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Taking the Vatican Scavi tour: Visiting St. Peter’s tomb

Apr 22, 2018

The Vatican Scavi Tour, or a tour of the Vatican Necropolis, is one of the most exclusive tours in Rome, Italy, and maybe even in Europe! This is because they only let around 250 people in each day (compared with the more than 30,000 who visit the Vatican each day). You can only visit Ufficio Scavi (the Vatican Office of Excavations, or the Tomb of St. Peter, or the Vatican Necropolis) on a tour, and your tour guide will take you through the streets beneath St. Peter’s Basilica where a large number of early Christians were buried.

Visiting the Vatican: Everything you need to know

You will also be within feet of the room the Vatican believes St. Peter was buried, and will show you what they believe are his bones (although there is of course different opinions on whether they are him or not).

You will hear a history of early Christians in Rome and how they lived. Whether you are Catholic, or Christian, the history itself makes the tour completely worth it.

How to apply for the Vatican Scavi Tour

Scheduling the Vatican Ufficio Scavi tour Rome is not the easiest thing. To sign up, you will need to email the Vatican and let them know what days you will be in town. You should do this a minimum of a few months in advance of your trip, because these tours fill up in advance. They will email you back with a time and date for your tour — and you have very little choice at that moment. In our case, the date we were assigned was a different day than we were hoping for, but we made it work.

Reserve your Vatican Scavi tour tickets here.

Important vatican scavi tour tips:.

When you receive your email back from the Office of Excavations (Ufficio Scavi) you need to reply with a confirmation, as well as going through their online system to purchase your tickets.

As far as I know, you cannot negotiate a different date. Once they assign you a date, you either accept or you don’t — but assume the date they sent you for your Ufficio Scavi tour is the only one they have available within your time frame.

If you are instead looking to visit The Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, learn more about reserving your Vatican Museum tickets here .

Ufficio Scavi Office

To find the Scavi office, go to the left side of St. Peter’s Square when facing St. Peter’s Basilica. There is a security line there that they will send you through, and then you will find a Swiss Guard member who will direct you to Ufficio Scavi.

Recommended: The 10 Best Attractions in Vatican City

Important: Do not let anyone tell you that you need to go through the security line for St. Peter’s Basilica. You do not need to. The red star below will show you where you need to go through security to reach Ufficio Scavi.

There should be no other people (or very few people) in line at this security checkpoint, because the only people using it are those that have a confirmation for the Scavi tour.

You should show up to the office at least 15 minutes ahead of your appointment. Be prepared for your tour to last around 1.5 hours.

A few things to know about the Ufficio Scavi Tour:

• You cannot take photos on the Vatican Necropolis tour, so do not plan this if you are hoping for a great photo opportunity.
• The tour is underground beneath some very old buildings. Because of this, it can get very humid and therefore very hot. We went on a day when there was nonstop rain, so the fact that we were soaked on top of the fact that it was humid made for a fairly uncomfortable tour.

When you leave the tour, you will end up in a hall of popes — this is something the public has access to. But don’t mistake it for the actual tour location, because the tour itself will be one of the most amazing experiences of your life.

Learn more about visiting the Vatican, including the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, and St. Peter’s Dome

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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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How to Book the Vatican City Scavi Tour And View St. Peter’s Remains

January 12, 2017 By //  by  Halef 2 Comments

Do you want to see the “secret” part of Vatican City containing the remains of St. Peter? Have you ever heard of the Vatican City Scavi Tour?

If you’re going to visit Vatican City, it’s something you really need to consider doing.

Vatican City is a city-state within a 2-mile long wall. The city started from humble beginnings. St. Peter’s Basilica, the focal point of the city, was built to honor the eponymous Apostle, who was crucified and buried in the Vatican Hill necropolis around the 1st century.

If you’re lucky enough to be able to book a the Vatican City Scavi Tour, you’ll get to view the remains of St. Peter.

It will be one of the most memorable parts of your visit.

When Christianity became the official religion of Rome in the 4th century, Emperor Constantine began the construction of the church.

The site was later expanded and built up over the next 17 centuries.

Millions of people visit St. Peter’s to see the upper Basilica. A few thousand visit the majestic Vatican Museum.

It houses one of the most impressive and expensive art collection per square foot in the world.

What most people don’t know is that you can do more than just visit the impressive church and Museum.

Travelers “in the know” will actually sign up for a special visit to the original necropolis level of the Basilica, where the 4th century ground once stood, to see the remains of St. Peter.

Booking the Vatican City Scavi Tour requires you’ll deal with a bit of Vatican bureaucracy and it might test your patience, but trust me, it is worth the effort.

This post will help you get it all set up.

The Vatican City Scavi Tour

Scavi (excavation), refers to the Vatican City archeology project that explores the excavation underneath St. Peter’s Basilica. It started in the 1940s, when they were expanding the underground area to bury deceased popes.

During that excavation, the original necropolis site was discovered, along with bone fragments believed to be those of St. Peter’s himself.

This belief is based on knowledge of the temple from the Emperor Constantine’s era and a marking that translates as “Peter is here.”

Here’s the catch:

Most people don’t even know this important and unique tour exists, and access is extremely limited: only 250 people may visit in any given day.

Also, it’s important to note that your ticket to the Vatican Museum does not include the Vatican City Scavi Tour.

You must request it separately, with permission granted by Vatican City.

How to reserve the Vatican City Scavi tour

If you want to see St. Peter’s remains for yourself, there is only one way to visit the site. You must contact the Ufficio Scavi (Excavation Office) directly. 

Fabbrica di San Pietro , an organization within the Vatican, appointed to overlook the excavation project, runs this office.

To book the Vatican City Scavi Tour, email [email protected] or fax them at +39 06 69873017 to request access. You can also visit the Excavations Office in person (see below for directions).

Required information for booking the Scavi Tour

• Number and names of participants
• Language requested
• Possible dates for your visit (the time is assigned by the Excavations Office).
• E-mail address, fax number, or postal address

If they approve your Scavi tour, the office will reply to you and give you a specific date and time. You’ll need to confirm your acceptance, at which time they’ll issue you a confirmation number.

Bring this number with you when you visit.

You must show it to the Swiss Guard to be allowed inside the Vatican compound.

Things to know before registering

Here is some important information you need to know:

Request the Scavi tour far in advance

I can’t stress enough how limited this tour is. There are only 250 people allowed each day in groups of about 12. So request your Vatican City Scavi tour months in advance and be flexible – give at least a couple of dates.

I requested my June visit way back in February and barely made it.

This is first come, first served. The office will reject your request if there are no spots on your requested date.

Confirmations and changes

You may visit the Ufficio Scavi when you’re in Rome to confirm your appointment prior to your appointed date.

