Vatican Grottoes (Grotte Vaticane) Attractions & Things to do

Embark on an extraordinary journey commencing at St. Peter's Square, where the architectural brilliance of Bernini unfolds.

Then enter the awe-inspiring St. Peter's Basilica, a realm adorned with golden ceilings, vibrant marbles, and masterpieces like Michelangelo's Pietà. Delve into the Papal grottoes underground, touching ancient walls and visiting St. Peter's tomb for a profound historical encounter.

The grand crescendo awaits as you ascend to the dome's summit, offering both close encounters with intricate mosaics and panoramic views of Rome's iconic landmarks. From this lofty perch at 136 meters, immerse yourself in breathtaking vistas, spotting the Colosseum, Pantheon, and beyond.

Immerse yourself in a blend of art, history, and mesmerizing panoramas, ensuring a "wow-ing" experience in the heart of Vatican City. Enjoy a unique adventure, where architectural marvels intertwine with iconic heritage landmarks, promising an unforgettable exploration.
Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes.

St. Peter's Basilica, located within Vatican City, is a symbol of religious devotion and architectural grandeur. A guided tour of this iconic basilica provides an immersive encounter with its historical, artistic, and spiritual dimensions.
Marvel at the Renaissance and Baroque architecture of this monumental church, including the awe-inspiring dome designed by Michelangelo.
Explore a treasure trove of masterpieces by renowned artists such as Michelangelo's "Pieta" and Bernini's "Baldacchino."
Discover the religious importance of St. Peter's Basilica as the burial site of St. Peter and a hub for major papal ceremonies.
Descend into the Vatican Grottoes to pay homage to the tombs of popes and saints, including the traditional resting place of St. Peter. Ascend to the top of the dome for panoramic vistas of Vatican City and Rome, offering a unique perspective on the Eternal City.
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes.

If you're looking for a Vatican tour that goes beyond the usual offerings, our combination tour has got you covered. With this tour, you'll bypass the line at St. Peter's, climb to the top of the dome for a stunning panoramic view of the Vatican and Rome, visit the Papal Crypts, and then skip the line at the Vatican to see the Sistine Chapel.

Your tour begins with an exciting elevator ride to the top of St. Peter's iconic dome, where you'll take in an unforgettable view of the city. From there, you'll join your expert Vatican guide for a comprehensive exploration of the art, history, and famous landmarks of this sacred city. The tour is designed to provide a deep dive into the Vatican's rich cultural heritage, allowing you to fully appreciate the art and architecture that make this place so special.

Duration: 5 hours.

Discover St. Piter's Basilica ( one of the finest cathedrals) on a guided tour small group with a professional art historian. Enjoy a rare bird's- eye view over Rome with this tour that's includes a climb to the top of it's dome.
Duration: 2 hours.

Join our knowledgeable guides who will breathe life into the sites with historical context, engaging stories, and fascinating details.

Your journey begins at the meeting point, where your guide provides a brief overview of Vatican City and St. Peter's Basilica.

Explore the exterior of the Basilica, learning about its Renaissance design and symbolic significance in the Catholic Church.

Step through the massive bronze doors into the awe-inspiring Nave, where colossal statues, intricate mosaics, and Gian Lorenzo Bernini's breathtaking Baldachin await.

Encounter Michelangelo's renowned sculpture, the Pieta, as your guide shares insights into the artist's life and the emotional depth of this masterpiece.

With limited group sizes, expect a personalized and interactive tour that promises to be unforgettable.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes.

The best Panoramic Tour of Rome!
Climb St. Peter's Dome and join Basilica's Exclusive Early Morning Tour Private Tour. Visit the Vatican at the quietest time before the crowds descend. Meet your guide and enjoy an intimate, exclusive tour—delight in the wonders of this site in the most unique of Rome and the Vatican State experience. By an elevator, head up to the first level of the dome to the viewing balcony. Admire the Basilica's inside view of the dome on the Bernini’s canopy below and the array of incredible mosaics which circle the dome. Climb the spiral staircase to the top of the dome (320 steps), at 448 ft (150 Mt), from the highest point within Rome, and admire breathtaking city views, including the Vatican Gardens below. Come down from the Dome to enter the Basilica to admire the Pietà of Michelangelo and all the masterpieces adorning the Basilica before descending to the underground crypts & St. Peter's Tomb.
Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Climb to the top of the highest point in the Vatican City, the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica, and get panoramic views over historic Rome and the Vatican state from this Renaissance masterpiece. Along with getting fast access inside the basilica after your ascent, you can experience and explore the basilica treasures and the Vatican Crypts with your expert English-speaking guide.
Duration: 3 hours.

