Beat the crowds and start your day with a climb to the top of St. Peter’s Dome for the most stunning panoramic view of Rome, then regroup later for a self-guided visit to the Colosseum of Rome!
Highlights
- Tour St. Peter’s Basilica literally from “Top to bottom” with this exclusive guided tour
- Get up close and inside Michaelangelo’s majestic dome and experience a view of Rome like no other
- The perfect combination of fully guided and DIY exploring!
Description
The panoramic views from the top of St. Peter’s dome are truly breathtaking. You’ll enjoy a 360% view of the Eternal City like no other, including iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Tiber River. It offers a unique perspective on the city’s layout and architecture that you simply can’t get from ground level or anywhere else in Rome.
The first steps up to the top of Michelangelo’s dome begin just off St. Peter’s Square. There are 551 steps in total so we take the elevator partway and reduce the steps count to 380. St. Peter’s Basilica itself is an architectural masterpiece, and climbing its dome allows you to appreciate its grandeur up close. You’ll have the opportunity to see the intricate details of the dome’s construction, including the stunning mosaics and sculptures that adorn its interior. After taking in the remarkable views from the dome, rest awhile before entering St. Peter’s Basilica, where Bernini’s sculptures and Michelangelo’s art rise above Holy Papal tombs and the perceived necropolis of St. Peter himself.
After a break for lunch, make your way “back in time” to ancient Rome where you’ll enjoy pre-reserved entry to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. Explore these incredible sites at your leisure, and be sure to immortalize this epic day in Rome with plenty of photos—this is one day you won’t want to forget!
Inclusion
- Fully guided part-elevator / part-stairs tour to the summit of St. Peter’s Dome!
- In depth tour of St. Peter’s Basilica with an expert Vatican guide
- Access to Papal crypts beneath St. Peter’s
- Priority entrance at the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill (€18)
Exclusions
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Gratuities
Know before you book
- Due to the route covered and/or the means of transportation used, it is not possible to participate in this tour using a wheelchair, scooter, or other aid. Please contact us to inquire about customized tour options for guests with mobility challenges
- Dome climb is a morning tour, Colosseum timed entry will be in the afternoon
- Max group size: 20
- Prefer to book a private tour instead? Contact us for details.
Know before you go
- Tour departs rain or shine
- Wear comfortable clothes for walking and climbing
Cancellation Policy
- Tours depart rain or shine unless otherwise specified.
- All cancellations must be received in writing. Tours and passes will be refunded if cancelled more than 24 hours before the tour start time, however the following penalties apply:
- For tours entering the Vatican Museums and/or the Colosseum (venues where tickets are non-refundable) a penalty of $30 per person will be retained for each venue.
- No refunds will be made for cancellations with less than 24 hours notice or failure to arrive at the meeting point on time (no-show).
