Basilica of St. John Lateran (Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano) Attractions & Things to do

Begun in the year 1300 by Pope Boniface VIII, the Church has encouraged pilgrims to come to the four most important churches in Christendom - the Major Basilicas - and to enter into them through their holy doors.

There are only 4 Major Basilicas in the world - the highest ranking of all churches - and they are all in Rome.

Following in the steps of countless saints and pilgrims for centuries and millenia before you, we give you the chance to visit the official Four Papal Major Basilicas of Rome and dispose yourselves towards the receipt of the attached indulgences.

The Ancient Four Major Basilicas of Rome are the Basilica of St Peter, the Basilica of St Paul Outside the Walls, the Basilica of St Mary Major and the Arch-Basilica of St John Lateran.

Pilgrims booked with us on this tour will have the chance to enter into each of these Papal Basilicas with an expert guide.

Duration: 5 hours.

Pope Francis proclaimed the Jubilee Year of Mercy starting on December 8, 2015 and close to the 2025 Jubilee YEAR, we are ready for it. This private tour gives you the opportunity to learn more about the meaning of this event as you visit the major and most representative religious sites of Rome. Escorted by your English-speaking driver, visit the Basilica of St Paul Outside the Wall, the Basilica of St. Praxedis, and the Patriarchal Basilica of St. Mary Major, and gain a more in-depth experience than you would on most typical tours of the city's Christian sites. You'll discover hidden secrets and treasures of these landmarks and learn about their significance to the Jubilee Year of Mercy. Even though the Jubilee Year will be proclaimed over, the spirit of such a memorable year will continue, and you will feel its essence with us.
Duration: 7 hours.

The Giro delle Sette Chiese is a walking pilgrimage previously practiced but formalized and revitalized by San Filippo Neri.
In its original form it consists of a ring route of about 20 km which touches the main churches of Rome at the time when the saint lived, the first four are the Major Papal Basilicas:


Duration: 2 to 4 hours.

Take a fascinating journey through an underground pagan temple and four impressive churches to understand the very early stages of Christianity. See original relics from the Crucifixion of Christ and soil from the Holy Land.
Duration: 150 to 210 minutes.

Explore three Major Vatican Basilicas and Holy Doors on this 3-hour tour with transfers. Save yourself hours of walking and join us on this guided tour of Santa Maria Maggiore, Saint Paul Outside the Walls, and Saint John in Lateran. Three Vatican Basilicas outside the Vatican.
During this tour, you will also discover unique Christian Relics, stunning works of art, the throne of Pope Francis, and the Holy Doors that only the Pope can open during the Jubilee year.
At each stop, you will also have free time to take photos, to visit the gift shop, and to rest.
Duration: 3 hours.

We are immensely pleased to lead to you to visit the most significant sites of the Catholic Church in Rome.
Included one Papal Blessing on Parchment in English.
• Saint John Lateran
• The Holy Stairs
• Saint Mary Major
• Saint Paul Outside the Walls
• St. Peter’s Basilica (if and when open)
• One Christian Catacomb (Skip-The-Line tickets included)
Lunch included in a typical Roman Restaurant.
Upgradable with Official Licensed Expert Tour Guide (in Private option)
Pickup and dropoff will be at your accommodation in Rome.
Private or Shared Tour available options.

Worry-Free and Safe Private Tour Experience, operated only with:
• Expert Professional English-Speaking Drivers
• Selected local Expert Licensed Tour Guides (when booked)
• Welcoming by private licensed fully-insured air-conditioned comfortable Vehicles
Duration: 8 hours.

What exactly can you expect from this tour?
Immerse yourself in the Rome of the Popes, where stories, wonders, legends and reality blur and harmonize with today's Rome.

You will be guided by one of our local, certified tour guides. What makes our guides special is their passion for Rome and they want to share it with you.

Highlights of the tour:

On this tour, you will experience "Santa Maria Maggiore", which contains one of the four Holy Doors.

Then we will reveal the hidden basilica "Santa Prasede" and its secrets.

