St Peter's Dome Climb

St Peter's Dome Climb in Vatican City

After meeting up at 8:10 am in Piazza della Città Leonina, a square not from the Vatican City, we'll walk over to St Peter's Square. There, we'll head to one of the sides of the Basilica, where we'll take an elevator up to the first level of the magnificent dome that crowns the church.

From there, we'll begin our climb up the 320 steps that lead to the top of St Peter's Dome. It may be hard work, but the effort will be worth it when you see the spectacular views from the viewpoint located in highest part of the basilica. The Eternal City as you've never seen it before!

After admiring the unforgettable panoramic views of Rome from the dome, we'll descend to St Peter's Basilica, where our tour will come to an end at 8:55 am. You can then choose to explore the interior of the impressive church at your own pace.

Tour of St Peter's Basilica & Crypts

If you'd prefer, you can opt to do a two and a half hour tour, which as well as climbing St Peter's Dome, also takes you on a guided tour of St Peter's Basilica and crypts. Inside, you'll get to see masterpieces including Michelangelo's Pietà and the baldachin, or altar cover, designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. The sculptural monuments to Gregory XIII, Christine of Sweden and Pius VIII also stand out. What's more, you'll visit the crypts, home to the papal tombs.

Who can participate in this activity?

• This activity requires a good level of physical fitness as it involves walking up the 320 curved steps that lead to the dome of St Peter's. The climb is not recommended for people with vertigo, claustrophobia or heart problems.
• Large backpacks are not allowed, and both men and women must have their shoulders and knees covered.

Other activities in The Vatican

You can see other activities in The Vatican with the following link.