vatican city underground tour

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Vatican Underground Tours | Vatican Necropolis Tours & Tickets

What is vatican necropolis.

The Vatican Necropolis is located beneath the Vatican City , between 5 and 12 meters below St. Peter's Basilica . The Vatican Necropolis was formerly a burial cemetery adjacent to the Circus of Caligula on the southern slope of the Vatican Hill. It was illegal to bury the dead within the city walls, according to Roman law. As a result, burial places arose along the roadsides outside the city cemeteries. If you are in the Vatican you would be remiss if you didn't go on a tour of the Necropolis. Here is all you need to know about going on Scavi Tours, or the Vatican Necropolis tour!

Why take Vatican Scavi tours?

• Taking a Vatican Necropolis tour is an enlightening experience as you can explore the detailed network of mausoleums and tombs that lie directly beneath St. Peter’s Basilica.
• What makes the Necropolis is a must-visit is simply the fact that there is no area in the Vatican City that is more important than the supposed ultimate resting place of St Peter. A Vatican necropolis tour is definitely worth the money, even if it is not as well-known as the museums, Basilica, or Sistine Chapel.
• Each day, just 250 people are allowed to enter, in groups of 12. This is done is to protect the ancient site from being destroyed by mass tourism, making this a truly unique and personalized experience.

Plan your visit to the Vatican Necroplis

Vatican Necropolis is open from Mondays to Fridays from  9 AM to 6 PM. On Saturdays, the Necropolis is open from 9 AM to 5 PM.

Last Entry: 3:30 PM (From April to September, 4.15 PM)

Closed: All Sundays and Vatican Holidays.

Address: Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City

• Metro: Take Line A to Ottaviano-S. Pietro station.
• Train: Take the train from Roma Termini to the St Pietro train station.
• Bus: Bus numbers 40, 64, 62, and 81 will take you to the Vatican.

• Book your tickets early as the Necropolis allows only a maximum of 250 visitors per day.
• Choose a guided tour so you can learn all about the Vatican Necropolis while you explore it.
• Access is granted only to those who are 15 years and above.  
• Follow the appropriate dress code so that you will not be denied entry.
• Luggage, suitcases, bags, packages, and containers must be left in the cloakroom.
• Reach the meeting point at least 10 minutes before   the visit.

Book Vatican guided tours and tickets

What lies under the vatican city.

Beneath the Vatican City, or more accurately under St. Peter's Basilica, you will find the Vatican Necropolis. The site was discovered during the early years of the pontificate of Pius XII Pacelli (1939-1958), who undertook a series of archaeological explorations in the area of ​​the Vatican Confession and in the center of the Sacred Caves.

On Scavi tours or Vatican Necropolis tours, visitors are led down three levels to a 1st century AD Pagan burial ground with a few small clay and stone repositories, followed by the 5th century Pagan and Christian combined burial ground with several medium-sized stone mausolea and other ruins, including a fractured piece of a large triumphal arch.

Level 1: Dating back to the 4th century BC, this level was originally an Etruscan necropolis, used for burials by the ancient civilization that predated the Romans in Italy. The most notable find here is the  Banditaccia Tomb , a large chamber tomb with painted walls depicting scenes of daily life and religious rituals.

Level 2: This level dates from the 1st to the 4th centuries AD and contains a mix of pagan and early Christian burials.

Level 3: This level dates from the 4th century AD and is named after Emperor Constantine, who built the first St. Peter's Basilica on this site. The most important find here is the  Tomb of St. Peter , which is believed to contain the remains of the first pope.

The papal grotto is included within this labyrinth, as is a 12th-century early Christian church with grates in the roof that go up into the basilica's floor.

St. Peter’s Tomb

According to ancient tradition, Apostle Peter was martyred in the year 64 or 67, during the reign of Emperor Nero, at the Circus of Nero. . It is, hence, believed that Peter was buried in the necropolis since it was close to the sight of his martyrdom.

Within the Necropolis that comprises multiple graves and Papal tombs is a small area named with the letter P that is believed to be the original burial site of the apostle. About a hundred years after the death of Peter, a shrine was constructed over his grave. The shrine is located adjacent to the Red Wall of the necropolis.

Brief history of Vatican Scavi

• The undergound originally served as an Etruscan necropolis, a burial ground dating back to the 4th century BC. Evidence of tombs, pottery, and other artifacts hint at their culture and rituals.
• With the rise of Christianity and the building of the first St. Peter's Basilica in the 4th century AD, the necropolis evolved into a Christian burial ground. Early popes and martyrs were likely laid to rest here.
• The exact location of St. Peter's tomb remained a mystery for centuries. Legends and traditions shrouded the necropolis in intrigue, attracting pilgrims and sparking archaeological interest.
• Limited excavations occurred sporadically, but systematic exploration wasn't undertaken until the late 19th century.
• The discovery of the Red Mausoleum, a large pagan structure possibly built for an emperor, and the Banditaccia Tomb, an Etruscan chamber tomb with vibrant artwork, became major highlights.

Frequently asked questions about Vatican Scavi tours

Yes, you can visit the Vatican Necropolis. You can book you Vatican Necropolis tours online.

You can purchase Vatican Necropolis tour tickets online. Booking Scavi tours online is highly recommended as you can guarantee your spot and have a hassle-free experience.

Besides being the final resting place of the first pope, St Peter, the Vatican necropolis is an underground labyrinthine mausoleum that houses the remains of ancient Romans and Etruscans.

Yes, the Scavi institution provides a licensed guide to accompany visitors on their Necropolis tours.  

The Vatican Necropolis is open between 9 AM and 6 PM from Monday to Friday and from 9 AM to 5 PM on Saturdays. It is closed on Sundays.

A tour of just the Vatican Necropolis takes about 1 - 2 hours.

St. Peter’s Tomb is located just below St. Peter’s Basilica, within the Vatican Necropolis on level 3.

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The Catholic Traveler’s Guide to Rome is offered completely free to be sure you have the best pilgrimage experience – and is only possible because of my generous supporters. Please consider supporting my work through Patreon or Substack , or a one time tip through Venmo . 🤍

The Vatican Scavi Tour that goes through the excavations below Saint Peter’s Basilica is one of the most exclusive tours in all of Rome. Only 250 people are allowed through each day – compare that to the 30,000 that visit the Vatican Museums!

Your tour will be in a small group with a maximum of about 12 people and last around 90 minutes. The grand finale is a visit to the actual tomb of Saint Peter, where, by peering around a corner, you will see the bones of the Prince of the Apostles.

Reservations should be made well in advance of your visit to Rome, in fact, it should be the first thing you do!

The process is quite simple, however, it’s best to list a range of dates that you can visit and stay flexible.

How to request tickets to the Scavi

To request tickets, email the Scavi office at [email protected] Don’t email me , I can’t help you.

In your email, please provide:

• The exact number of participants;
• The name of each participant;
• Your preferred language;
• All possible dates you are available – spell out the month: 01 January 2021;
• Provide an email address for the main contact.

They don’t care about any fluff, like how badly you want the tour or how you only just found out about it or that you’ve heard how great it is.

If your request is granted, you’ll be required to pay by credit card within 10 days. The Scavi office will send a link to pay online.

Important to note

A visit to the Scavi below Saint Peter’s Basilica not only takes you into a very sacred place, but also a highly secure area. As such, there are rules.

Only ages 15 and up are allowed.

Appropriate dress is required. No shorts. No short skirts. Shoulders covered. Even in the summer heat, don’t risk it.

No large bags. Normal sized backpacks and purses will go through security screening, but are allowed – usually.

You should bring your Passport in case they check ID. It’s never happened for me, but it’s better to be safe.

You should arrive 10-15 minutes early. No exceptions.

Once inside, no photos are allowed.

It is warm, humid, and cramped in the Scavi. If you are claustrophobic, well, you should visit anyway. Just know it might be a bit uncomfortable.

Tickets for the Scavi can sell out many months in advance. If you are unable to get tickets, and you are flexible, you can show up the day you want to go and ask if there are any cancellations.

Also watch for groups. Groups pay way in advance and often have cancellations. If the group leader is nice, you may be able to join. It happens. Stay positive.

Price Tickets are €13. Price includes your guide.

Opening times Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday from 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Wednesday from 1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. (due to the Papal Audience ) Saturday from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Scavi is closed on Sundays, Wednesday mornings until 1 PM, and the usually the following Vatican holidays:

January: 1 and 6 (Epiphany)

February: 11 (Lateran Treaty)

March: 13 (Election of the Holy Father), 19 (Saint Joseph’s Feast Day)

April: 23 (Name-day of the Holy Father)

May: 1 (Saint Joseph the Carpenter)

June: 15 (Corpus Domini), 29 (Feast Day of SS. Peter and Paul)

August: 14, 15, 16 (Ferragosto)

November: 1 (All Saints), 2 (All Soul’s Day)

December: 8 (Immaculate Conception), 24, 25, 26, 27 (Christmas) and 31 (Te Deum)

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The Best Scavi Tour Vatican 2024

Vatican dome & crypt tour, about scavi tour vatican.

Discover a hidden world beneath the iconic St. Peter's Basilica by joining the Vatican Scavi Tour! Explore the sacred papal tombs, ascend to the majestic dome, and savor an unforgettable view of the Vatican and Rome from above. Your expert guide will lead you through the entire tour, providing insights into the Renaissance era, the artworks you'll encounter, and the underground crypts.

DESCRIPTION

Scavi tour vatican.

