subtle Parisian vibe to it.

visit st peters basilica

Food and Drink

8 minute walk away:

  • Il Sorpasso – Via Properzio, 31/33, 00193 

Stylish yet relaxed wine bar with a great wine selection (without being pretentious about it). All are available at reasonable prices. Enjoy their Italian ham and cheese boards (and advice on the correct order in which to eat the cheese.). Good mix of ex-pat and local clientele. A nice place to observe the Prati people. 

visit st peters basilica

15 minute walk away:

  • Argot (Prati) – Via Alessandro Farnese 2, 00192 (Closest Metro Lepanto on the A line).

After taking a leisurely stroll down the shopping street Via Cola di Rienzo from Piazza del Risorgimento, try Argot, where you’ll find above average cocktails and food. It’s trendy but friendly. Cocktails are a bit on the pricey side but not your run of the mill. All made by people who know their stuff. 

7 minute walk away:

  • Morrison’s – Piazza del Risorgimento, 16, 00192 Roma RM, Italy

visit st peters basilica

If you fancy a pint (and maybe a burger to go with it), look no further than Morrison’s. You can expect slightly better than ‘pub grub’ ; and their lunch specials, in particular, are surprisingly decent, with traditional Italian on offer in addition to your pub food classics.  

And for an ‘Irish’ pub, not too gimmicky at all. 

Did You Know That: 4 Interesting Facts 

  • The basilica was named for St. Peter, the leader of Jesus’ 12 disciples. He was sentenced to death by Emperor Nero and crucified upside down.
  • The location for the basilica was not chosen at random. It was built on the site of St. Peter’s crucifixion.
  • In 1950 human remains were found, underneath the altar, dating back to the 1st century CE. It’s widely believed that they belong to St. Peter himself.
  • The Holy Door (Porta Sancta) is only opened every 25 years by the pope. The last time was in the year 2000.
  • The original basilica was built in the 4th century under the command of the emperor Constantine, known for making Christianity the main religion of the Roman Empire.
  • It stood for 1200 years before being demolished and replaced by Pope Julius II in 1506.
  • It took around 120 years to complete the construction, and many prominent artists and architects worked on it. Donato Bramante created the original design but died in 1514.
  • Raphael and Antonio da Sangallo continued to work on the project, but little progress was made.
  • It wasn’t until Michelangelo took over in 1547 that real progress was made. He simplified Bramante’s original plans and designed the impressive dome, the greatest architectural achievement of his life. Sadly, he didn’t live to see it built.
  • Carlo Maderno took over the project in 1605. He’s responsible for lengthening the nave and designing the magnificent facade.
  • The last major artist to leave his mark on the basilica was Gian Lorenzo Bernini, who added the final additions, such as the Baldacchino and St. Peter’s Chair.
  • Today, the basilica remains the most important building in Christendom and receives millions of visitors a year from both pilgrims and tourists alike.

St. Peter’s Basilica is famous for being one of the biggest and most important churches in the world for the Catholic church.

St. Peter’s Basilica is free to enter, however, you can expect cues of up to 2 hours. We recommend purchasing skip-the-line tickets to avoid the wait.

The Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica are different buildings and are not connected to one another, though they are both located in the Vatican City.

St. Peter's Basilica map

Address: St. Peter's Basilica, Piazza San Pietro , 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City · view larger map

Visiting St Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican: all you need to know

apse of st peter basilica

All you need to know for visiting St Peter’s basilica inside: entrance rules, dress code, what to expect, best tours, St Peter’s basilica interior highlights.

St Peter’s Basilica is unique in the world and a special place to visit while in Rome , no matter what religious beliefs you hold.

The basilica is a work of art.

Both the outside and the inside have been carved by the expert eyes and hands of some of the most important architects and artists in the history of Rome and the treasures contained in its tall naves add to the marvel this basilica elicits in its visitors.

A working church, the basilica is a tourist attraction, a monument , a masterpiece and a unique religious site.

This is all you need to know to plan a visit!

Please note: this post contains affiliate links and, should you make a purchase through them, we might make a small commission.

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Inside of St peter basilica and overlay text 'how to visit St peter basilica, ticket, dress code, tips, highlights

Table of Contents

St Peter basilica: where it is, how to get there

St Peter Basilica is in Saint Peter’s Square , Vatican City , a state within the State in Rome city center.

It is part of the vast Vatican complex and lies close to the banks of the river Tiber, close to Castel Sant’Angelo and the residential area of Prati.

The basilica opens onto Piazza San Pietro and can be easily reached on foot or by bus/tram/metro.

The closest bus lines are: 40 , 64, 62, 19 (tram), 49, 32, 982, 492, 990, 81

The tram 19 stops at Piazza Risorgimento, less than 5 mins walk from the basilica

Metro A stops at Ottaviano – San Pietro, a few minutes walk away from Piazza San Pietro itself.

You can find all my tips for using public transport in Rome here.

If getting to the basilica on foot, you can walk from the Tiber to the basilica following monumental Via della Conciliazione or you can get there from Piazza Risorgimento/Borgo (on its right side) or Piazza Sant’Uffizio (left side).

Via della Conciliazione is a large road built during Fascist times and works as a sort of grand entrance to the main square.

The basilica is right at the end of it so you find yourself walking straight towards it. Despite the Vatican being an independent state ) there is no border control.

An interesting fact : the fascist reconfiguration of many areas of Rome meant the destruction of residential areas and the displacement of many. Some of the displaces were moved to the Garbatella Area , which is far from the Vatican but worth a visit!

The area of Borgo is very different as it is made of residential streets with now homes, restaurants and hotels.

Walking here gives an idea of how the area would have been before Via della Conciliazione was built.

Both places have merit and while I prefer the small streets of Borgo, the view of the basilica from the Tiber is pretty impressive!

St peter’s Basilica hours: opening times

The basilica is open from 7.00 am to 18.30 (6.30 pm) between the 1st of October and the 31st of March

7.00 am to 19.00 (7.00 pm) from the 1st of April to the 30th of September.

Access to its main floor is free and, currently, for individuals only (large groups are not admitted for health reasons).

Saint Peter Basilica interior: tickets and tours

Saint Peter Basilica is a working church and you do not need tickets nor advance booking for visiting.

Other areas of the basilica however are ticketed, namely the dome, the Vatican treasure, St Peter’s tomb and the necropolis.

You can choose between several ticket options, guided and self-guided.

These are some by my favorite tour provider , GetYourGuide (they have great tours and excellent cancellation options on most of them):

  • St Peter Basilica reserved entrance: self-guided with audioguide (entry ticket)
  • Saint Peter Basilica guided tour
  • St Peter basilica guided tour with dome climb
  • Necropolis and St Peter’s Basilica guided tour

Entering and Visiting St Peter’s Basilica: practical tips

Entrance to the basilica is organised following a one way system.

You access from the door to the right and leave from that to the left.

detail st peter basilica facade and dome

No re-entry is allowed but inside the basilica, there is free of movement so this system allows for social distancing in the busy entry/exit areas but doesn’t infringe on your visit.

To access, you need to join the line at the start of the colonnade, on the right, and you will have two checks: one for temperature (this is new for 2020) and one for security, when you will have to pass bags into the x-ray machine.

The line tends to be long and both these steps are compulsory some wait is inevitable.

Once you are inside the basilica, you can visit in your own time.

Please be advised that face coverings are currently compulsory during the visit.

Hand gel is available in several locations and free to use.

What to wear when visiting St Peter’s basilica inside

St Peter Basilica is known for a strict dress code and indeed, there are some rules about the most suitable attire. You can find our full guide to the Vatican dress code here, but here are some quick tips.

Sings at the door specify some of the no-nos for men and women:

NO short skirts

NO sleeveless tops

This is a good starting point but really, other items can also put you in trouble.

Even if not specified, in practice very revealing tops, tops with a very low cut, or that leave you belly or back exposed may result in admittance to be denied.

How much this is applied varies and I was surprised to see during my last visit the dress code didn’t seem to be applied at all.

Whatever the reason for that may have been on the day, in many instances before I had seen people turned away so my advice is: in doubt, dress conservatively.

Even if it may not be strictly needed, it will be appreciated by those who come to the basilica as a sacred place. 

The basilica doesn’t offer cover ups so if you are planning on covering with a shawl or similar, I recommend you bring your own.

The basilica is vast and you will find yourself standing and walking a good bit.

I recommend you wear comfortable shoes that can support you for a few hours.

You can find my tips on how to dress in Rome and my recommended shoes for Rome sightseeing here .

What to see in St Peter’s basilica

There is so much to see in St peter’s basilica I approach this paragraph with caution: I cannot possibly cover all the treasures you will find in San Pietro here, I would need a full art catalogue to do so!

However, I can pinpoint some of the highlights for me and some of the things I believe you should not miss and make St Peter’s basilica’s interior the marvel it is

Michelangelo’s Pieta (statue)

The Pieta by Michelangelo is right close to the entrance to the basilica, you will find it on your right as you come it.

It is protected by a see-though glass wall and it is breathtakingly beautiful, without a doubt one of the most beautiful statues in Rome and Italy in genera.

Michelangelo's Pieta' in St peter's side chapel

Many visitors first notice how much smaller it is than many photos suggest: the Pieta’ is life-size, an incredible idea that makes the whole scene even more touching!

The statue was made in 1498-99, it is made of white Carrara marble and it is one of the first works by Michelangelo.

It was commissioned by the French Cardinal Jean Bilhères de Lagraulas and was originally placed in the Chapel of Santa Petronilla, near the transept of the old basilica, then move to the church of Santa Maria della Febbre, still in the Vatican.

Finally, it found a home in the current chapel in the mid-VIII century.

St Peter’s statue

Along the main nave, to the right, sits an ancient and wonderful statue of St Peter.

St Peter statue

Made of bronze, the statue represents St Peter sitting on a marble throne and with the right hand lifted in a Greek blessing gesture (only two fingers are up) and keys in the left.

The statue said to be the work of Arnolfo di Cambio and to be dating back to the XIII century although the exact dating and origin of the sculpture has been the object of many studies and exact dating and attribution is unsure.

The statue is now cordoned off but if you see it from up close, you will see that one its foot has been consumed: this is because the faithful used to kiss it in a sign of devotion!

Fun fact : every 29 th of June, the day celebrating St Peter and St Paul, patron Saints of Rome , the statue gets dressed in a Papal shawl and tiara.

The baldachin

The baldachin that frames the main altar is likely to be one of the first things you notice in the church, if not the very first one, despite being all the way at the end of the central nave, as far as it gets from the basilica’s entrance.

St Peter's basilica Altar baldachin by Bernini

Colossal and imposing, it has four columns that shoot towards the ceiling of the church in a spiral fashion and it just stops on your tracks with its height and magnificence, even if you are not a fan of Baroque architecture!

The baldachin was made by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in 1624/1633 and it is the most important bronze monument of the baroque.

Many even consider is a manifesto of the whole baroque movement.

It is 28 meters tall and sits just above St Peter’s tomb.

From the distance, it is easy to underestimate how big the baldachin truly is.

Its dimension makes it fit perfectly inside the massive perimeter of the basilica but as you find yourself under it, you can appreciate how immense this work it and the level of details on each of the columns!

It is said the the baldachin received mixed reaction however, in centuries to come it also had big admirers such as d’Annunzio who, in the Elegie Romane, wrote “ Sorgono scintillando per l’ombra le quattro colonne che nel pagano bronzo torge il Bernini a spire “.

The Apse and St Peter’s cathedra

Behind the baldachin, in the basilica’s apse, you will find the cathedra of St Peter’s, or St Peter’s throne.

St peter apse and cathedra

The throne is said to have been used by Peter himself however, the one we can currently see in the church dates back to the IX century and was given to the Pope as a gift by the King of France Carlo il Calvo (Charles II).

The throne is now surrounded by an eye-catching, very elaborate golden bronze sculpture by Bernini, who built it in 1656-1665 that make the throne look as if it was levitating mid-air.

At its bottom, we find statues of the 4 church fathers (Sant’Agostino, Sant’Ambrogio, Sant’Anastasio and San Giovanni Crisostomo) and, at the top, we can admire golden clouds, rays, and angels as well as a colored glass window with the dove representing the holy spirit.

Chapels and statues, the Holy Sacrament chapel

St Peter’s Basilica has many chapels and statues, some accessible and some currently cordoned off.

Among the many worth seeing, we can highlight the tomb of Pio VII by Thorvaldsen, the tomb of Innocenzo III by Pollaiolo, the monument to Clemente XIII by Canova.

One chapel worth a special mention is the Chapel of the Holy Sacrament, now closed by a gate designed by Bernini.

The chapel was originally designed to be a sacristy but took its function in 1638 and has kept it ever since.

The chapel is elaborate and elegant and contains a marble altar and Bernini’s ciborium , with incredible blue lapislazuli.

The central corridor

As you enter the church you will notice that part of it is cordoned off, forming a central corridor closed to visitors.

If you get close, you will notice why the corridor is interesting: it marks the relative size of other churches around the world, to highlight how much bigger St Peter is!

This is one of the most fun things to show kids when visiting the basilica!

Saint Peter’s Treasure

To the left-hand side of the Basilica, you will find the entrance to the treasure (ticketed).

The treasure can be worth seeing however, even if you are not interested in it, I recommend you venture up to its entrance.

Here, as well as interesting architectural spaces and volumes, you will find a carving of all the Popes buried in the church from St Peter on.

It makes quite an impression as the Popes are many but not that many if you think how far back the history of the church brings us!

What else to see in and near Saint Peter’s basilica

St Peter basilica is inside Vatican city, close to several other attractions.

While you should avoid packing in too much into your day here, it is possible to add other attractions to your visit.

visit st peters basilica

Some to consider are:

St Peter’s dome : part of the basilica but only accessible with specific tickets, the dome is wonderful to visit f you don’t fear heights, do not have issues with small places (it’s a claustrophobic person nightmare!) and if you are reasonably fit.

You will be climbing lots of steps!

If you are up for the challenge, the dome will reward you with incredible views!

Vatican Gardens : just to the back of the basilica, they are accessible by tour only (guided / with audio guide).

The visit takes 45 mins/2 hours depending on the tour chosen. You can find all the info and our review of our Vatican Gardens visit here.

St Peter’s Squar e: the square is just outside the basilica and is a work of art in itself.

Designed by Bernini, it is important for the stunning colonnade, the beautiful fountains it hosts, its obelisk and the touching monument to the refugees, now on its left-hand side.

The square is also an incredible vantage point to admire the façade of the basilica itself.

Vatican Museums and Sistine chapel . The Vatican museums and Sistine chapel are right beside the basilica and are, in normal times, connected to it (Sistine chapel to the church, not the opposite).

They are one of the great museums of the world and are more than worth a visit however, be warned: they are huge!

If planning on seeing them, I recommend you go there first and leave the basilica for the end of your trip.

While technically possible, seeing the museums, the Basilica and the gardens on the same day is possible, adding the Vatican gardens on the same day may prove too tiring.

Evaluate energy well before committing. In case, opt for the gardens bus tour, you will be happy to be sitting down!

I hope you enjoyed this article and found my tips for visiting St Peter’s basilica useful.

Safe travel planning!

A visit to San Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican is one of our top ten things to do in Rome .

My name is Marta, I am a travel-loving mama born and bred in that messy, wonderful, infuriating, awe-inspiring unbelievably beautiful city that is Rome. A classics graduate and professional travel blogger, on this site I share my insider tips to help you plan your dream trip to Rome, Italy.

All you need to know for visiting the Vatican Gardens: how to book, highlight, tips

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St. Peter’s Basilica: A pristine chapel within the historic Vatican City

Experience the splendor of St. Peter's Basilica. From the Papal Altar to the Vatican Grottoes, explore the marvels within this architectural wonder.

visit st peters basilica

Get insider tips for visiting St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. Explore the Vatican's crown jewel and uncover its hidden gems

In the heart of Rome is a place that stands as a testament to the enduring power and influence of the Catholic Church. St. Peter’s Basilica, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, is a site of both religious significance and architectural grandeur. Let us embark on a journey to discover the captivating charm of this iconic basilica. The Basilica is housed within the famous Vatican city. Check out our Vatican City overview to get a sense of how St. Peter’s fits into the geography and history of the city.

Table of Contents

Historical Significance

The history of St. Peter’s Basilica is intertwined with that of Christianity itself. Located in Vatican City, the world’s smallest independent state, the basilica is named after Saint Peter, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ and considered by Catholics to be the first pope. Legend has it that Saint Peter was crucified upside down in the first century AD, and this sacred site is said to be the final resting place of his remains.

The original St. Peter’s Basilica was constructed on this spot in the fourth century by Emperor Constantine, but it wasn’t until the Renaissance that the basilica took its present form. Pope Julius II commissioned the construction of the current basilica in the early 16th century, enlisting the talents of renowned architects such as Bramante, Michelangelo, and Bernini. Their collective vision and artistic brilliance would transform St. Peter’s into the awe-inspiring edifice we see today.

Architectural Marvel

As you approach St. Peter’s Basilica, the sheer scale of the structure becomes immediately apparent. The façade, with its colossal Corinthian columns and statues of Christ, John the Baptist, and eleven of the apostles, leaves a profound impression on all who behold it. The façade is flanked by two majestic bell towers, a remarkable feat of architectural harmony.

Stepping inside, one is greeted by the vastness of the basilica’s interior. The soaring dome, designed by Michelangelo, is a masterpiece of engineering and aesthetics. Its grandeur is unmatched, and the oculus at its centre allows a cascade of divine light to pour in, creating a heavenly atmosphere within the basilica.

The interior is lavishly decorated with precious materials such as marble, stucco, and gold. The walls are adorned with numerous works of art, including Michelangelo’s Pieta, which depicts the Virgin Mary cradling the lifeless body of Jesus. This iconic sculpture exemplifies the Renaissance’s pursuit of perfection in form and emotion.

The history behind the allure of St. Peter’s Basilica

The baldacchino and the nave.

One of the most striking features of St. Peter’s Basilica is the Baldacchino, an enormous bronze canopy that stands over the high altar. Designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, the Baldacchino is a testament to Baroque artistry and craftsmanship. Its twisted columns and intricate details are nothing short of mesmerising.

The nave of the basilica is an imposing space, flanked by rows of colossal statues of saints and apostles. The design of the nave draws the eye towards the high altar and the majestic dome above, creating a sense of spiritual ascent.

