St. Peter’s Basilica & Santa Maria Maggiore: Reserved Entry & Pope Francis’s Tomb

Piazza Risorgimento, at the Touristation kiosk 5h

Description

Begin your experience at St. Peter’s Basilica, the heart of the Vatican and a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Upon arrival, be welcomed by a professional team who will provide all the essential information you need for a smooth visit.

Admire Michelangelo’s Pietà, the majestic Bernini Baldachin, and the awe-inspiring dome that dominates the Roman skyline. With reserved priority access, bypass the long general lines (after security checks) and make the most of your time inside. Beneath the basilica, visit the Vatican Grottoes, home to the Papal Tombs, where many popes—including Saint John Paul II—are buried.

Afterwards, continue your spiritual and cultural journey to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, one of the four papal basilicas and one of the oldest churches dedicated to the Virgin Mary. This basilica is renowned for its 5th-century mosaics, the opulent gold ceiling, and its unique architectural beauty. Most importantly, it houses the tomb of Pope Francis, who chose this sacred place as his final resting site—a profoundly symbolic choice for a pope known for humility and devotion to Mary.

Highlights

  • Illuminated Ponte Sant'Angelo and St. Peter's Basilica dome reflected in the Tiber River

    Marvel at the stunning architecture of St. Peter’s Basilica

  • Admire Michelangelo’s Pietà and the majestic Bernini Baldachin

What's included

  • On-site multilingual assistance with Reserved access at St. Peter’s Basilica (free admission, but with Host)
  • St. Peter's Basilica audioguide app
  • Santa Maria Maggiore reserved entrance
  • Santa Maria Maggiore audioguide

Not included

  • Guided tour
  • Transportation between activities

Important information

  • Meeting point: Piazza Risorgimento, at the Touristation kiosk (in front of the Foot Locker store). Look for staff with red shirts and an orange umbrella.
  • Please note that St. Peter’s Basilica does not offer official skip-the-line entry. All visitors must pass through mandatory security checks, which during high season can take 30 minutes to 1 hour. However, with reserved access, you will benefit from priority over the general entry line, ensuring a faster and smoother experience.
  • After visiting the Basilica, you’ll receive your reserved timed-entry tickets to access the Santa Maria Maggiore, where you can skip the long ticket lines and enjoy the art at your own pace.
  • This is not a guided tour, but includes on-site assistance and priority access.
  • Shoulders and knees must be covered to enter the Basilica.
  • A valid ID or passport is required for each participant.

Good to know

  • Audio guide

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