Explore the Vatican crypts and climb up to the top of St. Peter's Basilica to enjoy stunning views of the Vatican and Rome by going on this Vatican Scavi tour.

Start your journey in St. Peter’s Square and reach the dome's first level. Take in the beautiful mosaics of saints, Latin scripts on the dome, and Bernini’s canopy below. While being there, your guide will share interesting facts about the dome's history and the Renaissance artists involved.

After that, climb the spiral staircase to the dome's top for free time to explore. Pass by windows with views of the Vatican rooftops. After 320 steps, you'll reach the viewing platform 448 feet above the basilica floor. Take a moment and soak in the breathtaking panoramic views of the city, including the Vatican Gardens and ancient Rome's landmarks like the Colosseum and the Pantheon.

Finish your tour by descending to the underground crypts to see where popes and royalty have been buried since the 11th century.

• Guided tour
• Entry fees to the top of the Dome by elevator
• Headsets, so you can always hear your guide
• Tips (optional)
• Entry to Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and Vatican Necropolis

Meeting point

Meet your guide at Largo del Colonnato 5, by the first columns of the Colonnade. Look for a yellow label with the Touriks logo on it. The meeting point is outside the Basilica before entering St. Peter's square. Do not go through the metal detectors before meeting the guide.

MAKE YOUR VISIT TO VATICAN CITY UNFORGETTABLE!

Easy booking process & free cancellation!

Explore the final resting place of popes, including the tomb of St. Peter. Learn about the rituals and traditions associated with papal burials.

Ascend to new heights as you climb to the top of St. Peter's dome, treating yourself to panoramic views of the Vatican City and Rome's skyline - an experience that will leave you breathless in more ways than one.

Learn about the significance of the Holy Door, which is opened once every 25 years exclusively for Catholic pilgrims to walk through.

FAQ – Scavi Tour Vatican

What is the scavi tour of the vatican, how long does the scavi tour take, why is it called the scavi tour, is there a dress code to visit basilica, what other landmarks can i visit in the vatican, uncover the secrets of vatican underground, easy & fast booking process, good to know before you go.

• Please note that all visitors must pass through security.
• The dome’s elevator takes you only to the first terrace. To climb to the top of the dome, you will have to use the stairs (320 steps).
• This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users and those who suffer from heart or other serious medical conditions.

The tour was so good we forgot about the time!

Our guide impressed us with his deep knowledge and attention to every detail. During the tour, we saw many significant artworks inside the basilica, climbed the stairs to the summit, and enjoyed panoramic views of the Vatican City from the top. The entire tour lasted three hours, which we didn't even notice because the tour was incredible! 🙂

Amazing tour guide!

We had an amazing time exploring St. Peter's Basilica and taking on the Dome Climb! The Basilica is beyond breathtaking, and the Dome climb was an unforgettable adventure. There's a wealth of information that only an expert like Paula can provide, adding a whole new layer of understanding to the experience. Paula was the highlight of the tour - incredibly knowledgeable, friendly, and considerate. She presented information clearly and even added a touch of humor. Out of all the tours we did in Italy, this one was our absolute favorite. Grazie mille, Paula!

Book your Dome & Vatican Underground Tour Now!

Explore St. Peter's Basilica, its majestic dome, and the hidden Papal tombs!

• Small group or private tours are available
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

Instant ticket delivery

Smartphone tickets accepted

Skip the line ticket

• Private tours

Vatican Museums and Underground Tour of the Papal Tombs in St. Peter’s Basilica

• TOUR THE VATICAN Your expert guide will take you to the most important rooms and artworks of the Vatican from the Round Room and the Hall of the Muses through the Gallery of the Tapestries, Gallery of the Maps and Greek Cross Hall. Visit the picturesque Belvedere and Pinecone Courtyard and the Pio Clementino Museum.
• SISTINE CHAPEL & MICHELANGLEO After your guided tour through the Vatican Museums, visit the miraculous Sistine Chapel. You’ll have just enough time to marvel at the incredible frescoes from masters of the Renaissance including The Last Judgement and The Creation of Adam by Michelangelo on the Sistine Chapel ceiling.
• SAINT PETER’S BASILICA Then visit St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the most significant churches in Christianity and the largest church in the world. St. Peter’s is majestic both inside and out, with columns and statues by Bernini adorning the exterior façade as well as another Bernini masterpiece inside.
• THE PIETA Also in Saint Peter’s Basilica is Michelangelo’s Pieta, one of the most revered sculptures of the Renaissance.
• VATICAN UNDERGROUND Discover the papal tombs in old St. Peter’s Basilica. The final resting place of the popes, some dating back to the 5th century were originally housed in the old St. Peter’s Basilica. After the demolition during the 16th century most tombs were destroyed, but some were luckily preserved and transferred to the new St. Peter’s Basilica that you see today.
• PAPAL TOMBS OF ST. PETER’S The Vatican papal tombs of St. Peter’s are still relatively unknown to the general public. This exclusive tour allows you access to these underground sections of St. Peter’s Basilica, giving you a unique perspective and history explained to you by an expert on the subject – your guide.
• ST. PETER’S TOMB Pay a visit to the Tomb of the Dead, also known as St. Peter’s Tomb. Despite its name, this is not the site of Saint Peter’s grave rather than a memorial dedicated to the founder of the early Church.

How long did it take to paint the Sistine Chapel?

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• Skip-the-line admission
• Expert tour guide
• Free Wi-Fi, bathroom and ATM access, refreshments and recharging station available at Enjoy Rome's office before and/or after your tour 
• Pick up and drop off 
• Gratuities (optional)
• Weapons and blunt objects (knives, long umbrellas, etc.)
• Glass bottles, aerosol sprays, and alcohol 
• Bicycles, skates, and segways

Large bags and selfie sticks are not allowed in the Vatican. There is a free Vatican cloakroom service once you have gone through the metal detectors. 

* Tours departing Wednesday: St. Peter's Basilica will be unavailable due to the weekly Papal Audience during which St. Peter's Basilica is closed. As an alternative you will be offered an extended itinerary within the Vatican Museums, which still includes the Sistine Chapel. 

** On rare occasions, St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel closes without notice. If this happens, you will spend a full 3 hour tour in the Vatican Museums. 

The Vatican Museums offer free entry to all disabled visitors with certified invalidity of more than 74%. For visitors who are not self-sufficient, free entry is also extended to a companion. 

• Tours and Tickets

Ultimate Vatican Experience: Sistine Chapel and Necropolis Scavi Tour

• Enjoy the luxury of a private tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
• Avoid long lines—skip-the-line tickets with prime access are included
• Get special small-group access to the Scavi (Underground)
• Hotel pickup is available from centrally-located hotels

Tour’s Location

What's included, departure & return, departure point, return details, what to expect, additional info.

• Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
• Not wheelchair accessible
• A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements
• A moderate amount of walking is involved - comfortable shoes are recommended
• Please advise if anyone in your group has mobility issues
• Minimum age is 16 years
• During the visit of the underground burial visitors may be affected by the altered environmental conditions of temperature and humidity. Those who have special physical problems, subject to increase under these conditions, including claustrophobia, are advised not to access the visit.
• Most travelers can participate
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate

Cancellation policy

From 450. 15  usd.

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Vatican Necropolis Tour

Top attractions, more things to do, explore by city, vatican underground tour.

Be one of the privileged few to be welcomed on an exclusive Vatican Necropolis Tour (Necropolis VIP Tour fits as a better name! Only 250 people are able to reserve Vatican Necropolis tickets per day!  When you join a Vatican Crypt Tour, you'll have the opportunity to explore these underground graves in the heart of Vatican City. Snagging a couple of tickets directly from the Vatican isn't the easiest process though, and will require some time and patience. Save yourself the hassle of applying for tickets and let us take care of the reservations for you.  Dive in and explore the unexplored areas of the Vatican! Perfectly located beneath St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican grottoes graves. Venture underground to see the tomb of St Peter, burial ground, and mosaics from the second century BC. This guided tour needs to be first on your list! With limited availability , it's highly recommended to reserve your Tour of the Necropolis at least 2 months in advance of your visit. If you're thinking that the wait isn't worth it, head over to the official website of the Vatican for a Vatican Necropolis Virtual Tour to get a taste of what you'll see. The sneak peek Vatican Catacombs virtual tour will wet your taste buds, but an expert guided tour will let you dive in for the full meal! Nothing beats it! Best of all, you can enjoy the exclusiveness of being one of the selected few to enter!

