St. Peter’s Dome, Basilica & Grottoes Tour with Breakfast on the Roof
Description
A unique journey from the heights of Michelangelo’s Dome to the sacred silence below
Begin your morning in the serenity of St. Peter’s Square, before the city awakens. With your private guide, explore Bernini’s magnificent colonnade, the towering statues of saints, and the ancient obelisk that stands at the heart of Vatican City—once the site of Nero’s Circus and the martyrdom of St. Peter.
Enjoy a classic Italian breakfast served at the café on St. Peter’s Basilica’s rooftop terrace before starting your ascent to Michelangelo’s Dome, one of the Renaissance’s most remarkable feats. The first level offers stunning views of the basilica’s interior and a walk on the terrace behind the statues of Christ and the Apostles. Adventurous guests can continue to the top via a narrow spiral staircase, rewarded by an unforgettable 360° view over Rome, 150 meters above the city.
Back at ground level, step inside the majestic St. Peter’s Basilica, the spiritual and architectural heart of Catholicism. Marvel at Michelangelo’s Pietà, Bernini’s Baldachin, and the immense beauty of a space that took over a millennium to reach completion.
The experience concludes with a visit to the Vatican Grottoes, the vast underground crypt beneath the basilica, where 91 popes rest, along with saints and even royalty. You’ll be guided to the closest point to the Tomb of Saint Peter, where the Church’s foundation was quite literally laid.
This private tour offers more than just access—it’s a profound encounter with history, beauty, and belief, all in the serene early morning stillness.
Included
- Exclusive early morning private guided tour with an, expert guide
- Guided visit of St. Peter’s Square, Basilica, Dome, and Vatican Grottoes
- Skip-the-line ticket for St. Peter’s Dome, including elevator to the first level and climb to the summit (optional)
- Entrance ticket to St. Peter’s Basilica with direct access after the dome visit
- Visit the interior of the dome, the rooftop terrace, and the panoramic viewpoint 150m above Rome
- A traditional Italian breakfast (coffee + pastry) is served at the café on the Basilica’s rooftop terrace.
- Personalized attention and flexible pace throughout the tour
- All necessary entry fees and reservations
Excluded
Gratuities
Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel Guided Tour and tickets
Hotel pick up
Hotel drop off
Know before you go
- Valid ID or passport – required at Vatican security checkpoints
- Respectful clothing – to comply with the dress code for religious sites:
Shoulders and knees must be covered
No sleeveless tops, shorts, mini skirts, or transparent clothing
Failure to comply may result in denied entry without refund - Comfortable walking shoes – essential for stairs, long walks, and uneven surfaces
- Small bag or backpack – large bags may not be allowed inside and could be subject to security checks
- Camera or smartphone – photos allowed (no flash inside the Basilica)
- Bottle of water – especially recommended during warmer months
- Sunglasses and sunscreen – for rooftop and outdoor areas exposed to sunlight
- Light jacket or sweater – useful for early mornings or cooler seasons