St. Peter's Basilica Dome and Holy Grottoes and Dome Private Guided Tour

Explore in depth the iconic beauty of St. Peter's Cathedral, unveil the secrets hidden in the underground necropolis and soak in the breathtaking view from its dome.

Tour Features

Local Guide

Certified Official Guide

Tour Languages

English

Duration

3 hours

Tour Size Options

Private

Itinerary

The Vatican Grottoes are located beneath St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City and serve as a burial site for many popes, including several significant pontiffs throughout history. This sacred area is home to a collection of tombs and chapels, with the most notable being the tomb of St. Peter himself, believed to be located directly beneath the high altar.
St. Peter's Basilica is one of the most famous and important churches in the world, located in Vatican City. It is the center of Catholicism and a major pilgrimage site, built over the burial place of St. Peter, one of Jesus' apostles and the first pope. The basilica, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, was designed by some of history's greatest artists and architects, including Michelangelo, who crafted the iconic dome, and Gian Lorenzo Bernini, who designed the grandiose St. Peter’s Square.
St. Peter's Basilica's dome is one of the most iconic and breathtaking features of Vatican City. Designed by Michelangelo, the dome stands as a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture and engineering. At 136 meters (448 feet) in height, it is one of the largest dome in the world, dominating the skyline of St. Peter's Square.

Tour Details

Full Description

Embark on an exclusive private tour of one of the world’s most iconic religious landmarks—St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. This immersive experience offers a rare chance to explore the sacred underground chambers, the Holy Grottoes, and the breathtaking dome, all in the comfort of a personalized guided tour.

Your journey begins beneath the basilica, where you’ll visit the Vatican Grottoes, the final resting place of many popes. These solemn and serene underground chambers are home to the tombs of several pontiffs, including that of St. Peter, the first pope, whose remains are believed to lie beneath the high altar of the basilica. Next, you’ll venture through the St. Peter’s Basilica, marveling at its stunning architecture and artistry, including Michelangelo’s renowned Pietà and the magnificently adorned altar. Your guide will explain the history and significance of these masterpieces, making it more than just a visit but an enriching journey through Christian history.

The highlight of the tour is the ascent to the Dome of St. Peter’s Basilica, where you’ll climb to the top for panoramic, awe-inspiring views of Vatican City, Rome, and beyond. From this vantage point, the breathtaking grandeur of the basilica and the surrounding landscape unfold in a way that will leave you speechless.

This private tour is tailored to your pace, ensuring a deeper, more personal connection to this sacred site, away from the crowds. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or an admirer of architectural beauty, this tour will give you a profound insight into the heart of the Catholic Church and one of the world's most revered landmarks.

Important Information

Comfortable footwear is recommended as the tour includes some walking and stair climbing, especially during the ascent to the dome.
Please note that visitors to the Basilica must observe the appropriate dress code in order to access it: modest clothes, covered shoulders and legs.