St Peter's Dome Climb
Enjoy unparalleled views of Rome climbing up the 320 steps to St Peter's Dome. You can also choose to visit the Basilica and its crypts too - unmissable!
St Peter's Dome Climb in Vatican City
After meeting up at 8:10 am in Piazza della Città Leonina, a square not from the Vatican City, we'll walk over to St Peter's Square. There, we'll head to one of the sides of the Basilica, where we'll take an elevator up to the first level of the magnificent dome that crowns the church.
From there, we'll begin our climb up the 320 steps that lead to the top of St Peter's Dome. It may be hard work, but the effort will be worth it when you see the spectacular views from the viewpoint located in highest part of the basilica. The Eternal City as you've never seen it before!
After admiring the unforgettable panoramic views of Rome from the dome, we'll descend to St Peter's Basilica, where our tour will come to an end at 8:55 am. You can then choose to explore the interior of the impressive church at your own pace.
Tour of St Peter's Basilica & Crypts
If you'd prefer, you can opt to do a two and a half hour tour, which as well as climbing St Peter's Dome, also takes you on a guided tour of St Peter's Basilica and crypts. Inside, you'll get to see masterpieces including Michelangelo's Pietà and the baldachin, or altar cover, designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. The sculptural monuments to Gregory XIII, Christine of Sweden and Pius VIII also stand out. What's more, you'll visit the crypts, home to the papal tombs.
Who can participate in this activity?
- This activity requires a good level of physical fitness as it involves walking up the 320 curved steps that lead to the dome of St Peter's. The climb is not recommended for people with vertigo, claustrophobia or heart problems.
- Large backpacks are not allowed, and both men and women must have their shoulders and knees covered.
Visit the Vatican Museums
If, in addition to visiting St Peter's Basilica and climbing the dome, you wish to visit the Vatican Museums (which include the famous Sistine Chapel), take a look at the following activities:
Price
More Information
Duration
45 minutes - 2.5 hours.
Language
The tour is exclusively in English.
Included
Climb up St Peter's Dome by lift and on foot.
Skip the line entry to St Peter's Basilica.
Guided tour of St Peter's Basilica and Crypts (optional).
English speaking guide.
When to book?
Book as soon as possible to guarantee availability, especially during public holidays and festivities.
You can book up until the previous day (7:55 AM local time) if there are still places available.
Ticket
Once your booking has been confirmed, you will receive an email containing your booking voucher. Please print it out or download on your smartphone/tablet to show on the day of the activity.
Frequently asked questions
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Q - How to book?
A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.
If you still have more questions, check out our section on frequently asked questions. If you need help to book an activity or have any enquiries, please contact us.
Accessibility
No (not suitable for people with reduced mobility or pushchairs/strollers).
Meeting point
Piazza della Città Leonina.