Vatican Necropolis Tour Highlights

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• Learn the remarkable story of the Vatican Catacombs! Tour through the underground cemetery, excavations, around the mausoleums, and final resting place of St. Peter, and his alleged tomb. Allow your personal guide to explain all the hidden secrets underground. 
• Uncover St. Peter's tomb , housing the bones of Peter the Apostle.
• Combine two tours in one! Enjoy the Necropolis and St. Peter's Basilica Guided Tour or the Vatican and Colosseum Tour , for example.
• Along with an expert guide, your Vatican Necropolis Map will help lead you through one of the most fascinating underground crypts in the world.
• Piazza Sant Pietro! Stand right outside the Vatican museum in all its glory. Either during the day or at night, this spot is worth the shot every single time.
• Saint Peter’s Square from the Dome is the perfect panoramic to capture the city views. Be sure to get into the frame too!
• A picture from the Vatican Gardens where you can capture nature and a selfie all at the same time is a must!
• Book a Vatican package deal for the Vatican museum, Sistine Chapel, and visits to the Necropolis; this will surely save you time and money!
• Vatican Necropolis tickets (or Scavi tour tickets if you wish) for reserved entry , can be obtained through its main office via email. However, be advised, the process to obtain tickets isn’t the most hassle-free. To avoid stress, it’s best to book an organized tour; they take care of obtaining your reserved entry for you.
• Getting your hands on a Scavi tour ticket is guaranteed to make you feel like you have just cashed in on the lottery. Book early to guarantee entry and get ready to enjoy your small group tour with a private feel.
• You may think the crypts would be cold, however, this is not the case when it comes to the Necropolis. Be wary of the temperature and humidity on the Vatican Excavation Tour. It gets hotter as you go down. Bring a bottle of water and fan to keep cool.
• One amazing hack! Visit Vatican Necropolis Via Triumphalis for a great extended tour of these graves on the Roman burial site. Dive deeper into the history and see more of the hidden secrets lurking underground.
• Vatican Necropolis Entrance: Finding your way to the Excavations office doesn’t have to cause a headache. If flustered, feel free to ask for the ´Scavi Office´ along the way.
• When you book your tickets to the Scavi, it’s best to confirm the opening times ahead as changes in hours are possible.
• Vatican Necropolis Scavi Tour Rules
• A Vatican Tombs tour is restricted to those aged 15 and over.  
• The Vatican Necropolis Tours has a strict dress code. No shirts or shorts allowed. Even in the Summer heat, shoulders and knees must be covered.
• Leave your camera away in your pocket. No Vatican Necropolis photos can be taken once inside.
• You must arrive 15-20 minutes early.
• Bring your ID ; identification is checked before entry.
• All bags and purses go through the security check.
• Services (Inside The Vatican)
• The cloakroom service room is free of charge.
• Plenty of baby changing facilities and nursing rooms are available on site. 
• Restaurants and cafés can be found throughout the museum.
• Shop the Gift shops , where you can also easily find The Necropolis Book! Learn about the Temple of Christianity, its religious art, and Peter’s Tomb.

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The Scavi Tour: St Peter’s Tomb & Necropolis

What is the scavi tour.

The Scavi Tour is a 1.5-hour guided excursion through St Peter’s underground Necropolis, the ancient underground cemetery that houses St Peter’s tomb. It is a truly exclusive experience as visits are reserved for a maximum of 250 people per day to preserve the historical site, only pre-booked guided groups can visit, and no photos are allowed – so you have to go to know what it’s all about! However, as the site is underground, temperatures can be higher than outside, so those with medical conditions or claustrophobia may prefer to skip this trip.

RULES & REQUIREMENTS

• The Necropolis can only be visited on a pre-booked guided tour.
• No children under 15 years old allowed (I.D. will be checked and no exceptions will be made).
• Guests must dress appropriately with shoulders and knees covered.
• No cameras, suitcases, or backpacks allowed (but they can be deposited and supervised by St Peter’s Staff for free)

TOUR DETAILS

• Available in multiple languages
• Groups of approximately 12 people
• Earliest tours begin at 9am, latest tours begin at 3:30pm
• Each guest must pay 13 euro, a fee which covers both the entry ticket and the tour cost.
• There are no reduced ticket prices under any circumstance.

HOW TO BOOK TICKETS

Scavi Tours must be booked in advance  with the Excavations Office of the Fabbrica di San Pietro, where the date and time of your visit will be organized for you based on the availability you provide.

Requests should be sent by the interested visitor. If the person submitting the request is not the actual visitor, he or she should send the visitors name and Email address. With this information, the Excavations Office can send specific information about the visit to the person requesting the visit.

There are no deadlines for submitting requests, but they will be handled in the order that they are received and whether they are granted will depend on availability.

Written requests may be submitted by fax  +39 06 69873017, or  requests may be made by visiting the Excavations Office in person  (using the south entrance, just outside of the Colonnade).

All of the following information must be included in the request:

• Precise number of participants
• Full names of participants
• Language requested
• Dates and times that the individual or group is available for the tour. The Excavations Office will try to plan your visit according to your availability, but the date and time is ultimately determined by them. Always write the name of the month in full, for example “from 01 January 2013 to 08 January 2013”.
• Include E-mail address, or fax number, or a complete postal address to which replies and tour details can be sent.

Fabbrica di San Pietro – Excavations Office

Tel.:  + 39 06 69 885 318 – Fax:  + 39 06 69 873 017

Office Hours

Monday – Friday:  9:00 – 18:00, Saturday:  9:00 – 17:00

For more information, click  here.

We hope you’ve found this information helpful!

Contact us at  What A Life Tours  for any inquiries about your Vatican visit & consider joining one of our Five-Star  Vatican Tours !

Author: April Nicole

April is an American writer and photographer who has lived in Rome since 2013. She enjoys exploring the museums of the city, as well as indulging in authentic Italian cuisine!

Published:  22.12.2023

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Our top five tips for visiting Vatican City and the famed Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica.

• Reservations

Requests, if possible, should be sent directly by the interested visitor/s.  If the person submitting the request is not the actual visitor, he or she should send the visitor(s) name(s) and e-mail address(es).  This will allow the Excavations Office to replay back to the person requesting the visit and to the visitor with specific information about the visit granted.  

Those leading groups (universities, parishes, cultural associations, agencies, and other groups) should send a complete list of names of the  participants and the name of their organization . 

There are no set deadlines for submitting requests.  All requests, even urgent ones, will be fulfilled depending on the places left available at the closest date to the one requested.

Requests may be submitted in written form by fax +39 06 69873017 , or by visiting the Excavations Office in person ( using the south [left] entrance, just outside of the Colonnade ).

It is absolutely necessary to provide the following information :

1.  Exact number of participants; 2.  Names of participants; 3.  Language requested; 4.  Possible dates *when the Excavations Office can assign your visit (the time will be determined by the Office). *please always write in full the name of the month (e.g.:  from 01 January 2013 to 08 January 2013 ) 5.  E-mail address, or fax number, or a complete postal address.

• Entrance fee
• Regulations during visits
• Depositing prohibited items

Fabbrica di San Pietro

Excavations Office 00120 Vatican City State

email: [email protected]

Tel.:  + 39 06 69 885 318

Entrance Fee

Monday – Friday:  9:00 - 18:00

Saturday:  9:00 - 14:00

Cost of the ticket

The cost of the individual ticket , including the contribution for the Guide, is 13,00 Euros (approximately $ 16.50 USD)

No reductions in price will be given for any reason.

© Excavations Office | Contact us | Map

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• St Peters Tomb

St Peters Tomb - How to visit one of the most exclusive sites in Rome!

By Elyssa Bernard

March 18, 2023

Would you like to see St Peters tomb at the Vatican ?

Find out how to book this special archaeological tour of one of the most fascinating underground sites in Rome . 

Visit St Peters Tomb - Everything you need to know

Are you wondering what I am talking about?

Yes, you can book a special visit to the archeological site underneath St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City .

And on this tour, one of the things you will see is the (supposed) tomb of Saint Peter.

What is St Peters tomb? Where is it?

• Is St. Peter really buried here ?
• Is it worth visiting ?
• What will you see when you visit St Peters tomb ? 
• How long will the visit take ?
• Can you visit the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel on the same day as visiting St Peters tomb ?
• How to get tickets to see St. Peters tomb ? What does it cost?
• What to do if you can't get tickets ?

What is St Peters tomb and where is it?

St. Peter was (said to be) crucified in Rome in 64 CE at the orders of Roman Emperor Nero.

Peter asked to be crucified upside-down, because he did not think he was worthy of being crucified right-side up as Jesus was.

In the basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo , in Piazza del Popolo in Rome, you can visit the Cerasi chapel , where you can admire two stunning paintings by Caravaggio (among works by many other important artists).

In this painting, Saint Peter is shown being crucified upside-down.

You have to stand to the right and lean in to see it.

The other Caravaggio painting in this chapel depicts the conversion of St. Paul on the road to Damascus.

Saints Peter and Paul are the patron saints of Rome.

Saint Peter was crucified in an arena known as  Caligula’s Circus .

Caligula was emperor before Nero, and had built a “circus”, which in ancient Rome referred to an open-air stadium or field where games were held.

This particular arena is also called Nero's Circus.

And it's where Saint Peter's square is (more or less), today .

In Ancient Rome, the dead were buried just outside the city walls, in an area called a Necropolis.

It's thought that St. Peter was buried near where he was martyred, in the necropolis on the Vatican Hill ( it was called Vatican Hill before Christianity came along , although there is some discussion as to the exact origin of the name).

In the 4th century, when Constantine became the first Roman emperor to embrace Christianity, he had a church built on the site of Saint Peter's grave , and called it Saint Peter's Basilica .

This basilica, now referred to as Old Saint Peter's, does not exist any more, as it was replaced in the Renaissance by the basilica you see today:

When Michelangelo was designing the current  Saint Peter's Basilica , he purposefully centered the dome right over the spot where St. Peter is presumed to be buried.

Later, many popes chose to be buried in the Vatican grottoes, just underneath Michelangelo's dome.

Probably they wanted to be near the tomb of Saint Peter.

You can visit those tombs directly from inside the basilica , on a normal visit there.

Want more unusual things to see in Rome?

Check out my page  Cemeteries in Rome (and near Rome) that you can visit!

Are those really St. Peter’s remains there?

Hmmmm, well I cannot answer this.

If you look around on the internet, you will see arguments declaring these are REALLY St. Peter’s remains. 100%, no doubt.

And, you will see equally as many arguments that say no, they are not, or at least, we just cannot be sure.

I’ve done this tour 5 times.

