front view of the St Peter Basilica
View of the roof of the Sistine Chapel
Tourists with their guide inside St Peter Basilica
Reserved Access

Papal Basilicas & Holy Stairs of Rome Tour with Optional Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel Tour

4.87
(11,190 Reviews)
3h / 8h 45min
English
15
Tue, Thu & Sat
Several Departure Times

  • Explore the Papal Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls, the Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran and the Basilica of Saint Mary Major experiencing a historic tour through Rome’s Three Major Papal Basilicas.
  • Walk up the sacred Holy Stairs, believed to have been climbed by Jesus on His way to Pontius Pilate.
  • Upgrade your experience by adding the best of the Vatican with reserved priority access to the Vatican Museums, followed by an expert-led tour of the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica.
  • With exclusive access and expert guidance, immerse yourself in a carefully planned full-day experience through the Vatican, and Rome’s illustrious papal basilicas.

Tour Description

What's Included

  • Expert Tour Guides
  • Guided Visits to Rome’s Three Major Papal Basilicas
  • Priority Entry to the Vatican Museums
  • Skip-the-Line Access to St. Peter’s Basilica
  • All transfers in an air-conditioned coach
  • All Entrance and Reservation Fees
  • Audio Headsets
  • Gratuities (welcomed and appreciated)
  • Private Pick-up & Drop-off

Sites Visited

  • Holy Stairs – “Scala Sancta”
  • Basilica of Saint Mary Major
  • Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran
  • Papal Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls
  • Vatican Museums
  • Sistine Chapel
  • Gallery of Maps
  • Gallery of Tapestries
  • St. Peter’s Basilica
  • St. Peter’s Square

Join us on an unforgettable journey through Rome’s most revered religious sites, from the grandeur of the Papal Basilicas to the artistic wonders of the Vatican Museums. Whether you opt for the Papal Basilicas & Holy Stairs of Rome Tour or upgrade to include the Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel, this experience offers a deep dive into history, spirituality, and artistic mastery.

The Three Papal Basilicas and Sacred Pilgrimage Sites (3 Hours Tour)

Discover the rich history, art, and spirituality of Rome’s three official papal basilicas with our expert local guide leading the way.

Your tour begins with check-in and introductions at our meeting point near the Vatican Museums Entrance, then follow your guide to board on the air-conditioned coach that will take you to our first stop, the breathtaking Papal Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls, built over Saint Paul’s burial site. Stroll through its peaceful cloisters, take in its majestic architecture, and listen as your guide brings its spiritual heritage and centuries-old stories to life.

Climb The Holy Stairs at The Archbasilica of St. John Lateran

Continue to the Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran, the official seat of the Pope and one of Rome’s most historic churches. Just outside, we’ll experience the spiritual significance of the Holy Stairs (Scala Sancta), believed to have been ascended by Jesus on His way to Pontius Pilate. With your guide’s insights, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the importance of this legendary site.

Next, head to the magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Major. Once inside, we’ll admire its intricate mosaics, dazzling gold ceilings, and sacred relics as your guide shares the captivating stories that bring this iconic site to life. Concluding your journey with a profound appreciation of the Roman Catholic Church’s rich history, spirituality, and the grandeur of its most magnificent basilicas

Upgrade to the Full Experience: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & Papal Basilicas

For those who wish to explore even more, upgrade to the full-day experience (8 hours 45 min), which includes a morning visit to the Vatican’s artistic and spiritual treasures before embarking on the Three Papal Basilicas tour:

Begin your day with priority access to the Vatican Museums, led by an expert guide who will bring the world’s most renowned art collection to life. Wander through galleries brimming with classical sculptures, timeless Renaissance masterpieces, and intricate tapestries until you reach the Sistine Chapel. Here, we stand in quiet amazement before Michelangelo’s frescoes, including the iconic Last Judgment.

Your morning continues inside St. Peter’s Basilica, where your guide will lead you through its vast interiors filled with architectural marvels, artistic treasures, and an abundance of spiritual significance.

Following our morning at the Vatican, we take a mid-day break to relax, recharge, and reflect while preparing for the thrilling journey ahead visiting The Three Papal Basilicas.

Still searching for the perfect tour? Browse our full Vatican catalogue and find the experience that best aligns with your interests and travel goals.

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From
£65.45
per adult
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Get to Know City Wonders

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A City Wonders tour is the product of meticulous research, detailed planning, and a passion for providing customers with travel experiences they will cherish forever.

With City Wonders it's not just facts, our passionate guides tell you the stories that bring the sights to life.

  • All of our guides are experts in their field
  • We only hire fluent English-speakers so nothing is ever lost in translation
  • We focus on the little details and anecdotes that make City Wonders so special