The Papal Altar and Confession

The Papal Altar, situated directly beneath the Baldacchino, is the focal point of St. Peter’s Basilica. This is where the Pope presides over liturgical ceremonies and where countless pilgrims come to receive the sacraments. Beneath the Papal Altar lies the Confession, a space believed to be directly above the tomb of Saint Peter. Pilgrims often gather here to offer their prayers and seek solace in the presence of the apostle’s remains.

Chapels and Niche Altars

St. Peter’s Basilica is not just a single space but a labyrinthine wonder of chapels and niche altars, each dedicated to a different saint or aspect of Christian faith. The Chapel of the Madonna of Column, for instance, houses a revered 15th-century image of the Virgin Mary. Meanwhile, the Chapel of the Holy Sacrament showcases Bernini’s masterful work in transforming marble into ethereal drapery.

As you explore these various chapels and alcoves, you will encounter a treasure trove of artistic and religious marvels. The spectacular Vatican Museums are well worth a visit. We have various tours on offer that take in both the Vatican and the Vatican Museums . From mosaic-covered domes to intricate frescoes, each corner of the basilica offers a unique experience.

The Vatican Grottoes

Beneath the basilica lies another hidden world, the Vatican Grottoes. This subterranean complex houses the tombs of numerous popes, including the recently canonised Pope John Paul II and Pope John XXIII. Pilgrims and history enthusiasts alike can explore this sacred space to gain a deeper understanding of the Church’s past and its spiritual legacy.

The Dome and the Dome Climb

One of the most remarkable features of St. Peter’s Basilica is the dome, designed by Michelangelo. The ascent to the top of the dome provides a panoramic view of the Vatican City and the sprawling city of Rome beyond. The climb itself is an experience, with a narrow spiral staircase leading to the summit. The reward, however, is a breathtaking vista that spans the Tiber River, the Roman Forum , and the Colosseum.

Papal Audiences and Masses

St. Peter’s Basilica is not merely a tourist attraction; it is the spiritual centre of the Catholic Church. For those fortunate enough to visit during a papal audience or Mass, the experience can be deeply moving. The faithful gather in the vast square outside the basilica , awaiting the Pope’s address or participating in the solemnity of the Mass. Witnessing the Pope’s presence in this historic setting is a profound and unforgettable experience.

Where is St Peters Basilica

Visiting Tips

Before you embark on your journey to St. Peter’s Basilica, here are a few practical tips to enhance your visit:

Dress Modestly: As a place of worship, visitors are expected to dress modestly. Avoid wearing sleeveless tops, short skirts, or shorts. It’s advisable to carry a scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders if needed.

Security Checks: Be prepared for security checks when entering the basilica. This includes bag inspections and metal detectors.

Guided Tours: Consider joining a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of the basilica’s history and significance. Knowledgeable guides can provide valuable insights and take you to hidden gems within the complex.

Timing: St. Peter’s Basilica can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. To avoid long queues, try to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

Respectful Behaviour: Remember that St. Peter’s Basilica is a place of worship. Maintain a respectful demeanour, refrain from loud conversations, and turn off your mobile phone or put it on silent mode.

Photography: While photography is allowed, be mindful of the signs indicating restricted areas. Flash photography is typically not permitted inside the basilica.

Looking for restaurants near St. Peter’s Basilica ? Here are some suggestions curated by Tripadvisor

St. Peter’s Basilica stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith and the boundless creativity of human architecture and artistry. This iconic basilica is not merely a structure; it is a living testament to centuries of history and devotion.

From the grandeur of its façade to the heavenly beauty of its dome, from the solemnity of the Papal Altar to the intimacy of the Vatican Grottoes, St. Peter’s Basilica invites visitors to explore its profound spiritual and artistic treasures. It is a place where history, religion, and art converge to create an experience that transcends time and leaves an indelible mark on all who enter its hallowed halls.

As you stand before the magnificent St. Peter’s Basilica, you are not just witnessing an architectural marvel; you are immersing yourself in a journey through the ages, a journey that takes you from the humble beginnings of Christianity to the grandeur of the Renaissance and beyond. It is a journey that will forever resonate in your heart and mind, an experience that will stay with you long after you leave the eternal city of Rome .

Here are the tours we recommend that include St Peters Basilica

Rome: Vatican Museums And St. Peter’s Basilica Private Tour St. Peter’s Basilica Guided Tour: Reserved Entrance Tour of Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica with Ticket St. Peter’s Basilica Skip-the-line guided tour

This article is part of our series on Vatican City . Explore all the attractions of this fascinating City at the heart of Europe. It’s truly a must-visit if you’re a visitor to Rome.

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Hey there, I’m Joyce , just one of the folks scribbling away over at VisitRome.com. My mission? Making your travel dreams a reality through some nifty words. Got a question or craving some travel tips? Hit me up at [email protected] . Let’s make your adventures legendary!

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Visiting St. Peter’s Basilica: Insider’s Guide to Rome’s Most Famous Church

  • Architecture

June 12, 2023

Feeling overwhelmed by all the options in beautiful Vatican City? We hear you. After you’ve checked out the Vatican Museums (using our handy Vatican Museums guide ) it’s time to take on the big church that dominates the tiny Vatican City: St. Peter’s Basilica . The 2,000-year-old basilica is home to most of the Catholic Church’s crucial ceremonies and is a classic symbol of the Vatican City but visiting St. Peter’s Basilica isn’t always easy, especially in the high season. So we’ve put together this handy guide for how to  explore inside, above  and  below the ancient church to experience all the secrets and history it houses!

Table of Contents

St. Peter’s Basilica

Visitors can get into the Basilica for free, but the long line is often as impressive as the building itself.  The Basilica is open every day from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. April to September and from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. October to March. The best way to beat the crowds while visiting St. Peter’s Basilica  is to arrive as early as possible. This may seem obvious, but fewer travelers than you’d think are able to actually be there by 7 a.m. Be sure to dress appropriately (covered knees and shoulders for men and women, no matter the temperature) or else you will be turned away at the door, no matter how long you’ve been waiting.

The site of the impressive St. Peter's Basilica welcomes visitors to the Vatican City

The site of the impressive St. Peter’s Basilica welcomes visitors to the Vatican City

The vast inside of the Basilica is awe-inspiring, especially for first time visitors. Check out our post 6 Surprising Facts about St. Peter’s Basilica to learn more about the structure. To get the most out of your trip, consider renting an audio guide from the kiosk inside or taking one of our expert guided tours , including one that covers St. Peter’s Basilica in depth .

As an added bonus, you can combine your visit with a Papal Audience to see the Pope and receive a Papal Blessing. Audiences are held every Wednesday while the Pope is in Rome. Read our post about the Papal Audiences to find out more!

For a different perspective while visiting St Peter’s Basilica, head skyward for a tour of the cupola . The beautiful dome was projected by Michelangelo in 1546 and is 452 feet tall. According to the Vatican City State website , visiting St Peter’s Basilica dome is possible every day from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. April to September and from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. October to March. The entrance is at the portico of the Basilica. For 7 euros you can take the elevator, saving you some, but not all of the stair climbing. If you’re feeling like some exercise, pay 5 euros to take the stairs. Be warned: the stairs are much more strenuous than the elevator and there aren’t many views to enjoy during your climb.

Once up top, you can admire the unique view of the nave and altar, as well as the incredible view over Piazza San Pietro.

Underneath the church are the mysterious Scavi, or excavations. Also known as the Vatican Necropolis, Tomb of the Dead, or St. Peter’s Tomb, the site is a burial ground dating back to the fourth century. Believed to be the location of St. Peter’s tomb, they also contain the temple of Emperor Constantine, underground fountains, buildings and even ancient graffiti that says ‘Peter is here.’ They aren’t a must when visiting St. Peter’s Basilica, but they are incredibly cool…if you can get a ticket.

To protect the ancient site, only 250 people are allowed in daily in small groups of 12. Admission is 13 euro. The application process can be complicated, so either prepare well in advance, or go with our tour  which sorts out times and tickets for you.  For personal tours, you’ll have to contact the Excavations Office  by email and give the names of the participants in your goup, language desired, and dates. Begin the process at least two months before your actual trip – demand is high. Eventually, the Office will contact you letting you and let you know if you made it as well as the time and date of your tour. You should aim to arrive at least 10 minutes before your tour and dress appropriately – it’s considered a holy site.

Enjoy the view more than 425 feet high from the Basilica's massive dome.

Enjoy the view more than 425 feet high from the Basilica’s massive dome.

Vatican Grottoes

A part of the Scavi complex, the large crypt network beneath St. Peter’s Basilica is called the Vatican Grottoes. They are located between the floor of the Vatican Necropolis (Scavi) and the present-day ground floor of the Basilica. Here you’ll find the tombs of dozens of popes, as well as the tomb of John Paul II. The Grottoes are open every day from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. April to September and from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. October to March. The entrance is at the transept of St. Peter’s Basilica. To visit, you’ll need to get in touch with the  Excavations Office (Ufficio Scavi: + 39.06 69 88 53 18 or  [email protected] .).

The silhouette of a saint The Piazza San Pietro, a testament to the history and power of Vatican City and its Basilica. Photo by David Ohmer

The silhouette of a saint The Piazza San Pietro, a testament to the history and power of Vatican City and its Basilica. Photo by David Ohmer

Though many will come just to take a few photos of the nice architecture and massive square, you don’t want to miss out on all St. Peter’s Basilica has to offer! Explore the area high and low for a truly unique perspective of the world-famous Basilica.

Read more: 6 Surprising Facts about St. Peter’s Basilica

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The Geographical Cure

Guide To St. Peter’s Basilica: 20 Top Things To See

St. Peter’s Basilica is the most famous church in Christendom. Designed by Bramante, Raphael, and Michelangelo, it’s a true Renaissance masterpiece.

It may be the most ornate space you’ve ever stepped foot inside, filled with an intense visual array of precious treasures and grandiose decoration.

St. Peter’s Basilica was completed after 120+ years of construction, the reign of 18 different popes, incalculable cost, and the direction of 12 different architects. Measuring more than two football fields in length, it’s by far the largest church in Christendom.

the stunning Basilica of St. Peter's, seen from St. Peter's Square

the stunning Basilica of St. Peter’s

The dome of St. Peters, with input from the revered Michelangelo, is the tallest in the entire world.

The basilica is the burial place of Saint Peter and past popes. This is where you’ll find the famous Bernini Baldachin canopy and Michelangelo’s tragically beautiful Pieta .

In this St. Peter’s guide, I identify the top 20 things to see at Italy’s most famous church . I also give you important must know tips for visiting this most important landmark.

the statue of St. Peter in front of the facade of the basilica

the statue of St. Peter in front of the facade of the basilica

Guide To St. Peter’s Basilica: What To See

St. Peter’s Basilica is absolutely crammed with amazing art.

To see everything, you may want to book a guided tour of the basilica . Or, book a guided tour that includes the basilica, a dome climb, and the underground grottos .

Alternatively, you can just purchase an audio guide and visit on your own.

With so many treasures of Western art to absorb, what should you be sure to see at St. Peter’s? Here’s my list of the highlights and best things to see in St. Peter’s Basilica:

the Holy Door, only opened every 25 years

the Holy Door, only opened every 25 years

1. The Holy Door

The Holy Door is one of the three entrance ways into Saint Peter’s Basilica. It’s to the right of the main entrance to St. Peter’s.

The Holy Door is only open on a year that the pope deems a Holy Year, or Jubilee Year. During such a period, the Roman Catholic Church offers remission from the consequences of sin (under certain conditions). Holy Years are usually declared approximately every 25 years.

Behind the Holy Door is a concrete wall that is only removed in the Holy Year. The Holy Door will open next in 2025.

The doors illustrate the life of Christ in 16 bronze panels. The panels are divided by the coats of arms of popes who have celebrated Jublilee years.

Filarete Door

Filarete Door

2. Filarete Door

The basilica’s bronze entrance door was created by the sculptor Filarete and his workshop. It was salvaged from the Old St. Peter’s Basilica. The door was created during the early Renaissance between 1433-45.

The Filarete Door is completely covered with reliefs. The larger fields depict Christ, the Virgin Mary, St. Peter, and St. Paul. The narrow panels depict scenes from the life of Pope Eugene IV.

Bernini's bas relief, Feed My Sheep

Bernini’s bas relief, Feed My Sheep

3. Bernini’s Feed My Sheep

Commissioned in 1633, Pasce Oves Meas (Feed my Sheep) is a monumental marble bas relief designed by Bernini. It was executed by his workshop, with some involvement of Bernini himself.

The relief represents Christ’s command to Saint Peter to “Feed my sheep.” The work is in the portico above the Filarete door of the basilica.

In the relief, Christ is shown giving the command to a kneeling Peter. He gestures toward his metaphorical “sheep.” Saints Peter and Paul watch the proceedings from the sidelines.

Michelangelo, Pieta,1498-1500, a top attraction at St. Peter's Basilica

Michelangelo, Pieta,1498-1500

4. Michelangelo’s Pieta

Just to the right of the main entrance is Michelangelo’s Pieta behind bullet proof glass. It’s the most famous and popular thing to see inside St. Peter’s Basilica.

In 1497, Michelangelo was commissioned to create his iconic Pieta for a chapel in the Old St. Peter’s Basilica. The Pieta was then moved to the Chapel of the Pieta in the new basilica.

The Pieta was attacked by a mentally deranged geologist in 1972. After that fiasco, the Pieta was placed in lockdown behind bulletproof glass.

Behind the sculpture is a large cross, making it seem almost like an installation piece. I can’t say I think much of the color of the marble behind it either, a vomitous murky yellow.

The Pieta itself is tragically beautiful, a moving sculpture in which stone seems soft. And just look at Mary’s exquisite and grieving face … It’s quite a piece for a 23 year old. Michelangelo’s signature is across Mary’s sash. It’s the only work the artist ever signed.

After the Pieta’s resounding success, Michelangelo received the commission for what would become the world’s most famous statue, David .

READ : How To See Michelangleo’s David in Florence

central nave of St. Peter's Basilica

central nave of St. Peter’s Basilica

5. Central Nave

Maderno’s central nave is tremendously large, with a lot of glam and glitter. It’s 15,000 square meters and seats 20,000. The vault is supported by 800 columns. There are 45 altars and 450 monumental statues.

On the floor, you’ll see a series of circles. They indicate 15 smaller Christian churches. A red porphyry disc near the entrance marks the spot where Charlemagne and other emperor were crowned.

The wide nave has colorful stone floors, a barrel vaulted coffered ceiling, massive pillars, and gilded friezes. The decorations — cherubs, doves, and symbols of the papacy — were created by Bernini and his workshop.

Bernini sculpture of Pope Urban VIII

Bernini sculpture of Pope Urban VIII

6. Bernini Sculptures

Bernini was the greatest sculptor of the Baroque. He either carved or designed many of the works in St. Peter’s Basilica, including:

  • Baldachin (1623-34)
  • Tomb of Urban VIII (1647)
  • Monument to Alexander VII (1672-78))
  • Constantine on Horseback (1662-68)
  • St. Longinus (1629)
  • Chair of St. Peter (1640)
  • Altar of the Santissimo Sacramento Chapel (1673-74)
  • Tomb Monument to Countess Matilda (1633)

READ : Guide To the Bernini Trail in Rome

Bernini's Baldachin

Bernini’s Baldachin

7. Bernini’s Baldachin

The Baldachin is the basilica’s most famous piece. In 1623, Urban VIII commissioned a young Bernini for the job.

After 10 years, the result was an elaborate and curvaceous bronze canopy covering the high altar at the central crossing. The Baldachin is there for one reason — to mark the spot where Saint Peter is buried. The only person who can preach mass from that spot is the pope himself.

The Baldachin is 98 feet tall, so that large that it’s the equivalent of a 10 story building. The 60 foot bronze columns are so dark they look like wood. At the top, there are four large angels in each corner. At the bottom are four golden pedestals.

The twisting Solomonic columns were inspired by an actual temple in Jerusalem. Decorative tassels hang off the cunningly draped “cloth” between the columns.

The structure was intended to suggest the vastness of god’s creation (and of the Barberini pope). To create the piece, Bernini recruited his father Pietro and brother Luigi to assist.

Chair of St. Peter

Chair of St. Peter

8. Throne of St. Peter | Cathedra Petri

The (rather overwrought) Chair of St. Peter is in the apse near the front of the basilica. Dating from 1657, Bernini’s theatrical and gilded sculpture glorifies the chair-throne as a symbol of the pope’s power and infallibility. Like a movie director, Bernini sets the chair within the frame of the Baldachin.

The bronze chair hovers and is received (but not supported) by four doctors of the church. The bronze chair encases the wooden one supposedly used by Peter himself, a treasured relic.

Above the chair is an oculus of amber light from yellow stained glass windows. It’s surrounded by cherubs and radiating rays of light. The white dove of peace (representing the holy spirit) is in the center. The papal tiara is held up by winged figures.

Bernini's St. Longinus

Bernini’s St. Longinus

9. Statue of St. Longinus

According to legend, St. Longinus was the soldier who pierced the side of Christ while he was on the cross. Longinus then declared Christ’s divinity. Longinus later died a martyr’s death and was greatly revered by the church.

Bernini sculpted the colossal marble statue of Longinus between 1628-38. Like Bernini’s sculptures in the Borghese Gallery, the saint is in action, standing in a contrapposo position with outspread arms.

READ : Complete Guide To the Borghese Gallery

In his right hand, Longinus holds his attribute — the holy spear. He has an ecstatic upward gaze. It’s one of the only statues in the basilica that receives natural light.

Tomb of Alexander VII

Tomb of Alexander VII

10. Tomb of Alexander VII

This is a beautiful Bernini sculpture. Completed in 1678, Bernini was 80 years old. He basically supervised the actual work. Although he may have sculpted Alexander’s face and hands.

In the tomb sculpture, Alexander kneels in prayer. Below him are four allegorical female figures embodying the virtues of Charity, Prudence, Justice and Truth. The pope and the virtues are in white marble. Everything else is intricately colored.

Stone drapery covers the strange figure of death. A bronze skeleton eerily raises an hourglass to symbolize the passage of time.

Bronze Statue of St. Peter

Bronze Statue of St. Peter

11. Bronze Statue of St. Peter

This bronze sculpture of St. Peter was created by the great 13th century Florentine sculptor and architect Arnolfo di Cambio. Arnolfo is famous as the first architect of Florence’s Duomo.

READ : Guide to Florence’s Duomo and Brunelleschi’s Dome

The statue was salvaged from the old basilica. Peter’s polished foot is proof that hes highly revered by visitors, who show their devotion by rubbing or kissing his toes.

Peter, the Prince of the Apostles, sits on a marble chair. With his left hand, he holds the keys of Heaven (his attribute). He gives a blessing with his right.