On one tour, our guide was a seminarian at the Vatican.

In his presentation, there was never once mention of any scholarly doubt on this subject.

There was only an absolute statement that we were indeed in the presence of St. Peter’s remains.

On another visit, our guide seemed to be more of a student of theology and archeology, and her presentation was quite different.

She did let us know that there is some question, at least on a scholarly level, as to whether these are indeed St. Peter’s remains.

She was not negative, just speaking academically.

And on the most recent tour, the guide spoke of the remains but also stated all the arguments in favor of them really being St. Peter as fact, as if to reinforce this belief.

All the guides were fantastic, and your visit will be fascinating regardless of which guide you get.

My take is that each person who visits this holy site should absorb the information, and make their own decision as to what they believe.

Is Saint Peter's tomb worth visiting?

Most definitely yes! 

If you have the time to  plan this in advance , you can see one of the most exclusive, special and sought-after sites in Rome.

I know, I said above that these may NOT be St. Peter’s remains.

But, then again, they might.

And 99% of the visit is about other stuff, mainly the necropolis under the basilica.

• Are you interested in Ancient Roman history ? This tour is for you.
• Are you interested in archeology ? This tour is for you.
• Are you interested in this visit from a religious or faith point of view ?
• If you want to see one of the most sacred sites in Christendom , this tour is for you.

The perfect 3-day itinerary in Rome

Trying to figure out how to organize your visit to Rome? I've got the perfect 3-day itinerary for first-time visitors (or those who have not been here in a while.) It works for a 2.5 day visit as well.

In my 3-day itinerary, you'll see all the major must-see Rome attractions like the Vatican , Colosseum , Trevi Fountain , Pantheon , Piazza Navona , Spanish Steps , Castel Sant'Angelo , and much more.

And if you have more time, or want suggestions for extra/other things to do, you'll find that there too.

Visit my page with the best 3-day itinerary in Rome for first-timers .

What will you see when you visit St Peters tomb?

No photos are allowed on this tour, so I don't have any of my own, except of the outside.

Any photos on this page of the necropolis itself are from the Fabbrica di San Pietro , an official Vatican website.

When you visit St Peters tomb, you start out by viewing a wooden model of the basilica.

This allows you to understand where you will be going underground.

From there, the guide will take you down to the underground excavations.

Most of your tour is not actually about Saint Peter, and will be of the tombs in this necropolis . . . which are all in Greek!

Ancient Greek. Yep!

It's absolutely fascinating.

The guides are very good, as they know this area like the back of their hand.

So you really get a sense of what life and death were like in Ancient Rome.

At the end of the tour, you will see the area where St Peters tomb is supposed to be.

It's not very easy to see.

In fact, you have to line up to view, one at a time, the little hole in the wall where the remains are.

Finally, your guide will leave you in the Vatican grottoes.

You can walk around and view tombs of other popes (this is actually fascinating too).

And from there, you can go up into St. Peter's basilica .

This is a huge plus, as you avoid the long queues to get in at the main entry.

HOW LONG DOES THE TOUR LAST?

The guided tour takes around 1.5 hours.

But you should factor in the time it will take you to find the entrance, and gather and show your tickets.

Then, factor in time you may want to spend on your own in the grottoes, and of course, in St. Peter's basilica.

You could also climb the dome of the basilica , once you are inside. This will take another hour.

So your visit to St Peters tomb will last anywhere from 2-4 hours. And this does NOT include visiting the Vatican Museums .

Should you plan this tour on the same day as you visit the Vatican Museums?

In my opinion NO. 

If you try to visit the Vatican museums on the same day that you have a scavi tour, it will be exhausting and you will have Vatican fatigue (I don’t know if that’s a thing but I’m telling you, you will).

But if you have limited time in Rome and want to try to fit these visits into the same day just make sure to plan for it time-wise.

Book your Scavi tickets first , because unless you book through a ticket agency, you have no control over the time (or date) they give you.

Then, make sure you have about 4 hours between visits of the Necropolis and the Vatican Museums.

Then book your Vatican Museums ticket .

Want more help planning your Vatican visits, and fitting it all in?

Visit my page about this .

Ready to plan your trip?

How to get tickets to see St Peters tomb?

There used to be only one way to get tickets to visit St Peters tomb - which was directly through the Scavi (excavations) office of the Vatican.

You can still do this.

You send them your request, and the dates you will be in Rome, and then you wait and hope.

Now, you can finally book this visit via a ticket agency.

It's more expensive this way, but they take the wait/worry out, and, you have more control over when you go.

And, by booking via a ticket agency, you can usually get tickets closer to the date you want to visit.

how to book your tour of St Peters tomb and Vatican Necropolis via the Vatican Scavi office

If you want to book via the Vatican Scavi office, send an email (English is fine) to: [email protected] or by fax: 011 39 06 6987-3017.

You can also fill out the form on the official Vatican Excavations Office website .

You will need to provide the following:

• The exact number of visitors (no children under 15 allowed, no exceptions)
• Everyone's names and surnames
• Language desired for the visit
• The dates you are available for a visit (the more options you provide, the better chance you have of getting a spot).
• Contact information (an e-mail address, fax number, or full postal address) so that the Excavations Office may advise you about your visit.

If there is space available during the time frame you provide of your availability, the Scavi office will send a proposed date and time.

If you accept, you write back and let them know, and they in turn will confirm the visit with a request for payment in advance.

Tickets are 13€ per person.

There are no discounts for anyone. (You must pay in advance to confirm the booking.)

In my experience, the Scavi office responds within 24 hours of your request, but if they don't, just be patient.

If your request is urgent, you can try phoning the Excavations office at the following number:  011 39 06 69 885 318.

Don't forget to bring these essential travel items with you!

Disclosure: If you make a purchase through a link on this page, I may receive a small commission - at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my site!

HOW TO BOOK YOUR TOUR OF ST PETERS TOMB AND VATICAN NECROPOLIS via a tour agency

Vox Mundi , the official Vatican tour agency, has made some time slots available to ticket resellers.

Space is very limited, and it does cost more than booking directly with the Scavi office, but it's a smoother and more immediate process.

Click here to book Vatican Scavi tickets through an authorized reseller.

The tickets to this special visit are not associated with the Roma Pass , the Omnia Pass, or any other pass .

There are no discounts for any reason.

What to do when you cannot get tickets to St Peters Tomb

• Book through a reseller . If you've written to the scavi office, and discovered that it's too late, and there is no availability during your visit, you can try booking through a ticket reseller . Yes, this is more expensive but if you really want to see this site, it may be the only way.
• Book the tour in another language . One thing you can also try is to ask for the tour in another language like Spanish, French or Italian. The English language tours are always booked long in advance, but there may be availability in another language. If you don't speak anything other than English, it may be frustrating to take the tour in a language you don't understand, but if it's important to you to see this site, you can try this option.
• Go to the Scavi office and ask if there are any cancellations . This is really a longshot , but you can try asking the Swiss Guard if you can go to the Scavi office, and see if they have any last minute cancellations. It's doubtful you can get in this way but you could ask.

Disclosure : If you make a purchase through a link on this page, I may receive a small commission - at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my site!

If you just cannot get tickets, there are other things you can see that may be of interest, along a similar vein:

• You can visit the Mamertine Prison , where Sts. Peter and Paul were said to be held prisoner before their executions.
• You can visit the basilica of Saint John in Lateran ( San Giovanni in Laterano ), the most important basilica in all of Christendom, the Pope's church. The skulls of Sts. Peter and Paul are kept in the reliquary.

• Visit the catacombs , where you can see the tombs of other saints and ancient Romans.
• Visit the Vatican grottoes and see the important tombs of other popes and saints.

Want to know more about the catacombs of Rome?

Visit our dedicated page here.

Important tips for visiting St Peters tomb at the Vatican:

• Dress appropriately  - You are on Vatican property. No bare knees, midriffs or shoulders. Even in the height of summer, you will have to be respectfully covered when you visit this site, or any site at the Vatican.
• Be more than punctual  - You are dealing with the  Swiss guard  here. They do not understand the meaning of the word “late.” Plan for more time than you think you need. You should arrive at the gate of the Swiss Guard no later than 15 minutes before your tour begins. If you have plenty of time to kill, you can always walk around St. Peter’s Square and get some pix. 

• How to find the entrance - You need to get to the gate of the Swiss Guard on the left-hand side of Vatican Square, behind the colonnade, i.e. outside the square. If you have any walking issues , you can have a taxi or car drop you off right at the gate of the Swiss Guard (see photo above). Otherwise, if coming from the Ottaviano metro stop , it’s a good 20 minute walk. Once the Swiss guard let you past their gate, you still have to walk to the Scavi office, which is about a 3-5 minutes’ walk.
• It is HOT under there - The site has to be well-sealed to keep moisture from ruining the frescoes and other art. Even though you are underground and not exposed to heat and sun, it is NOT a good place to “ cool down ” when it’s hot outside . So if you have a choice and can visit this site from mid-September through May, you will be more comfortable. If you are in Rome only for the summer, just remember to plan and dress accordingly and wear the lightest cotton possible.
• It CAN be claustrophobic - You will be underground. And some of the spaces are a little small. I am slightly claustrophobic and I can do it, but if you suffer from severe claustrophobia, this tour may not be a good idea.
• You may not take ANY photos during the tour. They are strict about this. The photos I published on this page are mine (of the outside), and from the Vatican website  Fabbrica di San Pietro (of the inside).
• All-important bathroom stop - once you pass the Swiss guard and make your way to the Scavi office, you may ask where the toilet is. It is just off the little outdoor plaza there, before you enter the site for the tour. There will not be any more places to use the bathroom once you begin the tour. You will find the next bathroom once you exit Saint Peter's Basilica after your tour ends.