Followed by "San Pietro in Vincoli" where you will see the statue of Moses by Michelangelo and the miraculous chains of St. Peter.

Then we will visit two of the oldest churches in the city:
"Santi Quattro Coronati" with the legend of Pope Sylvester
"San Clemente", dedicated to the fourth Pope "Clemens I"

The tour culminates in a visit to the arch-basilica of "San Giovanni in Laterano", which contains another of the four Holy Doors.
Duration: 3 to 4 hours.

On this tour you will explore three of the most important Basilicas in the world, after St. Peter's: St. John Lateran, St.Mary Major and St. Paul Outside the Walls. Built in the 4th century by the emperor Constantine, the Basilica of St. John Lateran is the oldest church in the western world. A former seat of the papacy, and the current seat of the Archdiocese of Rome, St. John Latera is Rome's Cathedral. Its many treasures include the original doors of the Roman Curia or senate house. Nearby are the Scala Sancta ( Holy Stairs ) believed to be the very steps on which Chist stood trial before Pontius Pilate. St. Mary Major is one the oldest churches dedicated to Mary, the Mother of Jesus, and is known for its mosaics featuring scenes from the life of Mary. It also houses the relic of Christ's manger. Last but not least, the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls is the second largest Basilica after St. Peter's Basilica. It was founded on the burial ground of St. Paul.
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes.

Join an intense spiritual pilgrimage through three of Rome's most significant places of worship, accompanied by an experienced Catholic guide who will take you on a journey through faith, art and history. The guide will help you gain an in-depth understanding of the history of the Basilica of St. John Lateran, the Lateran Baptistery and the Holy Stairs, revealing details and symbolism of these places that have unique importance in Christian tradition.
Duration: 3 hours.

The four located in Rome, are major basilicas,Saint Peter,Saint Mary Major, Saint John,Saint Paul Outside the Walls.

Being major basilicas, they have a holy door and a papal altar: the holy doors are opened with a special ritual by the Pope or one of his commissioners only for the duration of a Holy Year, and they play an important role in granting the so-called plenary indulgence ; the papal altar is an altar where only the pope or a few other priests can celebrate the Eucharist.
Duration: 4 hours.

Admire two of the most important Basilicas of the Catholic world and the unforgettable Catacombs. See the worshiped the Holy Stairs at St. John in Lateran.  The heart of Christianity from the time of the persecutions to the rise of the Pope's power. A fascinating journey into the history of Catholic Rome, uncover ancient secrets hidden beneath the surface of modern Rome
Duration: 3 hours.

Discover Rome and explore the sites that have made this city the center of Christianity. You can relive this ancient history walking through the Impressive Papal Basilicas, places where history, faith and art blend together through the lives of popes, saints and artists. You can visit the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls, with its beautiful medieval cloister, then move on to the first Basilica in Rome, St. John Lateran, the place of the greements between the political power and the power of the Church. You will continue your journey in Catholicism at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, the most important of the Roman churches dedicated to the Virgin Mary, with a lot ofmosaics and decorations. You will conclude the tuor admiring the elegance and the artistic and architectural majesty of St. Peter's Basilica and the masterpieces of Bernini and Michelangelo.

Duration: 4 hours.

Rome, the heart of Christianity, the seat of the Catholic Church, is the place where history, faith, and art combine in a unique synthesis of majesty and beauty. The millennia of history of this city lives within each monument: basilicas, churches, catacombs. A journey through Christian Rome is a journey to discover places where one can savor the lively history of men and women, popes, saints, and artists who have dedicated their lives to the Church and to spread the Christian message. As the home of the Pope and the Catholic curia, as well as the locus of many sites and relics of veneration related to apostles, saints and Christian martyrs, Rome had long been a destination for pilgrims. The Via Francigena was an ancient pilgrim route between England and Rome. It was customary to end the pilgrimage with a visit to the tombs of Sts Peter and Paul. For many visitors to Rome, a trip to the catacombs is one of the most moving and memorable parts of their holiday.
Duration: 8 to 9 hours.

