Do you need tickets for St Peter’s Basilica​ ? Dome Climb Tickets Price & How to Visit

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Standing in St. Peter’s Square and looking up at the beautiful St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the most impressive sights in all of Rome. Now is the perfect time to secure your St Peter's Basilica tickets​ and climb to the Dome!

More than just a remarkable church, St. Peter’s Basilica is filled with fascinating details and a few surprising discoveries.

Read on to learn how to explore this historical landmark during your visit to Vatican City and discover the must-see attractions inside St. Peter’s Basilica.

Our St Peter's Basilica Tickets Top Picks for You

Planning to visit St Peter's Basilica? I’ve prepared a selection of the best ticket options for you.

No matter if you're short on time, watching your budget or looking for a full and complete experience of the Vatican City, you’ll for sure find what you need there.

• 🎟️ Time-savers: if you have limited time, opt for a guided tour and choose your preferred time. These allow you to bypass the lengthy queues and make the most of your visit to the Basilica.
• 🎟️ Budget-friendly options: if you're mindful of the St Peter's Basilica tickets price, consider basic entry tickets or early morning tours. These options provide great value but the experience remains absolutely great.
• 🎟️ Comprehensive experiences: you’re fond of history and want to fully immerse yourself in the Basilica's rich history and architecture? Then choose combo tickets (you also get access to Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel) or guided tours. These usually include access to the Peter's Basilica Dome for breathtaking views of Vatican City and Rome. These options take around 3 hours.

Select the right ticket option for you and make sure you get a memorable and tailored experience!

No matter what you have planned, these are the best St Peter's Basilica tickets available to book today >>

Different Types Of St Peter's Basilica Tickets

Going to the Vatican city shortly? Entry to the main basilica is free, but there are several ticket types that are here to enhance your experience and provide access to more specific areas.

• St Peter's Basilica tickets free entry is available to all visitors for the main basilica. But bear in mind this option involves long waiting times, especially during peak seasons. Free entry is also extended to children under 6, to some people with disabilities and their companions, to accredited journalists on assignment and to some museum directors and curators.
• St Peter's Basilica tickets skip the line options are also available if you wish to make the most of your time. These tickets include a St Peter's Basilica guided tour or St Peter's Basilica audio guide to get some insights into the basilica's history and artwork.
• St Peter's Basilica tickets dome tickets are separate from the main Basilica entry and are not free. These tickets allow you to ascend to the top of Michelangelo's famous dome for panoramic views of Rome. Prices range from € 8 if you climb the stairs to € 10 if you take the elevator part of the way.
• For a more comprehensive experience, consider St Peter's Basilica group tour options. These tours include a St Peter's Basilica tour guide who’s here to provide interesting information about the basilica.
• Discounted St Peter's Basilica tickets are available for some groups: students aged 18-25 with valid ID, children aged 6-18 and some religious personnel.

Also, we found a few more options if you wish to visit St Peter’s basilica as well as the Vatican Museums:

• 🎫 Regular Entry Ticket
• 🎫 Skip the Line Access & Guided Tours
• 🎫 Early Morning or Evening Tours
• 🎫 Combined Tickets
• Free Admission each last Sunday of the month

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.

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.

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 Opening Hours

Dress code

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.

The security check at St Peter's Basilica is thorough and often leads to long queues during peak hours. You’ll have to go through metal detectors and x-ray scanners.

In addition to dangerous items, selfie sticks and tripods are also prohibited and flash photography is not allowed inside the basilica to preserve the artwork.

Restrooms

Beside the gift shop, also there are a couple of toilets in St Peter’s Square. Those are somewhat limited but strategically located.

There are three main restroom areas: one near the Saint Peter’s basilica entrance, another in the cloakroom area, and a third located at the far end of St. Peter's Square.

The facilities located in the cloakroom are the most accessible. You won’t have to exit security. But overall, you may expect some wait times in peak tourist seasons. Don’t hesitate to plan restroom breaks accordingly, particularly if you’re on a guided tour or if you visit with children.

Pickpockets

As with any major attraction in Rome please be careful with your belongings and don’t display any valuables. Like many crowded tourist attractions, St. Peter's Basilica is a prime target for pickpockets.

