St Peter's Basilica and the Dome with Castel Sant'Angelo Exclusive Tour
Description
Experience the Vatican and Castel Sant’Angelo: A Journey Through History and Heights
Start your day in the heart of Vatican City with early access to St. Peter’s Basilica, long before the crowds arrive. Meet your expert guide near St. Peter’s Square and begin your exclusive morning with a peaceful, crowd-free atmosphere.
Your adventure begins with an ascent to the first level of the dome, where you’ll step onto the interior balcony for an awe-inspiring view of Michelangelo’s dome from within and Bernini’s majestic Baldachin far below. Then, climb the narrow spiral staircase to the very top of the dome—a rewarding journey that ends with breathtaking 360-degree views of the Eternal City, from the Vatican Gardens to the distant hills of Rome.
Back on the ground, enter the Basilica to discover its spiritual and artistic treasures. Stand before Michelangelo’s Pietà, admire the grand nave, and follow your guide through centuries of history and architecture. Your visit continues beneath the church, into the Vatican Grottoes, where you’ll explore the Tomb of Saint Peter and the resting places of past popes.
After a short break, your journey resumes at the gates of Castel Sant’Angelo, the imposing fortress that once served as a mausoleum, a military stronghold, and a papal hideaway. As you explore its ancient corridors, lavish halls, and fortified walls, your guide will reveal the castle’s fascinating transformations—from imperial tomb to refuge for fleeing popes.
Conclude your tour with a visit to the castle’s panoramic terraces, where the city unfolds before you in all its timeless beauty—St. Peter’s dome, the Tiber River, and the rooftops of Rome shimmering in the Roman light.
Included
- Private Guided tour of St Peter's Square, Basilica, and Dome
- Private Guided tour of Castel Sant'Angelo
- Tickets to St Peter's Basilica and Dome
- Tickets to Castel Sant'Angelo
Excluded
- Food and drinks
- Pick-up from your hotel and transfers
- Gratuities (recommended)
Know before you go
Important Tour Information:
- Meeting Time: Please arrive 20 minutes before the scheduled departure. Late arrivals will not be allowed to join or reschedule the tour without incurring additional fees or cancellation. No refunds for "No Show" as per our policy.
- Accessibility: Not wheelchair or stroller accessible. Not suitable for pets or travelers with walking difficulties.
- Dress Code: Knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women when entering places of worship. Failure to comply may result in denied entry.
- Identification: A valid photo ID is required to enter monuments (passport, driver’s license, or state ID). Ensure your details match the ID information.
- Security & Bags: Please allow 20 minutes for security checks. Large bags, backpacks, and suitcases are not allowed. Only small bags are permitted, and no cloakrooms are available.
- Tour Modifications: Cancellations, changes, or issues due to weather, security, or events are beyond our control and are decided by the monument’s administration.
- Tour Times: St. Peter’s Basilica meeting: 8:10 am, departure: 8:30 am. The Castel Sant'Angelo tour will follow after a short break. Tours may be delayed due to capacity or security regulations.
- Weather Conditions: If the Dome is inaccessible due to bad weather, you may request a partial refund or cancel for a full refund.
- Cancellations: No changes to bookings within 24 hours of the tour. Cancellations after this time are non-refundable