Visit the four Papal Basilicas in Rome in a private experience. They are the four most important churches in Rome and the Christianity. Private Tour with private driver.
Duration: 3 hours.

On our Holy Church of Rome tour, your personal chauffeur & expert theologian will escort you in a premium luxury vehicle to 3 out of the 4 Papal Basilicas, as well as the Basilica of Santa Croce. These four churches are on the “must see” list if you’re visiting Rome! The Basilica of Mary Major, also known as Our Lady of Snows, is home to the crib of the baby Jesus, is the largest Church to Mary in Rome. Afterwards you will get to see St. John Lateran, the Cathedral of Rome which has the seat of the bishop of Rome, and St. Paul’s outside the Walls. In the Basilica of the Holy Cross, you will see many relics of the Passion of Christ, including pieces of the crown of thorns and the actual cross of Jesus. It is a truly holy and reverent experience with one of our top theologians to accompany you on this tour!
Duration: 4 hours.

When the Roman Empire embraced the faith it once persecuted, it exploded into a frenzy of observance for the history and truth of the Christian faith manifest in the literary, the artistic and the relics of the early Christian church. Many of these were then brought to the then capital of the world - Rome. On this tour expect to have an intimate encounter with the Relics of the Passion of Jesus Christ - physical objects which were used in his torture and death, and which were mostly brought to Rome from Jerusalem by St Helena - the mother of Emperor Constantine - in the 4th century. All pilgrims who join us on this once in a lifetime Catholic pilgrimage tour will be given time to reflect and pray as part of their religious tour experience.

Duration: 3 hours.

With centuries-old architecture and unparalleled artistry, the churches of this magnificent city tell stories that transcend time.

We take pride in crafting experiences that cater to all, from art lovers to history buffs, ensuring each moment is engaging and enlightening.

Our knowledgeable guides are passionate about sharing the rich narratives woven into the fabric of Rome's religious heritage, offering insights that you won't find in guidebooks.

Join us and let the remarkable churches of Rome inspire your soul—book your tour now and take the first step toward a truly enlightening experience!
Duration: 3 hours 15 minutes.

Visit some of the most ancient churches of the Eternal City and discover the art of the mosaic, from the Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano to Basilica di Santa Prassede. Roman mosaics are one of the most elegant art forms from the ancient world we can still enjoy today.
Together with our professional guides, we selected for you the best mosaics in the city, one of the most elegant art forms from the ancient world. Enrich your visit to Rome with our unique mosaic guided tour!
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes.

Step into the early days of Christianity, during this private six-hour driven tour (driver does not enter the sites , but gives commentaries from the vehichle )beginning and ending at your hotel. Led by a local knowledgeable English speaking driver, you’ll get an insider's view of the Eternal City and its holy sites, seeing where Constantine, St. Peter, and St. Paul lived and preached. You’ll visit major basilicas St. Mary Major, St. John Lateran, St. Paul Outside the Walls, and Holy Cross in Jerusalem. After learning about the legends of these churches and their relics, you’ll travel to the subterranean Catacombs, an ancient early-Christian burial site.
Duration: 6 hours.

Discover the rich history of Rome on this captivating tour, visiting three of the city's most iconic landmarks. Start at **Basilica di San Clemente**, a unique site with layers of history, including an ancient Roman house, a 4th-century church, and a medieval basilica. Next, explore the majestic **Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano**, the Pope's official church and one of Rome's most important religious sites, known for its grand architecture and stunning artworks. Finally, ascend the **Scala Santa**, the sacred "Holy Stairs" believed to be the steps Jesus climbed to face trial before Pontius Pilate. This tour offers an unforgettable journey through Rome's spiritual and architectural heritage.
Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Your private storyteller will let you experience an authentic pilgrimage to sacred places of Rome during this tour, discovering three of the Great Basilicas in Rome: S.Giovanni in Laterano, S.Paolo fuori le Mura, and S.Maria Maggiore.

