Visiting St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome: Everything You Need to Know
St. Peter’s Basilica, located in the heart of Vatican City, is one of the most iconic sites in Rome and the Christian world. This basilica, a masterpiece of Renaissance and Baroque architecture, was designed by geniuses such as Michelangelo and Bernini. Home to priceless works of art such as the Pietà and the Bernini Baldachin, it attracts millions of visitors every year. Discover here everything you need to know for a memorable visit to St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.
- What are the must-see works of art inside St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome?
- Where can I book my visit to St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome?
- What are the opening hours of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Dome?
- How much time should I allow for a visit to St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome?
- What is the best time to visit St. Peter’s Basilica to avoid the crowds?
- How to attend a papal audience or mass at St. Peter’s Basilica?
- Are guided tours available to learn more about the history and architecture of the Basilica?
- What are the main other sites to visit around St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome?
What are the must-see works of art inside St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome?
The must-see works of art inside St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome are:
- Michelangelo’s Pietà
A sculptural masterpiece by Michelangelo, this moving marble statue depicts the Virgin Mary holding the body of Christ after the crucifixion. Located to the right as you enter the basilica, it is one of the most famous works of art in the world. - Bernini’s Baldachin
An impressive gilded bronze baldachin created by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. It stands above the main altar and marks the location of St. Peter’s tomb. - The Chair of St. Peter (Cathedra Petri)
A monumental work by Bernini, this symbolic episcopal chair is framed by statues of the Fathers of the Church and illuminated by a window depicting the dove of the Holy Spirit. - The Bronze Statue of St. Peter
A medieval statue depicting St. Peter seated, holding the keys to paradise. The faithful touch or kiss his right foot as a sign of devotion, which has polished it over the centuries. - The Monument to Alexander VII
Tomb of Pope Alexander VII by Bernini, it depicts the Pope praying on his tomb, with an allegory of Time (a skeleton holding an hourglass) emerging from below. - Michelangelo’s Dome
An architectural feat offering spectacular views both inside and out. The interior is adorned with detailed mosaics and scriptural messages.
Another work by Bernini, this tomb depicts Pope Urban VIII blessing the faithful, accompanied by the allegories of Charity and Justice.
Designed by Bernini, this chapel houses a tabernacle of bronze and lapis lazuli, and is reserved for silent prayer and adoration.
The basilica is richly decorated with mosaics depicting saints, popes, and biblical scenes, replacing paintings for better durability.
Created by Camillo Rusconi, this monument honors the pope who reformed the calendar (Gregorian calendar), with allegorical figures and bas-reliefs.
A neoclassical masterpiece by Antonio Canova, it shows the pope in prayer, guarded by two majestic lions symbolizing vigilance.
A marble sculpture by Bernini depicting the Roman soldier who pierced the side of Jesus and who converted after recognizing his divinity.
It houses sacred relics and ancient mosaics, including the icon of the Virgin and Child, reputed to be miraculous.
A work by Bertel Thorvaldsen, this monument depicts Pope Pius VII in a humble posture, framed by the figures of Strength and Wisdom.
A place of remembrance for many faithful, this tomb pays homage to the beloved pope canonized in 2014.
Located on the pillars supporting the dome, these sculptures depict angels holding the symbols of Christ’s Passion, such as the crown of thorns.
Created by Alessandro Algardi, this tomb pays homage to Pope Leo XI, accompanied by allegorical figures of Magnanimity and Simplicity.
One of the oldest chapels, dedicated to Saint Clement, with an ornate altar and precious mosaics.
Located beneath the basilica, they house the tombs of numerous popes and saints, including the supposed tomb of Saint Peter.
The interior of the dome is adorned with magnificent mosaics and Latin inscriptions, offering an impressive visual experience when looking up to the top.
These artistic and spiritual treasures make St. Peter’s Basilica a unique place in the world, where art and faith come together to amaze every visitor.
