5 (1)
Rome
St Peter's Basilica: Underground Tour with Dome Climb
150
Overview
Explore the wonders of the Vatican on the St Peter's Basilica Underground Tour with Dome Climb. This walking tour takes you deep into history and high above Rome, showing you places most people never see.
What to Expect: The tour starts in St. Peter's Square. An expert guide will share exciting stories about Vatican City. You'll go inside St. Peter's Basilica, home to famous art like Michelangelo's Pietà and Bernini’s Baldacchino. Then, you'll go underground to the Vatican Grottoes, where popes and saints are buried. You can even stand close to where people believe St. Peter's bones rest. The adventure ends with a climb to the top of St. Peter's Dome, the tallest spot in Rome. From there, you'll see amazing views of the city and the Vatican Gardens.
This tour includes skip-the-line access to St. Peter’s Basilica, a climb to the top balcony of the Cupola/Dome (ticket included), access to St. Peter’s Square, headsets for clear audio, an expert art-historian guide, and a visit to the Vatican Grottoes with St Peter’s tomb. Everything except what is mentioned is excluded. 
Highlights
Go Underground: See the tombs of popes and stand near St. Peter's tomb.
Climb to the Top: Get amazing views of Rome from St. Peter's Dome.
Skip the Line: Save time with fast access to St. Peter's Basilica.
Learn from an Expert: Hear stories about art and history from a knowledgeable guide.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers generally enjoyed the tour, praising the views, knowledgeable guides, and unique access. The climb and pacing were areas for improvement mentioned.
Visitors loved the breathtaking panoramic views from the dome.
Many reviewers highlighted the guide's knowledge and enthusiasm.
Guests appreciated the skip-the-line access to St. Peter's Basilica.
Customers enjoyed the unique experience of visiting the Vatican Grottoes.
Some visitors mentioned the climb to the dome can be strenuous.
A few reviewers found the tour felt rushed at certain points.
The Journey
St. Peter's Square
Begin your Vatican adventure in St. Peter's Square, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. This vast, elliptical plaza, framed by imposing colonnades, serves as the grand entrance to Vatican City. Discover the square's rich symbolism and history as you stand where countless pilgrims have gathered for centuries, drawn to the spiritual heart of the Catholic Church. Marvel at the central obelisk, brought from Egypt in ancient times, and the two magnificent fountains that add to the square's harmonious beauty. This is where the Pope addresses the world, and where history unfolds before your eyes.
St. Peter's Basilica
Step inside St. Peter's Basilica, the largest church in the world, and prepare to be awestruck. This architectural marvel is a testament to centuries of artistic genius, featuring works by Michelangelo, Bernini, Raphael, and Bramante. Marvel at Michelangelo's Pietà, a poignant sculpture of the Virgin Mary cradling the body of Christ, and Bernini's Baldacchino, a towering bronze canopy over the papal altar. Explore the basilica's richly decorated chapels and soak in the grandeur of its soaring dome. St. Peter's is not just a church; it's a living museum and a sacred space that embodies the power and glory of the Catholic faith.
Vatican Grottoes
Descend beneath the grandeur of St. Peter's Basilica into the Vatican Grottoes, a subterranean necropolis holding the tombs of popes, royalty, and other notable figures. Wander through this sacred underground space, where history and spirituality intertwine. See the final resting places of numerous pontiffs, each tomb adorned with unique sculptures and inscriptions. The grottoes offer a unique glimpse into the history of the papacy and the Catholic Church. The area is also believed to house the remains of St. Peter the Apostle, making this a site of profound religious significance.
St. Peter's Dome
Ascend to the summit of St. Peter's Dome, designed by Michelangelo, for an unparalleled panoramic experience. Take an elevator to the terrace level, then climb the remaining steps through the dome's inner shell, following a unique spiral staircase. As you ascend, you'll have fascinating views of the basilica's interior. Reaching the top is a rewarding experience. It is Rome's highest viewpoint and offers a unique perspective on the city's skyline.
Panoramic Views of Rome
From the top of St. Peter's Dome, be captivated by breathtaking panoramic views of Rome. See St. Peter's Square spread out below, the Vatican Gardens in lush detail, and the sprawling Roman skyline stretching to the horizon. On clear days, you can spot iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and Pantheon, testaments to Rome's rich history. This is more than just a view; it's a visual feast that connects you to the city's past and present, offering a unique perspective on its enduring beauty and grandeur.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes a cupola/dome climb to the top balcony (ticket included), access to St. Peter’s Basilica (including Pietà, the Baldacchino), St Peter’s Square access, headsets for clear audio, an expert art-historian guide, and a visit to the Vatican Grottoes with St Peter’s tomb. Everything else is excluded. Prepare for a walking tour with some climbing involved.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes because you'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing. Also, try to go early in the morning to avoid some of the crowds.
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