Statue of St. Andrew

Statue of St. Andrew

12. Statue of St. Andrew

This statue by Francois Duquesnoy, a Flemish baroque sculpture, was created for one of the basilica’s niches. It’s one of the four central monumental statues that frame the Baldachin, along with Saint Longinus, Saint Helena, and Saint Veronica.

Saint Andrew was an apostle and the brother of Saint Peter. He was martyred by crucifixion in the city of Patras Greece. Early texts report that he was bound, not nailed, to a cross.

The iconography of showing Andrew bound to a cross stuck and was a standard image of the Middle Ages. In fact, this statue is routinely called Saint Andrew’s Cross. In it, Andrew head and arms are arranged in a theatrical way akin to Bernini’s St. Longinus.

Mosaic of Raphael's Transformation

Mosaic of Raphael’s Transformation

13. Mosaic of Raphael’s Transformation

The original of the beautiful Transfiguration is now in the Vatican Pinacoteca . It was painted by Raphael , one of the greatest painters of the Renaissance period.

The Transfiguration was commissioned by Cardinal Guilio de Medici, who later became Pope Clement VII. The painting combined two biblical narratives.

It tells the story of Christ leading his disciples up a mountain to show them his true form, a being of pure light. It also depicts a miracle — when Christ exorcized the demons of a young boy suffering from lunacy.

The Transfiguration is important because it bridges the period between the high Renaissance and the Baroque. It’s notable for its use of chiaroscuro (the effect of contrasted light and shadow), skill in composition, and expressiveness.

If you don’t make it to the Pinacoteca, there’s a beautiful mosaic copy of The Transfiguration in St. Peter’s Basilica. It was created by Stefano Pozzi.

In the 17th century, all the basilica’s original paintings were removed to the Vatican Pinacoteca (art gallery) and replaced with mosaics.

Giotto's mosaic of the Navicella

Giotto’s mosaic of the Navicella

14. Giotto Mosaic of the Navicella

Giotto’s Navicella mosaic is found in the portico of the basilica, facing the entrance to the church. Cardinal Stefaneschi commissioned the great Florentine painter to create the mosaic.

The mosaic likely dates to the late 13th or early 14th century. It was formerly in the entrance arcade of the old basilica and moved to the new one in 1610.

Navicella means little ship. The mosaic depicts the stormy scene from Matthew 14:22-14:23. Christ grabs Saint Peter by the hand, just as he is about to go under. Peter walks on water toward Christ. The message is that, when life gets stormy, trust in your faith.

Unfortunately what you see isn’t really original. The mosaic has been altered and restored on many occasions, mostly in the seventeenth century. It was partially destroyed and reconstructed during the demolition of the old basilica.

Tomb of Saint John Paul II

Tomb of Saint John Paul II

15. Tomb of Saint John Paul II

The tomb of Saint John Paul II lies under the mosaic of the Altar of St. Sebastian , originally painted by Domenichin. The tomb is the most popular place of pilgrimage within the Vatican.

John Paul was the second longest serving pope, working from October 16, 1978 until April 2, 2005. John Paul was canonized by Pope Francis on April 27, 2014.

His original resting place was in the Vatican Grottoes beneath the basilica. But his remains were transferred up to the basilica itself in 2011. It’s housed in the Chapel of St. Sebastian, located just off the central nave.

tomb of Pope Pius XI in the Papal Grotto

16. Grottos

The Vatican Grottos are the vast underground graveyard below St. Peter’s Basilica. The entrance is at the transept of St. Peter’s Basilica near the elevator kiosks for the dome. You can visit the grottos for free.

The grottos are the burial place of 91 popes and some other church dignitaries such as cardinals, dating from the 10th century and onward. In addition the grottoes also include some tombs of secular monarchs.

view of St. Peter's Tomb

view of St. Peter’s Tomb

17. St. Peter’s Tomb & Necropolis

St. Peter was crucified and buried in 64 A.D. He was crucified upside down so as not to be equated with Jesus. The story goes that Peter lost his life in a wave of anti-Christian persecution under Emperor Nero.

Christians were worried that someone would steal Saint Peter’s body. They hastily chopped his body off the cross, leaving his feet there. The rest of St. Peter’s body was buried in a nearby necropolis.

A fun fact is that Peter’s name was really Simon. He was given the name Kepha or Cephas meaning “rock” by Jesus.

In Greek, this translated to “Petros” from Petra, hence where the name Peter came from in English. You may recall the Biblical verse in Matthew 16 where Jesus says “on this rock I will build my church.”

READ : Visiting Mamertine Prison (where Peter was imprisoned)

necropolis

Over centuries of time, the necropolis became buried. For awhile, noone knew where St. Peter’s body was located. In the 1930s and 1940s, Pope Pius the XII ordered excavations to look for St. Peter.

Initially, archaeologists reached a dead end. But eventually experts figured out where to look. They found a tomb set apart from all the others.

Inside, they found the remains of a senior adult male of burly stature, matching the description of Saint Peter. The real proof? The skeleton’s feet were missing.

You will also see tombs from the Roman era and ancient graffiti and inscriptions made by early Christians.

St. Peter's dome

St. Peter’s dome

18. St. Peter’s Dome

In 1546, Michelangelo was hired to design St. Peter’s dome. It was only partially completed at his death. The hemispherical interior follows Michelangelo’s designs.

The construction of the dome was completed by Giacomo Della Porta and Domenico Fontana in 1590. They substituted an elegant “melon” dome for a hemispherical dome on the exterior. Above the windows, the dome is divided by 16 ribs.

The dome rests on a tambour, a cylinder of stone fronted by colossal Corinthian columns. The columns serve the same purpose as flying buttresses, counteracting the outward thrust of the dome.

The dome is topped by a 55 foot lantern and beautiful golden globe with a cross, similar to the one on the Baldachin. St. Peter’s beautiful dome inspired domes like that of Les Invalides in Paris .

detail of the cupola

detail of the cupola

19. Climbing the Dome

The dome rises right above the Baldachin. The interior is beautifully decorated with glittering golden mosaics. They were added in the late 16th century by renowned artists such as Cesare Nebbia, Paolo Rossetti, Giovanni de’ Vecchi and the Cavalier d’Arpino.

The mosaics are divided into six concentric rings. The rings depict the popes, saints, apostles, angles, etc.

The entrance to climb the dome is at the portico of the Basilica. For just € 6, you can climb up a narrow spiraling flight of stairs to inspect the cupola at close range. There’s also an elevator for € 8.

view of the cupola

view of the cupola

Halfway up, you’ll have a bird’s eye view of the mosaics and the nave below. You can also walk out onto the roof of the basilica and check out the statues of Christ and the apostles (seen from the back).

Continue 320 steps higher to stand on the outside of the dome. It’s a claustrophobic ascent.

This is where you have the iconic view of St. Peter’s Square and a panoramic view of Rome. The best time to photograph this spot is near closing time, when the sun is behind the basilica.

view of St. Peter's Square from the dome

view of St. Peter’s Square from the dome

20. St. Peter’s Square

In 1656, Pope Alexander VII commissioned Bernini to build a vast square worthy of St. Peter’s Basilica. Prior to hiring Bernini, the piazza was an empty space with a lone obelisk. Bernini created an elliptical plaza with two semi circular colonnades, consisting of four rows of Doric columns.

The colonnades represent a pair of stretched and embracing arms, welcoming pilgrims to the basilica. If you stand on the foci (marble plates) near the fountain designed by Maderno, the columns line up perfectly behind one another.

On the balustrade at the top of the columns are a line of 140 statues of saints, martyrs, and popes crafted by Bernini’s workshop. At the center is is an Egyptian obelisk brought to Rome by Caligula around 37 A.D.

The paving stones of the square are cobblestone and travertine marble. They radiate from the central hub of the obelisk. The square is a magnificent entry point to the basilica, meant to be a symbolic heaven.

view of St. Peter's Basilica and the Bridge of Angels

Practical Guide & Tips for Visiting St. Peter’s Basilica

Address : Viale Vaticano 00165 Rome

The basilica is open daily 7:00 am to 7:00 pm, closing at 6:00 pm in winter. Be aware that, on Wednesdays when the Pope holds his audience in St. Peter’s Square, the Basilica doesn’t open until 12:00-1:00 pm.

Entrance : If you’re already in the Vatican Museums, you can enter St. Peter’s Basilica from the Sistine Chapel.

Entry fee : Free, but you’ll have to line up and go through security. Audio guides can be rented at the entrance of the Basilica.

statue of Jesus you can see while climbing the dome

statue of Jesus you can see while climbing the dome

Dome Entry Fee and Hours

The entrance to the dome is on the right side of the basilica, above the visitor center. The dome is open daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, until 6:00 pm during high season from April 1 to September 30.

A ticket costs € 6 euros if you climb the 551 steps or € 8 to take the elevator midway up. You can also book a guided tour of the basilica that includes a dome climb.

From the elevator, it’s another 320 steps to the top. Allow about an hour for the experience.

visit st peters basilica

Treasury: Open from 09:00 – 18:15, April to September and from 09:00 – 17:15, October to March. €5 to enter.

How Best To Visit St. Peter’s Basilica

Here’s my recommendation for the best way to visit St. Peter’s Basilica. Enter the basilica, look around to get a feel for its grandeur and magnificent statuary.

Head down to the papal tombs in the grotto. The exit will take you back outside where you’ll find the ticket office for the dome.

Climb up the dome and enjoy the views. Climb back down and enter back into the basilica. Then, with your audio guide, you can soak in all the wonders inside.

There’s no entry fee, but you have to go through security to get into the basilica. There are almost always long lines. These queues tend to move along fairly swiftly, so don’t be too put off by the masses of tourists.

If you want to avoid them, it’s best to shown up bright and early at 7:00 am. Of course, if you access the basilica as part of a Vatican Museums visit, there won’t be a line either.

sculpture of Pope Pius X

How To Visit St. Peter’s Tomb

It’s rather difficult to visit St. Peter’s tomb. Only 250 people are allowed in daily in small groups of 12.

You have to go through an application action process and sign up for the Scavi tour. Click here for the Vatican’s official Scavi website.

Two months before your visit, you will need to send a fax or email, providing information on your visit and the date range you’ll be in Rome.

Then, you just wait for them to get back to you. Once they do, you will need to prepay for the tour (13 €). Show up 10 minutes early.

If you can’t get in, you might consider a visit to Mamertine Prison . You can see the cell where St. Peter was held before his execution.

view of S.t Peter's Basilica from Castle Sant'Angelo

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to visiting St. Peter’s Basilica. You may enjoy these other Rome travel guides and resources:

  • 8 one day in Rome itineraries
  • 3 day itinerary for Rome
  • 5 day itinerary for Rome
  • Itinerary for central Rome
  • Hidden gems in Rome
  • Best museums in Rome
  • Archaeological sites in Rome
  • Masterpieces of the Vatican
  • Guide to Palatine Hill
  • Guide to the Roman Forum
  • Guide to the Colosseum

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Last Updated on November 19, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

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City tours

  • St Peter's Basilica

How to visit the St Peter’s Basilica in Vatican ?

st peter's basilica vatican

  • In St Peter's Basilica

Standing in St Peter’s Square looking at the stunning St Peter’s Basilica is one of the most awe-inspiring sights in all of Rome! St Peter’s Basilica is way more than a spectacular church , and boasts lots of interesting nooks and crannies, as well as some very interesting and unexpected surprises.

Read on to find out how to navigate this historical treasure when visiting the Vatican City, and discover absolute must-see attractions within St Peter’s Basilica.

  • 1 What to see at St Peter’s Basilica ?
  • 2.1 Public transport
  • 2.2 Hop-On-Hop-Off buses
  • 3 When is the best time to visit the St Peter’s Basilica?
  • 4 Free Entrance to St Peter’s Basilica?
  • 5.1 Tip 1 / The sneaky shortcut from the Sistine Chapel directly into the Basilica
  • 5.2 Tip 2 / Book an official tour
  • 5.3 Tip 3 / Use your Rome Tourist Card
  • 6 How to best visit St Peter’s Basilica – Should you book a St Peter’s Basilica guided tour?
  • 7 Are the Omnia card or Roma Pass worth it to visit the St Peter’s Basilica?
  • 8.1 St Peter’s Basilica Opening Hours
  • 8.2 Dress code
  • 8.3 Security Control
  • 8.4 Restrooms
  • 8.5 Pickpockets
  • 9 What to see around St Peter’s Basilica?
  • 10 Conclusion

What to see at St Peter’s Basilica ?

st peter s basilica vatican dome

OK, so you’re standing in St Peter’s Square in a queue for security. You know you’re going to see an old church, probably with a really ornate interior and maybe a nice altar.

But there is so much more hiding behind the spectacular façade of St Peter’s Basilica . There’s the stunning atrium with its columns and monuments, and the dome from which you will get unrivalled views of St Peter’s Square and Rome beyond.

Then there are the Vatican Grottoes and the Necropolis, and of course the St Peter’s Treasury. If you don’t have time to visit the Vatican Museums when in Rome, at least try to get over to spend some time in St Peters Basilica!

How to get to St Peter’s Basilica?

Rome has a great transport network, and getting to St Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican City is really easy , with options to suit every budget .

Hop On Hop Off Bus vatican price

Public transport

  • The metro is a great option for those who like the adventure, with Line A connecting right to the Vatican City. Disembark at the Ottaviano-S. Pietro station, from which St Peters Basilica is a mere five minute walk.
  • Buses too are a good option for those on a budget , with lines 40, 81, 62 and 64 all stopping within a five minute walk of the Vatican City
  • The tram network of Rome offers limited options, with the number 19 tram stopping at Piazza Risorgimento, a decent option for those who are staying near any tram stop on line 19.

Hop-On-Hop-Off buses

A great option for those who want to ensure they see all the sights in Rome with  the added bonus of either a live tour guide on the bus or an audio guide .

These buses offer tickets that include not only unlimited travel for a certain amount of hours but often also include tickets to attractions ( check prices here ). And all make stops near the Vatican City for easy access to St Peter’s Basilica .

When is the best time to visit the St Peter’s Basilica?

st peter s basilica St Peter s Square vatican

The Vatican is a busy place , attracting millions of visitors every year. As a result it’s always busy, and the Basilica is no exception! Crowds spike in the summer months, school holidays and special religious occasions such as near Christmas and Easter .

We’d recommend visiting St Peters Basilica and the Vatican in the off season , somewhere between the end of October and the middle of September . Not only is it likely to be less crowded, but also the searing summer sun will have disappeared in favour of more pleasant cooler weather better suited for queuing and sitting enjoying the atmosphere in St Peter’s Square.

The St Peter’s Basilica opening hours are between 7am to 7pm, closing at 6pm in the low season. To avoid the crowds, either get there super early (like, right at 7am) or much later (like 5/6pm when the tour groups are long gone.

Free Entrance to St Peter’s Basilica?

st peter's basilica vatican

The Vatican See can’t charge entry to a working church, so if you are on a budget you can still access one of the Vatican’s must see attractions free of charge . It’s a good option for those who have the luxury of time and are prepared to join the long queue for the church, but once inside you will have access to the main atrium and its spectacular sights.

If on the other hand you are making a quick stop to the Vatican this might not be the best option – so read on to see how you can skip the line at St Peters Basilica ( check prices here ).

How to skip the line at the St Peter’s Basilica?

St peter's basilica skip the line

Be careful here not to fall into a tourist trap. As St Peters Basilica is free to enter so there is no such things as St Peter’s Basilica tickets per se, nor are there skip the line tickets available for sale ( check on this website ).

There are however a couple of tips we can share with you to help you skip the line at St Peters Basilica – but you’ll have to pay for these options:

Tip 1 / The sneaky shortcut from the Sistine Chapel directly into the Basilica

Officially, this shortcut is only accessible to those on special guided tours of the Vatican Museums. Tour groups are permitted to access St Peters Basilica directly from a special door in the Sistine Chapel, bypassing the queues at the main entrance

Tip 2 / Book an official tour

If you have the money then book St Peter’s Basilica tickets with a tour guide ( available here ). The official guides have access to shorter queues that will help you bypass the queues during St Peters Basilica opening hours

Tip 3 / Use your Rome Tourist Card

If you are planning to take the Rome Tourist Card ( check price here ) for your stay in Rome, remember that the entrance to the Basilica is included with it. So there's no need to wait in line. And it comes with a English audio guide.

How to best visit St Peter’s Basilica – Should you book a St Peter’s Basilica guided tour?

st peter's basilica

Whilst the place is free to access , you really could miss out on a lot of great information if you just go on in and wander around.

Of course, you’ll still be able to access the spectacular interior of the atrium and marvel at the architecture, but to really experience the place we’d recommend either booking a guided tour (either a group tour or – if you really want to splash out – a private guided tour.)

There’s also a budget friendly option for those who want to know just that little bit more about the Basilica – audio guides are available for rent for just 15 euros.

Are the Omnia card or Roma Pass worth it to visit the St Peter’s Basilica?

st peter's basilica Roma Pass Vatican

The Omnia Card and the Roma Pass are popular travel cards that get you free transport within Rome and to the Vatican , and access or discounted access to some of Rome’s top attractions.

So, whilst you don’t need St Peter’s Basilica tickets, the Omnia Card and Roma Pass are indeed useful as they will help you get to the Vatican and St Peters Basilica free of charge !

As said before, the Rome Tourist Card is a good way to skip Basilica's queue.

Practical Information – tips for visiting St Peter’s Basilica

Here are a few additional tips to help you get the most out of your visit, whether you are on a guided tour or just visiting yourself.

st peter's basilica info Vatican

St Peter’s Basilica Opening Hours

Open 7am-7pm, closing at 6pm in the off season

As with other Vatican attractions you will need to adhere to a respectful dress code – knees and shoulders must be covered , children as well. Ladies, it’s practical to keep a shawl in your bag if you are visiting the Vatican City as it will give you a quick and easy way to cover up.

Security Control

Airport style security exists on access to St Peters Basilica. You’ll be required to check any dangerous items such as large umbrellas, pocket knives and camera equipment into the cloakroom

Beside the gift shop, also there are a couple of toilets in St Peter’s Square

Pickpockets

As with any major attraction in Rome please be careful with your belongings and don’t display any valuables

What to see around St Peter’s Basilica?

st peter's basilica vatican garden

The attractions of the Vatican City are just on the doorstep of St Peter’s Basilica! If you have the time and money pre-book skip the line Vatican Museum tickets, or a special tour of the Vatican Gardens .