If you need to change your date or the time of your visit, they will only do it in the unlikely event someone canceled.

Registering large groups

You must list the names of every single visitor. If you’re with an organization (universities, parishes, cultural associations, agencies, and other groups), tell them the name

Minimum age to enter the Vatican necropolis

To visit, you must be at least 15 years old to go on the Scavi Tour.

They do not make exceptions. If you get there and you are “going to be 15 tomorrow,” you will not get in.

Disability accommodation

Sadly, there is no accommodation for wheelchairs or people with physical disabilities.

If you have a severe case of claustrophobia or any dust/humidity allergies, this tour may not be suitable for you.

Scavi tour Cost

For an individual ticket, including the contribution for the guide, the cost is 13€ (approximately $16.50).

They do not give discounts for any reason.

The day of your Scavi visit – things to know

Here’s what you need to know on the day of your Scavi Tour:

Entrance to the Excavations Office

You may only enter through the gates located on the Via Paolo VI. This is outside the Colonnade, just to the south (left), near the entrance to the General Audience Hall)

Bring your confirmation number

You must bring this number, and list of the members of your group (if applicable) to show the Swiss Guards.

If you don’t have it, you can’t go in.

Although they are friendly, they are definitely very strict about allowing access to Vatican territory.

Scavi tour Arrival time

Arrive at least 10 minutes before your visit. They won’t allow you in if you are late.

I highly recommend arriving even 30 minutes beforehand.

Dress code for the Scavi tour

This is a sacred place. As is the case in all of the Vatican, even in the top-level of the Basilica and the Museum, they don’t allow shorts or anything above your knees.

No tank tops/straps that show shoulders.

No exceptions. They will turn you away.

No large bags

Leave larger bags, backpacks and cameras at your hotel. Although there are a few lockers and places where you can leave some smaller bags, they won’t allow any bags or big cameras inside the excavation area.

Scavi tours are arranged by language

These are highly trained individuals who are more than happy to answer your burning questions.

The guided tour lasts about an hour and a half.

Check out other cool things to do in Vatican City.

Scavi tour Contact information

Vatican City Scavi TourExcavations Office (Ufficio Scavi) 00120 Vatican City State

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

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

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Halef moved from Indonesia to the US nearly two decades ago to go to college here. He hasn’t looked back. He’s been to over forty countries and doesn’t plan on stopping anytime soon. He’s a Landscape Architect in Atlanta, GA.

Reader Interactions

January 13, 2017 at 2:54 pm

Love this post! I had no idea about this and will definitely plan for this on my next trip to Rome. I love secret tours like this so thanks for a great post!

January 13, 2017 at 3:00 pm

Thank you! Feel free to share. 🙂 It’s a wonderful tour that not many people know about. A shame, really, as it’s one of the more interesting things in Vatican City!

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The Scavi Office has made a huge effort to streamline their process. They now send you a receipt of your email request right away and then shortly thereafter (with a few days) you will get an answer.

Frequently Asked Questions

When and Where to go? Shortly before your tour begins, go to the Sant' Uffizio entrance to the left/south side of St Peter's Square. There is a special security station set up there. Bring your confirmation letter from the Office

What is it like inside the Scavi? It's a little claustophobic inside the Scavi. The air is humid and warm, but the ground is dry. The lighting is dim, and you walk on uneven ground as you look inside the various tombs. Some of the objects can only be viewed one at a time. A person with a physical disability may have some problems.

What can I Bring? You're not supposed to bring any cameras, recording devices, or large objects. Purses and small handbags are permitted. It you need to check items beforehand, you must do this at the free baggage check on the right side of St Peter's, which requires going through security.

What are the Age Limits? The Vatican website says that only persons over 15 years old are admitted.

What do I Wear? Dress appropriately for a religious site; sholders covered, no shorts. Comfortable shoes are recommended since the ground is uneven.

What times are the tours? Tours run continually from 9:00AM until 4:15PM, Monday - Saturday. The tours last about one hour.

Where does the tour end? The Scavi website states that the tour ends back at the Excavations Office. The tour is actually finished when you enter the Clementine Chapel in the grottoes. Your guide might allow you to then visit the grottoes (tomb of the popes).

Where can I find more Information? The Vatican website now has a virtual tour of the Necropolis at: http://www.vatican.va/various/basiliche/necropoli/scavi_english.html If you want to purchase information, the Vatican bookstore offers a magazine titled, 'Roma Sacra - The Vatican Necropolis'. More detailed info can be found in the online books here. An online article to read is: The Scavi of St. Peter's and the Grittiness of Catholicism by George Weigel.

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Home » Vatican City Area Attractions » Vatican Necropolis Info & Hours

Vatican Necropolis Info & Hours

The Vatican Necropolis stands nearly 32 feet below St. Peter’s Basilica, under the Vatican Grottoes, and must not be confused with the Necropolis of Via Triumphalis an underground cemetery of members of the poorer classes, located between the Vatican City and Castel Sant’Angelo .

The Vatican Necropolis under St. Peter’s is also known in Italian as the “Scavi” of St. Peter’s , because of the excavations sponsored by the Vatican that occurred between 1939 and 1949 under Pius XII.

This necropolis is especially known for being the early burial place of St. Peter the Apostle and for housing what are believed to be his remains. The Highlight of the visit are the (alleged) remains of St. Peter Apostle.

Visit to the Vatican Necropolis under the St Peter’s Basilica (or Tour of the Scavi) must be arranged directly with the Excavations Office. Early reservation is highly recommended due to the limited number of people admitted at a time. Groups size vary from 10 to 15 people. The tour lasts 1,5 hours and is accessible only by people older than 15 years old.

Keep reading the “How to visit” section for info, price, and reservation!

Visit St. Peter’s Basilica after the Scavi Tour skipping the line

At the end of Scavi Tour the guide will allow you to pass straight into the Popes’ Tombs Area (Vatican Grottoes). From there you can walk by the entrance to St. Peter’s Basilica. You will see the steps of the Basilica on your left as you walk toward the exit. Make a left turn up the steps and enter the Basilica. This way you will bypass all the people waiting in line to see the church.

How to Visit

How to reach.

• St. Peter’s Scavi Facts
• St. Peter’s Scavi FAQ
• What’s Nearby

Attraction Overview

1 plan your visit in advance.

– Early reservation is highly recommended due to the limited number of people admitted at a time. Groups size vary from 10 to 15 people. The tour lasts 1,5 hours.

2 RESERVATION

Reservations must be made in writing only by fax or email [email protected] . The request must contain compulsorily 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

3 DRESS CODE AND INFO BEFORE VISITING

The day of your visit you should arrive at the Excavations Office at least 10 minutes before the scheduled time. The Excavations Office is located on the Via Paolo VI (outside of the Colonnade, just to the south [left], near the entrance to the General Audience Hall.) Upon arrival, present the Swiss Guards with your letter of confirmation received from the Office which indicates the scheduled time of your visit.

