St. Peter's Dome Climb & Colosseum Tour
Rise above Rome at St. Peter's, then explore ancient ruins independently
Duration
2.5 hours
Ideal For
Up to 20 people
Includes
Guided dome, Basilica, Colosseum
Highlights
Take in the intricate details of St. Peter's Basilica from above and within. This experience pairs guided Vatican insight with time to discover ancient Rome at your own pace.
- Admire mosaics and sculptures inside Michelangelo's dome
- Follow the dome's construction from its interior passageways
- Capture views across Rome, including the Tiber River and Roman Forum
- Pause for lunch between the morning and afternoon portions
Itinerary
- Meet your expert guide by St. Peter’s Square and enter Vatican City as the basilica opens.
- Take the elevator partway up the dome, then optionally climb the remaining 320 steps to the summit for panoramic views.
- Descend to the terrace level and re-enter the basilica for a guided tour of its art and architecture.
- Visit the Vatacombs and papal crypts in the lower level.
- Complete your journey with pre-reserved tickets to the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill to enjoy at your own pace.
Important details
- Arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled start time
- Requires climbing stairs for the dome ascent; the elevator travels only partway
- Shoulders and knees must be covered at the Vatican
- Large bags and weapons are not permitted inside the Vatican
- An official form of ID is required to enter the Colosseum
- Colosseum entry is timed for the afternoon, between 2:00 PM and 5:30 PM
- Wheelchairs, scooters, and other mobility aids cannot be accommodated on this route
- Access to St. Peter's Basilica may be restricted during events or ceremonies
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation with at least 72 hours' notice. No refund with less than 72 hours' notice.
Product ID: D9GVYK
FAQs
Enter independently in the afternoon at an assigned time between 2:00 PM and 5:30 PM. You’ll receive an e-ticket voucher with your exact entry time within 48 hours of the tour.
Full names for all participants and ages for children under 18 are required.
Access may be restricted during events or ceremonies. If included areas partially close, additional areas will be included; the tour duration and cost remain the same.
Meeting details
Fontana delle Tiare (Tiare Fountain)
Related locations
Colosseum
Admission includedStep inside the Colosseum and feel two thousand years of history close around you. The sheer scale of Rome's most iconic monument is staggering up close, its tiered stone arches rising against the sky just as they did when emperors presided over spectacles below. Walking the Colosseum's worn travertine passages, you trace the same routes once used by gladiators and wild animals. The elliptical arena floor and the exposed hypogeum beneath it make the ancient machinery of Roman entertainment vivid and immediate.