Within the holy church there are also several pay into attractions, such as the Dome, the Necropolis and the Grottoes, some of which can only be accessed by special reservation.

Hopefully our extensive guide to the Papal Basilica of St Peter will serve you well! Once you are done planning your trip to St Peter’s Basilica why not check out our other guides to some of the Vatican’s top attractions?

Jonathan Yvin

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A Guide To Visiting St. Peter's Basilica

St Peters Basilica

A visit to St. Peter’s Basilica is a must during your time in Rome. Not only is it the most important example of Renaissance architecture and one of the holiest Catholic shrines in the world, it is a breathtakingly beautiful feat of human artistry and engineering. With its prominent position in Vatican City , it touts the highest dome in the world and is visible throughout the skyline in Rome. Read on for some history and pointers on visiting this illustrious Papal Basilica.

St. peter’s basilica.

According to Catholic tradition, St. Peter’s Basilica was built upon the burial site of St. Peter the Apostle, the first Bishop of Rome and regarded today as the first Pope. The Vatican even offers tours of its underground necropolis during which you visit St. Peter’s suspected grave, now demarcated with a shrine. A church has existed on this site since the reign of Constantine the Great, the first Roman Emperor to convert to Christianity around 300 AD. The current Basilica was commissioned by Pope Julius II in 1506 and was completed under Pope Urban VIII in 1626; it replaced the ‘Old St. Peter’s Basilica’ that Emperor Constantine had built in the 4th century.

St. Peter’s Basilica

Several renowned Renaissance artists and architects helped shape the architectural plan of the Basilica, including Bramante, Raphael, Peruzzi and Sangallo. It was Michelangelo who ended up being the principal designer of the building and who unified the creative visions of the previous architects: he incorporated Bramante’s Greek Cross as a central feature and used Sangallo’s plans to develop the structure of the large dome. Inside are incredible works of art, including the altar with Bernini’s Baroque baldacchino and Michelangelo’s moving Renaissance sculpture, Pietà .

St. Peter’s Basilica is open daily running on two schedules for the summer and winter months. Audio guides can be rented at the entrance of the Basilica. Expect long lines throughout the year and dress appropriately: shorts, short skirts or bare shoulders are not allowed inside.

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Hours October 1st – March 31st; Open daily from 7:00 – 18:30 April 1st – September 30th; Open daily from 7:00 – 19:00

On Wednesdays when the Pope holds his audience in St. Peter’s Square, the Basilica remains closed until 12:00.

St. Peter’s Basilica Cupola

For an incredible view from the top of Saint Peter’s Basilica, pay a visit to the splendid Cupola. Admire the inside of St. Peter’s Basilica and look out onto the architectural splendor of St. Peter’s Square from up high. You have two options: climb 551 steps for €6 or take an elevator halfway up for €8, then climb the remaining 320 steps. The space is tight, so it’s not for the faint of heart, but the vista from up above is one-of-a-kind.

Hours October 1st – March 31st; Open daily from 8:00 – 17:00 April 1st – September 30th; Open daily from 8:00 – 18:00

St. Peter’s Square

Attend A Mass

Attend mass Monday through Saturday at 9:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00 or 17:00. Mass is held within one of the chapels inside St. Peter’s Basilica.

On Sundays, mass is held at 9:00, 10:30, 11:30, 12:10, 13:00, 16:00 and 17:30. Although there are more times, the Vatican will be significantly more crowded.

Virtual Tour

The Vatican has done some excellent work with 3D virtual tours of its treasures. Visit St. Peter’s Basilica and Square or the Sistine Chapel .

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St Peters Basilica Rome - discover how to visit like a pro!

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By Elyssa Bernard

March 13, 2023

Planning to visit St Peters Basilica Rome?

Learn about its history, art, and architecture and find out the best way to visit this amazing monument in Rome!

st peter's basilica and st peter's square

Visiting St Peters Basilica Rome - Everything You Need to Know

Visiting the Vatican is usually at the top of everyone's list when they visit Rome, especially for first-time visitors. 

One part of that visit should include going inside  St Peters Basilica .

Here's everything you need to know so you can make the most out of your visit to this spectacular church:

  • What is St Peters Basilica and why should you see it ?
  • What is there to see inside the Basilica ?
  • What's the BEST way to visit St Peters Basilica ?
  • Is the Sistine Chapel in St Peters Basilica ?
  • Can you get to the Sistine Chapel from St Peters Basilica ?
  • How to avoid the crowds at St Peters Basilica

How to avoid the queues/lines at St Peters Basilica

  • How to attend mass with the Pope at St Peters Basilica
  • How to visit St Peters tomb
  • How to climb the dome of St Peter's Basilica
  • Should you take a tour of St Peter's basilica ?

Where to eat near St Peters Basilica

  • Details - Hours, costs, location and how to get to there

This page is specifically about St Peters Basilica in Rome.

If you want to know more about visiting the Vatican Museums where the Sistine Chapel is, go here .

What is St Peter's Basilica?

Saint Peter's Basilica is considered to be one of the most important, holiest Catholic churches in the world .

One reason for this is that Saint Peter is said to be buried directly underneath the church (hence its name.)

The basilica is a Renaissance church, built in the 1500's.

It replaced the first St. Peters Basilica originally built under the emperor Constantine in the early 4th century. 

St. Peters Basilica with bernini fountain

Quick fun facts about Saint Peters Basilica in Rome:

  • St Peter's basilica is not a cathedral (a cathedral needs to have a bishop and St. Peter's does not have one.)
  • Although Saint Peter's is one of the most important Catholic churches in the world, it is NOT the Pope's church . The Pope , who is the Bishop of Rome , has as his church the Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran (also in Rome.) THAT is the most important church in Catholicdom, and is a cathedral since it has a bishop (the Pope.)
  • The current version of St Peters Basilica Rome, in particular the dome , was (mostly)  designed by Michelangelo , but other artists of the day ( Bramante and Raphael among others) were first assigned to design it before him. Michelangelo never got to see his dome completed.
  • Michelangelo's Pietà sits in the first transept on the right when you walk in. He was 22 when he made it, and relatively unknown. He signed Mary's sash so people would know it was his work, but never signed (or needed to sign) another work after that.
  • There is a saying that Michelangelo built St. Peter's Basilica, and Bernini decorated it . Why? Keep reading!
  • Saint Peter's Basilica is, by many standards, the largest Christian church in the world . Its dome is the tallest dome in the world at 136.57 meters (448.1 ft).
  • The basilica is one of the four Papal basilicas in Rome, the others are St John in Lateran , Santa Maria Maggiore and Saint Paul Outside the Walls .

An Excellent Book!

As you might imagine, there are whole books dedicated to all the history and art of St Peters Basilica Rome. One book I really recommend is this easy and fun-to-read 101 Surprising Facts About St. Peter's and the Vatican , written by Father Jeff Kirby.

What is there to see inside the Basilica?

There is SO MUCH to see in St Peters Basilica!

The first thing I would tell you is that you should just see the church itself, inside and out.

It's magnificent.

The central nave of St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican in Rome

To keep things simple, let's just go over a few important things you may want to look for if you go without a guide (more on that below):

pieta

Want to take a virtual visit of St Peters Basilica? You can, on the Vatican website !

Is the Sistine Chapel in Saint Peters Basilica?

The Sistine Chapel is not inside St. Peter's basilica. 

To see Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel , you need to visit the Vatican Museums .

The Sistine Chapel is at the very end of that visit.

Click here to find out everything you need to know about Vatican museum tickets.

sistine chapel ceiling

There are many beautiful chapels along the sides of St. Peter's basilica.

For more about them, you may want to get the audio guide or take a guided tour .

Can you get to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel from St Peters Basilica?

They are completely separate buildings and their entrances are about 20 minutes' walk apart.

Take a look at this map of Vatican city . (It opens in a new window.)

You can see the entrance to the Vatican Museums (red arrow), in relation to the entrance to St Peters Basilica Rome (black.)

You CAN however, get inside St Peters Basilica Rome from the Vatican Museums/Sistine Chapel , as long as you take a guided tour that specifically includes Saint Peter's Basilica.

The perfect 3-day itinerary in Rome

Trying to figure out how to organize your visit to Rome? I've got the perfect 3-day itinerary for first-time visitors (or those who have not been here in a while.) It works for a 2.5 day visit as well.

In my 3-day itinerary, you'll see all the major must-see Rome attractions like the Vatican , Colosseum , Trevi Fountain , Pantheon , Piazza Navona , Spanish Steps , Castel Sant'Angelo , and much more.

And if you have more time, or want suggestions for extra/other things to do, you'll find that there too.

Visit my page with the best 3-day itinerary in Rome for first-timers .

How to avoid the crowds at St Peters Basilica Rome

Saint Peter's basilica is  one of the most popular sites to see in Rome ( even if it's not technically in Rome ).

This means it's nearly always crowded.

So how can you avoid these crowds?

st peters basilica early morning

Most of the tourist attractions in Rome (and probably in any tourist city), have crowds in a kind of bell-curve throughout any given day.

This means that at the very beginning of a site being open, and also at the very end, near closing time you will usually find fewer people.

Crowds tend to swell in the middle of the day.

St Peters Basilica

I LOVE going to St Peters Basilica at 7am because it means no crowds, no lines, no waiting.

And that is pretty much the only time when you are (most likely) going to find the basilica completely un-crowded.

This will NOT work on a Wednesday when there is a Papal Audience .

On those mornings, St Peters basilica is closed until around 12:30-1pm , when the audience has finished and the crowds from the audience have mostly cleared.

And it should go without saying, you cannot visit St Peters Basilica in the morning on important Catholic holidays like Christmas and Easter , and/or when the Pope will hold mass .

In these cases, you will have to wait for mass to end, and for the basilica to reopen to the public.

st peter's square at 7 AM

Going at 7am means waking up pretty early, but it also means:

  • Not having to queue at all (you just walk right up and breeze through security)
  • Beautiful light , both in the square and inside the church
  • You can climb the dome relatively alone , which for me is important since I am claustrophobic , and if I go first thing in the morning, there is nobody in front of or behind me. (The only catch is that the sun will be coming up right in front of you so it does not make for a great photo at that time!)

St Peter's Basilica in Rome

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St Peter's square from the top of the dome, early morning

If you go to St Peters Basilica Rome  close to closing time , you will also likely avoid the crowds .

There is a catch with this method, however:  Even right up to closing, there are always lines to go through security and they are long .

Even at the end of the day.

So you will likely have to wait in line, and this means you have to be careful not to cut it too close to closing time or you will simply not be allowed in.

Closing times at a site or monument in Rome indicate the time the doors will be locked.

This usually means last entry is at least half hour (or more) before that.

Also, they start shooing you out at least 20 minutes before the closing time.

So bottom line, you want to be inside by at least 45 minutes to an hour before "closing time."

St Peters Basilica Rome closes at 7 pm from April - October, and 6:30 pm from November - March.

You should plan to start waiting in line no more than 1.5 hours before these times or you risk not getting in.

st peters basilica empty near closing time

One final caveat to going at the end of the day to avoid the crowds - this will likely mean you will not be able to climb the dome , as it closes an hour before the basilica, but last entry is a bit before that.

Avoiding the crowds usually means avoiding the lines/queues.

But if you can't help coming when it's crowded, at least you can avoid the queues:

It is free to visit St Peters Basilica Rome.

However, you have to go through security (like at the airport), and even with many lanes open, this still takes time, resulting in long lines, most of the day and throughout the year. 

line to get into st peter's basilica in january

There are, however, 2 ways to avoid these queues/lines.

Both of these involve still going through security as there is simply no way to avoid that:

Come at 7am

As I mentioned when speaking about avoiding the crowds, if you come at 7am (except on Wednesdays or any other important day that the Pope will be giving mass, like Easter Sunday or Christmas Day ), you will find no lines at all to get in.

You will have to go through security but there will likely not be any wait at all.

no line at 7 AM!

Come into the basilica from another part of the vatican

If you book a tour of the Vatican Museums   or St. Peter's Tomb , you will be able to access Saint Peter's Basilica from a different area, with no queuing.

(You will have gone through security at those other sites first.)

shortcut from sistine chapel to st peter's basilica

Should you take a tour of St Peters basilica Rome?

When you take a tour of the Vatican Museums , a tour of St. Peter's Basilica is often included at the end (but not always).

If you want to make sure that you get a tour of the basilica when you book your Vatican Museums tour , make sure it's included.

If you just want to visit St Peters Basilica Rome and not the museums, and you'd like a tour, you can get an audio-guide, or book a tour  (this particular tour with Walks of Italy begins at 8 AM so they do say you "skip the line", but again, if there is any security line, you will have to go through that line, but at that hour, it should be minimal.)

However, booking a tour of Saint Peter's Basilica alone does NOT allow you to skip the security line.

Which tour to take and which company?

You may notice on this website I have links to various companies such as Get Your Guide, Walks of Italy, and  Viator.

All are online tour agencies and sometimes they offer many of the exact same tours.

Some companies offer unique tours which is why I sometimes suggest one or the other.

Or perhaps you are more comfortable booking on a particular company website with which you are more familiar. 

All my links for tours are to reliable tour operators, or I would not partner with them!

How to attend mass with the Pope at St Peters Basilica Rome

The Pope holds mass in St. Peter's basilica on special occasions, such as during  Christmas  and  Easter .

He also holds a regular Wednesday audience  (free), and a  Sunday Angelus  (a short greeting to the crowd in the square, from a window above.) 

crowd watching the pope give the angelus

Most of the time, however, when you visit St. Peter's basilica Rome, you will not find the Pope there.

In fact, if the pope is holding a mass, the basilica will be closed for visits.

To find out the Pope's schedule, visit the Vatican website , and click on the calendar.

There are many ways you CAN see the Pope in Rome, not always at St. Peter's Basilica.

These include the Papal Audience , as well as liturgical masses and other events.

Visit my page about how to see the Pope in Rome for more details.

Ready to plan your trip?

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How to visit Saint Peters tomb

They do not allow you to take photos while visiting St Peters Tomb.

I don't have any photos, despite having been a few times, and it's difficult to even find photos on the internet.

Trust me when I tell you it's a wonderful tour!

Since St. Peter is believed to be buried underneath this basilica , visiting his tomb can be the experience of a lifetime.

It turns out it's even more than that - it's a fantastic, archeological visit down to the levels of the church when Constantine was emperor.

You will see ancient tombs, paintings, sarcofagi and much more on this extraordinary visit below ground.

It used to be that the only way to book this visit was by contacting the Vatican office of excavations ( scavi. )

You can still do that.

Here is the official scavi website .

You will need to send a fax or email, detailing the number of people, names, language preferred for the tour and the date range you will be in Rome.

Then you will need to just wait for them to get back to you. Once they do, you will need to prepay (13€.)

Now, you can book immediately online via a tour operator (which books through the official Vatican channels itself).

This way, you can see availability, pay immediately, and get a skip-the-line access and tour also of St. Peters Basilica included.

Yes, this way it costs a lot more.

So it's a matter of price vs. convenience/ease of use.

Visit the tomb as part of a guided tour through St. Peters Basilica.

How to climb the dome of St Peters Basilica Rome

Climbing the dome of St Peters Basilica is really special.

You get right up close and personal with Michelangelo's dome.

St.Peters Basilica

And if you go all the way to the tippy top, you will be rewarded with spectacular views of St Peters Square below, and the cityscape of Rome beyond.

Visit my page all about St Peter's dome  for lots more details, including how, when, why and how much!

The BEST way to visit St Peters Basilica Rome

The best way to visit St Peters Basilica Rome is to go early early early.

Sorry but that's the best advice I can give you.

I know it's no fun waking at the crack of dawn on vacation, but trust me, once you get here at 7am, and see that you have the whole square to yourself, and then breeze in with no lines . . . and then see this amazing church, with the early morning sunlight beams streaming in, you will thank me!

Don't forget to dress appropriately (no bare knees, midriffs or shoulders).

This is true for everyone, all ages. If you are not sure if your dress/shorts are long enough, they might not be.

Play it safe.

They are very serious about being modestly covered to enter St Peters Basilica Rome!

St. Peter's basilica early morning

Yes you can take photos.

No flash, no selfie sticks and no tripods .

And make sure to wear comfortable shoes!!! You'll do more walking than you think, even just to go through the square and wander around the church.

Don't forget to bring these essential travel items with you!

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OK let's say you do not want to or just cannot manage a 7 AM visit.

The best way to visit St Peters Basilica Rome is to either arrive prepared to wait in line, or, prepare to skip the line (as I explained above.)

Once you are in, I suggest you simply start in the front and take it in.

Stand right near the entrance, and look down.

There you will see the porphyry marble disc where Charlemagne was crowned holy Roman Emperor in 800. 

Soak up the atmosphere, and try to realize just how enormous this beautiful building is.

Now walk to the right and visit Michelangelo's Pietà.

There will be a lot of people (unless you go at 7 AM).

But trust me, they all move eventually so just be patient.

Take your time.

The sculpture is behind glass but it's still easy to observe it fairly close up.

Think about what Michelangelo said - that every piece of marble has a sculpture inside, and it is up to the artist to chip away at the outside and reveal it.

Only he could have said that, and only he could have done such a thing.

Michelangelo's pietà

Take your time making your way counter-clockwise around the church, and make sure not to miss any side-chapels and their domes. 

Spend some time admiring Bernini's baldachin (bronze canopy.)

It may not seem that enormous because the dome is so high above it, but in fact it is about 6-7 stories high!

If you have time, you may also want to head down to the grottoes just below , to see where some popes are buried .

Note that this is NOT a visit to St. Peters tomb , which must be booked separately.

If you do this, just know that you will have to leave from here.

So make it the last thing you visit.

Be very sure you have seen all you want to see before you leave.

As I said above, the lines to get in are long, and once you exit, you will have to stand in line all over again if you decide to go back!

There is no place to eat INSIDE of St Peters Basilica Rome.

There are cafeterias inside the Vatican Museums , but that is a completely separate building and visit.

There is also a cafe up on the roof if you climb the dome , but it's got limited choices of course.

lunch near the vatican

There are a lot of very touristy places right around the basilica.

For someplace more authentic, walk just a bit farther away.

fennel salad at sorpasso near the vatican

Details - Hours, costs, location, and how to get to the basilica

Where is st peter's basilica.

Saint Peter's Basilica is inside Vatican City , which is a sovereign nation-state enclaved inside Rome , Italy.

You can easily get to it on foot from many of the top tourist attractions in Rome .

Click the map for more details (it opens in a new window.)

Opening days and Times

St Peters Basilica is open 365 days a year (with occasional exceptions. Visit the official Vatican website for any schedule updates.)