Clothing should be appropriate for a sacred place: long trousers/slacks/jeans for men; dresses that reach below the knees or long trousers/slacks/jeans for women; shoulders must be covered for all.

Luggage, large bags, backpacks and cameras are not allowed inside. There’s a deposit available and is free of charge.

OPENING HOURS

Closed On Sunday and Vatican Holidays (1st and 6 January / December: 8; from 24 to 27; 31st / February 11 / March 13 and 19 / 17 to 23 April / May 1st and 29 / June 19 and 29 / from 14 to 16 August / 1 and 2 November /

Opening Hours

Monday-Friday 9:00 am – 6:00 pm Saturday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm NOTE: Normally, the last visit start at 15:30 (16:15 April to September)

TICKETS INFO

The cost of the individual ticket, including the contribution for the Guide, is 13€ (approximately $ 16.50 USD)* No reductions in price will be given for any reason.

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).

ACCESSIBILITY

Wheelchair Accessibility Service: The site is not accessible.

Reservation: Fax +39 06 69873017 Email: [email protected]

Info: +39 06 69 885 318

1 CLOSEST BUS STOPS TO ST. PETER’S SCAVI

Bus lines (stop “cavalleggeri/san pietro”):.

34 46 64 98 109F 881 916 982

Metro Station:

Address: 00120 Città del Vaticano, Rome, Italy Get directions from Google Maps

Meeting point for the Scavi Tour: The day of your visit you should arrive at the Excavations Office at least 10 minutes before the scheduled time. The Excavations Office is located on the Via Paolo VI (outside of the Colonnade, just to the south [left], near the entrance to the General Audience Hall.) Upon arrival, present the Swiss Guards with your letter of confirmation received from the Office which indicates the scheduled time of your visit..

Vatican Necropoli

St. peter’s scavi: unveiling the necropolis under the basilica.

It all started when Pope Pius XI asked to be buried as close as possible to the Tomb of St. Peter Apostle under St. Peter’s Basilica.

Works to enlarge the burial chamber of the Pope brought to life an entire necropolis. When the archaeologists started digging they discovered a double line of burial buildings, laying on one slope of the Vatican Hill. You must think about this necropolis as an open-air cemetery, hence very different from the catacombs. Read More…

Scavi of St. Peter FAQ

Are you wondering something about this landmark in Rome? Go to our Q&A section and post your question. It will be answered by an official Rome tour guide!

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Duration: 3 hours

Tickets: Ticket-free

Accessibility: Partially accessible to people on wheelchairs

Best Time to Visit: Winter: 10.30 pm – 4.00 pm / Summer: 8:30 am – 2:30 pm

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Tickets: not needed

Accessibility: Partially Accessible to people on wheelchairs

Best Time to Visit: 2.30 pm - 6.30 pm

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Vatican Necropolis: All you need to know to visit St Peter’s Tomb

• In Guided tours Plan your visit

During the mid-20th century, excavations under the Vatican City revealed an amazing find. A necropolis, dating back to the 3rd century!

An old cemetery, one of many outside of the original city walls, was the resting place of many. St Peter was buried here after his martyrdom in ca. 64 AD. Despite laws protecting the Necropolis, the Emperor Constantine planned to build a Basilica on the site of St Peter’ final resting place. He had the area excavated, with orders to preserve St Peter’s tomb. The rest of the Necropolis became submerged in soil and debris during the construction, and largely forgotten.

The Origin of the Vatican Necropolis

The Vatican Necropolis, which you can access with a Vatican Necropolis Scavi tour, is thus thousands of years old. Originally a pagan burial ground, a Vatican Necropolis tour will take you through different sections.

The pagan section dates back to the first century AD. By the 5th Century AD Christian mausoleums began to appear. The Necropolis is located on the Vatican Hill slopes, and in the mid-20th Century Pope Pius decided to excavate the area in order to find St Peter’s burial place. The Necropolis was therefore uncovered, and remains a site of much interest to this day.

Excavations

The excavations of Pope Pius in the 1940s unearthed a world of treasures. Numerous Mausoleums were discovered, each classified with different letters.

Later, in the early 2000s, more of the Necropolis was uncovered during the building of a car park.  The tombs under the Vatican are spread through 22 Mausoleums, and lead right through to the famous Field P. It is here that the apostle Peter is believed to be buried at St Peter’s Tomb .

The location is underground however is directly below the altar of the world renowned St Peter’s Basilica .

Why should you consider visiting the Necropolis?

What more important place in the entire Vatican City than the supposed final resting place of St Peter? Not as famous as the museums, the Basilica or the Sistine Chapel , a Vatican necropolis tour is well worth the money. It’s an exclusive experience, with entry on special agreement only . Vatican Scavi reservations are definitely hard to come by!

In addition, the conditions inside the Necropolis aren’t for everyone. It’s a bit claustrophobic for example, so not everyone wants to visit. Therefore, you can count yourself part of an exclusive group of people who have seen the remains of St Peter! You’ll just have to get past the Swiss Guards that guard the Vatican Necropolis entrance first!

What to expect in the Vatican Necropolis ?

Whilst it would make good sense to try and tick off the whole of the Vatican in one day, we’d recommend against it. It is indeed possible, but you might feel a little tired and overwhelmed by the end of the day!

The Vatican Scavi Tour is awe inspiring, and from start to finish will take about 2 hours , perhaps 3-4 if you spend more time in the Vatican Grottoes . On top of that, you will want to take a tour of the Basilica too!

If you do all of this in combination with the Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel , you’d be exhausted! The Vatican Museum needs at least 3 hours to do it justice. And that’s not including queuing for tickets if you didn’t prebook skip the line tickets to the Vatican.

If you do want to combine all together, we suggest you look at the Vatican gardens and Necropolis via triumphalis Tour , mentioned a bit later on this page.

How to get tickets to visit the Necropolis ?

Vatican necropolis entrance tickets.

As we mentioned before, tickets are on a limited basis and subject to approval by the Scavi office.   Only 250 people max are permitted to enter each day . Of course, this is to preserve the ancient site from mass tourism destruction.

The Scavi website promises to accept all requests, provided there is enough space on the time slot requested. See here for more details as to how to apply for a slot directly with the Scavi office.

Tickets cost just €13 and include a full guided tour ! What a deal!

Vatican Necropolis Scavi Tour

Due to the sensitive nature of the site, tour groups must be accompanied by a qualified guide . They are really knowledgeable about the area.  The groups are limited to sizes of 12 only . From the Vatican Necropolis entrance you will be led through the area, learning as you go. Finally, you will come to the Tomb of St Peter.