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Italy Travel Experts Tours and Vacations

The Best Vatican Tours To Take in 2024 and Why + Maps

Sean Finelli Last Updated: February 21, 2024

You already know that a trip to Rome is not complete without a visit to the famous country within the city: Vatican City. But there are so many different tour options, so how do you choose? It all depends on your travel interests and schedule. In this guide, you’ll discover our best Vatican tours and which one’s right for you.

Pro Tip: It’s easier to organize your trip when you have all your resources in one place. Create a browser folder and bookmark this post in your browser along with our article on the best Colosseum tours . We also have a dedicated guide to all things Vatican City where you’ll find everything you need.

All Vatican, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica Tours

All of our Vatican tours include skip-the-line tickets, local English-speaking guides, a tour of the Vatican Museums, and a visit to the Sistine Chapel. The right Vatican tour for you will depend on your interests, whether you want to see the Sistine Chapel without the crowds, and how much time you have to soak up all this beauty.

To help you find your perfect Vatican experience, here is a link bank of all our tours, followed by more in-depth descriptions and maps below.

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a Vatican tour is worth it .

Express Vatican Tours (2 hours)

• Vatican Night Tour with Sistine Chapel
• Ultimate St. Peter’s Basilica Dome Climb

Classic Vatican Tours (2.5 – 3.5 hours)

• Privileged Entrance Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel
• Skip the Line Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica (start times throughout the day)
• Exclusive After Hours Sistine Chapel Tour with Aperitivo

Full Experience Vatican Tours and Combos (4 or more hours)

• St. Peter’s Dome Climb and Sistine Chapel Combo Tour
• Sistine Chapel, Vatican Gardens & Castel Gandolfo Day Trip
• Rome in a Day Tour Including Colosseum and Vatican Museums
• Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican Highlights Combo Tour

Vatican Tickets

Skip-the-line tickets for a self-guided Vatican visit:

• Purchase skip-the-line Vatican tickets

1. Privileged Entrance Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel

Everyone knows the Vatican Museums are filled with crowds most of the day. That’s why this Privileged Entrance Vatican Tour is ideal if you want to avoid the crowds and heat. Why? It enters before the general public so you can enjoy a less-crowded time throughout your tour.

With fewer crowds and cooler temperatures inside the vast Vatican Museums, you can easily follow your guide through the Vatican’s galleries and museums. Explore the Pio-Clementino, the Gallery of Tapestries, and Raphael Rooms as your guide brings each location to life.

Of course, you’ll visit the Sistine Chapel where you’ll stand in awe under the centuries-old ceiling that has captivated travelers from around the world. Starting your day early in the Vatican is the best way to maximize your vacation.

2. Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican Highlights Combo Tour

Want to see both the Vatican and the Colosseum? This combo tour gets you more bang for your buck by combining them! You’ll enjoy skip-the-line entry at both the Colosseum and the Vatican. First, dive into ancient Roman history at the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill where you’ll walk in the steps of Gladiators and Emperors.

After lunch, rejoin the tour at the Vatican to hear stories of papal intrigue and see some of the world’s most celebrated artworks by masters like Raphael and Michelangelo, and, of course, the Sistine Chapel.

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if Rome tours are worth it .

3. Private Skip the Line Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel

If you don’t have time for an early morning tour or would prefer to visit in the afternoon, then our Private Skip the Line Vatican Tour is the one for you. With multiple start times throughout the day and skip-the-line tickets, you’ll find a time that’s just right for you and get straight to exploring.

4. Rome in a Day including Colosseum and Vatican Museums

Our Rome in a Day Tour is one of our most popular tours to date. You start your day with a comprehensive tour of the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica with an English-speaking guide. Then you head to the city for a walking tour of the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and Trevi Fountain. End your day tour of Rome with a full Colosseum tour that includes the Roman Forum.

This is a great way to get the main highlights of Rome before you head out to discover it even better on your own. We provide transportation from the Vatican to the center of Rome, but this tour spends a lot of time on your feet. You’ll be ready for a delicious dinner when you’re done exploring one of the best tours of the Vatican and Rome!

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  best Rome tours to take and why .

5. Ultimate St. Peter’s Basilica Dome Climb

Looking for the best views in Rome? We know where to go. Our Ultimate St. Peter’s Basilica Dome Climb  takes you to the top of the famous dome right as it opens and before there are any lines. Most of all, it’s before the heat of the day!

After you’ve climbed to the incredible lookout and soaked up those views, your guide will escort you into St. Peter’s Basilica for a guided tour that includes the Papal Crypts. For a quick tour of St. Peter’s and the dome, this is one of the best Vatican tours you can take.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  Vatican Guide for more info.

6. Exclusive After Hours Sistine Chapel with Aperitivo

Looking for that truly exclusive opportunity to enjoy the Vatican and Sistine Chapel? This might just be what you need. With a late afternoon entry to the Vatican, you’ll be led with your small group through the highlights. Then you’ll step into the Sistine Chapel along with no more than 100 other people (usually at least 2,000 during the day)!

Your guide’s stories about this magnificent ceiling will come to life as you experience quiet time in the Sistine Chapel that few ever will. Afterwards, enjoy a drink on us during your aperitivo in the Pinecone Courtyard.

Not ready to book a tour? Find out how to visit the Sistine Chapel .

7. St. Peter’s Dome Climb and Sistine Chapel Combo Tour

Want to get more bang for your buck? Book our St. Peter’s Dome Climb and Sistine Chapel Combo Tour . No matter how many times you’ve been to Rome, this is a great way to start your trip.

Enjoy views from the most scenic viewpoint at St. Peter’s Basilica before the crowds and the heat. Then follow your guide to your skip-the-line entrance at the Vatican where you’ll see the top highlights before stepping into the Sistine Chapel.

8. Vatican Night Tour with Sistine Chapel

On this guided Vatican visit, enter the Vatican Museums after hours and experience the museums with very few other people. You’ll feel like a VIP on this after-hours night tour of the Vatican. It’s the best way to really enjoy the quiet solitude in the 9 miles of museums here.

Not to mention, you’ll get to stand under the Sistine Chapel with just a handful of people around you. It’s almost as exclusive as you can get without booking a private tour. This Vatican Night Tour only runs on Fridays and Saturdays during the summer, making it a very exclusive experience.

9. Skip the Line Vatican Tickets

Want to explore the Vatican Museums at your own pace but with the benefit of skip-the-line tickets? Then reserve your own tickets with our privileged access that lets you bypass the crowds.

You’ll meet our helpful attendant near the Vatican Museums entrance, where they’ll escort you past the general line and into the reserved group entry. There you’ll go through security and be free to explore the Vatican and Sistine Chapel as long as you like.

10. Sistine Chapel, Vatican Gardens & Castel Gandolfo Day Trip

Are you visiting Rome on a Saturday during the spring or summer months? Why not make a whole day of it with our Vatican Museums, Gardens, and Castel Gandolfo Day Trip ?

With this experience, you will take a guided tour of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, Vatican Gardens, and a day trip by train to the Pope’s summer residence. A return train ticket and delicious lunch fit for a pope are included!

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Reader Interactions

Comment (1).

July 5, 2019

We are currently looking at all the various tour possibilities. Do you have tours which cover one or more of the restricted hidden areas of the Vatican Museums; namely the Bramante Staircase, the Niccoline Chapel and the Cabinet of Masks? Thank You.

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Vatican Tours

Vatican City offers countless artistic and architectural treasures, and you’ll be able to make the m...

Our tours in Vatican

Pristine Sistine at Closing Time: Late Entry Vatican Tour

The Complete Vatican Tour with Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter’s Basilica

Pristine Sistine™ Early Entrance Small Group Vatican Tour

Rome in a Day Tour: Including Vatican, Colosseum & Historic Center

St. Peter’s Basilica from Top to Bottom with Dome Climb & Crypt

VIP Vatican Key Master’s Tour: Unlock the Sistine Chapel

Alone In The Vatican: Exclusive VIP Access Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Tour

What to know about vatican from our local guides.

The Vatican Museums house 70,000 of the world’s greatest artistic treasures, of which 20,000 are on display. From ancient Roman sculptures to Renaissance paintings, it would take days to discover it all, which is why we highly recommend booking a Vatican tour to help you make the most of your time at the museums.

A few of the collection’s undisputed highlights are:

• The Sistine Chapel, adorned with Michelangelo’s legendary frescoes
• The Raphael Rooms, which include the famous School of Athens
• The Gallery of the Maps, perhaps the most famous of the Museums’ galleries adorned with 40 maps depicting the different regions of Italy
• Laocoön and His Sons, an enigmatic masterpiece of ancient sculpture
• The Belvedere Torso, which is said to have influenced the work of Michelangelo himself

The Sistine Chapel is perhaps the most famous individual room in the entire world. This is in no small part due to the significant artistic masterpieces adorning its interior, with Michelangelo’s “The Last Judgment” and ceiling frescoes being the highlights.

Pope Sixtus IV, the chapel’s namesake, commissioned its construction in the late 15th century. Today, its best-known use is for the papal conclaves, the process through which a new pope is elected by the College of Cardinals. It also serves as the Pope’s own private chapel when he is at the Vatican.

Want to have the Sistine Chapel all to yourself, just like the Pope? Avoid the crowds on a VIP tour outside opening hours. For a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, you can even accompany the Vatican Key Master himself as he opens the silent halls and galleries in the Vatican Museums early in the morning—including the Sistine Chapel.