Be extra vigilant in queues and crowded areas and keep valuables in a secure and hidden money belt or inside zippered pockets. Avoid carrying backpacks or leaving phones on tables, and be wary of distractions or people getting unusually close. If possible, I’d advise you to leave unnecessary valuables in your hotel safe.

What about St Peter's Basilica Tickets Cancellation Policy?

The cancellation policy for St Peter's Basilica tickets depends on the type of ticket you purchased. Cancellations can be made up to 5 working days before the tour date for a fee of € 8 per ticket for most reservations.

But bear in mind that cancellations made within 4 days of the tour are non-refundable. Some tickets (like for the Vatican Museums) are non-refundable at all, no matter the circumstances.

What to See at St Peter’s Basilica ?

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!

Prepare yourself to see far beyond just an ornate interior and a nice altar. The basilica really is a treasure trove of Renaissance and Baroque art and architecture, with works by some of the greatest artists in history.

Here are some of the most remarkable sights you shouldn't miss during your visit to St Peter's Basilica:

Michelangelo's Pietà

Also known as La Pietà, Michelangelo's Pietà is a masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture. This breathtaking marble statue depicts the Virgin Mary cradling the body of Jesus after the crucifixion. It's located in the first chapel on the right as you enter the basilica.

St Peter's Basilica Dome

Designed by Michelangelo, the St Peter's Basilica dome is an architectural marvel. You can climb to the top for panoramic views of Vatican City and Rome. The interior of the dome features stunning mosaics depicting scenes from the Bible and Church history.

Bernini's Baldacchino

Gian Lorenzo Bernini's bronze canopy stands over the papal altar. This massive structure reaches nearly 100 feet high and is a prime example of Baroque artistry. It marks the tomb of Saint Peter, the first pope and apostle Peter.

The Papal Altar and Confession

The high altar, where only the Pope may celebrate Mass, is located directly above what is believed to be the tomb of Saint Peter. The nearby area, known as the Confession, allows pilgrims to approach the apostle's resting place.

St. Peter's Square

Designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, the grand colonnade of St. Peter's Square embraces visitors as they approach the basilica. It's here where the Papal Audience is held weekly.

The Cathedra Petri (Chair of St. Peter)

The Cathedra Petri, is a relic enshrined in a magnificent bronze sculpture by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Located in Saint Peter's Basilica, this ornate reliquary houses what tradition claims to be the actual chair used by the apostle Peter. The chair symbolizes papal authority and the continuity of the Church.

Numerous Papal Tombs and Monuments

St. Peter's Basilica houses an impressive collection of papal tombs and monuments. Crafted by renowned artists, these elaborate structures serve as lasting tributes to past pontiffs. Don’t miss the tomb of Pope Julius II by Michelangelo and the monument to Pope Alexander VII by Gian Lorenzo Bernini.

The Treasury Museum

The Treasury Museum of St. Peter's Basilica isn’t part of the Vatican museums but houses an extraordinary collection of religious artifacts and precious objects accumulated over centuries.

Ornate chalices, jewel-encrusted crosses, elaborate vestments worn by popes throughout history… the museum displays important relics and artworks.

Tip – Don’t hesitate to combine a St Peter's Basilica guided tour with a visit to those sites for a comprehensive Vatican city experience.

When Is the Best Time to Visit the St Peter’s Basilica?

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?

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 is free to enter, but the lines can be very long. To avoid waiting, we recommend booking a guided tour that allows you to skip the general admission line (though you’ll still need to go through security). With a paid guided tour (check on this website), you can get inside more quickly and gain access to certain attractions within the Basilica that aren't available to those visiting for free.

However, be cautious of tourist traps. Since entry to St. Peter's Basilica is free, there are no official “St. Peter’s Basilica tickets” or skip-the-line tickets for sale. While the main entrance is free, some areas inside do require separate tickets, and each of these attractions has its own line in different parts of the Basilica.

There are a few tips to help you skip the lines, but these options come with a fee:

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?

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?

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 (check price here) is a good way to skip Basilica's queue.

What to See around St Peter’s Basilica?

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.

Visiting St Peter's Basilica at Christmas?

Believe me, Christmas at Vatican City truly is a magical experience. The festive season officially begins on December 8th (Feast of the Immaculate Conception) and continues until January 6th (Epiphany).

During this time, St Peter's Square is adorned with a grand Christmas tree and a life-sized nativity scene.