During this tour, you will have the opportunity to learn about Christianity and see impressive artwork and masterpieces from many different centuries.

The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore is an absolute Early Christian masterpiece of art and architecture.

Outside the historical district, you'll find the Basilica of Saint Paul outside the walls. Imposing, elegant, majestic, and built where Saul of Tarsus (St. Paul) was buried.

The Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano, defined also as the "mother of all churches" is part of a great monumental complex including the great obelisk, the Lateran Palace, and the Sanctuary of the Holy Stairs. Upgrade your tour with a visit to the world-famous Scala Sancta!
Duration: 180 to 210 minutes.

Discover hidden gems of Rome on this 2-hour tour to the Cathedral of Rome in San Giovanni, the oldest church in the city, the Holy Steps, and the Basilica of the Holy Cross.
Duration: 2 hours.

With your expert guide and private driver take a journey of religous fervour and visit the Ancient Four Major Basilicas of Rome, the Basilica of St Peter, the Basilica of St Paul Outside the Walls, the Basilica of St Mary Major and the Arch-Basilica of St John Lateran. All transport and entrances included.
Duration: 4 hours.

Enjoy this 4-hour private tour to discover the 4 main major Basilicas in Rome,
thanks to an exlcusive service driven by an English-speaking chauffeur
Duration: 4 hours.

Embark on a sacred journey through the heart of Rome, as we unveil a private tour designed exclusively for our esteemed religious clients. Discover the timeless allure of Rome's spiritual tapestry as we guide you through a collection of breathtaking churches and religious sites. Marvel at the intricate architecture that stands as a testament to centuries of devotion and faith. Immerse yourself in the hallowed halls where divine artistry and celestial ambiance converge, leaving an indelible impression on your soul. With each step, feel the weight of history and the profound significance of these sacred spaces, as your guide illuminates their stories and significance. Join us on this extraordinary pilgrimage, where the whispers of ancient prayers and the echoes of divine reverence await your presence.
Your driver will give you information about the churches you will visit before you enter, then you will walk in and have your privacy in your visit.
Duration: 5 hours.

Half-day walking tour of Christian Rome to discover the underground treasures of some of the most sensational churches. The tour begins in the Lateran area, whose name derives from the family that owned the territory where the first Popes resided before going to Avignon in France and then returning to Rome in the Vatican area. Visit to the Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano, the oldest of the four Papal Basilicas, considered "The Church of Rome", the mother of all churches. The tour continues with a visit to the Basilica of San Clemente, the only church in Rome to be built on 3 different levels, from the 1st to the 12th century and you can explore the underground floors, including the 1st century Mithras Altar. Continue towards the Church of Santi Quattro Coronati, dedicated to four anonymous saints and martyrs. The visit ends with the Basilica of San Pietro in Vincoli renowned for the statue of Moses that Michelangelo created in 1545 for the tomb of Pope Julius II.
Duration: 3 hours.

Visit with us the unique Eternal City! Discover some of the most amazing churches in the city, with a professional licensed guide. Admire the important creations of the famous Italian artists and learn about the culture, architecture and history behind them. Our walking tour will present you everything you need to know about the Roman churches, so be ready to discover!
Duration: 2 hours.

Half day walking tour in a small group of Christian Rome to discover the underground treasures in some of the most sensational churches. The tour starts in the Lateran area, visit of St. John Lateran Basilica, the oldest of the four Papal Basilicas, considered “The Church of Rome”, the mother of all churches The Cathedral, the place where the Bishop has the seat. Then the tour continues with the visit of St. Clement’s Basilica, the only church in Rome to be built on 3 different levels, from the 1st to the 12th century and the underground floors can be explored, including the altar of Mithras from the 1st century. The visit ends with St. Peter’s in Chains Basilica, called like that for the chains that, according to the tradition, Helene Constantine’s mother brought in Rome and for a miracle where joined to the other St. Peter’s chain in Rome. The church, is famous also for the statue of Moses, created by Michelangelo the tomb of the Pope Julius II.
Duration: 3 hours.

