More than six million tourists and believers line up to enter the St. Peter’s Basilica annually, leading to long lines at the entrance.
While entry to the Basilica is free, you can skip these long lines by booking St. Peter’s Basilica tickets and entering via a special entrance.
St. Peter’s Basilica tickets are available in two options: standard entry to the Basilica itself or a combo ticket that also includes access to the Dome.
While accessing the St. Peter’s Basilica Dome, you can either climb 136 meters (448 ft) or take an elevator to the top. Either way, you will see breathtaking panoramic views of Vatican City and Rome.
St. Peter’s Basilica tickets also grant you access to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel.
St. Peter’s Basilica entry ticket
The St. Peter’s Basilica entry ticket provides access to both the Basilica and the Dome.
There are three options available: St. Peter’s Basilica & Dome (without an audio guide) and Basilica & Dome with an audio guide with or without an elevator.
You can book this tour from 7:30 am to 1:30 pm.
The audio guide is available in different languages: English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Polish, Spanish, and Chinese.
Ticket prices
St Peter’s Basilica & Dome Ticket: €15
Basilica & Dome Ticket + Audio Tour (no elevator): €29
Basilica & Dome Ticket + Audio Tour (elevator): €34
If you’d like to explore the Papal Tombs during your visit to St. Peter’s Basilica, check out the St. Peter’s Basilica + Papal Tombs tour for a more in-depth experience.
St. Peter’s Basilica guided tour
On this guided tour, you will discover the wonders of St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican Museums, and Sistine Chapel.
The expert guide shares valuable insights into the Vatican’s rich history and art, making your visit both informative and memorable.
The group tour is limited to 20 people and is available in English, Spanish, Italian, French, and German.
Headsets are provided for a clear understanding of what the guide is explaining. You will receive confirmation once your tickets are booked, and free cancellation is available up to 2 days in advance for a full refund.
Ticket prices
Vatican Museums with Basilica: €115
St. Peter’s Basilica small group: €218
Private Tour of Museums & Basilica: €3,200
If you want to visit only St. Peter’s Basilica, or have already visited the Vatican Museums, you can opt for this guided tour.
St. Peter’s Basilica private tour
A Private tour of St. Peter’s Basilica offers an exclusive and personalized way to experience the iconic treasures of Vatican City.
Beginning with a special entrance reserved for VIP visitors, you’ll enjoy skip-the-line access to St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel.
This 3-hour private tour is available with flexible start times at 9 am, 12 pm, and 2 pm.
Your expert guide will provide detailed insights throughout the tour, ensuring a premium and customized experience.
You can choose a guide in your preferred language available in English, Spanish, French, Italian, German, or Portuguese.
Tour prices
Adult (18+ years): €250
Youth (3 to 27 years): €179
Child (under 3 years): Free entry
If you’re in Rome and want to visit St. Peter’s Basilica but tickets are sold out, you can still book an early morning or evening tour online to avoid waiting in long queues.
FAQs on St. Peter’s Basilica Tickets
Here are some questions tourists ask before booking St. Peter’s Basilica tickets.
What are the closing hours of St. Peter’s Basilica?
From April to September, St. Peter’s Basilica is open from 7 am to 7 pm. From October to March, the hours are from 7 am to 6:30 pm. The last entry is allowed half an hour before closing.
What is the cost of St. Peter’s Basilica tickets?
Self-guided St. Peter’s Basilica tickets cost €15 and guided tours cost €115.
Is entry to St. Peter’s Basilica free?
Yes, entry to St. Peter’s Basilica is free, but be prepared for long queues, especially during peak seasons. To avoid the wait, it’s best to arrive early, or you can book St. Peter’s Basilica tickets online which you skip these long lines.
How to access the dome during St. Peter’s Basilica tour?
To access the St. Peter’s Basilica Dome, you need to purchase a separate ticket called the St. Peter’s Dome ticket. This ticket also includes access to St. Peter’s Basilica.
Can I bring a camera on a St. Peter’s Basilica tour?
Yes, you can bring a camera on St. Peter’s Basilica tour, but flash photography is not allowed. Tripods, selfie sticks, drones, and professional equipment are also banned.
Which entrance do visitors access during St. Peter’s Basilica tour?
The main entrance to St. Peter’s Basilica is located in St. Peter’s Square, accessible from Via della Conciliazione. Groups attending Mass enter through the “Prayer Path” on the right side of the Basilica’s facade. Guided tour groups may have access to the Basilica directly from the Sistine Chapel via a hidden passage, but individual visitors are not allowed to use this entrance.
