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St Peter's Basilica Basilica di San Pietro

The largest church in the world, topped by Michelangelo's dome.

Photo: Diliff / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0

St Peter's Basilica sits over the traditional tomb of St Peter and holds Michelangelo's Pietà, Bernini's bronze canopy over the altar, and the huge dome you can climb for views over Rome.

Entry to the church is free, but there is a security check and a strict dress code. The St Peter's Square colonnade, by Bernini, is a sight in its own right.

Tickets / priceEntry to the basilica is free. Climbing the dome costs about €10 on foot or around €20 with a lift part of the way (prices change, so check on the Vatican site). Booking a fast-track time slot online costs a small fee.

Opening hoursUsually open daily from 7:00 to about 19:00 (until 18:30 in winter). The basilica closes for papal ceremonies, so check the Vatican website, especially on Wednesdays when the papal audience is held.

Time needed60–150 minutes

Best timeEarly morning, right at opening

Getting thereMetro A, Ottaviano (10 min walk); bus 64 or 40; tram 19 to Piazza del Risorgimento

AddressPiazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano

Booking advice

No ticket is needed for the church, but arrive early, as the security queue can be 45 minutes or more. The dome has its own entrance on the right of the basilica.

Insider tips

Dress code: shoulders and knees must be covered, for men and women. Staff will refuse entry otherwise.
The dome climb is 551 steps without the lift. The view from the top over St Peter's Square is worth it.
Visit the basilica early in the morning, then the Vatican Museums in the afternoon, or the other way round, to spread the queues.

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