This tour includes the symbols of the Christianity, such the four most important Basilicas of Rome such St.Peter's Basilica
Duration: 4 hours.

Magnificent 3-hour tour to discover the Eternal City. A new perspective that will make you live the dream of the Dolce Vita with a tour of the wonders of Classical Rome aboard a splendid 1967 Fiat 500 F. Forget about long walks in the sun and tiring walking tours; on our vintage car you will have a relaxing but at the same time dynamic and engaging experience for a leap back to the 60s aboard the most elegant icon of Made in Italy.

Each tour starts from one of the most beautiful squares in the world, Piazza Venezia. From here, our journey will begin to discover the most hidden corners of Rome, the panoramic and often inaccessible areas. There will be stops to take photographs, to savor an excellent espresso coffee and a refreshing aperitif while admiring one of the most beautiful panoramic views in the world!

Due to the size of the car and safety standards, this tour is suitable for a maximum of 3 guests.
Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Embark on a spiritual journey through Rome's rich religious heritage with our "Divine Pathways" tour. Enjoy hotel pick-up and a private cab for a 3-hour exploration of the city's magnificent basilicas. Traverse these sacred sites, including St. Peter's Basilica and others, immersing yourself in their architectural splendor and spiritual significance, all while accompanied by a knowledgeable guide.
Duration: 3 hours.

One of the most peculiar aspect of Roman civilization is the care for what nowadays its call infrastructures and services. Romans roads pride of Romans engineers would link the capital to the entire empire up to its most remote borders. In this tour we will walk on the part of Via Appia that leads towards the outskirts of town following the ancient path. Another Roman civilization’s visible sign are the Aqueducts that guaranteed the town's water supplies. Their impressive skeletons characterize the landscape around town. Next, we will explore the catacombs in their evocative twilight. Rome's ground is made of tender volcanic rock that allowed to dig tunnels and subterranean. Therefore, it is still possible to go underground and visit the old cemeteries so widespread and deep to arouse continuous marvel.
Duration: 4 hours.

We are immensely pleased to lead to you to visit the most significant sites of the Catholic Church in Rome.
Included one Papal Blessing on Parchment in English.
• Saint John Lateran
• The Holy Stairs
• Saint Mary Major
• Saint Paul Outside the Walls
• St. Peter’s Basilica (if and when open)
• One Christian Catacomb (Skip-The-Line tickets included)
Lunch included in a tipical Roman Restaurant.
Upgradable with Official Licensed Expert Tour Guide (in Private option)
Pickup and dropoff will be at your accommodation in Rome.
Private or Shared Tour available options.

Worry-Free and Safe Private Tour Experience, operated only with:
• Expert Professional English-Speaking Drivers
• Selected local Expert Licensed Tour Guides (when booked)
• Welcoming by private licensed fully-insured air-conditioned comfortable Vehicles
Duration: 8 hours.

A perspective on the importance of Catholic Christianity, intertwined in Rome's history, arcaic traditions and culture. Without leaving out the artistic and architectural aspect.

Historical changes and art are often found in the oldest Roman churches.
Like in Basilica di San Clemente, the only church in Rome, built on three different levels; the Basilica of Saint John Lateran and The “Scala Santa” (Holy Stairs); the Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem, one of the Seven Pilgrim Churches of Rome and the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

Duration: 4 hours.

Explore a unique part of the Eternal City, led by a professional licensed guide! Visit some of the most impressive churches in Rome and admire famous artistic creations as you enjoy a fun and comprehensive guided tour. Discover the important creations of the famous Italian artists and learn about the culture, architecture and history behind them. Our walking tour will present you everything you need to know about the Roman churches, so be ready to discover!
Duration: 2 hours.

Together with your guide, you will go to Basilica of San Pietro in Vincoli, where the chains with which St. Peter was held prisoner are kept. The origins of this basilica are very ancient.

