Rome: Papal Basilica's Private Tour

Highlights

Inclusions

Itinerary

1. Santa Maria Maggiore is one of Rome’s four Papal Basilicas and the most important church dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Built in the 5th century, it is renowned for its breathtaking golden mosaics, stunning coffered ceiling gilded with gold from the New World, and the Holy Crib relic believed to contain wood from Jesus' manger. The basilica blends early Christian, medieval, and Baroque styles, featuring masterpieces by Bernini and other great artists. A must-visit for art lovers and pilgrims alike, it stands as a testament to faith, history, and timeless beauty.

   1 h

2. St. Peter’s Basilica is the largest and most important church in Christendom, standing over the tomb of St. Peter, the first pope. Designed by Michelangelo, Bernini, and Bramante, this architectural masterpiece features the iconic dome, the breathtaking Pietà by Michelangelo, and the grand St. Peter’s Square. As the spiritual center of the Catholic Church, it hosts papal ceremonies and welcomes millions of visitors each year. A symbol of faith, history, and unparalleled artistry, St. Peter’s Basilica is an unmissable highlight of any visit to Rome.

   1.5 h

3. St. Paul Outside the Walls is one of Rome’s four Papal Basilicas and the final resting place of St. Paul the Apostle. Originally built in the 4th century by Emperor Constantine, it was later reconstructed after a fire in 1823, maintaining its majestic neoclassical style. The basilica is famous for its portraits of all the popes, stunning golden mosaics, and the impressive cloister with ancient columns. A place of deep spirituality and history, it remains a key pilgrimage site for visitors exploring the legacy of early Christianity.

   1 h

4. St. John Lateran is the oldest and highest-ranking of Rome’s four Papal Basilicas, serving as the official cathedral of the Pope. Founded by Emperor Constantine in the 4th century, it is often referred to as the "Mother of All Churches". The basilica is renowned for its grand Baroque façade, the 12 towering statues of the Apostles, and its richly decorated cosmatesque floor. Nearby, visitors can see the Holy Stairs (Scala Santa), believed to have been climbed by Jesus during his trial. A must-visit for history, faith, and art enthusiasts alike.

   1 h

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, for a full refund.

Know before you go

How it compares in Rome

• Its from-price is 377% above the median of the 8352 experiences we list in Rome.
• It is longer than most of them.
• The operator lists free cancellation on it.

About Rome

Rome layers nearly three thousand years of history into one walkable city, from the Colosseum and Forum to Baroque piazzas and Vatican art.

Ancient Rome is still in plain sight. The Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill sit together at the city's heart, the Pantheon still stands with its open oculus, and fragments of temples and aqueducts turn up between apartment blocks. Across the Tiber, Vatican City holds St Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Museums and Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel ceiling.

Top-ranked sights in Rome: Colosseum, Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel.

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