Discover the Wonders of St. Peter's Basilica
Join an expert guide for a fascinating tour of St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the world’s most famous churches. Explore its stunning architecture and masterpieces. Learn the rich history behind these iconic works as you walk through the heart of Vatican City.
This tour offers a deeper understanding of the Basilica's art, history, and significance—perfect for anyone seeking a richer Vatican experience.


Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes.

Prepare for an awe-inspiring adventure that will elevate your Vatican experience to unprecedented heights! Ascending the dome of St. Peter's Basilica is a journey of epic proportions, offering a breath-taking panorama that stretches beyond the boundaries of the Vatican and Rome itself.

Accompanied by an expert local guide, you will embark on a captivating exploration of St. Peter's Basilica, discovering the intricate details of this architectural masterpiece, as your guide unveils the hidden stories and captivating anecdotes that breathe life into its storied past.

Venture into the depths beneath the basilica, where the mesmerizing Papal Crypts await. Unveiling the elaborate underground chambers, your guide will regale you with tales of the influential figures who have left their mark upon the papacy and the world.

From the dizzying heights of the dome to the sacred depths below, immerse yourself in an unforgettable journey - an extraordinary voyage through time and faith.
Duration: 2 hours.

Our knowledgeable guides will provide historical context, engaging stories, and fascinating details that bring the sites to life.

Your knowledgeable guide will briefly overview the Vatican City and St. Peter's Basilica at the meeting point.

You will have the chance to enjoy Basilica's exterior and learn about the design and construction of this Renaissance masterpiece and its symbolic significance in the Catholic Church.

Then you will enter through the massive bronze doors and the awe-inspiring Nave. Admire the colossal statues, intricate mosaics, and the breathtaking Baldachin designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini.

You will encounter Michelangelo's renowned sculpture, the Pieta. Your guide will share insights into the artist's life and the emotional depth of this masterpiece.

All of that; combined with limited group sizes, allowing for a more personalized and interactive tour will make it a tour to remember.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes.

Combine e thorough guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica with a climb to the top of the dome for the best panoramic view of Rome.

Discover marvels of art and architecture created by world-famous masters of the Renaissance with a private art historian.


Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes.

St. Peter's Basilica, located within Vatican City, is a symbol of religious devotion and architectural grandeur. A guided tour of this iconic basilica provides an immersive encounter with its historical, artistic, and spiritual dimensions. Marvel at the Renaissance and Baroque architecture of this monumental church, including the awe-inspiring dome designed by Michelangelo. Discover the religious importance of St. Peter's Basilica as the burial site of St. Peter and a hub for major papal ceremonies. Descend into the Vatican Grottoes to pay homage to the tombs of popes and saints, including the traditional resting place of St. Peter. Ascend to the top of the dome for panoramic vistas of Vatican City and Rome, offering a unique perspective on the Eternal City.
Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Your journey begins with an expert-led tour of St. Peter's Basilica, the heart of the Catholic Church, showcasing stunning mosaics, grand columns, and richly decorated chapels. Afterward, proceed to the Grottoes, where many Popes, including St. Peter, are buried. This calm area offers historical insights and stories about the Popes' lives and influences. For an unforgettable view of Rome, opt for the dome climb. Ascend 551 steps, or take an elevator to reduce it to 320, pass through narrow passageways and spiral staircases, and witnessing the stunning architecture up close and enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the eternal city at the top.
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes.

St. Peter's Basilica, located within Vatican City, is a symbol of religious devotion and architectural grandeur. A guided tour of this iconic basilica provides an immersive encounter with its historical, artistic, and spiritual dimensions. Marvel at the Renaissance and Baroque architecture of this monumental church, including the awe-inspiring dome designed by Michelangelo." Discover the religious importance of St. Peter's Basilica as the burial site of St. Peter and a hub for major papal ceremonies. Descend into the Vatican Grottoes to pay homage to the tombs of popes and saints, including the traditional resting place of St. Peter. Ascend to the top of the dome for panoramic vistas of Vatican City and Rome, offering a unique perspective on the Eternal City.
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes.

