St. Peter’s Basilica, revered as a pinnacle of Christian pilgrimage, stands as a testament to breathtaking architecture and spiritual significance. This colossal structure, boasting the title of the largest basilica, is a cornerstone of Rome's tourism, drawing 10 milliom/year to marvel at its treasures. Among its myriad masterpieces, the basilica's towering dome has influenced architectural wonders far and wide.
Despite enduring lengthy queues, travelers can seek out four covert entrances for a smoother experience. Visiting St. Peter’s Basilica is an unforgettable journey for tourists, an experience not to be overlooked.
Recommended St.Peter's Basilica tours & tickets
St. Peter’s Basilica entrances
The Cupola or the Dome of the Basilica offers a stunning view of the city, and often requires a little more time dedicated to it during your visit. The entrance to this is located right at the beginning above the visitor’s square at St.Peter’s Square, so visiting it first is a great idea. Avoid carrying sharp items, which can cause delays during security.
Average Queue Time: One hour or more
Entrance Opening & Closing Time: The Dome of St. Basilica opens at 8 AM and closes at 5 PM every day.
Unlike other entrances, the treasury is a paid visit. So, you may need to purchase its tickets in advance to view it. Located on the left side of the St. Peter's Basilica, it is identified by the columns that it is decorated with. On the left, you may find the names of the Popes that have been buried at St. Peter’s along with a statue of St. Andrew’s.
Average Queue Time: 45 Minutes
Entrance Opening & Closing Time: Necropolis & Treasury opens at 8 AM and closes at 5 PM every day.
You can book yourself a special visit to the Grotto — of St. Peter’s Tomb — during your visit. The entrance to this is located underground and will require you to be accompanied by a guide. The visit will take you on an excavation and you will be able to see St. Peter’s remains. The tour takes 1.5 hours and can be booked via the Vatican Scavi office, or through a combo ticket available online.
Entrance Opening & Closing Time:
April to September from 7 AM to 7 PM
October to March from 7 AM to 6 PM
There is also a secret entrance into St. Peter’s Basilica that can be accessed via a small door on the right side of the Sistine Chapel.
St.Peter's Basilica: Getting there
St. Peter's Basilica, is located on the Southeast side of the city and accessible from Via Della Conciliazione. For those planning to visit St. Peter's Basilica, here are some ideal routes that you can keep in mind.
By bus
To get to the Basilica by bus, you can opt for two options that stop on either side of the Basilica. Bus numbers 32, 81, 982 stop at the Piazza del Risorgimento which is a 10-minute walk from the Basilica. This stop lies to the left side of the Basilica.
Bus No. 64 stops at Via di Porta Cavalleggeri to the right of St.Peter's Basilica. This is slightly closer than the other bus stop. Bus 64 is one of the most used lines in Rome as it connects Termini station with the Vatican City, stopping at key sites such as Piazza Venezia or Largo Argentina. Be prepared for a stuffy bus!
By metro
The Ottaviano Metro Stop is closest to those looking to head to St. Peter's Basilica. The Basilica's entrance is a quick 10-minute walk from the metro exit.
By tram
As there is only one tram stop in Vatican city, you can choose to take Tram 19, which stops at Piazza del Risorgimento. A brisk 13-minute walk from there should have you at the Basilica's entrance.
FAQs
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