Discover St. Peter's Basilica

Visit the world's largest church in the heart of Vatican City. Explore Michelangelo's masterpieces, climb the iconic dome, and walk through 2,000 years of history.

Plan Your Visit
11M+
Annual Visitors
500+
Years of History
136.6m
Dome Height
UNESCO
World Heritage

Ticket Price Breakdown

While entry to St. Peter's Basilica is free for all visitors, some special areas and experiences require a separate ticket:
    • Dome Climb: €8 for stairs only (551 steps) or €10 for elevator access to the first level, followed by 320 steps. There is no elevator to the very top
    • Treasury Museum: Approximately €5
    • Vatican Grottoes: Free access from inside the Basilica
    • Necropolis/Scavi Tour: €13, requires advance booking directly through the Vatican Scavi Office due to limited availability
    Guided tours for the Basilica and Dome are also available for purchase, offering skip-the-line access and expert commentary.
    Accessibility is an important aspect to consider when planning a visit, the official website has all the necessary information to accomodate guests with special needs.

Available Tickets

Early Access Guided Tour of Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
Guided tour
Early Access Guided Tour of Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
  • English–speaking tour guide
  • Skip-the-line access tickets to the Vatican Museums
  • Free cancellation
★★★★☆ 4.4 (400+ reviews) · GetYourGuide
from€53
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Family-friendly Vatican Museums plus St. Peter’s Basilica Private Guided Tour
Family Friendly Tour
Family-friendly Vatican Museums plus St. Peter’s Basilica Private Guided Tour
  • Skip-the-line access to the Sistine Chapel and St Peter’s Basilica
  • English or Italian-speaking tour guide
  • Free cancellation
★★★★½ 4.8 (100+ reviews) · GetYourGuide
from€125
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Michelangelo's Pietà: A Masterpiece

One of the most breathtaking works of art within St. Peter's Basilica is Michelangelo's Pietà. Carved from a single block of Carrara marble, this Renaissance sculpture depicts the body of Jesus on the lap of his mother Mary after the Crucifixion. Created when Michelangelo was just 24 years old, it is renowned for its naturalism, emotional power, and technical mastery. Located in the first chapel on the right as you enter the Basilica, it is protected by bulletproof glass, allowing visitors to admire its intricate details and profound beauty.
Michelangelo's Pietà sculpture inside St. Peter's Basilica

Why Visit St. Peter's Basilica

The world's most renowned Renaissance masterpiece

Skip the Queue

Book guided tours or dome climb tickets in advance and avoid long queues at the entrance.

Expert Vatican Guides

Licensed Vatican guides bring the basilica's art, history, and architecture to life with expert commentary.

Dome Access Available

Climb to the top of Michelangelo's dome for breathtaking panoramic views over Rome and Vatican City.

Mobile Tickets

Receive your tickets and tour confirmations instantly via email. No printing required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about visiting St. Peter's Basilica

Is entry to St. Peter's Basilica free?
Yes, entry to the basilica itself is completely free. However, there are separate fees for the dome climb (€8 stairs / €10 with elevator to first level), the Treasury Museum (~€5), and the Necropolis/Scavi tour (€13, advance booking required through the Vatican).
How much does the dome climb cost?
The dome climb costs €8 if you take the stairs all the way up (551 steps) or €10 if you take the elevator to the first terrace level and then climb the remaining 320 steps. There is no option to reach the very top without climbing stairs.
What is the dress code for St. Peter's Basilica?
A strict dress code is enforced: shoulders and knees must be covered for both men and women. Men must remove hats inside the basilica. Visitors wearing shorts, miniskirts, sleeveless tops, or revealing clothing will be denied entry. Bring a scarf or shawl to cover up if needed. Check our page about rules and regulations to learn more.
What are the must-see highlights inside?
The top highlights include Michelangelo's Pietà (1499, displayed behind bulletproof glass), Bernini's Baldachin (the 29-metre tall bronze canopy over the papal altar), the dome interior and climb, St. Peter's tomb beneath the altar, the Throne of St. Peter (Cathedra Petri) by Bernini, and the Holy Door which is opened only during Jubilee years. You can check our visitor's guide to get a glimpse of the marvels you'll be able to see inside.
How long does a visit take?
A visit to the basilica floor typically takes 1 to 2 hours. If you also climb the dome, add approximately 1 hour. The Vatican Grottoes beneath the basilica take about 20-30 minutes. A guided tour usually lasts around 1.5 to 2 hours.

How to Visit

Plan your visit to St. Peter's Basilica in 3 easy steps

1

Choose Your Experience

Explore options including free basilica entry, dome climb tickets, guided tours, or combined Vatican experiences.

2

Book Online

Reserve your dome tickets or guided tour in advance to guarantee your preferred date and skip the queues.

3

Visit the Basilica

Pass through security, explore the stunning interior, and immerse yourself in centuries of sacred art and history.

Ready to Visit St. Peter's Basilica?

Plan your visit to one of the most sacred and magnificent buildings in the world. Book dome tickets and guided tours online.

Plan Your Visit