At the end of the tour, the tour guide will leave you to have a look around the Vatican Grottoes . This is not to be confused with the Necropolis, and is one level up. This is the resting place of many of the Popes through the ages.

Vatican gardens and Necropolis via Triumphalis Tour

If you want even more of an overview of the Necropolis, then check this out. The Vatican Gardens and Necropolis tour, including the Via Triumphalis, is a special treat. The Via Triumphalis is the route along which most of the Necropolis is found. As the name suggests, the tour will see a knowledgeable guide take you through the Vatican Gardens and Necropolis. The ticket also includes free access to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel so is a good overall package.

Our Top tips to visit the Vatican Necropolis

• Skip the Queue! If you have access to the Vatican Necropolis you will be able to skip the people queuing to get into the Basilica at the end of your tour!
• Reserve early! Due to the limited space you might be disappointed if you don’t!
• Pay by credit card. If you get confirmation you are accepted you will receive a link to do so.
• Top Tip! The tickets are scarce and are reserved sometimes months before. If you can’t get one, show up anyway and ask if anyone has cancelled. You might get lucky!

Important information about the Vatican Necropolis

Pay attention to these rules – this is a sacred site so needs to be treated accordingly.

• Appropriate dress – no skirts, shorts or bare shoulders
• Important for families – no one under 15 years is allowed in!
• Rucksacks are not permitted
• Not suitable for those suffering claustrophobia
• Not suitable for those who suffer from issues caused by damp atmosphere

Vatican Necropolis opening hours

Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. Saturdays until 6pm

How to get to the Vatican Necropolis ?

The Vatican City is accessible by many different forms of transport. The entrance to the Vatican Necropolis can be found in St Peter’s Square, directly below the basilica.

By Metro, take line A to Ottaviano-S. Pietro. It will take just a few minutes to walk into the Vatican

By Train , the St Pietro Station is located about 10 minutes’ walk from the Vatican City

By Bus , Line 64 and 62 stop directly at the Vatican.  Don’t forget that many Hop on Hop off busses stop here too!

Walk – Of course, if you are near enough, you can walk to the Vatican City. Nearby Trastevere is a convenient location for example, with Passeggiata del Gianicolo offering some cool shade in the summer.

FAQ – Vatican Necropolis

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Can you tour the Vatican necropolis?

You can tour the Necropolis only on Scavi office approval. You have to send a request ahead. only allows about 250 people per day to visit the Necropolis.

Can you visit the necropolis?

Yes you do. But remember that only 250 people per day are allowed to visit the Necropolis, and this in groups of 12-15 people.

How long is the Vatican Necropolis Tour?

Expect a visit of at least 1,5-2 hours.

Is the Scavi tour worth it?

It is if you’re into religion and don’t want to miss out apostle tomb’s and ancient Rome cemeteries.

Are all the popes buried in the Vatican?

Most of them, yes. But there are also Papal tombs in Rome’s major churches as other churches around Italy.

What is the difference between a cemetery and a necropolis?

Cemeteries are places where the deceased are buried, while a necropolis is a kind of large cemetery, but is usually found in places steeped in history or in ancient cities.

Thanks for reading this guide. Visit the Scavi website directly if you want, or look for special deals on Roma Pass . Here, you are able to get bolt-ons that you can’t buy directly from the Scavi website, such as audio guides and extended tours. One we would recommend is the Necropolis plus Basilica tour – this will really finish off the day nicely.

If you are interested in a tour of the Vatican Necropolis then you had better get working on it quickly to ensure you don’t miss your slot!

Fanny, a devoted art enthusiast and world traveler, has been exploring Vatican City’s treasures since 2012. As the founder and chief editor of the Visit Vatican blog, she’s dedicated to sharing the finest cultural and historical experiences of this iconic destination.

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How To See St. Peter’s Tomb in Vatican City

Brandon Shaw Last Updated: November 3, 2022

Rome is full of incredible things to visit, but if you want something really exclusive, there’s only one place to go: the Vatican Scavi. Also known as the Vatican City Necropolis, The Tomb of the Dead, or St. Peter’s Tomb, the Scavi is famous for being the final resting place of one of Jesus’ 12 apostles, Peter. Here’s how you can see St. Peter’s Tomb.

Pro Tip:  Planning your visit to St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you’re in the city. See our  guide to Vatican City  for more planning resources, our  top St. Peter’s Basilica tours  for a memorable trip, and  how to climb St. Peter’s Dome .

Visiting St. Peter’s Tomb: What We’ll Cover

If you want to see St. Peter’s Tomb, you’ll need to put a visit to the Vatican Scavi on your itinerary. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about St. Peter’s Tomb, where to see it, and how to get tickets.

What is the Vatican Necropolis?

• Where is St. Peter’s Tomb?
• How to get tickets
• How long is the Scavi / Necropolis tour?
• What are the Vatican Grottoes?

First off, let’s define the Greek word Necropolis. “Necro” means dead, and “Polis” means city. Put them together and you have the City of the Dead—or what we would call a cemetery today.

In Ancient Roman times, the area across the river (where the Vatican is today) was not a very hospitable part of the city. It was mostly low-lying, which meant flooding and malaria. This is one of the reasons why it was a popular area for cemeteries (necropoli). Recent excavations have found dozens of Mausolea in the area.

The necropolis wasn’t always underground. Originally, it was an open-air cemetery with tombs and mausolea. The mausoleums unearthed were initially labeled with the Greek alphabet letters Φ (phi), Χ (chi), and Ψ (Psi). Later, they were marked with Latin letters.

Where is St. Peter’s Tomb?

In the 1940s, as they were expanding the underground area to bury the popes who had died, they found the ancient necropolis and a significant piece of ancient graffiti, which translated as “Peter is here.”

As the story goes, St. Peter was crucified in Rome in A.D. 64 on the orders of Emperor Nero. Then, when Constantine became the first Roman emperor to embrace Christianity in the 4th century, he had a church built on the site of St. Peter’s grave—this was the original St. Peter’s Basilica. When Michelangelo designed the current Saint Peter’s Basilica, he centered the dome right over the spot where St. Peter’s grave was.

There is some debate as to whether the bones really are St. Peter’s. However, there are a few archaeologists today who are quite sure that bone fragments retrieved here belonged to the man himself.

If you search online for the Vatican Necropolis, you will often come across the word Scavi , which simply means excavations in Italian. After the above-mentioned excavations were complete, they decided to offer visits to the necropolis. As a result, the tour was called the Scavi Tour named after the excavations of the 1940s and this is where you’ll visit St. Peter’s Tomb.

