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St. Peter's Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro) — AttractionPhoto: Bert Kaufmann · BY-SA 2.0

St. Peter's Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro)

Piazza San Pietro, Città del Vaticanofree
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St. Peter's Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro) is the world's largest church and the spiritual heart of Roman Catholicism, standing in Vatican City. Free to enter, it houses Michelangelo's Pietà and Bernini's Baldachin beneath a soaring dome that offers panoramic views of Rome — making it an unmissable landmark for pilgrims and visitors alike.

Key facts

Hours
Mon–Sun 07:00–20:00
Wed–Wed 12:30–20:00
Pricefree
Phone—
Website—
Nearest transitMetro Line A — Ottaviano–San Pietro station, ~5-min walk to St. Peter's Square
Time needed1–2 hours for the basilica interior; add 30–45 minutes for the dome climb
Best time to goEarly morning (07:00–09:00) or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds; avoid Wednesday mornings (Papal Audience closure until ~12:30)
Last verifiedJuly 12, 2026

Locals Score

  • Value9.0
  • Freshness5.9
  • Crowd level3.0
  • Authenticity8.5
  • Accessibility7.0
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Frequently asked questions

What is the dress code for St. Peter's Basilica?
All visitors — men and women — must cover their knees and shoulders. Long trousers are required for men; women should wear skirts or trousers below the knee. Sleeveless tops, shorts, and hats for men are not permitted. Visitors who do not comply will be turned away at the entrance.
What are the current opening hours for St. Peter's Basilica?
From 1 June 2026, the Basilica is open daily 07:00–20:00 (last entry 19:15). Previously, summer hours were 07:00–18:00 and winter hours 07:00–17:00. Always verify on the official site before visiting, as hours can change for papal ceremonies.
How do I get to St. Peter's Basilica by public transport?
Take Metro Line A to Ottaviano–San Pietro station, then walk south for about 8–10 minutes to St. Peter's Square. Alternatively, buses 40 and 64 from Roma Termini stop near the Vatican, with Bus 64 stopping at Cavalleggeri/S. Pietro, just a 4-minute walk from the Basilica.
Is St. Peter's Basilica closed on Wednesdays?
Yes — the Basilica is closed to tourists on Wednesday mornings (approximately 07:00–12:30) due to the Papal General Audience held in St. Peter's Square. It reopens around 12:30 and remains open until the standard closing time.
How do I climb the dome of St. Peter's Basilica?
Dome tickets cost €17 (stairs only, 551 steps total) or €22 (elevator to the terrace, then 320 steps to the top). Tickets are best booked in advance on the official Basilica website (booking.basilicasanpietro.va) and include a digital audio guide. The ascent is one-way and not recommended for those with vertigo, claustrophobia, or heart conditions.
Is there an admission fee to enter St. Peter's Basilica?
Entry to the main basilica floor is completely free — no ticket required. However, climbing the dome requires a paid ticket: €17 via stairs or €22 with the elevator, both bookable on the official Basilica website and including a digital audio guide.
Can I attend Mass at St. Peter's Basilica?
Yes — Mass is celebrated daily and is free to attend with no ticket required. On weekdays, Masses are held at 09:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, and 17:00. On Sundays and holidays, additional Masses are scheduled throughout the day. Dress code rules still apply.
What else can I visit inside the St. Peter's Basilica complex?
Beyond the main nave, visitors can explore the Vatican Grottoes (papal tombs, open 09:00–18:00 in summer), the Treasury Museum, and the dome terrace. The Vatican Necropolis (Scavi) lies beneath the Basilica and requires a separate advance booking directly with the Vatican Excavations Office.

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