Next, we will see the Basilica of San Clemente, brought to light during the excavation work begun at the end of the 1800s.

The last attraction of our tour is Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano, the cathedral of Rome. It is the mother and head of all the churches of Rome and the world. On the left side of the piazza is the Scala Santa: according to tradition, it is the same that Jesus went up to the Praetorium of Pontius Pilate.

In the right corner of the piazza is the Baptistery, built by Constantine, where it is said that he was baptized by San Silvestro.
Duration: 2 hours.

Following the footsteps of St. Peter to this district, home to the warm spirited catacombs and the tombs built by the most wealthy and famous families in Rome, the Appian Way, known as the Queen of Roads, is the first world’s highway. It is dated 312 BC and was the starting point for Roman traders and warriors but it was also flanked by mausoleums and the unmissable Christian Catacombs. Persecution of many Christian martyrs under pagan Emperors, whose bones, once buried underground, became objects of veneration.
Duration: 5 to 6 hours.

Discover with us some of the most interesting mysteries and legends of Rome! Led by a professional guide, you will explore Basilica of San Pietro in Vincoli, where the chains with which St. Peter was held prisoner are kept.
Continuing with the tour, you will visit Basilica of San Clemente, brought to light during the excavation work begun at the end of the 1800s and last but not least, you will head towards Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano, the cathedral of Rome. Together with us, you will discover the impressive stories and legends behind those amazing venues in the Eternal City and make unforgettable memories!

Duration: 2 hours.

This is Rome’s greatest pilgrims’ attractions in seven wonderful hours – an unmissable opportunity!
This seven hour private tour gives you a wonderful chance to discover the best pilgrim tour of Rome, in the company of an expert private guide. The tour will start in the Square of San Giovanni Laterano then enter the Basilica the old seat of the bishop of Rome and ends in the St.Peter's square.
Duration: 7 hours.

Dig into the fascinating history of Christianity in ancient Rome with this private 9 hour shore excursion from the port of Civitavecchia to the Eternal City. Visit the places where everything started. Learn what St. Peter and St. Paul did when they were in Rome, where Christians were buried when the religion was prohibited, and how Christianity eventually triumphed.
Duration: 9 hours.

Visit with us the unique Eternal City! Discover some of the most amazing churches in the city, with a professional licensed guide. Admire the important creations of the famous Italian artists and learn about the culture, architecture and history behind them. Our walking tour will present you everything you need to know about the Roman churches, so be ready to discover!
Duration: 2 hours.

Almost 3000 years of history ride between the paths and under the arches of Rome. You’ll find out breath-taking sights, little squares, and fountains for a tour that will guide you in a charming itinerary, only known by the “Romani de Roma”.

Note: For this Tour, it is highly recommended the client has to have experience riding a scooter and has to have a valid driving license
Duration: 3 to 4 hours.

>This walking tour for 3 hours is as good as a time to reflect and walk the path of the early Christians
>Concluding at St Peter’s Basilica, the walk from the other three churches is carefully paced to simply walk without hurrying
>Your licensed local guide not only knows the city, but loves it!
>We have carefully tried, tested and curated this tour so that anyone who wishes to make a last minute dash to Rome is not disappointed
>Which is why this tour is customizable in your favor
Duration: 3 hours.

Admire with us the medieval mosaics in the churches of Rome! Visit some of the most ancient churches of the Eternal City and discover the art of the mosaic, from the Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano to Basilica di Santa Prassede. Together with our professional guides, we selected for you the best mosaics in the city, one of the most elegant art forms from the ancient world. Enrich your visit to Rome with our unique mosaic guided tour!
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes.

Take a 3-hour journey into Papal Basilicas where you will be enchanted by their grandeur. Enjoy a unique tour rich in both cultural and spiritual value. Your driver will take you to explore the the main monuments of imperial Rome and the Renaissance. Discover Rome in one day while riding comfortably. Be enchanted with Rome's beautiful masterpieces. You can also enjoy a delicious Roman lunch (not included) as you explore.
Duration: 6 hours.