As the largest church in the world, St. Peter’s Basilica is itself a masterpiece of art and architecture. It houses some of the most significant religious art in the world, including Michelangelo’s moving Pietà sculpture and the Baldachin, Bernini’s massive bronze altar canopy.

Michelangelo was also the mastermind behind the famous dome crowning the basilica. Climbing the dome is a fantastic way to see not just the incredible mosaics lining the interior up close, but also to feast your eyes on spectacular views over Rome from the very top. Keep in mind that there are over 500 steps to get to the top of the dome from ground level, though an elevator is available to bypass approximately the first half. Underneath the Basilica, the Papal Crypts mark the final resting place of some of the most important Popes in Catholic history.

A guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica will give you an up-close look at all of these treasures and more. Led by an expert art historian guide, you’ll see a side of the world’s most iconic church that few others get to experience.

The best and easiest way to ensure you skip the line at the Vatican is to book a guided tour . With no-wait access to the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica, you’ll save precious hours of time that would have been spent in line. Plus, you'll be in the company of an insightful guide who can provide context on the innumerable masterpieces that can be hard to make sense of on your own.

The Vatican Museums are open Monday to Saturday from 9 am–6 pm. They tend to get more crowded the later in the day you go, so consider booking an early morning Vatican tour to get ahead of the crowds and ensure a more relaxed visit.

For an especially exclusive experience, consider joining the Vatican Key Master himself as he unlocks the silent halls, galleries, and even the Sistine Chapel first thing in the morning before the Museums open to the public. Accompanied by a small group of just 20 other people, the Key Master’s Tour is the most special way to experience the Vatican in total peace and quiet.

Don’t want to get up early? Another excellent option is to take a special access tour after closing time to wander the halls of the Vatican in peace—and have the Sistine Chapel all to yourself.

From May through October, the Vatican Museums offer extended opening hours until 10:30 pm on Fridays and 8 pm on Saturdays. Taking a night tour of the Vatican is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you won’t soon forget!

The Museums are closed most Sundays (except for the last Sunday of every month) and on certain public holidays.

The Vatican is a religious site, and official rules mandate that visitors dress appropriately or risk being turned away. All guests regardless of gender are required to keep their shoulders and knees covered. In warmer months, it’s useful to have a shawl, scarf, or light jacket handy to pull on when entering the Vatican if your outfit doesn’t meet the dress code standards. Additionally, hats are not allowed.

While the Vatican dress code doesn’t have any hard-and-fast rules regarding footwear, keep in mind that you’ll be doing a lot of walking on your Vatican tour. As long as you have comfortable shoes that are good for walking, you’re all set.

While there aren’t any restaurants within Vatican City itself, the surrounding Prati and Trionfale neighborhoods offer plenty of excellent options—particularly if you don’t mind walking a few blocks away (or further) from the Vatican walls. For a quick, on-the-go option, Anthony Bourdain-approved Bonci Pizzarium serves up some of the best pizza by the slice in Rome. In the mood for a sit-down meal after spending hours on your feet at the Vatican? Velavevodetto ai Quiriti—the Prati outpost of Testaccio icon Flavio al Velavevodetto—is perfect for home-cooked Roman classics.

Check out our popular Vatican articles

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Vatican Tours

Find the best way for you to discover the vatican.

Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica Small Group Tour

Enjoy the Vatican Museums with an expert, local guide and Reserved Entrance. Experience the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica and more on this signature tour.

Exclusive Breakfast at the Vatican with Tour of the Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica

We‘ll get you in before staff doors open for an exclusive breakfast in the Vatican Courtyard. Then, explore the treasures of the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter‘s Basilica without the crowds.

Semi-Private Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica Tour

Limited to just 10 people, our Semi-Private Vatican Tour is the most intimate way to see the Vatican. With our Reserved Entrance, you will beat the lines to the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica.

Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Skip-the-line Entrance Tickets with Optional Audio Guide

Discover the Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums at your own pace with our Skip-the-Line Tickets. Our fast access allows you to get past the lines quickly, so you have more time to explore! Add our multilingual audio guide to your tour for informative commentary throughout.

St. Peter’s Basilica Tour with Dome Climb & Papal Crypts

A complete tour of St. Peter’s Basilica, where you can climb the iconic dome for city views, enjoy the treasures of the basilica and delve deep into the Papal Crypts.

Sistine Chapel First Entry Experience with Vatican Museums

Experience a moment of serene contemplation as you take in the magnificence of the Sistine Chapel, bathed in a tranquil ambience, well before the bustling crowds arrive.

Papal Audience Experience with Pope Francis

Get the most out of this once-in-a-lifetime experience with our expert guide's insight into the rich history and traditions of the Papacy and the Papal Audience ceremony. We secure you the best seats available and guide you inside.

Private Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica Tour

Just you and your private guide, have one-on-one interaction as you experience the Sistine Chapel, Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica, for the most intimate and unique way to visit the Vatican.

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Vatican City Tour

The key facts, private tour.

Daily at 9.00am & 1.30pm *

* These are the times that are bookable instantly from our website. To request a different departure time, please send us a request via the Request a Quote  page. 

Semi-Private Tour

Daily at 1.30pm

Group Sizes:

Private tour: 1-12 people **.

** For groups larger than 12 people, please send us a request via the  Request a Quote  page. 

Semi-Private Tour: 2-6 people

Duration: 3.5 hours.

• Visit the Sistine Chapel, Vatican Museums and St Peter’s Basilica with an expert guide.
• Come face to face with the masterpieces of Michelangelo, Raphael and more of the greatest artists of the Renaissance.
• See all the major attractions of the Vatican in a comprehensive tour.
• Skip-the-lines access to the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St Peter’s Basilica.
• See additional galleries not included in most Vatican Museums tours, including the Raphael Rooms.
• Experience the wonder of standing in the Sistine Chapel beneath Michelangelo’s ceiling and facing his “Last Supper” fresco.
• Gaze in awe at the splendours of St Peter’s Basilica, the most important church in Catholicism.
• Be moved by Michelangelo’s “Pietà” in St Peter’s Basilica.

Learn the amazing history behind the construction of St Peter’s Basilica, including its symbolic design and the history of its construction.

• Bookable as a private tour, or you can join a handful of other people in a semi-private tour of only 6 people maximum.

For Private Tours only … 

Make your tour your own with these add-ons. 

Just click the link below to book a private tour, and  check the appropriate box to add the option you want.

For other requests, please request a quote for a custom tour that we will tailor to your specific needs and preferences!

You can optionally add entrance tickets to the Colosseum Arena, and stand on the floor where the gladiators did battle in the infamous Games. 

Entrance is through the “Gladiator’s Gate”, as seen in the  Gladiator  movie

• Base Price *: €560
• Additional Adult: €75
• Additional Child **:  €60
• Infants ***: Free
• Adult: €130
• Child:  (aged 5-17 on the day of the tour) : €100

Notes on Private Tour Pricing:

• *  Base Price is for the first two people on the tour. 
• ** Children aged 5-17 on the day of the tour
• *** Infants aged 0-4 on the day of the tour
• Prices are for groups of up to 12 people. For groups larger than 12 people, please send us a request via the  Request a Quote  page. 

YOUR FULL TOUR

Description.

When you join us for a tour of the Vatican City, you can rest assured that you’re getting the very best in local art and history knowledge. The last thing you want is to travel all the way to Rome, only to miss an important masterpiece!

Your guide will talk you through the masterpieces of Medieval, Renaissance and Baroque art as well as the important sculptures of ancient Rome. Helping you to make sense of the sheer volume of paintings, mosaics, statues and artefacts in these expansive rooms, your tour guide will explain each item’s place in the rich tapestry of Vatican City history.

Not only are they beautiful to look at, each masterpiece has its own story to tell – your   Vatican tour guide will tell you the story behind the paintings, the meanings behind them and why they are so renowned across the globe.

The Sistine Chapel is a vision of beauty and history. One of the many highlights of your Vatican tour will be its gorgeous architecture and mind-blowing decorations. Your tour guide will tell you all about the paintings of Michelangelo (yes, he spent 8 years of his life painting here!) and his predecessors, who covered every inch of these walls and ceilings.

You’ll hear about the history of the period, including the difficulties encountered between the patron, Pope Julius II, and Michelangelo. It is this attention to detail that makes Real Rome Tours stand out from the pack.

In the Vatican Museum, your Real Rome Tours guide will take you on a highlights tour of the most interesting artefacts, sculptures and artwork that have great stories and scandals behind them.

During the Vatican Museums portion of the tour, you’ll get to visit the picturesque Vatican garden, Cortile della Pigna. Your local guide will take you to the most interesting galleries within the museums – the Rotunda, Gallery of Tapestries and Gallery of Maps.

Each of these rooms contain ornate ceilings with the walls decorated with ancient statues, frescoes and tapestries. Your guide will point out a few tricks used by the artists,which will enhance your appreciation of their works of art, as well as their sense of humour.

Of course, the greatest gem of the Vatican collection is not a painting on any wall, but an entire ceiling and wall completely frescoed by the greatest genius of the Renaissance period – Michelangelo Buonarotti.

From the Creation of Adam to the Last Judgement, Michelangelo dedicated some of his greatest years to the Sistine Chapel, working day and night – even sleeping in the chapel – to satisfy the popes of Rome.