How To Get Tickets To See St. Peter’s Tomb

The only way to get tickets for the Vatican Scavi is to email the Scavi Office directly, at [email protected]. You will need to provide the following in the email:

• The exact number of visitors (please remember that no children under 15 are allowed).
• The names and surnames of each visitor you need tickets for.
• Your preferred language for the tour.
• The dates you are available for a visit (the more you give, the more chance you have!).
• Your contact information.

It’s best to send the email as early as possible. In fact, the best time would be to send the email the moment you book your flights. It’s a VIP experience for a reason—only 250 people are allowed through each day! If you compare that to the 20,000 that visit the Vatican Museums, it’s an incredibly small number. Tickets are notoriously hard to get and tours get booked up months and months in advance.

Tickets are €13 per person. Concession tickets are not available, and when you receive confirmation of an available spot, you must pay for the tickets online within 10 days in order to secure them.

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Not ready to book a tour? Check out our guide to Vatican City as you plan your trip.

How Long is the Scavi / Necropolis Tour?

The tour includes a maximum of 12 people and lasts around 90 minutes. While the guided tour only takes around 1.5 hours, be sure to factor in the time it will take you to find the entrance and show your tickets as you plan.

You’ll get to see the actual tomb of St. Peter and the bones of the dead Apostle at the end of the tour in the Vatican grottoes, underneath the Basilica. You are free to explore these for as long as you like before heading up to see the Basilica.

What Are The Vatican Grottoes?

The Vatican Grottoes is a vast underground graveyard below St. Peter’s Basilica, which you’ll be able to see at the end of the Scavi tour. It contains the tombs and sarcophagi of many popes, as well as secular monarchs such as the tomb of Queen Charlotte of Cyprus, the tomb of the Stuarts, and the tomb of Queen Christina of Sweden.

There are also some incredible archaeological sights, such as the remaining columns from the original 4th-century basilica. The entrance is in the Pier of St. Andrew near the high altar of St. Peter’s Basilica, and it’s free to enter. However, there may well be a line. These grottoes form part of our Detailed Itinerary Vatican Tour .

Want to explore the Vatican without waiting in the long lines or dealing with the large crowds? Thanks to our close partnership with the Vatican this tour allows you to skip the line with a small group and a knowledgeable and charismatic tour guide! This small group tour covers all the must-see attractions such as the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, Raphael Rooms, and St. Peter’s Basilica.

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December 12, 2019

This was one of the most amazing experiences we had in an amazing trip to Rome. Well worth the effort to try to get tickets, we got those first and planned the rest of our trip around them

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How to Book a Vatican Scavi Tour

What is a scavi tour.

The Scavi Tour takes you below Saint Peter’s Basilica to the Vatican necropolis. The Vatican commissioned excavation of this site in the 1940’s whereupon archaeologists found a burial ground dating back to the 4th Century. Among other things they unearthed in the Vatican Catacombs is the Temple of Constantine and what is strongly believed to be St. Peter’s Tomb.

We took the Vatican Scavi tour ourselves and found it to be an incredible experience that will definitely make our list of “most memorable.” However, I really wanted to share the experience from the perspective of someone raised in Catholicism. My partner, Nathan, was raised in a Catholic home, but I was not. Since I am the writer in the duo I decided to call upon a fellow writer, who also happens to be Nathan’s mother, to share her experience.

My Scavi Tour Experience 

         As Written by Laurie Rochon-Sado

“Rome, Italy. Two words that conjure up all sorts of images; historical beauty, iconic tourist spots, romantic settings, even holy moments of wonder. To even begin to describe in this brief article my incredible four days would be an exercise in futility.

Each place I went brings its own description, its own moment of wonder. The Colosseum , the Roman Forum, the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, the Spanish Steps, and of course, visiting Vatican City. 

However, for this simple woman from a little town in Washington State, USA, nothing compares to the quiet moments I spent deep beneath St. Peters Basilica in the necropolis. This is my account of what is called the Vatican Scavi Tour.

The Vatican necropolis, aka Scavi, sits directly beneath St. Peters Basilica. Located there are the tombs of past Popes, St. Peters tomb itself, as well as an ancient Roman street.

If you are planning a trip to Rome , this is one of the must-see Vatican tours. It is well worth the small amount of trouble it takes to procure the rare Scavi Tour tickets. Since it is one of the most exclusive tours in Rome, with only 250 people a day allowed to enter the excavation, it is well worth the extra effort.

On the day of my scheduled tour, I awoke with a sense of anticipation. I just felt that something very special was going to happen to me that day. I was not disappointed.

As my family and I entered the Vatican we were greeted by the Swiss Guard and directed to the Scavi offices. Due to the fragility of the excavations, we were put into a small group of about 12 people. Keep in mind that children under 15 cannot enter, for that reason.

As we began our tour, we entered on foot through the Arco delle Campane. Almost immediately, I was engulfed with a sense of history. The air was thick with warmth and dampness. Being raised in a Christian home, I also began to feel something spiritual the deeper we went down.

The air became warmer as we descended, and walls become a little bit tighter. However, not so tight as to bother those with mild claustrophobia. From an archaeological standpoint, I was amazed at the structures, the tombs, the beauty. I kept thinking, what a treat for anyone interested in archaeology to take this tour.

To my understanding, this necropolis dates all the way back to the 4th century. One area was said to be the temple of Emperor Constantine complete with an ancient graffiti that translates, “Peter is here.” It gave me chills.

As our 90-minute tour continued, I truly believed I had entered one of the Vatican’s best-kept secrets. I was transported into a dark city of small cave-like mausoleums arranged along a narrow, dark street with ornate decorations and inscriptions evoking a sense of mind-boggling history. I was breathing in the past. My past. The past of my religious ancestors.

As our journey below continued, we reached a niche like area that led to a small room where our tour guide paused for several minutes to let us take in the place believed to be St. Peter’s tomb which holds the relics of St. Peter himself. Not being a particularly holy woman, I was surprised to find as I stared into this softly lit room, that there were tears streaming down my cheeks. Was it the mesmerizing history that was leaving me breathless and emotional, or had I truly been touched by something profound; a holy moment of wonder?

At the completion of our tour, we continued to view the rest of St. Peters Basilica, the Vatican Museum and the Sistine Chapel. All beautiful and awesome, however, I raised a silent prayer that I stumbled onto the Scavi Tour website all those months prior to our trip to Italy. Those quiet moments spent in the necropolis touched my heart and remain with me today.”

How to Get Scavi Tour Tickets

Prior to your trip, once you have booked your transportation and decided where to stay in Rome , simply log onto the Scavi website .  We booked ours three months in advance, sending through the request via email directly to the Vatican Scavi Tour offices.