Meet your guide and visit St. Peter's Basilica at the quietest time before the crowds descend.
With the elevator, head to the first level of the Dome and go to the panoramic balcony. Enter the Dome and look over Bernini's Baldachin. Climb the spiral staircase to the top of the Dome (320 steps) from the highest point in Rome and admire breathtaking 360-degree views.
Descend from the Dome, meet the tour guide again on the roof of the Basilica, and have breakfast, a cappuccino, and a Cornetto. Reach the Portico of the Basilica, where you can take your audio guide and a paper map to visit the interior of the Basilica at your own pace.
The audio guides are available in Italian, English, Spanish, and French from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
St. Peter's Basilica is an impressive work of architectural genius. Erected on the burial site of St. Peter, it houses many masterpieces of the most influential artists in art history.
Head underground to the grottoes and crypts to visit St. Peter's tomb.
Duration: 120 to 150 minutes.

Join our extraordinary exploration of the Vatican's treasures with our exclusive "St. Peter's Basilica & Papal Tombs Tour with Dome Climb." Limited availability makes prompt reservation highly recommended.

Immerse yourself in the rich history of St. Peter's Square and explore the awe-inspiring St. Peter's Basilica, adorned with the Baroque and Renaissance masterpieces of Michelangelo and Bernini.

Join our tour to experience a descent to the hallowed Papal tombs, unraveling the history of the Popes interred there. Then, admire the view from the dome for breathtaking panoramic views, encompassing the Vatican Gardens and Rome. Throughout this journey, your expert guide will provide tickets and profound insights.

Guided by a knowledgeable expert, this tour ensures a profound understanding of the Vatican's most significant landmarks. Don't miss this unique opportunity; secure your spot promptly!
Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Join our exclusive private tour of St. Peter's Basilica, the Necropolis under the Basilica, and climb the Dome to enjoy the panoramic view of Rome.
Start your tour with St. Peter’s Square admiring the architectural masterpiece by Italian Renaissance geniuses, Gianlorenzo Bernini and Michelangelo.
Step inside the basilica, take the elevator to the dome, and walk 330 steps up to the top of Michelangelo’s masterpiece. Enjoy the breathtaking view over all of Rome.
Descending from the dome, you will enter directly into the Basilica to admire the incomparable triumph of art and architecture and learn about the significance of this iconic landmark. You will see Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s Canopy. The entire interior of St. Peter’s Basilica is decorated with artifacts of the most famous Italian artists of the Renaissance and Baroque periods. The basilica houses relics of numerous Saints, and 90 tombs including the first pope, St. Peter the Apostle.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Start your Tour at the meeting point, where you will meet the highly qualified Tour Guide.

Admire the marvelous work of St. Peter’s Square, created by Bernini, and its colonnade with 284 columns and 88 pillars, that will remind of a hug.

After entering the Basilica, you will discover the beautiful artworks that fill its space.
While walking on the colorful marbles, you will be mesmerized by the enormous dimension of the building and the ceilings entirely covered in gold.
On the right, you will immediately see the Pietà by Michelangelo Buonarroti, defined as the most beautiful sculpture in the history of art and the most representative opera of the Renaissance.

Following the Tour, you will be faced by the St. Peter’s Throne and the St. Peter’s Baldachin, bronze creations of the sculptor Bernini.

Lastly enter the Papal Grottoes, which are the union between the old Constantinian Basilica and the modern one, and where the previous Pontiffs were buried.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes.

Don't miss this experience to visit the majestic St. Peter's Basilica which draws millions of pilgrims every year.
You will start the tour in St. Peter’s square, afterwards you will enter St Peter's Basilica, (with normal entry 20 minutes waiting) inside the basilica the guide will let you discover the famous statue of the Pietà by Michelangelo, the baroque Bernini's baldachin and the tombs of the popes.
Afterwards you will climb the dome (St. Peter's dome entrance tickets are included) where you will be overwhelmed by the breathtaking view of the Eternal City.
After taking a short break if you like, meet in the agency, via dei Gracchi 17, where we start the Vatican tour at 11.00 am.
You can book the Vatican Museums where you will admire the Hall of Maps, the Gallery of Tapestries, the Gallery of Candelabra and along the Raphael Rooms. At the end of the tour you will be stunned by the view of the Sistine Chapel.
If you wish to book the Vatican tour, contact us directly thanks.
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes.