He also expressed his frustration with his employers with jokes hidden in his work, which only he would understand – today these have been uncovered and understood and your guide will explain these to you so you too can share in Michelangelo’s private jokes.

Next on your Vatican City tour are The Raphael Rooms. These four rooms were part of the Papal palace, painted by Michelangelo’s contemporary and greatest rival, Raphael Sanzio.

Art lovers cannot afford to miss this short detour from the museums to stand in front of entire walls frescoed by the hands of this Renaissance genius! You can almost feel the rivalry and competition seeping from the walls themselves. The School of Athens is a masterpiece not to be missed! 

Last, but certainly not least in your Vatican City tour is a visit to St Peter’s Basilica. No Vatican City tour would be complete without visiting the most renowned work of Renaissance architecture and the largest church in the world. Michelangelo’s great dome is something that you have to see in real life.

Pictures cannot do it justice or portray the sheer magnitude of it. Your local, expert tour guide will explain to you the fascinating history of its conception, location on the Vatican Hill, design, architecture and symbolism.

The Basilica features several chapels and contains numerous statues and mosaic works of importance. Your guide will point out the most important, and leave you with time to look around by yourself. The Pietà, one of Michelangelo’s most well-known religious sculptures, is among the highlights of this part of your visit.

There is something mesmerising about the intricate nature of the ancient buildings in Rome and none so much as St Peter’s Basilica, the most renowned work of Renaissance architecture and the largest church in the world. Standing beneath Michelangelo’s great dome, you cannot help but feel somewhat humbled by the expansive surroundings. Get up close and personal with this great wonder in our guided tour of the Vatican St Peter’s Basilica.

Built over St. Peter’s tomb, the Basilica took more than 120 years to complete and is one of the most important sites in Christianity. During your St Peter’s Basilica tour our local, expert tour guide will explain to you the fascinating history of its conception, location on the Vatican Hill, design, architecture and symbolism.

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Work on new Rome subway line under the Colosseum and Forum enters crucial phase

A long-delayed and complex project to bring a subway line under ancient Roman ruins and through Rome’s historic center has entered a crucial phase, with the digging of an 85-meter (280-foot) deep retaining wall around the flagship station. (AP video shot by Paolo Lucariello, Production by Andrea Sauchelli)

A view of the construction site of the new 25.5-kilometer Metro C subway main hub in Piazza Venezia in central Rome, Thursday, May 23, 2024. During a tour Thursday of the construction site at Piazza Venezia, chief engineer Andrea Sciotti said works on the nearly 3 billion euro project, considered one of the most complicated in the world, were running at pace to be completed by 2034. In the background the Unknown Soldier monument. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

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A view of the construction site of the new 25.5-kilometer Metro C subway main hub in Piazza Venezia in central Rome, Thursday, May 23, 2024. During a tour Thursday of the construction site at Piazza Venezia, chief engineer Andrea Sciotti said works on the nearly 3 billion euro project, considered one of the most complicated in the world, were running at pace to be completed by 2034. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

A view of the construction site of the new 25.5-kilometer Metro C subway main hub in Piazza Venezia in central Rome, Thursday, May 23, 2024.During a tour Thursday of the construction site at Piazza Venezia, chief engineer Andrea Sciotti said works on the nearly 3 billion euro project, considered one of the most complicated in the world, were running at pace to be completed by 2034. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Workers inject reactive chemicals to consolidate the construction site of the new 25.5-kilometer Metro C subway main hub in Piazza Venezia in central Rome, Thursday, May 23, 2024. During a tour Thursday of the construction site at Piazza Venezia, chief engineer Andrea Sciotti said works on the nearly 3 billion euro project, considered one of the most complicated in the world, were running at pace to be completed by 2034. In the background the Unknown Soldier monument. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Chief engineer Andrea Sciotti, center, technical director for Rome’s new 25.5-kilometer Metro C subway talks to international journalists at the construction site of line C main hub in central Rome, Thursday, May 23, 2024. During a tour Thursday of the construction site at Piazza Venezia, Sciotti said works on the nearly 3 billion euro project, considered one of the most complicated in the world, were running at pace to be completed by 2034. In the background the Unknown Soldier monument. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

A giant hydro-milling machine rests inside the construction site of the new 25.5-kilometer Metro C subway main hub in Piazza Venezia in central Rome, Thursday, May 23, 2024. During a tour Thursday of the construction site at Piazza Venezia, chief engineer Andrea Sciotti said works on the nearly 3 billion euro project, considered one of the most complicated in the world, were running at pace to be completed by 2034. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

International journalists scan the construction site of the new 25.5-kilometer Metro C subway main hub in Piazza Venezia in central Rome, Thursday, May 23, 2024. During a tour Thursday of the construction site at Piazza Venezia, chief engineer Andrea Sciotti said works on the nearly 3 billion euro project, considered one of the most complicated in the world, were running at pace to be completed by 2034. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

A view of the construction site of the new 25.5-kilometer Metro C subway main hub in Piazza Venezia in central Rome, Thursday, May 23, 2024. During a tour Thursday of the construction site at Piazza Venezia, chief engineer Andrea Sciotti said works on the nearly 3 billion euro project, considered one of the most complicated in the world, were running at pace to be completed by 2034.(AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

ROME (AP) — A long-delayed and complex project to bring a subway line under ancient Roman ruins and through Rome’s historic center has entered a crucial phase, with the digging of an 85-meter (280-foot)) deep retaining wall around the flagship station.

During a tour Thursday of the construction site at Piazza Venezia, chief engineer Andrea Sciotti said work on the nearly 3 billion euro ($3.3 billion) project, considered one of the most complicated of its kind in the world, was likely to be completed by 2034 .

The Metro C subway line has been in the works for two decades but has been slowed by bureaucratic and funding delays and, crucially, the archaeological excavations necessary given the underground ruins of Imperial Roman and Medieval civilizations in its way.

When completed, the subway line will run underneath some of the world’s most important cultural heritage sites -- the Colosseum, Trajan’s Column and the Basilica of Maxentius, the largest building in the Roman Forum -– as well as some of Rome’s prized Renaissance palazzi, churches and the Vatican.

As a result, Italy’s culture ministry has been involved at every step and will be on hand once the digging begins in earnest on the first 15 meters (50 feet) of the Piazza Venezia station, where the ruins from ancient Rome lie. During that phase, archaeologists will be guiding the excavations, taking objects for study, restoration and eventual placement in a museum within the station itself when it opens, Sciotti said.

“I think I can say it’s unique in the world because we don’t only have the Colosseum and the Basilica of Maxentius, but we have 15-20 meters of hidden archaeological patrimony -– known but hidden,” he told reporters at the site. “This obviously brings problems that must be resolved in the planning and realization phases.”

To underscore the delicacy and uniqueness of the Piazza Venezia hub, Sciotti noted that in the 10 years and 755 million euros ($818 million) it will take to dig and build the station, four other stations will be built along the Metro C line heading out of the center toward the Vatican and beyond.

“Twenty, thirty years ago, it would have been very difficult to do this,” he said. But thanks to new technology, it’s now possible to both dig underneath archaeological sites and protect above-ground patrimony, he said, adding that he has already presented the Metro C project to engineers in Ecuador who are also planning a subway line through Quito’s historic center.

For now, the work is in the preliminary phase of digging the 85-meter (280-foot) -deep retaining wall of reinforced cement around the perimeter of the Piazza Venezia station. A massive hydro mill trench cutter digs rectangular-shaped columns down that are then filled to make a retaining wall to keep water out and secure the site’s perimeter before the actual digging begins.

While Rome already has two main subway lines, including one with a stop at the Colosseum, the Metro C line will penetrate the heart of the historic center and connect it to the Vatican and beyond, providing new options for the Eternal City’s chronically insufficient public transport system.

Once the line reaches Piazza Venezia, the subway tunnels themselves will run at an underground depth of 45 meters (150 feet), to also spare the above-ground historic palazzi and churches from the vibrations that a subway closer to the surface might create.

When opened, the eight-level Piazza Venezia station will provide underground connections to the Vittoriano “wedding cake” monument at the heart of the piazza, the Palazzo Venezia museum on one side and the museum under Hadrian’s Athenaeum, built in 123 A.D., on the other.

Sciotti said it was the work near the Hadrian archaeological site -– with its delicate Trajan’s Column standing upright -- that makes him most fearful, even if careful monitoring is underway and crews will use a buffering technique to limit above-ground vibrations that was used in London along the Jubilee tube line.

If anything happens to the Trajan’s Column, “I have my passport ready,” he said, joking.

Best Tours in Rome for Families That Won't Disappoint! (2024)

T he Italian capital is a great city to visit with kids of all ages. Rome’s history stretches back thousands of years and the city’s ancient ruins are sure to impress the whole family. Sometimes the size and grandeur of the Eternal City can overwhelm younger kids. Luckily, many tour companies in Rome offer family-friendly tours allowing you to skip long lines, learn from enthusiastic guides, and create lasting memories. This guide includes only the best tours in Rome for families from city tours to cooking classes to full-day excursions.

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something we have recommended. Please check out our  disclosure policy  for more details. Thank you for your support!

Best Rome Tours with Kids

Free walking tours in rome italy, city walking tour.

First time visiting Rome? Traveling on a budget? No problem, the  Free Walking Tours of Rom e  is the perfect tour for you and your family.

This two-hour city tour meets at the Spanish Steps in the city center twice during the peak season. They offer morning and afternoon tours.

In the morning, your English-speaking tour guide will lead a group of no more than 20 through the historic center. Along the way, they will provide a brief overview of ancient Roman history and modern daily life.