You will need to include the dates of your Rome itinerary and you will be notified, usually within a few days, of the date and time you have been assigned. You are not able to specify an exact date and time yourself, so be sure to leave the dates you’ve given open until your receive confirmation. The cost is very minimal at 13.00 Euros.

Here is the process we went through:

Requests may be submitted in written form by sending an email to [email protected] , 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 2018 to 08 January 2018) 5. E-mail address, or fax number, or a complete postal address.

It’s as simple as that to arrange a unique and moving experience of a lifetime and become only one of 250 people out of 30,000 that visit the Vatican daily. It really is an amazing addition to your Rome itinerary .

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Need help planning your trip to Rome? Take a look at this Rome Travel Guide!

Vatican Scavi Tour Tips

• Book as far in advance as you can , especially in high season as there are limited spots.
• You won’t be able to photograph while in the catacombs but you should be able to bring your camera with you on the tour as long as it is kept secured in a bag. You actually exit the tour into St Peter’s Basilica where you will definitely want your camera.
• It can get a bight tight and confined in spots so if you have severe claustrophobia you may want to opt out.
• Because of the sometimes tight spaces and historical importance of the site large bags and backpacks are not permitted. A standard size purse or camera bag is fine as long as it can be strapped close to your body.
• Dress appropriately as you would for any sacred site. Men must wear long trousers and women no skirts above the knees and all should have shoulders covered.
• You will have a very specific time of entry and the office can be a bit tricky to find so be sure to arrive early and bring the directions emailed to you at time of booking.
• They do not allow anyone under the age of fifteen.

Other Must Sees When Visiting Vatican City

The Vatican Museums

Sistine Chapel

The Sistine Chapel is the prize at the end of the Vatican Museums trail. You can only get there by going through the museums first. That doesn’t mean you should rush through the museums though, they are more than worth the time to explore on their own. In fact, once you reach the Sistine Chapel for the first time you may be forgiven if you’re a little disappointed. Don’t get me wrong, it is magnificent and awe-inspiring to see Michelangelo’s famous ceiling but the ever-present crowd and the constant sound of a disembodied voice saying “Please keep moving” and “No cameras!” can somewhat hamper the experience. Just try to block that out and take in the masterpieces that surround you including the magnificent Creation of Adam.

Saint Peter’s Basilica

Swiss Guard

The Vatican and its Popes have been protected by the Swiss Guard since 1506 and despite their rather elegant looking uniforms, they are much more than a colorful sight for tourists. Every member of the Swiss Guard is highly trained in weaponry and martial arts. To become a member of the Swiss Guard they must be Catholic, single, Swiss males between the ages of 18-30 and former members of the Swiss military. In my experience, it seems they must also be quite handsome!

Audience with the Pope

If you are able to time it right you can be present for the Pope’s speech in Saint Peter’s Square. When he is in town he will hold audience on Wednesdays at 10:30 am and on Sundays at noon. On Wednesdays he speaks outside in the square and there are free tickets available for seating. These tickets must be requested and picked up ahead of time. No tickets are required on Sundays when he gives a shorter speech from his apartment window. You can find the Pope’s schedule and ticket info here. If you want to be assured of getting tickets and a decent seat you can also pay for a guided audience which will include detailed explanation of the papacy as well as headsets to hear the speech clearly.

Getting to Vatican City

If you’re not taking a tour that includes transportation you will have a few options for getting to Vatican City. If you’re staying close enough to walk there you’re in luck but make sure you map your way and leave plenty of time if you have a Scavi Tour booked. Taxis are everywhere but Rome traffic can be busy and prices high so check with your hotel or taxi service in advance. You can also take the Rome Metro Metropolitana Line A to the Ottaviano “San Pietro” stop which would be our choice over a taxi.

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Born in England, Sarah developed her wanderlust at a young age as she traveled around Europe with her parents. As a young adult she spent every penny she could on experiences as opposed to possessions. Eventually she found a way to earn a living doing what she loved: traveling, writing and capturing images of the wondrous world we live in. When not on the go Sarah enjoys time in her “sometimes home” of Vancouver.

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Hidden Vatican: the “Scavi” and how to visit them

• November 7, 2022
• Catacombs , Churches , Rome 101 , The city center , Vatican Area

As you plan your tra vel to Rome, you’ll have surely considered devoting part of your trip to the exploration of the Vatican area : St. Peter’s Basilica , with the Vatican Museums and – of course – the Sistine Chapel .

This is on every tourist’s “must do”, after all, and there’s little deviation from the rule. At the very most, some more travelled people might want to add experiences that are a little out of the ordinary, such as the train daytrip to Castel Gandolfo and the Papal palace there, or the ascent to St. Peter’s dome .

A surprising small number of visitors, however, know that St. Peter’s itself can also be visited… from below . Meaning, not everyone remembers that there’s a whole underground level under the basilica that is accessible (even though with a few limitations). That part of the Vatican is called “Scavi” (“Excavations”) and this post wants to share some information on it!

What are the Vatican’s “Scavi”, anyway?

Oversimplifying for the sake of brevity – and with many apologies to the historians reading this: you may already be aware that the current Basilica you see at St. Peter’s has not always looked like that. The building of the original church had been ordered by none other than emperor Constantine , who had also decided to flatten the Colle Vaticano hill that used to be where the basilica is now located.

That hill, while not one of the original seven hills of Rome, is as important because emperor Nero used it as a location to martyr some of the first Christians – among them, St. Peter .

Those killed there, along as other Romans who were not Christian, were all buried in a necropolis which ended underground when Constantine ordered, indeed, to build St. Peter’s in its stead. The “Scavi” are the part of that same necropolis, which includes St. Peter’s tomb, and that have been excavated since around 1939.

Scavi: not a chance discovery

Contrary to belief, the Scavi area has always been well-known , both by the Vatican residents and by Romans at large. So much so that when Pope Pius XII asked to be buried as close as possible to St. Peter’s tomb , the request was at first deemed impossible to fulfill, because the area below the basilica was considered too cramped to move around.

When contractors started working on it by trying to lower the existing underground floor to create more space, they soon discovered Roman tombs, shrines, buildings and more. Parts of the necropolis can never be excavated, so as not to pose a threat to the stability of the basilica above it. What you get to visit is, however, a significant portion of it.

How to visit the Scavi?

Visits to the Scavi can only happen through the Vatican offices themselves , as they authorize the amount of people allowed to walk through the area. Only up to 250 people can visit each day, divided into groups of 12, who are not allowed to explore on their own but are accompanied by a guide .

This is the official website for booking your visit, which also contains a “virtual guide” on the findings below the church and gives you a rough idea of what to expect down there (particularly useful in the even you’re claustrophobic and need more information before booking!).