From October 1 - March 31 the hours are from 7am - 6:30pm.

From April 1 - September 30, the hours are from 7am - 7pm.

Keep in mind, these closing hours means they lock the doors then.

This means you will have to be out by at least 20 minutes before that.

Vatican City Church Services

If you wish to attend Holy Mass in St Peters Basilica Rome, here are the hours (note these will NOT be given by the Pope):

Weekdays : 8:30 – 9:00 – 10:00 – 11:00 – 12:00 – 17:00 (in Latin)

Holidays : 9:00 – 10:30 (in Latin) – 11:30 – 12:15 – 13:00 – 16:00 – 17:45

Costs + Skip the line

It's free to visit St Peters Basilica Rome.

As I mentioned above, the only way to skip the line is to come at 7 AM or to take a tour of the Vatican Museums that includes the basilica, or a tour of St. Peter's Tomb.

How to get to st peters basilica Rome

Depending on where you are coming from, the bus or metro are the easiest ways to get to St Peters Basilica.

If you take the metro (red line, from Spanish Steps or Termini, among other stations), get off at Ottaviano.

It's about a 10-15 minute walk to the basilica from there.

There are lots of buses that go near St Peters Basilica Rome.

If you have a smart phone, I'd suggest using Google maps with public transportation, to plan your route.

You can also get to the basilica on foot, which makes for a dramatic visual effect the closer you get to Vatican Square .

To get here on foot, the prettiest way is to cross the Angel Bridge to Castel Sant'Angelo , and make a left!

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the roman guy st peters basilica

17 Top Things To See at St. Peter’s Basilica

Brandon Shaw Last Updated: December 5, 2022

Did you know St. Peter’s Basilica is the biggest Catholic Church in the world? That means there’s a lot to see, but don’t worry—we’re here to guide you through it. In this article, Brandon Shaw, a licensed Vatican tour guide, makes sure you see all the main highlights on your visit to this exquisite basilica.

Pro Tip:  Planning your visit to St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you’re in the city. See our  guide to St. Peter’s Basilica  for more planning resources, our  top Vatican tours  for a memorable trip, and  how to climb St. Peter’s Dome .

What To See at St. Peter’s Basilica by a Vatican Guide

For me, there’s no church that compares to St. Peter’s Basilica. It’s the ultimate expression of space, beauty, and monumental grandeur. It also happens to have an amazing history to it. 

According to legend, St. Peter was in Rome during the Christian persecution of A.D. 64 under the emperor Nero. He was caught up in the frenzy and martyred by upside-down crucifixion.

The Circus of Nero was located where the church stands today. A circus used to be a place where they held chariot racing. It was in this area that St. Peter was said to be buried in a nearby necropolis, along with other Christians and pagans alike. 

In this comprehensive St. Peter’s Basilica guide, you’ll discover the most important artwork for your visit. Without further ado, let’s go discover the basilica!

How To Climb Michelangelo's Dome of the St. Peter’s Basilica

Not ready to book a tour? See if a Vatican tour is worth it .

17. La Navicella Mosaic by Giotto

the roman guy st peter's basilica

Giotto di Bordone | 1300 | Mosaic | Atrium Before Entering Church

This mosaic was created by the super-famous Giotto di Bondone. Never heard of him? This name probably won’t mean much to you if you haven’t studied Renaissance art history.

Before the Renaissance, paintings were extremely unremarkable with two-dimensional, almost stick figure-like people. There was no expression and no life in their faces—true sadness, like life in general before the Renaissance.

Giotto was the one to revolutionize this and made people look like real people. However, this is actually a mosaic and not a painting. Despite the medium, it still renders that life-like imaging that he introduced and set the scene for centuries to come.

There’s a boat full of St. Peter’s companions looking on in fear as St. Peter faces Jesus, who is walking on the water. The best way to view is right before entering the church itself. Turn around and look up.

16. The Fountains in St. Peter’s Square

the roman guy st peter's basilica

Maderno and Bernini | 1612 and 1677 | White Marble | St. Peter’s Square

The most famous square in the world has two fountains on either side of St. Peter’s Square. Carlo Maderno designed the first fountain on the right in 1612 and also designed the facade of the building.

In 1677, exactly 65 years later, Bernini created a second fountain on the opposite side of the square that is almost identical to Moderno’s design. Today, fountains get very little appreciation unless they can move to the beat of a famous tune.

To fully appreciate the fountain, consider the tools available in the 17th century. We’re not talking about hammers and other tools used to carve the fountain—we’re talking about the water.

If you saw one of these fountains in St. Peter’s Square, you’d probably wonder where they got the water and how they got it to shoot up that high. There’s no river of rushing water nearby. While the Tiber is in fact nearby, it’s at a far lower level and would definitely not allow this fountain to propel water up in the air. It was like magic!

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15. The Pillars

the roman guy st peter's basilica

Gian Lorenzo Bernini | 1628 – 1639 | Various Stones | Interior St. Peter’s Basilica by the Dome

To hold up the massive dome of St. Peter’s Basilica, the pillars needed to be gigantic and they are. Donato Bramante started them and Michelangelo finished them. When you look up at them, you’ll notice there are decorations on all four of the pillars.

The illustrious Gian Lorenzo Bernini did the decorations, of course. He carved out the massive niches (33 feet in height) and worked on them between the years 1628 and 1639. Pope Urban VIII commissioned the decorations with the idea of housing the following sacred relics:

  • A piece of the spear of the centurion St. Longinus who pierced the side of Jesus while on the cross.
  • Fragments of the real cross of Jesus.
  • Veronica’s veil with the imprint of Jesus’ face on it.
  • The head of St. Andrew.

14. The Ceiling

the roman guy st peters basilica

Various Artists | 16th Century | Stone and Gold Leaf | Interior

Once you’re inside, look up. The ceiling is covered in gold leaf and shines as if you’re already in heaven. A common misconception is how big it actually is. Renaissance artists were great at illusions and proportions.

As you look higher up, things should appear smaller to you. However, in St. Peter’s Basilica, everything remains proportional as you look up. That’s because they made the artwork bigger the higher up you go. This is how they got everything to look perfectly proportional. Genius!

To drive this point home, look for the gold band with letters going around the entire church. According to St. Peter’s official website , the gold band measures 10 feet (three meters) high. The letters inside are each about eight feet in height.

Looking with the naked eye from below, you’d swear they were no bigger than a few feet. However, if you manage to see the cleaners up there next to the, you quickly realize just how big they are!

13. St. Peter’s Square

St Peter's Square Piazza San Pietro Dome Climb Vatican

Gian Lorenzo Bernini | 1655 – 1667 | Travertine | St. Peter’s Square

St. Peter’s Square is arguably the most famous square in the world. The idea of the square was first started by Pope Sixtus V (Pontiff from 1585 to 1590) when he ordered the massive Egyptian obelisk moved to the center of the future square.

At the time, it would have been moved to be directly in front of the newly finished basilica. The actual works on the square were initiated by Alexander VII (Pontiff from 1655 to 1667) and finished in 1667. The architect was none other than the famous Bernini.

The square is an elliptical shape and comprising 284 Doric columns four rows deep. The elliptical design was envisioned as a way to embrace all Christians who were entering St. Peter’s Basilica.

Interestingly, if you look at an aerial view of the square, it looks like a keyhole. This goes perfectly with St.Peter whose symbol during the Renaissance and even to this day are the two keys—one for heaven and one for earth. There are also two gigantic fountains on either side of the square, one created by Carlo Maderno and the other by Bernini himself.

Historically, the square would have been a meeting point for the feast of Corpus Christi, which was extremely popular at the time of the construction of the square. Today, the square is mainly used for two weekly events.

  • The Papal Audience: This takes place every Wednesday morning. The pope blesses the crowd as he travels in the popemobile.
  • The Angelus: This takes place every Sunday at noon. The pope from the historical residence of popes (the current pope doesn’t live there) gives a blessing to the crowd below.

12. The Dome

the roman guy st peter's basilica

Michelangelo | Throughout 16th Century | Various Stone | Interior

Michelangelo began working on the dome at the ripe old age of 72. To say the dome is massive is an understatement. Michelangelo, who was already rich by this time, refused payment. He worked only to give, “honor to St. Peter, glory to God, and for the salvation of his soul.”

St. Peter’s Basilica’s dome was inspired by that of the Pantheon. Its structure was also inspired by Brunelleschi’s Duomo di Firenze. It bears the distinction of being the tallest dome in the world and it is a prominent feature of Rome’s skyline.

The dome is so tall that you could fit the statue of liberty inside it. Remember that this was built over 400 years ago. The exact dimensions of St. Peter’s Dome are 448.1 feet tall (136.5 meters).

If you want to enjoy what is likely the best view in all of Rome, you should definitely climb St. Peter’s Dome . Just make sure you aren’t claustrophobic, since the passageway leading up gets narrower the higher up you go. The view makes it all worthwhile, though! Find out everything you need to know about how to climb St. Peter’s Dome .

11. Statue of St. Peter

the roman guy st peters basilica tour

Arnolfo di Cambio? | 1245 – 1250 | Bronze | Interior

As you near the Baldacchino by Bernini, you might notice a line forming on your right-hand side. That is a line of people who are waiting to touch the foot of the statue of St. Peter as a blessing.

According to the official website, the date of this statue is not clear, nor is the person who created it. Many attribute it to Arnolfo di Cambio in the 13th century, but we are not sure.

Tradition over the centuries has been to rub his right foot as a blessing. When you get close, you’ll see that due to the constant rubbing, his toes have completely worn away! Now people have started rubbing his left foot as well!

On June 29th, the feast of St. Peter, this statue is dressed in pontifical clothes including the fisherman’s ring and the papal tiara. Personally, it seems a bit odd to dress up a statue, but who am I to challenge centuries of tradition?

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10. Tomb of Innocent XI

the roman guy st peters basilica tour

Innocent XI stands out as one of the most important popes of the 17th century. He possessed superior morals and shunned nepotism and corruption at a time when both of these attributes plagued the papacy.

His involvement in the victory of Austria against the Ottoman Empire was key in stopping the spread of Islam into Western Europe. Curiously, he is buried in full view for all to see inside the church.

He is fully clothed and has a mask over his face and hands so that you cannot see his bones. You’ll find him right below the painting (mosaic, see below) of the Transfiguration by Raphael.

9. Holy Mass

the roman guy st peter's basilica

Many people ask me if they can attend mass at St. Peter’s Basilica. Of course, you can! It’s a functioning church. I actually highly recommend that you do it if possible. Here are the times:

  • 8:30 am: At the chapel of the Sacrament
  • 9 am: At the altar of St. Joseph
  • 10 am: At the altar of St. Joseph
  • 11 am: At the altar of St. Joseph
  • 12 pm: At the altar of St. Joseph
  • 5 pm: At the chapel under the Cathedra of St. Peter

8. St. Peter’s Throne

the roman guy st peter's basilica

Gian Lorenzo Bernini | 1658 – 1666 | Bronze | Interior

This is the ultimate baroque altar! Look at the power, the movement, and the color: that is what baroque art stands for. It is called the cathedra or throne where St. Peter supposedly sat and gave instructions to the Christians of Rome.

The bronze monument is actually covering a wood and ivory cathedra, which many believed was the real throne. It has now been proven by the church that the wooden throne is actually from 875.

At that time, Charles the Bald gave the throne to Pope John VIII. The cathedra, which is 21ft ( 7m) high, is covered in gilded bronze. The bronze sculpture is surrounded by “Doctors” of the Latin and Greek church: St. Augustine, St. Ambrosius, St. Athanasius, and St. John Chrysostom.

Above this, Bernini added a window in brown glass with a white dove in the middle. As the sun sets, it lets in a beautiful light, which I never fail to admire when I visit the church. This altar is at the complete opposite end of the entrance to the church. It’s also here where you can attend mass every day at 5 pm.

7. La Porta Santa (Holy Door)

the roman guy st peter's basilica

Vico Consorti | 1950 | Bronze | Atrium Before Entering Church

The holy door is opened during the holy year or Jubileum. According to a description in 1450 by a certain Giovanni Rucellai of Viterbo, Pope Martin V opened the first holy door in 1423 at the church San Giovanni in Laterano.

The first notes we have of the opening of a holy door at St. Peter’s Basilica are from 1499 during Christmas by Pope Alexander VI. For the next 450 years, the rituals involved with the opening and closing of the holy door have remained unchanged.

The minute details of what has changed will be reserved for another article. Suffice to say that this is one of the more interesting rituals of the Catholic Church over the centuries.

If you happen to be in Rome during a Jubiluem (every 25 years—the next one scheduled for 2025), you’ll find the holy doors open. Take advantage of it and walk through!

Pope Boniface VIII, named by Dante in the Divine Comedy, proclaimed the first Holy Year or Jubilee in 1300, to invite pilgrims to Rome for special indulgences. Enrico Bruschini, Art Historian and Official Vatican Tour Guide

6. The Paintings (Or Mosaics?)

the roman guy st peter's basilica

Various Mosaic Artists | 19th Century | Mosaic | Interior

I will let you in on a little secret about the paintings in St. Peter’s Basilica. There are no paintings! They are all actually glass or ceramic mosaics. In the 19th century, the many paintings that were in the church were beginning to deteriorate due to the humid conditions inside the basilica.

This is why when you’re in the basilica, you can take photos with a flash because you’re taking a picture of glass and not of a painting so no damage will be done. You have to get up very close to the picture in order to see the glare of light on it and the little squares of glass and ceramic. It’s a great surprise to show your friends when you’re there.

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Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  best Vatican tours to take and why.

5. The Obelisk

the roman guy st peter's basilica

Unknown Artist | 1985 B.C. – 1929 B.C. | Red Granite | St. Peter’s Square

In the middle of St. Peter’s square, you’ll see a giant piece of red granite. This is called an obelisk and if you pay attention, you’ll see quite a few of them around Rome. This particular obelisk was originally erected in the middle of the spina or central area of Nero’s Circus. It’s one solid piece of stone 82 feet (25 meters) high and weighs 330 tons!

It’s the second-highest in Rome, after the one at St. John of Lateran church, and surprisingly is the only one without hieroglyphs. The writing you find on it is actually in Latin. It was erected by the Pharaoh Amenemhet II (1985 to 1929 B.C.) as a votive offering for recovering his eyesight.

In A.D. 40, Emperor Caligula wanted it in Rome and so that’s how it ended up in the Eternal City. When the new St. Peter’s church was built, the obelisk was still in its original position. At that point, Pope Sixtus V had it moved to the center in front of the new church. He also put a cross on top for good measure.

4. Loggia delle Benedizioni (Loggia of the Blessings or Central Balcony)

the roman guy loggia delle benedizioni

Carlo Maderno | 1607 – 1614 | Travertine | Facade of Church

If you look at the facade of St. Peter’s Basilica, you’ll notice a huge balcony right smack in the middle of it. There are two important events that take place here:

  • The Solemn Benediction Urbi et Orbi: These are yearly occasions during Christmas and Easter. The Latin words mean “to the city” and “to the world,” so basically it means to everyone.
  • The Announcement of a New Pope: When a pope passes away, all the cardinals group together in the Sistine Chapel for the Conclave. This is when a secret vote happens to elect a new pope. Once the pope is elected, white smoke will appear from the Sistine Chapel, letting everyone in St. Peter’s Square know that a new pope has been elected. A little while later, the Cardinal Protodeacon will appear and announce the new pope with the famous phrase Habemus Papam !

3. La Pietá

La Pieta St Peter's Basilica Vatican Top Attractions

Michelangelo | 1497 | White Marble | Interior

By now, you realize that Michelangelo could do anything. He painted the most famous painting in the world (Sistine Chapel), he built the biggest dome (St. Peter’s), and he made great sculptures!

In 1497, the French ambassador to the Holy See, Cardinal Jean de Bilhères-Lagraulas, commissioned Michelangelo to sculpt a full-size statue of La Pietà . Michelangelo wasn’t yet well known and therefore set about, with a single piece of Carrara marble, to create one of the most famous statues of all time.

The statue captures the moment when the Virgin Mary holds a recently crucified Jesus in her arms. The powerful scene is compounded by her look of extreme sadness together with his completely collapsed body on her lap.

It’s hard to believe that this object is made from hard, marble stone just by looking at it. The Master was able to soften each feature and make the marble look “soft.” Even more incredible is the fact that he did all of this with only a hammer and chisel!

Due to the fact that he was so unknown as an artist when he unveiled the masterpiece, people attributed the statue to an artist from Milan. That night, he went to the statue and actually carved his name where you see the sash of Mary, writing “Michelangelo from Florence made this.” This is even more remarkable since he wasn’t known to leave his signature on any of his art pieces.

2. Baldacchino

the roman guy st peter's church

Gian Lorenzo Bernini | 1624 – 1633 | Bronze | Interior Above High Altar

Bernini started working on this at just 26 years old. The high altar of St. Peter’s Basilica is the main altar of the church where only the pope is allowed to stand and give mass.

The Baldacchino is a canopy that hovers over the high altar, which has been used since Medieval times. With the advent of the baroque age, things were taken to new heights (literally) as we will see.

Once the basilica was finished, it would have appeared that something was still missing in the church. There was no connection between the long nave by Carlo Maderno and the massive dome by Michelangelo.

So, Pope Urban VIII commissioned Gian Lorenzo Bernini to create the Baldacchino to cover the high altar. It was to be made of bronze and, like everything else in the baroque period, should be monumental.

Bernini created a canopy of bronze with spiraling columns. Bernini’s inspiration for the columns was taken from a similar style of columns that were situated in the Basilica of Constantine.

The actual height is an astonishing 95 feet (28 meters) high. The material used to make this was taken from the porch roof of the Pantheon. As you approach the center of the church, your eyes naturally gaze up at the Baldacchino and continue their trajectory up to the top of the dome.

1. High Altar (Tomb of St. Peter)

the roman guy st peter's basilica

Carlo Maderno | 1615 | Colored Marble | Interior

Below the Baldacchino, you have what is called the High Altar (so called because only the pope is allowed to give mass there or someone he has personally appointed). Its location is such since below that is the Confession or the area dedicated to the tomb of St. Peter.

To descend, there is a double ramp with 16 stairs that lead down into the Confession. You’ll find many different colors of marble decorating the walls. According to the official website, this was the most important work, architecturally speaking, of hard stone done in Rome in the 1600s and the last work of such magnitude and richness executed in this technique.

The word Confessio in Latin expresses the affirmation of truth until death since when a martyr spills his blood for Christ, he confesses and proclaims his faith in a supreme act Official website of St. Peter’s Basilica

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St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome (Vatican)

Visit the 'basilica di san pietro' church in vatican city - tickets & tours.