Discover St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome in our interactive Tripwizy Guide
Where can I book my visit to St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome?
Visiting St. Peter’s Basilica is free, you don’t need a ticket even if some vendors offer them. However, a ticket may be required to access certain sections, such as climbing the dome or if you wish a guided tour. You can book these tickets online on the Tripwizy page for St. Peter’s Basilica.
What are the opening hours of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Dome?
Generally, the Dome opens at 7:30 am and closes at 5 pm in winter or 6 pm in summer.
St. Peter’s Basilica is open from 7 am and closes only at 7:10 pm.
You can check the current hours on the Tripwizy app here or on the official website of the Basilica.
How much time should I allow for a visit to St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome?
For a complete visit to St. Peter’s Basilica, including the dome, it is recommended to allow approximately 2 to 3 hours (excluding any potential waiting time). If you wish to explore the crypt or attend a mass, you may need more time. The visit to the dome alone, which offers spectacular panoramic views of Rome, can take about one hour. If you include a guided tour or a papal audience, this could extend your experience to half a day.
Our advice: if possible, arrive early, as early as 7:00 AM, at opening time (generally the basilica opens at 7:00 AM and the dome at 7:30 AM), to quickly pass through security checks and avoid queues. Start by visiting the dome before the crowds arrive. And then calmly visit the rest of the basilica.
What is the best time to visit St. Peter’s Basilica to avoid the crowds?
The best time to visit St. Peter’s Basilica is early in the morning, at opening time at 7:00 AM, or in the late afternoon, around 4:00 PM. The busiest hours are generally between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, especially on weekends or holidays. Even though entry itself is free, security checks are carried out at the entrance and this can cause long queues. The winter months, outside of the Christmas holidays, tend to be less crowded than the summer months.
How to attend a papal audience or mass at St. Peter’s Basilica?
To attend a papal audience, which takes place on Wednesday mornings at 9:00 AM, it is necessary to book your ticket in advance on the following official website: https://eventi.pontificalisdomus.va. Access is completely free.
To attend a mass at the basilica, you do not need a reservation, but it is recommended to arrive early, especially for major celebrations such as Christmas or Easter. Masses are celebrated daily in several chapels of the basilica.
Are guided tours available to learn more about the history and architecture of the Basilica?
Yes, guided tours are available to explore the history and architecture of St. Peter’s Basilica. These tours can be booked online through platforms like those offered by the Vatican. On Tripwizy, you will find a selection of guided tours of St. Peter’s Basilica offered by various partners. Some tours include access to the dome, the papal crypt, and even the necropolis under the basilica, where the tomb of St. Peter is located. These tours offer enriching commentary on the works of art, architects such as Michelangelo and Bernini, and the history of the sacred site.
What are the main other sites to visit around St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome?
Around St. Peter’s Basilica, you will find several must-see sites. St. Peter’s Square, with its majestic colonnades designed by Bernini, is an iconic place. Right next to it, you can visit the Vatican Museums, which house the famous Sistine Chapel. A short walk away, you will also find the Castel Sant’Angelo, a former papal fortress offering breathtaking views of Rome. The Trastevere district, on the other side of the Tiber, is also a charming place to stroll and discover authentic Rome.
Whether you are a believer or a lover of art and architecture, a visit to St. Peter’s Basilica promises an unforgettable moment. Explore its wonders and be inspired by the grandeur of this unique place.
Discover St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome in our interactive Tripwizy Guide
We would love to hear your impressions of St. Peter’s Basilica. Share your experiences, highlights, and advice for other visitors. Whether you are moved by the architecture, the spiritual atmosphere, or the artistic treasures, your comments will enrich the community of Rome enthusiasts.
To deepen your discovery of the major basilicas of Rome, consult our page dedicated to the four major basilicas and discover the importance of the Jubilee 2025. These events and sacred places are essential stops for visitors seeking history and spirituality.
