The basilica is free
St Peter's Basilica is free to enter. No ticket or reservation is required to visit the interior. The only exceptions are the optional paid routes — the dome, Vatican Grottoes and Treasury — which each have a separate charge.
Opening hours
| Period | Hours |
|---|---|
| April – September | 7:00 – 19:00 |
| October – March | 7:00 – 18:00 |
The basilica opens every day, including Sundays and public holidays. During solemn papal ceremonies — especially at Christmas, Easter and major liturgical feasts — tourist access is restricted or suspended. Always check the calendar on the official website vatican.va before you go.
The dome: prices and hours
Climbing Michelangelo's dome is the most popular paid experience. From the top you enjoy a 360° view over Bernini's colonnade, the Roman rooftops, and the dome's interior.
| Option | Price | Steps |
|---|---|---|
| Stairs only (internal staircase) | €6 | 551 |
| Lift + stairs | €8 | ~320 |
The lift takes you to the basilica's rooftop; from there you climb through the dome's internal curved corridor. Tickets are purchased at the dome entrance, on the left side as you face the high altar.
Dome opening hours:
- April – September: 8:00 – 18:00
- October – March: 8:00 – 17:00
- Last entry 1 hour before closing
Vatican Grottoes
The Vatican Grottoes (crypt) lie beneath the main nave and contain the tombs of numerous popes, including John Paul II and John XXIII. Entry is free and accessible from inside the basilica.
Hours: approximately 9:00 – 17:30
The grottoes close before the basilica. They may not be accessible during liturgical ceremonies.
The Treasury
The Basilica Treasury displays reliquaries, vestments, pontifical gifts and ancient furnishings. It is located in the historic sacristy.
Ticket: approximately €8 | Hours: 9:00 – 17:15 (variable)
Dress code
Entry is refused to anyone wearing:
- Shorts (above the knee)
- Short skirts
- Sleeveless tops, tank tops, or bare shoulders
Both men and women must have shoulders and knees covered. Swiss Guards check dress at the entrance. Anyone not complying is turned away regardless of how long they have waited.
Tip: carry a scarf or shawl in your bag to cover your shoulders if needed.
Security check
At the main entrance (right side of the square, beneath the colonnade) there is a mandatory security check with metal detectors and X-ray baggage screening — similar to an airport. Waiting times range from a few minutes to over an hour in peak season.
How to reduce the wait:
- Arrive by 8:00–8:30 (shortly after opening)
- Or after 17:00 in low season
Practical information
| Address | Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Vatican City |
|---|---|
| Official website | vatican.va |
| Basilica entry | Free |
| Metro | Ottaviano (line A), 10 min walk |
| Bus | 40, 62, 23, 49 |
| Photography | Permitted (no flash in sensitive interior areas) |
| Food and drink | Not permitted inside |
Visit with a private driver
Reach the Vatican stress-free with a private driver. From your hotel, Termini station or the airport — punctual and direct. Service from €49. → Book at myromedriver.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to book in advance? No, the basilica is free with no reservation needed. Dome tickets are purchased on-site. In high season, consider arriving early to avoid security queues.
How long does a visit take? Basilica only: 45–60 minutes. With the dome and Vatican Grottoes: 2–3 hours in total.
Can I bring a backpack? Yes, but it will be screened. Very large rucksacks (over 40 litres) may not be admitted.
Article no. 122 — TIER S — MON-07 San Pietro Type: PRACTICAL Words: ~700