Some of the sights you will visit date back to the Roman Empire, including the Column of Marcus Aurelius, the Temple of Hadrian, the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and Castel Sant’Angelo with a view of St. Peter’s Basilica.

If you take the afternoon tour, expect to explore different landmarks like an ancient Roman Aqueduct, the Trevi Fountain, the Roman Forum, the Imperial Forums, and outside the Colosseum.

Most major European cities offer free walking tours where you can tip your guides at the end of the tour. Due to their huge popularity, Rome Free Walking Tours requires a deposit of €1 to confirm your booking. We recommend a tip in cash or card once the tour is finished!

These cheap tours are a great way to see the highlights of a new city and welcome travelers of all ages.

Best Food Tours Rome

Pizza making class.

Booking a pizza-making class on a vacation to Rome is a no-brainer. This local, unique experience is something the entire family (and your taste buds) will enjoy! Rome4Kids Tours runs some of the best family tours in the city. They offer both private and group pizza-making classes in Rome for kids .

This one-hour workshop is located in a real pizzeria near Piazza Navona so it’s in a super central location. The class is held twice a day around lunch and dinner time. It is the perfect amount of time for the attention spans of young children. They will love learning new cooking skills in a fun, hands-on way. 

Drinks are included and, of course, you get to eat your creation at the end! 

Gelato Making Class

Everyone knows the best way to enjoy pizza is to follow it with a scoop or two of gelato afterward. Learn how to make authentic Italian gelato (different from ice cream!) in this highly-rated,  private gelato-making class .

Private classes allow the chef to give you special attention. Families will have ample time to ask questions about the gelato-making process. Everyone can wear fun aprons and chef hats and try a second gelato flavor in addition to the one you will make together.

Rome Culinary Food Tour

A walking tour of the city’s top culinary delights is one of the best Rome tours you can take, with or without kids. Secret Food Tours runs fantastic food tours all over the world. We highly recommend adding their top-rated Rome food tour  to your vacation.

Sample Roman pasta, authentic cannoli, lots of ham, salami, cheese, fresh pizza, gelato, and a signature secret dish. The company offers a private option which is a sensible idea when traveling with younger children. You can easily skip visiting coffee shops for espressos and wine pairings if you would prefer.

This tour lasts over three hours, which is great value! Another option is a tour with a private guide. This will allow you to travel at your own pace to make sure the whole family has a great time.

Twilight Trastevere Food Tour

Most will agree the best area for authentic Roman dishes and a true Rome experience is the neighborhood of Trastevere across the River Tiber. Check out this  perfect tour of the culinary scene in Trastevere at Twilight  if you’re traveling with older kids.

On this incredible four-hour tour, dine out on the best street food at restaurants like Da Enzo al 29 and ‘Spirito Divino . Expect to visit ancient wine cellars and listen to interesting stories about the neighborhood as you walk through it. You will learn how to spot fake gelato while gorging on the best gourmet scoops you’ve ever tasted.

It’s hands down one of the best tours in Rome for families with teenage kids , though children aged four and up are very welcome. You can choose the group tour option or enjoy a private tour to explore Trastevere your way!

Riding Tours in Rome

Bike ride at night.

Rome’s historical center is  huge . It’s full of incredible archaeological sites and iconic landmarks which would take you many days to explore on foot. Get out of the midday heat and save little legs by booking this cool  e-bike tour of Rome by night !

Over three hours, you can tick off many iconic spots on your Rome hit list as well as have a fun time with your family. Just some of the stops include Oppian Hill (one of the best views of Rome!), the Roman Forum, Piazza Venezia, Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, Castel Sant’Angelo, Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, and Capitoline Hill.

Enjoy the sunset as well as the architecture of this beautiful city. This is one of the best Rome kids tours because they offer options for kids of all ages. You can request child seats, a trailer bike, or a child-sized bike so no one is left out.

Rome Golf Cart Tours

Another fun way to explore Rome on wheels is to book a golf cart tour for the whole family. Venture on a  golf cart tour along Rome’s Appian Way or explore Rome’s seven hills on a golf cart tour with Rolling Rome .

On a two-and-a-half-hour tour of the  Appia Antica  Roman road, head out of the crowded city and see important ancient sites. You will travel past the Aurelian Walls and the Baths of Caracalla followed by an underground tour of the Catacombs of Rome.

On the three-hour tour of Rome’s hills, you will visit over a dozen places including the famous Mouth of Truth from  Roman Holiday,  the Arch of Janus, and the Knights of Malta keyhole. Most of these spots are in or close to the historic center on top of famous Roman peaks like Capitoline, Aventine, and Palatine Hill.

Both of these tours of Rome are private. Not only are they two of the best kids’ tours of Rome, but they are both ideal if you’re traveling with older family members with limited mobility too. 

History Tours in Rome

Gladiator school.

Rome’s Gladiator School  is exactly as awesome as it sounds. We are sure your kids will be talking about this experience for years.

Known as  Gruppo Storico Romano  in Italian, your children can take part in a two-hour lesson where they will learn how to become gladiators. They will be just as fierce as those who fought in the Colosseum during the times of Ancient Rome.

Passionate child-friendly guides with years of experience will teach your kids about the history of gladiatorial fights. They are provided with armor and (wooden) weapons as instructors teach them the skills necessary to ‘compete’ in one of the ‘bloody’ games at the end of the session.

Free drinks, a small snack, and free entrance to the Gladiator Museum of Rome are included in this experience.

Sistine Chapel

Visiting the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel can be a busy, overwhelming experience for adults, let alone kids! But you can’t visit Rome with kids without witnessing the beauty of Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel.

Make the most of your visit to the holy Vatican City by booking an early morning express tour of the Sistine Chapel  or a  Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel tour  with Context Travel.

Both tours offer skip-the-line tickets. The early morning express tour of the Sistine Chapel is semi-private for up to six people and lasts one hour and 45 minutes. On the Vatican tour of both the museums and the Sistine Chapel, you can book the small-group or private option which lasts around three hours.

There are two of the best tours in Rome for families visiting Vatican City. You can choose the tour that makes sense for the age and interests of your kids. We promise your family will be glad you booked ahead and aren’t stuck waiting in a huge line outside in the baking sun!

Visiting Rome without a stop at the Colosseum is like visiting Australia’s Great Barrier Reef but not snorkeling. It has to be done! Luckily, the scale and history of this Seventh Wonder of the World are sure to impress even the most unfazed kids.

If you want to take a Colosseum family tour, there are so many great ones. This express Colosseum tour for kids  is a classic. The private family tour lasts two-and-a-half hours and includes a skip-the-line ticket, games, a treasure hunt, and prizes to engage little ones. 

Booking a private, underground Colosseum tour will give you access to areas of this ancient ruin which are usually restricted to the general. Both the  underground tour of the Colosseum  and the  underground Colosseum tour with LivTours include skip-the-line tickets.

On either tour, you can visit the underground where animals were kept for gladiator fights, all levels of the structure, access to the exhibition, and further exploration at the Roman Forum.

Visiting the subterranean burial chambers of Rome’s Catacombs is a fun thing to do with children who are intrigued by spooky and macabre places. One of the best tours in Rome for families of the Catacombs is this  private Catacombs tour .

With over 2,000 years of history underneath Rome, it is a great place to learn about Roman gods, pagan temples, and Christian crypts. There are even graves of some of the first popes in the Rome Catacombs!

This tour goes the extra mile by offering luxury transfers to the city center. It lasts three hours and since it’s a private tour, you can linger at places or skip whatever you want.

Day Trips in Rome

Only two and a half hours south of Rome, Pompeii is the perfect place for a fascinating and educational day trip. However, the hassle of renting a car and driving on windy Italian roads is no one’s idea of fun!

LivTours offers a fantastic  semi-private, small-group day tour of Pompeii  or you can book a  private day tour to Pompeii and Capua with Tours of Pompeii.

Pompeii is an ancient Roman city near Naples whose residents tragically perished in the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79AD. They were preserved under the ash for over a century until excavations began and unearthed this window to the past.

LivTours works with an archaeologist in Pompeii who will show you around the site and answer any questions. Tours are limited to six people and include transfers to and from Rome in a luxury van.

Tours of Pompeii also includes transfers but has an extra stop in Capua, a city north of Naples with some fabulous ruins. This is also an opportunity to visit the second-largest Roman amphitheater after the Colosseum and all the top sites in Pompeii including the Vettii House, the Baths, the Forum, and the House of Faunus. 

Ostia Antica

Do you only have space in your itinerary for a half-day tour? Viator offers five-hour  private tours of Ostia Antica from Rome . 

This ancient Roman port town is only 17 miles away from Rome. Kids of all ages (even those in strollers!) are welcome on this tour which includes hotel pick-up, a driver, and a child-friendly guide.

Check out the ancient Roman buildings in Ostia Antica including the necropolis, dye houses, cleaners, large baths, city center, apartments, and bakery!

It’s a completely flexible tour and you could easily turn it into a full-day trip. The beach is only two miles away from Ostia Antica so it’s the perfect place to enjoy a family picnic.

Enjoy the Best Tours in Rome for Families on Your Vacation

Whether you’re looking for private tours with a dedicated, expert guide or budget-friendly tours for small groups, you won’t regret booking as many tours as possible on your family vacation. They take the pressure off you to entertain and inform so that you get to be hands-off, learn something, and enjoy a fun tour too. Happy kids plus happy parents is a win-win!

Hopefully, this list of the best tours in Rome for families has given you plenty of inspiration when planning your trip to this ancient city. 

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