Join a guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica, an ancient book of wonders in Rome. Learn about the history of the church and get introduced to Vatican City.
the smallest country in the world. Explore the golden plated ceiling, optical illusions, Michelangelo’s Pietà, Bernini’s statues, and incredible mosaics, immersing yourself in a world full of magic, spirituality, and beauty.
After a thorough tour of the church, head down to the Vatican Grottoes. See the tomb of St. Peter, the final resting place of 90 popes, and the remaining columns from Constantine’s original basilica. Finish the tour to a graceful fountain with drinkable water.
Finally, enjoy the option to return inside the church and revisit what you saw, or climb the dome and soak in a panoramic view of Rome.
Duration: 2 hours.

You can’t miss this tour if you like ancient churches and breathtaking views.

Start your journey at a meeting point and let our professional guide lead you to St. Peter’s Square, passing through Piazza Risorgimento. You’ll admire the giant columns before entering St. Peter’s Basilica, where you’ll have the chance to see Bernini’s Baldachin and Michelangelo’s Pietà on your way to the Papal Grottoes.

At the end of your tour you’ll make your way to the Dome. You’ll have to climb over 300 steps, but it will be totally worth it. When you reach the top, you’ll be mesmerized by a beautiful panoramic view of the whole city of Rome below you, feeling like you’re on top of the world.

Definitely a once in a lifetime experience!

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes.

Join our knowledgeable guides who will breathe life into the sites with historical context, engaging stories, and fascinating details.

Your journey begins at the meeting point, where your guide provides a brief overview of Vatican City and St. Peter's Basilica.

Explore the exterior of the Basilica, learning about its Renaissance design and symbolic significance in the Catholic Church.

Step through the massive bronze doors into the awe-inspiring Nave, where colossal statues, intricate mosaics, and Gian Lorenzo Bernini's breathtaking Baldachin await.

Encounter Michelangelo's renowned sculpture, the Pieta, as your guide shares insights into the artist's life and the emotional depth of this masterpiece.

With limited group sizes, expect a personalized and interactive tour that promises to be unforgettable.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes.

Start with an expert-led tour of St. Peter's Basilica, a masterpiece of architecture and the heart of the Catholic Church. Inside, you'll marvel at its greatness while the guide shares insights into its history, art, and symbolism. Learn about the basilica's construction, evolving from early Christianity to its Renaissance and Baroque redesigns, leaving a lasting impression.
Visit the Grottoes, where many popes, including St. Peter, are buried. This calm and respectful area allows for reflection on the papacy's significance. The guide will provide historical context and stories about the popes' lives and influences.
For those seeking an unforgettable view of Rome, the optional dome climb is a must. The climb involves 551 steps, though an elevator reduces this to 320. Passing through narrow passageways, you'll see the architecture up close. At the top, enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Rome.
Duration: 3 hours.

Combo tour of the Basilica of St. Peter's with Papal Crypts and Dome climbing. Your professional friendly dedicated guide will walk you to explore the St. Peter's Basilica, the church was built in over 120 years & it was commissioned to important artists of the Renaissance and Baroque times such as Bramante, Raphael, Michelangelo, Sangallo and Bernini. Once inside you will admire the impressive architecture & beautiful art-works. Your attention will be captured by the Michelangelo's "Pieta" & the bronze canopy projected by Bernini. The Dome decorated with beautiful mosaics from the Vatican School. Michelangelo has been working to the project of the Dome until his death at the age of 89 years. Your guide will walk you through the Papal Crypts to see Saint Peter's Tomb and of many other Popes. Your next adventure will take you up to the Dome, you will climb it partially with an elevator and then walk along 320 steps. Once on top you will enjoy a 360° amazing panoramic view of Rome.


Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes.

You will be guided by our knowledgeable guides who will provide historical context, engaging stories, and fascinating details that bring the sites to life, you will enjoy a memorable tour of Panoramic Views specifically "The Dome Climb" which offers unparalleled views of Vatican City, and Rome, providing a unique perspective of the cityscape.