Things to know before you book

• Visits to the Scavi are 1h 30 minutes – short enough for you to be able to still make it to the Vatican Museums right after, for instance, so plan your tours accordingly!
• Access is not allowed to kids under 15 – again, plan accordingly if you’re travelling with children.
• It goes without saying that your attire should be the same as when visiting a church – the tomb of St. Peter is here, after all. Even if you’re not religious and interested in the history behind it, try to be respectful to those who are, or those who work there (read something more about this here ).
• On top of not being recommended to those suffering from claustrophobia , the Scavi area is not suitable to those tourists with a walking disability – obviously, it is an archaeological area and even though works have been carried out to make it more accessible, surfaces can be slippery, uneven or there might be steps or other obstacles.
• Ancient Rome
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Vatican Scavi Tour and St. Peter’s basilica

The Vatican Scavi Tour that goes through the excavations below Saint Peter's basilica is one of the most exclusive tours of all Rome.

I have been an official guide of Vatican Scavi  since 1996. You could blindfold me and I would be able to show you around with ease.

We will visit an Ancient Roman Necropolis, discovered by archeologists in 1939  and filled with the fresco-painted tombs of wealthy Roman families and an early Christian cemetery with the tomb of St. Peter's, the Apostle. This part of the tour will be with about 15 other people, though we will visit St. Peter's church on our own.

Saint Peter's basilica was built in 1506. It is the longest church in the world, filled with the most important Renaissance masterpieces like the Pietà by Michelangelo.

You can combine this tour with the Vatican Museums or Pope's audience on Wednesdays.

Tour length: 2 hours

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Scavi Tour at Vatican City: 5 Tips Before You Go

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Vatican City

I visited Vatican City and went on the very special, Scavi Tour. This unique experience allows you to walk underneath St. Peter’s Basilica and even view the tomb of Saint Peter! Here are 5 helpful tips for those who are interested in going on this tour offered by the Vatican Excavations Office including how to make your reservation.

1. Confined Spaces

This tour takes place underground and takes approximately 1 hour to complete. The maximum number of people allowed per tour is 12. I thought it was really nice that the Excavations Office wanted to keep the tour limited to a small group, but I soon realized that you can’t really fit more than 12 people through the tunnels on the tour. The entire tour takes place underground in very tight spaces, so if you have claustrophobia you may want to consider this before booking. The tour doesn’t involve much walking but does require standing for the entire time.

Although this image was taken at the Roman Forum, the drawings are similar to ones that you will see inside the tombs during the tour.

2. Modesty is Required

The Vatican is a holy place and therefore requires visitors to be dressed appropriately. These were the rules that I received with my booking confirmation: –  VERY IMPORTANT.  Since the visitors will see the tomb of St. Peter during the course of the tour, they must be dressed in a manner appropriate to a sacred place.  Shoulders of both men and women must be covered. Women must wear skirts or dresses beneath their knees or else trousers. Men must wear trousers. 

3. No Photos Allowed, but Don’t Leave Your Camera

Photography and video are not permitted while on the Scavi Tour. Knowing this, I was worried that my large camera inside the case might be taken from me before the tour. I was relieved to discover that I was able to keep my concealed camera by my side for the entire tour. My camera case was the size of a cross body bag and I was allowed to bring it everywhere in Vatican City. For reference, here’s the bag that I brought: Case Logic Camera Holster. I carried my Nikon D7100 camera inside this bag every day for nearly 3 weeks with no issues.

One of the best perks of the Scavi Tour is that you get easy access to St. Peter’s Basilica. You will definitely want your phone or camera ready to capture memories from the elaborate inside of the Basilica. Since visiting St. Peter’s Basilica is free, there can be an astronomical line to get inside. The Scavi tour ends right beside the Basilica so that you can enter without having to wait in the long visitor line outside.

Here are the rules that I received about bags prior to my visit: –  VERY IMPORTANT.   The visitors are reminded that they are not allowed to bring bulky objects into the excavations  (suitcases, backpacks, photo…), even if the visitor is passed by the security. Large bags and backpacks must be deposited there prior to coming to the Excavations Office.

Detailed Dome inside St. Peter’s Basilica.

4. Inquire Early

I visited Vatican City in early March and inquired to make a reservation in mid-January. I sent an email to  uff. scavi @fabricsp.va  asking if any of my 3 suggested dates had open spots. The Scavi office emailed back the next day and I was sent a link where I could confirm our date and pay for the tour. If this is something you would like to do on your trip, it’s best to try and book the tour as early as possible. The ticket cost was €   13 per person and all guests were placed in groups according to their language. Please click here to learn more about making a reservation through the Vatican Excavations Office.

5. Give Yourself Time to Locate the Excavations Office

I regrettably arrived a few minutes late to my tour because I had trouble location the Excavations Office. The directions that I received in my confirmation email were very clear, but I became a little overwhelmed upon entering Vatican City. As I tried re-reading my tour instructions, I was bombarded by people who wanted to be hired as guides and they were pointing me in all sorts of directions. The best advice I can give is to be prepared for crowds and know that some people will be directing you everywhere from the Basilica line to the Vatican Museums. Just stay focused and read your confirmation email again if needed.

Gain an Experience of a  Lifetime

If you are planning a visit to the Vatican, I definitely recommend reserving a space on this tour. During my trip, I witnessed so many large tour groups with audio guides walking through crowded spaces. The Scavi tour was such a small group. It was easy to hear the guide and there was plenty of time to ask questions. We got access to a sacred space that was off-limits to the majority of visitors. It was eye-opening to get away from the crowds and see the underground ancient tombs. The Scavi tour was my favorite part of visiting Vatican City and an experience that I will treasure for a lifetime.

St. Peter’s Basilica

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Lauren Gibson

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• 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

• The Altar of the Confessio
• The Cathedra of Saint Peter
• The Tomb of Saint Peter
• The Necropolis
• The Vatican Grottoes
• The Basilica
• The Chapter of Saint Peter
• The Fabric of Saint Peter
• The Vicariate
• The Sacristy
• The Basilica Archives
• Participate
• Services for pilgrims
• Exhibitions
• Services for people with disabilities
• Zero Emissions
• The Baldachin
• Scientific research and state of conservation
• The restoration operations
• Restoration of metallic surfaces (bronze and iron)
• Restoration of stone surfaces
• Restoration of wooden structures
• Provisional works
• Collaboration between the Fabric of St. Peter's and Knights of Columbus
• The restoration team
• Entering the Basilica
• Opening hours and times of celebrations
• Photo gallery
• Video mapping

Guided tours

For the guided tour of the Basilica and other listed sites of interest, Saint Peter’s Basilica provides guides trained and accredited by the Fabric of Saint Peter. Visits with guides accredited by the Fabric of Saint Peter can only be requested at the Visits Desk, located in the portico of Saint Peter's Basilica.

