St. Peter's Basilica is not only among the most renowned works of Renaissance architecture, but it is also one of the largest churches in the world. Built over a period of about 120 years, this imposing structure was designed by several prominent Renaissance architects, including Michelangelo and Bernini. Tradition and strong historical evince hold that the tomb of Saint Peter, one of Jesus’s twelve apostles, is located directly below the altar of the church. Because of its location in the Vatican, the Pope presides at a number of services held here throughout the year, frequently drawing audiences of up to 80,000 people. Take the elevator up to the roof and then climb the 323 steps to the top of the dome, which offers sweeping views of the surrounding area. A strict dress code forbids shorts, bare shoulders, or miniskirts inside the site. Arrange your visit to St. Peter's Basilica and discover more family-friendly attractions in Vatican City using our Vatican City road trip app.
Create a full itinerary - for free!
Tours to St. Peter's Basilica
St. Peter's Basilica reviews
-
A must see at least once in your life. Impressive architecture. The Dome was designed by Michelangelo. The baldacchino by Bernini and of course there is la Pietà. We didn’t climb the Duomo this time..... more
A must see at least once in your life. Impressive architecture. The Dome was designed by Michelangelo. The baldacchino by Bernini and of course there is la Pietà. We didn’t climb the Duomo this time..... more »
-
Amazing building with well preserved very impressive artwork. Staring in amazement wondering how the dome was constructed and supports itself.
Amazing building with well preserved very impressive artwork. Staring in amazement wondering how the dome was constructed and supports itself. more »
-
Marvellousily beautiful in and out. From the long serene entrance to the capacity crowd going in and coming out. It's a lovely place for anyone willing to see the ancient times of roman catholic history, with lots of historic arts, buildings, peoples. The inside has beautiful ambiance. I went in with tour guide so it was easy to understand all of those beautiful images .she gave detailed information about everything there. Although you can decide not to go in with a tour guide and tour alone.
-
This is the most important place in Roman Catholicism. The building in itself is quite impressive. You can discover lots of beautiful art. Fortunately not all the money💶 made by the church is given to the poor. It seems that comparatively few people come here to pray (I discovered some nuns in a small chapel doing this). Please wear the mask😷. Protect the Vatican.
Plan your trip to Vatican City
best routes and schedules
Popular things to do in Vatican City
Side trips from Vatican City
Hidden gems in Vatican City
Historic Sites in Vatican City
Nearby attractions in Vatican City
Trips in St. Peter's Basilica by other users
21 days in Europe
BY A USER FROM AUSTRALIA
Rome
Florence
Venice
10 days in Italy
BY A USER FROM SPAIN
Positano
Rome
Florence
32 days in Italy
BY A USER FROM PAKISTAN
Positano
Pompeii
Rome
16 days in Italy
SEE PLAN
Rome
Florence
Siena
43 days in Europe
BY A USER FROM AUSTRALIA
Venice
Bellagio
Florence
44 days in Italy
BY A USER FROM FRANCE
Florence
Portoferraio
San Teodoro