St. Peter’s Basilica Rome

All info, tours and tickets for visiting St Peter's Basilica in Rome. The 'Basilica di San Pietro' is the papal residency in Vatican City. Read how you can visit the Basilica with the papal tombs.

Since 1929, Vatican City has formed the spiritual centre of the Catholic church and it is also where the pope resides. Vatican City is an independent state measuring just 44 hectares and has its own security service, the ‘Swiss Guard’. This article is about visiting St. Peter's Basilica . If you want to visit the Sistine Chapel, read this article about the Sistine Chapel visit.

St. Peter’s Basilica

The ‘Basilica di San Pietro in Vaticano’ was built between 1506 and 1626 on the site of a church dating from the time of emperor Constantine the Great (324). According to tradition, this church contained the grave of Peter. Because building St. Peters Basilica took so long, several designers worked on it, including Bramante, Raphael, Antonio del Sangallo, Michelangelo, and Carlo Maderno. Many of the decorations in the Basilica are the work of Gian Lorenzo Bernini. One of the most impressive aspects of the Basilica are its dimensions – 136 metres high and 186x123 metres wide.

St Peters Basilica Rome

Sightseeing in St Peters Basilica

  • A main attraction in Saint Peter's Basilica is ‘ La Pieta ’. This 1499 artwork is the only work signed by Michelangelo and can be found in the first side chapel to the right. It is a statue of Mary holding the body of Jesus.
  • The gigantic bronze baldachin by Bernini from 1633, placed over where Peter is believed to be buried. One story says that the cladding was made with bronze that came from the ceiling of the Pantheon .
  • Another attraction is the bronze statue of Peter. The foot has worn away as a result of pilgrims kissing it. This statue stands at the base of one of four large columns that support the dome.
  • The ’Cathedra di San Pietro’ from 1655 in the choir. This bronze-clad wooden chair has to be carried by four people. Tradition has it that Peter once sat on it.
  • The tomb of Alexander VII Chigi (left nave) was also designed by Bernini. A gilded figure with an hourglass represents the passing of time and death that comes for us all.
  • Using a separate entrance you can also visit the crypts with the 148 tombs (catacombs) of the popes.

Dome of St. Peter

In addition, you can choose to climb the dome. 550 steps lead to a wonderful view of Rome and the Vatican. After passing security, you will find a ticket window on the right side of the Basilica. Here you can buy tickets for the dome (8 euros). You can choose to walk all the steps, or go part of the way with a lift for an additional 2 euros.

St. Peter’s Basilica

There are excavations of the old necropolis located under the Vatican. Every day, only a select group of 250 people are allowed to visit these excavations (‘scavi’) of the Roman burial site with the grave of the apostle Peter – Saint Peter. Not suitable for people who get claustrophobic ( More information about this tour can be found here ).

Saint Peter's Square

The large square in the Vatican is known primarily from the ‘Urbi et Orbi’ speeches by the Pope at Easter and Christmas. Weather permitting, and if he is in Rome, a service is held here every Wednesday by the Pope. If you would like to attend this audience of the Pope on Wednesday, you will find tickets on this website more information about reservations. The enormous square was designed in the 17th century by Bernini after being commissioned by Pope Alexander VII. The buildings around the elliptical shape symbolise the church's arms, welcoming the faithful into the Kingdom of Heaven. Tip: Are you visiting the square on a Sunday? At noon, the pope will give his blessing from the window of his study.

St. Peter's Basilica Tickets & Tours

Other sights in vatican city.

  • The Vatican museums with the Sistine Chapel: Read more about the Vatican Museums where you'll find all information about the museums of the Vatican and the Cappella Sistina.
  • The Vatican gardens : Behind the Vatican museums, there are 23 hectares of Vatican Gardens , making up over 50 percent of the area of Vatican City. It is now possible to visit these gardens in a small, open bus. To visit the Vatican gardens you will need to book this Vatican tour .

Visit St. Peter’s Basilica

Video: History of Vatican City

Where is st. peter's basilica in rome.

The Vatican Museums are located in Vatican City , the independent state located within the city of Rome Italy. Vatican City is the smallest country in the world and is home to the Pope and the administration of the Catholic Church. The Vatican Museums are located within the boundaries of Vatican City, just north of Saint Peter's Basilica . The main entrance to the Vatican Museums is located on Viale Vaticano , near St. Peter's Square.

FAQ Saint Peters Vatican Church Rome

Do i have to buy tickets for st. peter's basilica.

St. Peter's Basilica is free to visit. The queues in front of the basilica are huge, so you will be queued for more than an hour. You can avoid this by buying special skip the line tickets for St. Peter's Basilica. You will also need to purchase an entrance ticket to visit the dome.

Can I also visit the Sistine Chapel?

The Sistine Chapel is not located in St. Peter's Basilica, but in the adjacent Vatican Museums. Visiting this museum with the Sistine Chapel requires the purchase of tickets . The museum often has huge queues and can certainly be full in high season.

Can I book a guided tour?

On this website can your read more about booking guided tours.

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

Please wear appropriate clothing in the Vatican church that covers the shoulders and knees.

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Is St. Peter's Basilica Free?

Tickets, tours and things to do.

visit st peters basilica

As professional tour guides, we're always making stops near Vatican City and offering helpful advice about how and when to get into the church.

This post provides all the information you'll need to avoid crowds, see all the most interesting attractions in the basilica, and get any tickets you may want or need.

We also include tips on how to reach the dome, how to see the Pope, and visiting the Vatican's necropolis.

For even more helpful advice, make sure to check our Rome Travel Tips Facebook Group!

  • Plan Your Visit
  • Tours of St. Peter's
  • Visit the Tombs
  • How to See the Pope
  • Things to See and Do

Tips From Travelers and Tourists

Do you need tickets for st. peter's basilica.

Admission is free to St Peter's Basilica and you do not need a ticket to enter. 

But note, be ready to plan for long-queues, unless you arrive very early.

The only optional costs are for St. Peter's Basilica tickets to skip the security line , to visit the necropolis , visit the dome , and for guided tours , though we have a tip for a free audio tour.

PLAN YOUR VISIT

In this section, we cover how to get here , the best time to visit , as well as to avoid, dress code , security , and tours .

But first, let us answer a few frequently asked questions.

Be sure to also check out our guide on how to visit the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel .

The most famous locations you might want to visit are Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and much more.

How to Get Here

St. Peter's Basilica is located on the western side of the Tiber River and is adjacent to the Vatican Museums. Use this Google map for exact directions to the security point .

All hop-on-hop-off bus companies stop here.

Where is St. Peter's Basilica

The access point is accessible by subway, bus, and streetcar, but if you are not planning to visit the Vatican, then you will likely come by bus or walk.

By Metro: The closest metro stop is Ottaviano , which is a 10-15 minute walk from St. Peter's Square.

By Tram: The closest tram stop is Risorgimento/S. Pietro , which is just a 5-10 minute walk from this historic site.

By Bus: There are two relatively close stops to consider: Risorgimento/S. Pietro or Cavalleggeri/S. Pietro .

Read our post on how to get around Rome .

What Are the Basilica's Hours?

The Basilica is open daily October through March from 7:00 am until 18:00 (6 pm).

From April through September, it is open from 7:00 am until 19:00 (7 pm).  

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit St. Peter's Basilica is between 07:00 and 09:00, while the queues for security is still manageable.

The worst time to arrive is between 10:00 - 14:00 when their are long queues for security.

Best Time to Visit St. Peter's Basilica

The author of this post arrived at 08:30 am on a weekday in mid-February and waited approximately 20 min to enter St. Peter's.

When he left the basilica at 10:30 am, the security line was easily 4x as long as when he arrived. 

For those who can't make it early, there are skip-the-line options for sale. 

St. Peter's Basilica skip-the-line

There are also tickets for guided tours, access to the basilica's dome, and access to the papal crypt.

There is even a hard-to-get ticket to visit St. Peter's tomb and most will allow you to skip the security line.

If you decide to visit in the Spring or Summer, you might be able to take one of their late-night tours of the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel.

These open tours are provided from 19:00 (7 pm) - 21:00 (11 pm) on Friday nights, and visitors often indicate that the crowds are much more manageable after dark. 

Times to Avoid

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Papal Appearances

If you don’t have your heart set on seeing the Pope, we recommend avoiding St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday mornings and Sundays mornings.

For more details on these Papal appearances, check out our section on opportunities to see the Pope .

Mass is typically held at least a few days per month, and St. Peter’s Basilica can become a very popular destination on these dates.

If you’re not interested in experiencing Mass, you may want to avoid visiting on days when Mass is being held.

Holy Days  

Mass and other special events are usually held on holy days, and these dates can be very popular for visitors.

Needless to say, you probably shouldn’t attempt to see St. Peter’s Basilica on Christmas day unless you are prepared to face large crowds. 

There is a strict dress code for both St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Grottoes (which also applies to the Vatican Museums).

Make sure to dress appropriately for your visit.

  • No shorts, bare shoulders, bare knees skirts
  • This applies to both men and women.
  • There are no exceptions based on the weather.
  • You will be turned away if you do not comply.

Skip the Line Tickets

Again, come early and pay nothing. If you don't arrive well before 10:00 am, then the video below will demonstrate what awaits you.

If you can't make it early to St. Peter's, then consider booking in advance for either an official self-guided audio tour, small group tour on your own pace, or an official guided tour of the basilica. 

Holders of these tickets have access to a special security line , which can save you time as you skip the long queues, especially when the general admission line is snaking around St. Peter's Square, as in the video above.

Below, we detail the ticket options .

NOTE: there are many tour operators that offer guided tours of the basilica at different times, usually combining this with a tour of the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel.  

You will have to enter through an airport-style security check. 

The security point is in the northwest section of the colonnaded area of Saint Peter's Basilica Square (see orange arrow in the image above).  

There is a list of prohibited items inside St Peter's Square (as well as inside the Vatican) that you can view here . There is a bag check.  

  • Video Cameras
  • Metal Tools

In addition to these items, visitors who intend to enter the Vatican Museums should keep the following details in mind:

  • Food and drink are not allowed
  • Flash photography is not allowed
  • Laser pointers are not allowed
  • Microphones are also prohibited
  • Mobile phones must be kept silent
  • No photography of any kind is allowed in the Sistine Chapel

GUIDED TOURS OF ST. PETER'S BASILICA

In this section, we cover the official audio and guided tours of the basilica. 

And as we stated in the previous section, the advance purchase of any of these tours will give you a skip-the-line ticket . 

There is an audio tour for the dome , which we cover in the next section.

We also recommend reading about tours that cover the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel as well as St. Peter's on our Vatican City page .

But, before we detail the different tours for purchase, we want to recommend that you consider something.

Get here early, before 9 am, and download this free audio tour by Rick Steves . The tour covers St. Peter's Square and St. Peter's Basilica and is excellent. 

Rick Steves's target audience is American travelers, so you will often hear measurement given in British Imperial (feet and pounds instead of meters and kilograms), but that's a small inconvenience for a quality service that is free. 

He also offers a free, self-guided audio tour of the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. 

Below, we have things to see/self-guided tour that generally follows the route of his tour.  

Official Audio Tour

Audio tours last for approximately 60 minutes.

The audio tour is downloaded via wifi to your own smartphone, though you can ask for a traditional audio guide player.

You will get a voucher and you will need to bring some ID with you to exchange for the audio tour unit.

You can book either for morning hours or afternoon hours.

NOTE: The prices below are with skip-the-line privileges.  You can pick up an audio guide when you walk in for €7/person (cash only).

  • €6 per person
  • Read the review or to purchase .
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Official Guided Tours

Official guided tours are also available through 1 City Tour. Like the audio tours, tickets for the guided tours enter through a shorter, dedicated security line. 

You will be given headsets to hear your live guide. The official tours are available at 10:30 am and/or 13:30 (1:30 pm). 

Guided tours are offered in English, Italian, French, German, and Spanish. Guided tours last approximately 75 minutes.  

NOTE: Several well-reviewed tour operators offer their own guided tours at varying times of the day.

  • €18/child (7-17)
  • 6 and under free

St. Peter’s Basilica From Top to Bottom

Although it can be pretty difficult to get tickets for the Necropolis, there is a tour which will allow you to see several other important sites at St. Peter’s Basilica.

This guided tour will provide visitors with the opportunity to skip the line, climb the dome, and explore the papal crypts.

In addition to providing access to several historic locations, this tour will be kept to a 15 person minimum to ensure that you’ll have the chance to ask questions and hear your expert guide without any issues.

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Along with instant confirmation, there is also an option for free cancellation.

NOTE:  This tour will not take you to the official tomb of St. Peter, but you will visit the original tomb located in Clementine Chapel.

  • Ticket Prices: €49 for Adults | €45 for Children (4-12) | under 4 are free
  • Availability: Daily at 1:30 pm and 2 pm
  • Duration: 1 ½ - 2 hours
  • Kept to small groups of 15 guests
  • Includes St. Peter’s Basilica Dome tickets
  • Click here for more details .

St. Peter's Basilica Combination Tours

In addition to the options above, there are several companies who offer combo packages including tours of St. Peter's Basilica, admission to the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, the Vatican Museums, and more.

Here are a few of the best combination ticket options currently available:

HOW TO VISIT ST. PETER'S DOME

Visits to the dome of St. Peter’s are available daily from 8:00 am until 17:00 (5 pm).

From April through September, the dome is available until 18:00 (6 pm). 

If you take the stairs, be prepared for 551 total steps for your dome climb. You can elect to take the elevator to the roof of the basilica for a couple of extra €s and eliminate 171 steps. 

The steps to the top of the cupula are in a narrow winding staircase.

You could also elect to rent another audio guide for the cupula itself.

  • €8 for the stairs
  • €10 if you take the elevator
  • You can also visit as part of an organized tour .

TIP: If you're interested in seeing and experiencing more while you're here, consider a St. Peter's Basilica guided tour that includes access to the dome and papal grottoes.

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How do you get St. Peter's Basilica Tickets without a guided tour?

Acquire St Peter's Basilica Dome tickets on-site. Once inside, follow the "Cupola" signs to the ticket counter to buy tickets without a tour. While the Basilica entrance is free, the dome ascent has a fee.

THE VATICAN NECROPOLIS

Vatican Grottoes

Located just beneath St. Peter’s Basilica is the Vatican Grottoes. This site features chapels dedicated to saints along with the tombs of popes, kings, and queens.

Some of the tombs in this area date back as far as the 10th century.

The Vatican Grottoes include a variety of different artwork and architecture in honor of the religious figures who were buried here.

Visitors could spend an entire day weaving in and out of the grottoes. 

Touch the screen to scroll around the Grottoes

The following sites can be found in the Vatican Grottoes:

  • Chapel of St. Peter
  • Chapel of St. Helen
  • Tomb of John Paul I
  • Tomb of John Paul II
  • Marble Statue of St. Peter
  • 60+ Additional Tombs and Chapels
  • Click here for a map of the Vatican Grottoes .

St. Peter's Tomb

Whether you’re a Catholic or a history buff, St. Peter’s Tomb is one of the most important locations in Vatican City.

You’ll find the grave of the Apostle Peter at the Vatican Necropolis, a burial ground for several important figures and popes.

There is only one option for visiting this historic site, and it’s important to note that only 250 people are allowed to enter the tomb every day.

If you want to see the final resting place of Saint Peter, we recommend getting a ticket well ahead of time.

Excavations Office

In order to find St. Peter’s Tomb, they had to excavate some of the ruins underneath Vatican City.

Today, the office that performed those excavations also provides guided tours of the archaeological site.

During this excursion, visitors will be taken in groups of 12 to visit the grave and learn more about the historic location.

Unfortunately, they cannot accommodate guests under the age of 15.

Requests for reservations should be sent directly to the office of excavations.

  • Ticket Price: €13 per person
  • Duration: 30-minute 
  • Click here for more information .

Excavation Office Hours

  • Monday – Friday: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
  • Saturday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
  • Closed on Sundays & Vatican Holy Days
  • Last Visit: 3:30pm in Winter | 4:15pm in Summer

FREE OPPORTUNITIES TO SEE THE POPE

Anyone who wants to see the Pope should consider either a Wednesday or a Sunday visit to St. Peter’s Basilica.

On both days, visitors can attend an event that will allow them to see or at least listen to the Pope.

While you will need a ticket for one of these opportunities, you can actually obtain those tickets for free. Guests should expect large crowds on popular days.

For more details, read our full post covering how to see the Pope .

THINGS TO SEE AT ST. PETER'S BASILICA

Guests who visit this historic and holy site can often become overwhelmed with everything there is to see and do in the area.

With that in mind, we’ve decided to provide a list of landmarks and popular locations at St. Peter’s Basilica.

Keep an eye out for the following attractions while exploring the grounds.

Why is St. Peter's Basilica so important?

A lot of notable renaissance artists provided various works for this historic church. The influence of Michelangelo, Raphael, Bernini, and many other creative minds can be found throughout both St. Peter's and the Vatican Museums.

NOTE: We do have a self-guided tour that starts from Castel Sant’Angelo and ends where the self-guided tour below picks up. 

St. Peter’s Square

This large plaza can be found directly in front of St. Peter’s Basilica. This is the site where Papal Audiences are typically held.

An ancient Egyptian Obelisk has been located at the center of this square since 1586 when it was placed there under the direction of Pope Sixtus V.

Guide to St. Peter's Basilica

This stone pillar was once situated at the center of a chariot race track which was originally found to the left of the Basilica.

The Obelisk was one of the last things seen by St. Peter before he was executed by Nero in 67 A.D.

When Bernini took on the challenge of building St. Peter’s Square, he decided to build Tuscan Colonnades in the shape of a chariot race track in honor of St. Peter.

These colonnades are four columns deep with 284 Doric columns and 88 pilasters. Each column is 20 meters high and 1.6 meters wide.

The overall design of the square is intended to look like a key that ends at the church, symbolizing the Keys to the Kingdom of Heaven.

The Via della Conciliazione which leads up to St. Peter’s Square once featured the spina – a median with buildings that separated two roads leading to the landmark.

This feature was demolished by Mussolini in 1936 so that St. Peter’s Basilica could be seen from Castel Sant'Angelo.

The Pope’s Residence

The Pope lives in the Apostolic Palace which is located to the right of St. Peter’s Square.

The windows to his study and bedroom can be found on the top floor on the right side of this building.

See the Pope in Rome

This is where visitors can expect to see the Pope delivering the Angelus on Sunday afternoons.