That; combined with limited group sizes, allowing for a more personalized and interactive tour will make it a tour to remember.
Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

You will be guided by our knowledgeable guides who will provide historical context, engaging stories, and fascinating details that bring the sites to life.

Your knowledgeable guide will provide a brief overview of the Vatican City and St. Peter's Basilica at the meeting point

You will have the chance to enjoy Basilica's exterior and learn about the design and construction of this Renaissance masterpiece and its symbolic significance in the Catholic Church.

Then you will enter through the massive bronze doors and step into the awe-inspiring Nave. Admire the colossal statues, intricate mosaics, and the breathtaking Baldachin designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini.

You will encounter Michelangelo's renowned sculpture, the Pieta. Your guide will share insights into the artist's life and the emotional depth of this masterpiece.

All of that; combined with limited group sizes, allowing for a more personalized and interactive tour will make it a tour to remember.
Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Embark on a captivating journey through St. Peter's Basilica, the heart of the Catholic Church and an architectural marvel. This tour offers adventure seekers, history enthusiasts, and families with children an immersive experience filled with rich cultural insights. Your expert guide will lead you through the basilica, sharing fascinating stories about its significance and the remarkable artistry within. Afterward, explore the Grottoes, the peaceful final resting place of numerous popes, including St. Peter. For those craving an unforgettable adventure, the optional dome climb rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the eternal city.
Duration: 3 hours.

Have you ever been in a place and asked yourself: I wonder what this means?
If you're visiting Rome you're bound to fall upon that question and let's face it, google will only get you so far especially when Visiting such Historical landmarks like the Vatican.
This is why we have made it our lifelong objective; to provide you with experts dedicated to help you interpret History. With us, you're not booking a tour, you are embarking on a journey through time, uncovering the secrets this place has to offer.
Our team is dedicated to help you get the most out of your visit instead of simply walking around looking at random statues. To prove how dedicated we are, we offer a free consultation call. Pick the phone up, call us and we'll answer any question you might have. If we don't pick up due to time difference we will call you back.
Visiting St. Peter's Basilica is a unique experience most would say even lifechanging.
Don't be one of those people who neglect centuries of work.
Book Now.
Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Join a fascinating journey that begins in St. Peter's Square, where you can admire the architectural wonders that reveal themselves to your sight. Explore the optical effects created by the genius designer, Bernini. As you enter the Basilica, get ready to be amazed by its splendor. Observe the detailed mosaics that cover you, and learn why it took 150 years to reconstruct this emblematic building.

With your expert guide, walk by famous masterpieces of Renaissance and Neoclassical art. Gaze at the majestic 98.5-foot high canopy, appreciating the expressive force and delicate beauty embodied in Michelangelo's "Pietà."

Finish your enriching tour by going down to the underground grottoes, where you'll find St. Peter's tomb. As you touch the ancient walls of the original 4th-century Basilica, enjoy the beauty of the frescoes inside, a witness to the lasting history and artistry that characterizes this sacred space.
Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Start your journey with an expert-led tour of St. Peter's Basilica, the heart of the Catholic Church. Your guide will share insights into its history, construction, and evolution from early Christianity to its Renaissance and Baroque redesign. Visit the Grottoes, the peaceful resting place of numerous popes, including St. Peter, with stories about their lives and influences. For a magnificent view, opt for the dome climb. Ascend 551 steps, or take an elevator to reduce it to 320, passing through narrow passageways and appreciating the architecture up close. At the top, enjoy a panoramic view of the eternal city, Vatican Gardens, the River Tiber, and Rome's cityscape
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes.

Discover the wonders of Vatican City with our St. Peter’s Basilica and Vatican Tombs tour! Explore one of the world’s most iconic landmarks with an expert guide who will bring its rich history to life. Marvel at Michelangelo’s Pieta, Bernini’s sculptures, and the stunning mosaics that decorate the grand dome. Walk through the Vatican Grottoes to visit the sacred tombs of popes and saints, including St. Peter, and learn about the lasting legacy of this key figure in Catholicism.

This immersive, unforgettable experience offers a unique blend of art, history, and spirituality. Don’t miss out on the chance to witness these masterpieces in person—book your tour today and take a journey through the heart of Vatican City!
Duration: 1 to 2 hours.