Visiting hours

- from Monday to Saturday, from 9:30 to 17:30 (last admission at 17.00);

- Sunday and Vatican holidays, from 13:30 to 15:30 (last admission at 15:00).

Guided tour of the Basilica

Visit with expert guide

From Monday to Saturday, the tours take place at:

- 10:30 (in Italian, English, Spanish and French);

-12:00 (in Italian, English, Spanish and French): 

-15:30 ((in Italian, English, Spanish and French). 

On Sunday, the tour begins at 14.00 and is provided in Italian and English.

§  full-price ticket at a cost of 15€;

§  reduced ticket at a cost of 10€.

Audio guide

The service is available from Monday to Sunday from 8.30 until 17.30. The audio guide is available in Italian, English, Spanish, French, German, Russian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portuguese and Chinese.

§  full-price ticket at a cost of 5€;

§  reduced ticket at a cost of 3€.

Go to the Basilica

Guided tour of the Vatican Necropolis

To visit the Vatican Necropolis, it is necessary to book by email at [email protected] . The visits are provided in Italian, English, Spanish, French, German, Russian, Portuguese, Hungarian, Czech and Dutch.

Access is not permitted to visitors under 15 years of age, and it is forbidden to bring bulky objects or photographic apparatus. The visit is strongly discouraged for pregnant women and those who suffer from claustrophobia.

The Necropolis can be visited:

- from Monday to Friday, from 8:00 to18:00; final tour starts at 16:30

- Saturday, from 8:00 to 14:00; final tour starts at 12:30

The full-price ticket costs 13€; the reduced ticket costs 7€.

Go to the Vatican Necropolis

Book a visit to the Necropolis

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The Best Scavi Tour Vatican 2024

You won't be charged yet

About Scavi Tour Vatican

This Scavi Tour of the Vatican takes you underneath St. Peter’s Basilica, where the tombs of many popes are located. You can touch the walls of the basilica, which date back to the 4th century, and see its beautiful frescoes.

This Scavi Tour Vatican takes you underneath St. Peter’s Basilica, where the tombs of many popes are located. You can touch the walls of the Basilica, which date back to the 4th century and see its beautiful frescoes.

St. Peter’s Tomb is located right under the main altar of the Basilica. Above it rises the Canopy of Saint Peter, a great work from the Baroque era, and the dome of Michelangelo.

You will have an expert tour guide by your side, specially trained to take you underground. He will tell you all there is to know and you can ask him any questions you may have.

The Vatican Scavi Tour also includes access to the dome of St. Peter's Basilica. We suggest using the convenient elevator to save your energy for taking photos and enjoying the panoramic views of Vatican City and Rome!

RESERVE NOW & PAY LATER!

Keep your travel plans flexible - book your spot without any upfront payment!

Amazing guided tour of Vatican Underground!

I really enjoyed going beneath St Peter's Basilica and seeing the tomb of St Peter, it was really beautiful! The guide was really nice and talkative, and because we were in a small group, we had time to talk to him about the Vatican Necropolis and the popes that were buried there. Highly recommend booking this tour!

Exclusive access to papal tombs

This was such a great experience! I got these tickets because you get to see the Vatican Grottoes, which are not available with a standard Saint Peter's Basilica tour. It was really helpful to have a guide there with us because he explained everything we were looking at and told us about all the history that took place here. The last place we visited was the dome and we saw the whole St Peter's Square from up there. This tour included a lift up to the dome, which was super convenient!

DESCRIPTION

Scavi tour vatican.

• Expert tour guide
• Entry fees to the top of the Dome by elevator
• Headsets to hear your guide better
• Full on-site assistance
• French, Portuguese, English, Italian, German, Spanish

VATICAN GROTTOES

The Vatican Grottoes extend three meters under the floor of St. Peter’s Basilica. They are comprised of a series of vaults built in the 16th century in order to support the floor of the building. Special permission is issued to be able to visit the area and only about 250 visitors are allowed each day. So. don’t miss your chance. Book this tour of the Vatican Underground now!

POPES’ FINAL RESTING PLACE

Most popes choose the Vatican Grottoes as their final resting place. John Paul II, Pius XI and Pius XII were buried here, as well as important historical figures such as Queen Charlotte of Cyprus and Queen Christina of Sweden. Your expert guide will also lead you to Saint Peter’s burial site, which was dug in front of the Circus where Christians were persecuted during Emperor Nero's reign and was discovered in the 20th century.

ST. PETER’S BASILICA

St. Peter’s Basilica is known for its beautiful mosaics, golden ceilings and Renaissance and Neoclassical artworks. The original Basilica was built in the 4th century and the current one, built in the 17th century, still uses original foundational elements, which are about 1,700 years old! Its dome is the tallest one in the world. It is so tall the whole Statue of Liberty could fit inside of the church. You will see its beautiful mosaics before going to the top balcony to enjoy the remarkable view. From there, you can spot many iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and the building that inspired it, the Pantheon.

FREE CANCELLATION UP TO 24H IN ADVANCE!

Receive a complete refund if you cancel your booking 24 hours before the selected date.

St. Peter's Tomb

Saint Peter was one of Jesus’s apostles and the first Pope. He was buried on Vatican Hill in the first century and the original Basilica was built over the burial site by Emperor Constantine in the 4th century. His tomb is located underneath the main altar of the current Basilica, built in the 17th century. There is a small piece of plaster with engraved Greek letters that were interpreted as “Peter is here” or “Peter in peace”. His burial site was discovered during the famous archaeological explorations in the 1940s.

This is only a small part of everything you will hear from your guide. If you would like to know more, reserve your spot now!

Good to know before you go

• Wear comfortable shoes and clothes, but please dress respectfully. This means your knees and shoulders should be covered with long sleeves and pants.
• You can choose to go in a small group or on a private tour.
• You don’t have to print your ticket. Instead, just show the voucher on your phone.
• Because only about 250 visitors are allowed to visit the Basilica’s underground area each day, tickets for this tour are selling fast, so book yours in advance!

Meeting point

Meet your tour guide at the address Largo del Colonnato 5, by the first columns of the Colonnade. Look for a yellow label with the Touriks logo on it. Do not go through the metal detectors before meeting the guide.

ACT FAST & SECURE YOUR SPOT NOW!

Easy & fast booking process, faq – scavi tour vatican, what's so special about the scavi tour vatican, what other attractions are included in this vatican underground tour, can i cancel the scavi tour, what else can i see in the vatican and rome, don't wait book now.

• Skip the line access
• Private or small group
• Free cancellation
• Reserve now & pay later
• Easy booking process!

Instant ticket delivery

Smartphone tickets accepted

Skip-the-line ticket