The Sistine Chapel

If you want to get a good look at this historic architecture, head to St. Peter’s Square and look to the northeast.

When a new Pope is announced, this is the location where white smoke will signal his arrival.

visit st peters basilica

If you want to go inside, head around the Vatican walls and visit the Vatican Museum.

Swiss Guards

Don’t be alarmed if you see some strange looking fellows standing outside the entrance to the Apostolic Palace.

These are the Swiss Guards, and they are responsible for the safety of the Pope. 

Swiss Guards Vatican

During periods in which there is no Pope, these guards will protect the College of Cardinals so that they can select a new Pope safely.

St. Paul & St. Peter Statues

You will find these historic statues on either side of the entrance to St. Peter’s Basilica.

The Statue of St. Peter can be found on the left side while the Statue of St. Paul is on the right.

Statue of St. Peter

St. Peter’s statue was sculpted by Giuseppe De Fabris, a sculptor who was noted for his work on several other religious monuments.

Likewise, the artist behind the statue of St. Paul was Adamo Tadolini, a sculptor who produced statues of King David and St. Frances de Sales. If you look at the left hand of St. Paul, you will see that he is holding a book. Inscribed on this book is the phrase “I can do all things in him who strengthens me," a line from Philippians 4:13.

During the Papal Audience on Wednesdays, the Pope will often stand between these two statues.

The Holy Door

Also known as Porta Sancta, this door is only open during a Holy Year, an event that occurs once every 25 years.

On the first day of this Holy Year, the Pope will strike the brick wall with a hammer and open the door for pilgrims.

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On December 18th, 2015, the Pope officially opened the Holy Door of Mercy.

After this door was opened, diocese throughout the world was set to the task of opening their own Holy Door. 

The Central Nave

The Central Nave is where you will find the main body of this church. Charlemagne and other emperors were crowned on the red disc located at the entrance of this Nave.

You will also find the measurements of the largest churches in the world printed in brass letters on the floor.

St. Peter's Basilica Central Nave

The Nave is about 46 meters (150 ft.) high and 187 meters (615 ft.) long.

To give you a sense of just how much space there is in this area, it’s worth noting that the Statue of Liberty could technically fit inside of St. Peter’s Basilica.

If you look up, you’ll notice a phrase written on the south and north walls of the Central Nave.

The south wall states “I have prayed for you Peter, that your faith may never fail; and you, in turn, must strengthen your brothers.”

On the north wall, the text reads “I will entrust to you the keys of the kingdom of heaven.

Whatever you declare bound on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you declare loosed on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”

Sculpted by none other than Michelangelo, this may be one of the most famous works of art based on a religious figure.

While other depictions of this scene often feature the virgin with a sad and distressed face, Michelangelo chose to give her a look of acceptance and faith. 

Where is the Pieta

When designing the virgin, he was said to have thought of his own mother’s face for inspiration.

Other than St. Peter’s tomb, this is often among the quietest places you will find in St. Peter’s Basilica.

The Papal Altar & Baldacchino

el-baldaquino

Visitors will find the Papal Altar located at the center of St. Peter’s Basilica. This is the location where the Pope will celebrate Mass.

The ground on which this altar stands was consecrated by Clement VIII in 1594. The Baldacchino is a canopy that stands just above the Papal Altar.

This incredible architectural feature was crafted by Bernini (the man who designed St. Peter’s Square), and it was the first work to be featured in St. Peter’s Basilica.

St. Peter’s tomb lies directly beneath the altar.

The Dome of St. Peter’s

Although you can enjoy this dome from afar, it would be a shame if you chose not to see it up close.

Tickets to the roof will cost extra, but this is the only way to really appreciate the work of Michelangelo.

Although he wasn’t able to finish his design before he passed away, his unique style can still be seen in the intricate details. 

Clementine Chapel

There are many chapels and tombs located in the Vatican Grottoes, but this one is particularly special.

At the center of this chapel, you will find the sepulcher of St. Peter. This is the only part of the original basilica to keep its original identity and function.

The faithful have come to this chapel for centuries to worship and celebrate the good works of the Apostle Peter.

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In 1592, this chapel was further decorated and enhanced by Clement VIII, at which point it was given the name of Clementina.

Today, it is simply known as the Clementine Chapel, but it still serves the same purpose of providing a place of worship for believers.

Behind the altar lies the remains of the Memoria Petri (Memory of Peter). This was a monument built by Constantine to protect the remains of St. Peter.

Although we know today that this is not St. Peter’s tomb, it is still an important location for the faithful to visit.

St. Peter’s Bronze Statue

This may be the most popular and famous statue of St. Peter.

Pilgrims who visit the basilica have traditionally touched and kissed the foot of Peter, an act which has caused the foot to wear down over time.

During the feast of St. Peter on June 29th, this statue is adorned with an alb, tiara, amice, stole, ring and red cope.

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St. Peter’s statue rests on a pedestal made of marble, Sicilian jasper, and green porphyry.

Peter holds the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven in his left hand while raising his right to perform a blessing.

The creator of this statue is still unknown, but it is thought to have been crafted at some point between the 5th and 14th century.

Pope John XXIII’s Tomb

If you’re looking for the final resting place of Pope John XXIII, head to the Altar of St. Jerome. In 2001, the body of Pope John XXIII was moved to this location.

Over the altar, you will find the altarpiece with the Last Communion of St. Jerome. John XXIII has since been named a saint and canonized by the church.

Vatican Treasury

You will find the entrance to the Vatican Treasury in the left aisle of the basilica. This is where the Vatican stores several historic church ornaments, statues, and even gifts from kings and queens around the world.

Much of this area has been transformed into a museum that visitors can explore at their leisure.

While we do our best to give you all the information you'll need, the reality is that sometimes we're going to miss things.

Thankfully, we have a wonderful Facebook Group where you can ask any pressing questions you might have.

Here are a few examples of great and helpful comments we've received in our Rome Travel Tips group.

visit st peters basilica

As Joanne notes, visiting with a guide is a great way to avoid long lines. That said, admission is entirely free, so you don't need any tickets for entry.

When it comes to waiting in line, some suggest that their wait was very short even during typically busy periods, while others insist you should arrive early.

visit st peters basilica

Ultimately, this issue boils down to the concept of YMMV (Your Mileage May Vary), which is to say that your own experience might be different from the norm, but you should still expect St. Stephen's Basilica to be busier during the day than in the morning.

visit st peters basilica

As Karen notes, the typical experience is to find the line getting long at around 9:30 am - 10 am, and your best bet to avoid crowds is to arrive before that.

visit st peters basilica

Dee also points out that some areas of the basilica do require tickets to experience. This is also the case for the excavation site and certain tours.

For more helpful advice, or to ask your own questions, please visit our Rome Travel Tips Facebook Group .

RELATED POSTS:

  • Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
  • Things to Do in Rome
  • The Official Vatican Tourist Pass

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THE BASILICA OF

Saint peter, established in 1821, the roman catholic diocese of charleston.

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Come to Mass our normal weekly sch edule Sunday: 9 AM , 11 AM , 5:30 P M all in English 1 PM i n S p a nis h Dai l y Mass Monday , Tuesd ay: 12 PM  in English Wednesday: 8:30 AM  in English Thursday: 12 PM in Lati n 7:30 PM in Spanish Adoration, Rosary, & Conf ession in Spanish at 6:30 PM Friday:  No Mass Saturday: No Mass Confession in English Saturday 4-5 PM

Ven a misa nuestro horario semanal normal domingo: 9 am , 11 am ,  5:30 pm todas en ingles 1 pm e n e s pa ñ ol   misa entre s emana lunes, martes: 12 pm  en ingle s miércoles: 8:30 am  en ingles   jueves: 12 pm en latín rosario en español   a las 6:30 pm viernes:  no hay misa sábado: no hay misa confesiones en  espa ñol jueves 6:30-7:15 pm domingo 12:20-12:45 pm.

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Rector's Welcome  

I’m thrilled to welcome you to the historic Basilica of Saint Peter, the Capital City’s parish and mother church of Catholics in the midlands!

At Saint Peter’s we seek to make Christ known through celebrating liturgies that lift our hearts and minds heavenward while engaging in the here and now to live out our calling in ways that touch the poor and challenge all.

  Our hope is that you’ll join us in our grand pilgrimage as together, we journey with Christ in union with the Saints and struggling sinners to our eternal home.  

​The Very Reverend Canon Gary S. Linsky, V.F., V.P., Rector​

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How to Visit St Peters Basilica in St Peters Square

Everything you need to know to visit st peters square, st peters square history: why should you visit st peters basilica.

It is the world’s largest basilica, with a surface area of 22000 square meters and a capacity of 20,000 worshipers, it is 624 ft long and 447 feet high (from the floor to the top of the dome). Located in St Peters Square , the basilica is a Church which has preserved the history of the catholic church in its mosaics, sculptures and architecture. St Peters Basilica ’s architecture is the finest in the world having been designed by the most talented artisans of the time over the last several centuries. Every altarpiece is a mosaic, painstakingly detail depicting historical and biblical scenes. Interestingly, only one altar piece is a canvas, the rest are mosaics

St Peters Basilica History

Nero became Emperor at the age of 16 in 54 AD. He blamed the Christians for the Great Fire of Rome in 64 AD when two thirds of Rome was destroyed. He blamed the Christians for the devastation caused by the fire and initiated the persecution of the Christians, sometimes on an adhoc basis, in the various regions and locales of the Roman Empire. It was rumored that though the fire started in the chariot stadium of the Circus Maximus, it was perpetrated by Nero himself to make space for a new palace

In Rome, Christians were persecuted in the Circus of Nero which was an entertainment venue generally used for performance, public presentations and chariot racing. The persecution of Christians continued intermittently for the next 250 years and stopped as a result of Emperor Constantine Edict of Milan (313 AD) after which Christians. were allowed to build places of worship

St Peter, the first Apostle was a poor Jewish fisherman with the birth name of Simon. Jesus referring to St Peter as a rock and said to him “…and on this rock I will build my church, and…I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven…”  St Peter is traditionally counted as the first Bishop of Rome, which made him the first pope. He was crucified upside down in the Circus of Nero ; his body was buried in a cemetery close by 

St Peters Square History: Historical account of St Peters Basilica

The Roman Emperor Constantine embraced Christianity and ordered the construction of the basilica in in 324 AD to honor of St Peter. The basilica was to be built on the site of St Peters crucifixion in the Circus of Nero . Construction started about 326AD and was completed 30 years later. This original St Peters Basilica is often referred to as Old St Peters Basilica today

By the 15 th century and after 1200 years as a functioning Church, the Old St Peters Basilica was in a state of ruin. A decision to either demolish and rebuild or renovate the church had to be made. Elected in 1503 the pope of the time, Pope Julius II called on the most renowned architect Donato Bramante to design the new St Peters Basilica. The design called for the the original obelisk to be moved, a monumental task that was completed during construction. Both Pope Julius II and Bramante passed away before the task was completed and the newly elected Pope Paul III called upon the 72-year-old Michelangelo to restart the project. Michelangelo kept Bramante’s original design and built upon it. Upon Michelangelo’s death in 1564, his former pupil Giacomo della Porta finished the Basilica, specifically the Dome which was only partially completed at the time of Michelangelo’s death

Pieces of the Old St Peters Basilica, specifically the columns, are located inside the basilica in St Peters Basilica Grottoes. The obelisk that was transported from Egypt to Rome in time of Emperor Caligula is located in St Peters Square. The new St Peter’s Basilica was consecrated in 1626. St Peters Square in front of the basilica is in the shape of a key referring to the keys of the kingdom of heaven

St Peters Basilica History: St Peter Tomb

During excavations of the necropolis, a “funerary monument” with a casket had an engraving in Greek that translated to “Peter is here”.  Examination revealed that they belonged to an elderly man in his 60’s. Pope Paul VI in 1968 said that fragments found in the necropolis under St Peters Basilica were that of St Peters ie: “identified in a way we consider convincing”. In a 2013 Mass at St Peters Square, Pope Francis publicly unveiled the bone fragments. The actual tomb of St Peter is said to be beneath the floor at the foot of the large baroque sculpted bronze canopy . Under the canopy is the high altar; the entire piece, the canopy and the high altar, is directly under the Michelangelo’s Dome. The canopy was designed by Glan Lorenzo Bernini in 1623 and the entire piece including the high altar was completed in 1634 (the Bernini’s Baldachin or St Peters Baldachin)

St Peters Basilica: How long to spend

It will take you:.

  • about an hour to tour the basilica,
  • about 20 min for the Grottoes,
  • If you have booked a necropolis Scavi tour; it is usually 90 min
  • the dome climb will take about 1.5 hours (include time to have a snack at the rooftop café)
  • if you decided to pay the entry fee and tour the treasury, add about 30 min,
  • about 20 min in St Peters Square,
  • about 1-hour security line up, unless you come first thing in the morning (7am when it opens) or you have purchased a tour that allows you to skip the long security line. You will still need to go through security, however it should be a very short line
  • Depending on how long you want to spend at the sites, plan on a half day at the basilica then go for lunch and then walk over the Vatican museum
  • Check the Basilica opening days; it is closed the morning of papal audience, on the days of Mass, and there may be other days it may be closed
  • You do not need tickets to enter unless there is a general papal audience, in which case you will need tickets which are free and must be ordered in advance

Inside St Peters Basilica St Peters Basilica Self Guided Tour:

Highlights inside St Peter’s Basilica include: The Holy Door, The Pieta, The Central Nave, The main Papal Altar and Baldacchini, The Dome (Cupola), St Peters Bronze statue, Pope John II Tomb, The Vatican Treasury and The Clementine Chapel in the Vatican Grottoes below the Basilica (entrance from the Basilica)

Best time to Visit St Peter’s Basilica: Typical Route

I have found the best plan is to visit first thing. Arrive in the morning between 7am and 8am when the security lineups are the shortest. Head to the information desk inside St Peters Basilica and purchase the ticket to the Dome. Drop off excessive luggage, strollers, etc and head to the Dome entrance (there should hardly be a line up). After you are done the Dome, head inside the basilica and compete the SELF GUIDED TOUR St Peters Basilica . You can visit the Grottoes and then head outside to St Peters Square.

When you are outside of the basilica in St Peters Square, towards the left as you face the basilica (on the south wall) you will find the post office and the gift store (and the washrooms). This should take you until about noon at which time you can exit the area, go for lunch and perhaps visit the Vatican Museum in the afternoon.  The morning crowd from the Vatican museum will start arriving inside the Basilica starting around 11am and the flow will continue into the midafternoon. This is the busiest time inside the basilica and you will be jostling for a view point of the many items on display. For a self-guided tour of the Vatican Click HERE

Hours of Operation

  • The information is posted on the Website. Generally, it is open from 7am to 7pm during high tourist season and 7am to 6pm during the winter months. The Dome (Cupola) opens an hour later and closes an hour earlier than the Basilica.  It is closed when there is a Mass, the morning of a General Papal Audience and certain holidays 

St Peter’s Square Entrance (Piazza S. Pietro)

Entrance is from the main street or from the Sistine Chapel of the Vatican Museum (this entrance is reserved for tour groups). Generally, you will enter from the street:

  • The entrance from Castel Sant Angelo, walk down the pedestrian street Viale (Via) della Concillazione that takes you to the entrance
  • Entrance from the Metro Line A, disembark at station “Ottaviano”; the pedestrian street outside the station is called via Ottaviane and it will take you to St Peters Square. Just follow the mass of people as they all seem to heading in that direction
  • Several buses and Tram 19 stop at Piazza Risorgimento, which is a short walk to either St Peter’s Basilica or the Vatican Museum
  • Bus #64 from Termini runs every few minutes and stops at the Basilica (short walk). Because it stops at the popular tourist attractions, it does attract pickpocketers (careful when entering or exiting the bus). Do not carry valuables in your backpack or backpocket

St Peters Basilica: Skip the Line; how to beat the crowds

  • Get up early and visit before 8am. Climb the Dome before the tours from the Sistine chapel arrive mid-day. The line up well before 9am is very short
  • Arrive at the entrance early, preferable around 7am (by 9am the security lineup to enter the basilica is already getting long). By late morning, it will take you at least an hour to get through the security line even though it move quickly
  • Purchase a guided tour that get you into the basilica and skip the lines and enter through a reserved entrance. You will still go through security so leave behind sharp objects and liquids
  • Enter directly from the Sistine chapel if you purchase a guided tour of the Sistine chapel, The chapel self-guided tour HERE

St Peters Basilica Dress Code and Security Line

  • There is a strict dress code enforce and you will be turned away if you do not follow it.
  • For both males and females: no shorts, you must cover your shoulders, no sleeveless shirts
  • For women the dress code is dresses have to be at least knee length, no sleeveless dresses and no miniskirts
  • The security check is similar to airport security as you are entering another country. No alcoholic beverages, sharp objects (pocket knives, scissors, etc) or metals
  • It’s a non-smoking area

Vatican City Post Office

There are three post offices in st peter’s square:.