My personal highlight? The Christmas Eve Mass, also known as Midnight Mass, held in Saint Peter's Basilica at 7:30 PM on December 24th. Tickets are free for the occasion but they are in high demand and must be reserved well in advance.

If you find yourself unable to secure tickets, the mass is also broadcast on large screens in St Peter's Square.

On Christmas Day, the Pope delivers the “Urbi et Orbi” blessing from the basilica's central balcony at noon. This event is open to all and doesn't require any ticket.

Where to Eat Near St Peter's Basilica

After your visit to St Peter’s Basilica, you might want to refuel at some of the best nearby eateries.

Here are my top picks:

• 🍝 Trattoria Vaticano Giggi: just a short walk from the basilica, this charming trattoria is famous for its warm hospitality and typical Roman dishes. Giggi, the owner, will probably entertain you with personal stories while you enjoy delicious pasta and local specialties.
• 🍝 Papa Rex: located only 500 meters from St Peter's Square, Papa Rex combines a quirky atmosphere with traditional Roman cuisine. Enjoy live music while you taste their takes on classic dishes.
• 🍝 La Soffitta Renovatio: this family-run restaurant has been serving locals since the early 1900s! I love its cozy ambiance and its menu filled with homemade pasta and seasonal dishes.

Where to Stay Near St Peter's Basilica

I can only recommend you to stay near St Peter’s Basilica to fully enjoy your visit.

Here’s my selection of the best accommodations close to St Peter's Basilica, no matter if you’re looking for the best budget, luxury or affordable options:

• 🏨 Best Budget: Just 100 meters from St. Peter's Square, Hotel Emmaus offers comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi and air conditioning. Enjoy a complimentary breakfast on the rooftop terrace with beautiful Vatican views.
• 🏨 Best Luxury: This 15th-century palace turned boutique hotel is steps away from St. Peter's Basilica. Palazzo Cardinal Cesi's luxurious rooms feature antique furnishings and modern amenities. I love its peaceful courtyard garden!
• 🏨 Best Affordable: Located 500 meters from St. Peter's, Hotel Gravina San Pietro boasts clean and comfortable rooms at reasonable rates. I loved its generous breakfast buffet and helpful staff!

FAQs

Do you need tickets for St. Peter's Basilica?

No, the entry to St. Peter's Basilica itself is free; but tickets are required for its complementary attractions like the dome and guided tours.

Where can I purchase tickets for the St. Peter's Basilica Dome?

Tickets for the St. Peter's Basilica Dome can be purchased at the entrance to the dome, which is located on the right side of the basilica.

How far in advance should I arrive at St. Peter's Basilica?

I recommend you to arrive at least 30 minutes early, especially if you visit during peak tourist seasons. This way you’ll have all the time for security checks and queues.

Can you purchase St. Peter's Basilica tickets on-site?

Yes, you can buy tickets on-site for the dome and guided tours, but it's always better to book in advance to avoid long waits.

What is the estimated wait time at St. Peter's Basilica?

Well it will all depend on when you visit. Waiting times usually vary from 30 minutes to over an hour, and even more during busy periods and religious events.

Are there any discounts available for St Peter's Basilica tickets?

Yes, you may buy discounted tickets if you’re an EU citizen aged 18-25, if you have children aged 6-17 and if you’re a teacher or member of clergy. In order to claim your discount, you’ll have to show a valid ID.

Do I need to print my online St Peter's Basilica ticket?

No, you do not need to print your ticket. You can show your St Peter’s Basilica tickets online in digital format directly from your smartphone when you enter the basilica.

Is there a limit on the amount of time I can spend inside the St Peter's Basilica with my ticket?

There is no specific time limit for how long you can stay inside St Peter's Basilica. I encourage you to take your time to fully enjoy the visit.

Is there an admission fee to access St. Peter's Basilica's climb?

Yes, there is an admission fee to climb the dome of St Peter's Basilica. Prices are €10 for elevator access and €8 if you choose to climb the stairs.

Conclusion

Don't miss the chance to fully experience the magnificence of St. Peter's Basilica!

Book a comprehensive guided tour that includes the awe-inspiring dome, the basilica interior and the underground grottoes. 🎟️ This all-in-one combined ticket ensures you'll see every aspect of the landmark from its highest point to its sacred depths.