  • There is one post office along the south wall, just before the entrance to St Peter’s Basilica,
  • There is one beyond the colonnades on the right side as you enter St Peter’s Square
  • There is a standalone post office in the Square
  • In order for letters to be mailed from this tiny country, it must have a Vatican stamp. Stop by the post office and pick up stamps as a souvenir or mail a post card

Swiss Guard

Established in 1506, they are the oldest and smallest military unit in the world protecting the smallest country and its Head of State; the Pope. You can see them in the Vatican and in St Peters Square dressed in their colorful uniform standing at attention along the various entry and exit points. In order to work as a Swiss Guard, you must be an unmarried catholic male at least 5’8’’ in height with Swiss citizenship, between 19 and 30 years old and completed Swiss military training including unarmed combat and arms training

They are officially known as the Pontifical Swiss Guard; their uniform colors of red, yellow and dark blue are those of the Medici Family, a prominent family that ruled Florence.  They are sometimes referred to as the Vatican City Police but there is a separate police force in charge of the overall security of Vatican City

St Peters Square (Piazza San Pietro)

Originally St Peters Square was part of the Circus of Nero. A rectangular walled area with an Obelisk brought from Egypt. It was built around 40 AD by Caligula and finished by Nero. Nero’s circus was the location of performances, public presentations and chariot races; they were the place of entertainment before the coliseums were built. The center of the circus had a long dividing wall called the Spina which separated the two running tracks. The Spina included the wall, statues, columns and an Obelisk that defined the center of Nero’s Circus. The Spina was the location of the persecution of Christians who were then buried in a nearby cemetery.  Today, the obelisk stands in the center of St Peters Square flanked by two fountains

The colonnades surrounding Peters Square are based on Bernini’s original plan and are 20 meters high and 1.6 meters wide. They have semi-circular design meant to embrace those that enter

If you see the aerial view of the area, it appears to be in the shape of a key that ends at St Peter’s Basilica; This is meant to symbolize the Keys to the Kingdom of Heaven

St Peter’s Square Statues

As you approach St Peter’s Basilica, you will notice two 5.55m statues on a 4.91m pedestal on either side of the entrance. They are the statues of St Peter and St Paul. The statue of St Paul is on the left and in his left hand he is holding a book with the phrase “I can do all things in him who strengthens me”.  St Paul is holding a set of keys with a scroll that loosely translates as “I will give the keys of heaven”

Information Desk at St Peters Basilica

  • As you enter St Peters Basilica, the information desk is on your right hand side. At this location you are able to rent an audio guide or a guide book
  • Tickets to St Peter’s Basilica Dome and St Peters Treasury can be purchased at the i nformation desk . St Peter’s Basilica Dome tickets are date and time stamped and will take at least an hour. Check with the ticket office to find out how long the ticket is valid
  • The toilets, left luggage (free) and children’s stroller drop off is also located here (strollers are not allowed inside the basilica)
  • There are two more information desks located outside in St Peter’s Square. There is one as you enter St Peters, and another on the south wall
  • The information desk located in St Peters Square on the south wall can be found as follows: it is on the left side (south) just before you enter the Basilica. You will find the gift shop, post office, book store, washrooms and information desk along that left/south wall

Climb St Peter’s Basilica Dome

  • Take the elevator for part of the way and climb 320 stairs
  • Climb all 515 steps; this is the slightly cheaper but a more challenging option
  • Near the very top, the steps are narrow and the railing is made of rope
  • Views at the top are really spectacular; walk towards the front to view St Peter’s Square below and the huge statues in front of you
  • Note the spectacular view of St Peters Square and how it is in the shape of a key
  • If you decide to climb the dome, it will take you an hour to 1.5 hour to complete the process
  • Decide whether you want to climb the Dome before or after the Basilica tour. Peak times and longest lineups for St Peter’s Basilica Dome tend to be mid-day when the tourists from the morning tour of the Sistine Chapel enter the basilica.  Best times for smallest crowds to climb the dome are first thing in the morning or around 4pm
  • When you get the top, you will find restrooms, water fountains, a gift shop, and a café. Visit the small rooftop café; it has a great view while you rest up with a well-deserved snack

St Peters Treasury (Sacristy and Treasury Museum)

There is a fee to enter the treasury which houses another impressive art collection plus gifts from kings and queens and other ornamental objects

Sacrament of Penance (confession)

At the Right Transept (to the far right of the main papal altar) is an area that you can enter for confession. You will find an attendant there; indicate your intention for confession and the language you speak. General times during tourist season are 7am-12:30 and 4pm to 6pm except Sundays and holidays

Vatican Grottoes

A narrow entrance will take you down one level to the Vatican Grottos; the stairs are below St Andrews Monument located diagonal to Bernini’s Baldachin. The grottoes contain tombs of the various popes, kings and queens, chapels, archeological sites, columns of the old St Peters basilica as well as other monuments and statues. There is a map of the location of each of the tombs .  Exit from the Grottoes takes you outside St Peter’s Basilica. Below the grottoes is the necropolis, an ancient burial site said to contain the tomb of St Peter. You will need to arrange a separate visit to the necropolis (also called scavi which means excavation)

The Clementine Chapel in the Vatican Grottoes

In the center of the Clementine Chapel is a chest protecting the sepulcher of St Peter.  A popular place of worship for the faithful, although it is not the location of St Peters Tomb. The altar is in memory of St Peter and the chapel celebrates his good works

Necropolis (Scavi)

Beneath the Grottoes is the Necropolis, which is said to the the location of St Peters Tomb. It is referred to as Excavation or Scavi. In order to visit this site you will need to contact the Excavations office and arrange for a tour. You will need to book well in advance as only 120 visitors in small groups are allowed per day. There is a charge for this and the tour takes about 90 minutes; you must be at least 11 years old to participate in this archeological tour of the excavation site

Weddings at St Peters Basilica

To arrange for a wedding at St Peter’s Basilica, contact the parish office

Seeing the Pope 

You can see the pope as part of the Papal Audience or at the Sunday Angelus

  • The pope holds an audience on Wednesdays except when he is on holidays or away from the Vatican. It is held at St Peters Basilica. In the warmer months it is held in St Peter’s Square and it is held inside during the cold winter months. It is best to check the Vatican website for the schedule of Papal audience and to order the free tickets. On the days of General Audience, St Peters Bsilica does not open util about 1pm
  • Tickets are required for this celebration, they are free and should be ordered will ahead of your arrival
  • With the exception of July or when the Pope is not in the Vatican, he gives a short speech, a prayer and an Angelus from the window of his study that overlooks St Peter’s Square. The event starts at noon and is finished by 12:30. Tickets are not required for this event. Check with the Prefecture of the Household (link below) for a schedule of the Angelus

St Peters Basilica Tickets

You will need tickets to attend the General Audience or the Liturgical Ceremony (described above). The tickets are free and can be ordered from the Prefecture of the Papal Household . You will be required to fill in information in regards to times, the type of ceremony (General or Liturgical), number of tickets requested and send it by fax or mail.  etc. Ticket reservation information will arrive by mail with instructions on where and when to pick up your reserved tickets. Usually it lets you know that your reserved tickets can be pickup up the preceding afternoon between 15:00 and 19:00 at the bronze door which is located under the right hand side colonnade in St Peters Square. When you get there you will be in line with thousands of others also picking up their reserved tickets. The lines usually move fast

Other attractions and Guides for Italy

  • Visit the Roman Colosseum. Click on the Roman Colosseum attractions map HERE and accompanying Colosseum attractions guide HERE
  • Take the Rome attractions map and self guided tour: It includes the Vatican City attractions map HERE and the Vatican attractions guide HERE
  • Self Guided Walking tour to explore the neighborhood of Trastevere with map of attractions HERE and guide of attractions HERE
  • Visit St Peters Basilica . Explore all the attractions in St Peter’s Basilica with the attractions guide HERE
  • One of my favorite places is the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill . The map of attractions is HERE and the self guided walking tour is HERE
  • Visit Pompeii with a complete self guided tour map HERE and the attractions guide to the 49 points of interest HERE
  • Spend the day in Florence , this was by far one of my best day trips. The self guided walking tour map is HERE and the attractions guide is HERE

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Papal Basilica of Sain Peter

  • The Altar of the Confessio
  • The Cathedra of Saint Peter
  • The Tomb of Saint Peter
  • The Necropolis
  • The Vatican Grottoes
  • The Basilica
  • The Chapter of Saint Peter
  • The Fabric of Saint Peter
  • The Vicariate
  • The Sacristy
  • The Basilica Archives
  • Participate
  • Services for pilgrims
  • Exhibitions
  • Services for people with disabilities
  • Zero Emissions
  • The Baldachin
  • Scientific research and state of conservation
  • The restoration operations
  • Restoration of metallic surfaces (bronze and iron)
  • Restoration of stone surfaces
  • Restoration of wooden structures
  • Provisional works
  • Collaboration between the Fabric of St. Peter's and Knights of Columbus
  • The restoration team
  • Entering the Basilica
  • Opening hours and times of celebrations
  • Photo gallery
  • Video mapping

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Via Crucis in St. Peter's Basilica

The pious practice of the Via Crucis will be held in St Peter's Papal Basilica in the Vatican starting on Friday February 16th at 4pm and for every Friday of the season of Lent. The first celebration will take place before the hourly Eucharistic Celebration.

For the occasion, the works "Passion of Christ" by the artist Gaetano Previati (Ferrara 1852- Lavagna 1920), kept in the Vatican Museums, will be installed in the transept and nave of the Basilica: 14 oil paintings on canvas depicting the Stations of the Cross. The works will be temporarily placed in the Basilica, in collaboration and synergy with the Fabbrica and the Vatican Museums, to allow, also through images, meditation on the mysteries of the Stations of the Cross during the Fridays of Lent.

The Lenten Stations in the Basilica will be celebrated with the usual penitential procession, Sunday Mass and exposition of the Relics of the Lord's Passion. The first Station will be celebrated on Saturday 24 February at 4.45pm; the second, which corresponds to the fifth Sunday of Lent, on 17 March, also at 4.45pm.

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Episcopal ordination of H.E. Mons. Vincenzo Turturro

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Masses for the International "Women in the Church" Convention

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In the Basilica the celebration for the CRAV convention

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At St. Peter's the 425th anniversary celebration of Collegio Rotondi

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St. Peter's Virtual Tour 4+

Gold interactive srl.

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Description.

Get to know and admire the interiors and works of art of St. Peter's Basilica. An immersive visit inside the empty Basilica, offline without internet connection. Application with code access. An innovative guide, created with the collaboration of the “Fabbrica di San Pietro” and featuring photography from all angles taken with the Basilica completely empty. Approach the artworks, admire the mosaics, go down under the Papal Altar to take a close look at the tomb of St. Peter, as no visitor has been able to until now. You can choose your route, admire THE ARTWORKS at close quarters and listen to the audio comment from an ART HISTORIAN. Once you have chosen your language, you can explore St. Peter's Basilica starting from the entrance as you normally would and simulating a real visit, or from any other point in the Basilica, choosing a different route each time. You can orient yourself thanks to the map always present on the left of the screen or with the compass, which you can also turn off. Zoom in on the chosen works to enjoy every detail. Listen to the explanations of expert art historians in your own language or silently enjoy the striking images by turning off the sound. Illustrating and explaining a place of exceptional historical and artistic value has always posed a challenge for art and literature. Many monuments have been observed with close attention and interest since their creation. One of these is St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, which has maintained a key role thanks to the many values the place of worship embodies: an example of architecture at its finest, a museum with exceptional paintings, sculpture and decorative elements, and, not least, the highest expression of symbolic and religious symbols for Christians the world over. Visitors and readers of this multimedia guide will have the chance not only to find out about the history of the Basilica, but to step right into the dimension where the artistic creations come to life. "St Peter‘s Virtual Tour" is designed to allow anyone, however far they are from Rome, to visit the Basilica and admire this immense, enchanting creation of artistic genius, within which the history of Rome and indeed the world has been shaped.

Ratings and Reviews

Very disappointing.

I’m sure that there are many beautiful views in this app. Unfortunately it is impossible to access them because to log in requires a code ‘from the book associated with the app’ but as only the app is downloaded from the app store, such is not available. Therefore no access to the app, which makes it completely pointless.

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The developer, Gold Interactive SRL , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

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The Vatican Basilica Virtual

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  2. How to visit St Peter’s Basilica in Vatican ? Skip Line Tickets and Hours

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  3. File:St. Peter's Basilica view from Saint Peter's Square, Vatican City

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  4. Vatican Full Day Tour with Sistine Chapel and Basilicas

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  5. Visit St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, Rome

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  6. 6 Surprising Facts About St. Peter's Basilica

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COMMENTS

  1. Papal Basilica of Saint Peter

    Restoration work on the Baldachin of St Peter's Basilica presented today to the press. This morning, live streaming from the Holy See Press Office, a press conference ... Read more. Explore St Peter's Basilica, the spiritual heart of Christianity. Plan your pilgrimage or visit, discover its millennial history and admire its masterpieces of art.

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    St Peter's Basilica can accommodate 20,000 people. It measures 190 m (624 ft) long and the central nave is 46 m (150 ft) tall. ... If you want to visit the Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel, with a local guide and skip lines that can sometimes last 4 hours ...

  3. How to Visit the Vatican Museums & St. Peter's Basilica in 2024

    Tours to add on the Cabinet of Masks and the original Bramante Staircase are extra and this exact cost depends on the tour that you take. There is free entry into the Vatican Museums on the last Sunday of the month (expect larger than normal crowds). St. Peter's Basilica: Free. Dome of St. Peter's Basilica: €8 - €10.

  4. How to Visit Saint Peter's Basilica in Vatican City

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  5. Visit St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, Rome

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  6. How To Visit St Peter's Basilica: Tickets, Hours, Tours, and More

    St. Peter's Dome Climb and Sistine Chapel Combo Tour (5.5 hours) This tour begins by climbing up to St. Peter's dome, followed by a tour of the church. Then, your guide will lead you to the Vatican Museums where you'll see all its treasures, including the Sistine Chapel. See tour itinerary, price, and description.

  7. Visiting St Peter's Basilica at the Vatican: all you need to know

    St peter's Basilica hours: opening times. The basilica is open from 7.00 am to 18.30 (6.30 pm) between the 1st of October and the 31st of March. and. 7.00 am to 19.00 (7.00 pm) from the 1st of April to the 30th of September. Access to its main floor is free and, currently, for individuals only (large groups are not admitted for health reasons).

  8. Visiting the Vatican

    Vatican City is a separate state from Italy, with just over 500 residents. The two main places to visit are Saint Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums (where the Sistine Chapel is.) The pope is head of Vatican City. The pope's church is not Saint Peter's Basilica. It is Saint John in Lateran.

  9. St. Peter's Basilica: A Must Visit Chapel Within The Vatican City

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    According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience St. Peter's Basilica: Delivery of access tickets for Papal audience in Saint Peter's Square (From $22.60) Rome: St Peter's Basilica, Papal Tombs and Dome Climb Guided Tour (From $53.98) Skip-the-Line Group Tour of the Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica (From ...

  11. Visiting St. Peter's Basilica: Insider's Guide to Rome's Most Famous Church

    The vast inside of the Basilica is awe-inspiring, especially for first time visitors. Check out our post 6 Surprising Facts about St. Peter's Basilica to learn more about the structure. To get the most out of your trip, consider renting an audio guide from the kiosk inside or taking one of our expert guided tours, including one that covers St. Peter's Basilica in depth.

  12. Guide To St. Peter's Basilica: 20 Top Things To See

    the Holy Door, only opened every 25 years. 1. The Holy Door. The Holy Door is one of the three entrance ways into Saint Peter's Basilica. It's to the right of the main entrance to St. Peter's. The Holy Door is only open on a year that the pope deems a Holy Year, or Jubilee Year.

  13. St. Peter's Basilica

    St. Peter's Basilica, present basilica of St. Peter in Vatican City (an enclave in Rome), begun by Pope Julius II in 1506 and completed in 1615 under Paul V.It is designed as a three-aisled Latin cross with a dome at the crossing, directly above the high altar, which covers the shrine of St. Peter the Apostle.St. Peter's Basilica is one of the most renowned works of Renaissance ...

  14. How to visit the St Peter's Basilica in Vatican

    The St Peter's Basilica opening hours are between 7am to 7pm, closing at 6pm in the low season. To avoid the crowds, either get there super early (like, right at 7am) or much later (like 5/6pm when the tour groups are long gone.

  15. A Guide To Visiting St. Peter's Basilica

    For an incredible view from the top of Saint Peter's Basilica, pay a visit to the splendid Cupola. Admire the inside of St. Peter's Basilica and look out onto the architectural splendor of St. Peter's Square from up high. You have two options: climb 551 steps for €6 or take an elevator halfway up for €8, then climb the remaining 320 ...

  16. St Peters Basilica Rome

    Saint Peter's Basilica is, by many standards, the largest Christian church in the world. Its dome is the tallest dome in the world at 136.57 meters (448.1 ft). The basilica is one of the four Papal basilicas in Rome, the others are St John in Lateran, Santa Maria Maggiore and Saint Paul Outside the Walls.

  17. St. Peter's Basilica

    The Papal Basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican (Italian: Basilica Papale di San Pietro in Vaticano), or simply Saint Peter's Basilica (Latin: Basilica Sancti Petri), is a church of the Italian High Renaissance located in Vatican City, an independent microstate enclaved within the city of Rome, Italy.It was initially planned in the 15th century by Pope Nicholas V and then Pope Julius II to ...

  18. 17 Top Things To See at St. Peter's Basilica

    Ultimate St. Peter's Basilica Dome Climb Tour with Papal Tombs. Get the most out of your visit to St. Peter's Basilica by joining a guided tour up to the top of the tallest dome in the world! Our tour includes all admissions including an elevator to the highest possible point and an English-speaking guide.

  19. St.Peter's Basilica in Vatican City

    Vatican Tours & Tickets St. Peter's Basilica. Address. Piazza San Pietro, Città del Vaticano. Metro. Stop Ottaviano (Line A) Tickets. A visit to St Peter's Basilica is free, but you should expect long queues of two hours. Recommended: The most comfortable way to visit the basilica is with a guided tour. You can reserve these tours online, or ...

  20. St. Peter's Basilica ️ 4 Secret Ways to Avoid the Lines

    In case you want to visit Vatican Museums as well, there is the option of getting a combo skip-the-line tour for both of these attractions. The 3-hour guided tour will help you find out more about the artworks at Vatican Museums (including the famous Sistine Chapel, of course) and then you will pass the long lines and enter Saint Peter's Basilica.

  21. St. Peter's Basilica Tickets, Tours and Things to Do

    The best time to visit St. Peter's Basilica is between 07:00 and 09:00, while the queues for security is still manageable. The worst time to arrive is between 10:00 - 14:00 when their are long queues for security. The author of this post arrived at 08:30 am on a weekday in mid-February and waited approximately 20 min to enter St. Peter's.

  22. Basilica of St. Peter

    The Basilica of Saint Peter relies wholly on the generosity of our parishioners and friends to continue and advance our mission of helping people in the Midlands encounter Christ. Saint Peter's EIN is 57-0350882. Please make your tax-deductible gift today!

  23. How to Visit St Peters Basilica in St Peters Square

    St Peters Square History: Why should you visit St Peters Basilica. It is the world's largest basilica, with a surface area of 22000 square meters and a capacity of 20,000 worshipers, it is 624 ft long and 447 feet high (from the floor to the top of the dome).

  24. Via Crucis in St. Peter's Basilica

    The pious practice of the Via Crucis will be held in St Peter's Papal Basilica in the Vatican starting on Friday February 16th at 4pm and for every Friday of the season of Lent. The first celebration will take place before the hourly Eucharistic Celebration. For the occasion, the works "Passion of Christ" by the artist Gaetano Previati (Ferrara ...

  25. St. Peter's Virtual Tour 4+

    Get to know and admire the interiors and works of art of St. Peter's Basilica. An immersive visit inside the empty Basilica, offline without internet connection. Application with code access. An innovative guide, created with the collaboration of the "Fabbrica di San Pietro" and featuring photography from all angles taken with the Basilica ...