Entry Fees & Pricing
Basilica Entry — FREE
Entry to St. Peter's Basilica is completely free for all visitors, regardless of age or nationality. No ticket or reservation is required.
- Simply queue at the entrance.
- Pass through the security screening.
- Enter the Basilica.
Dome Climb — Paid
Tickets for the dome climb are purchased at the entrance to the dome staircase inside the basilica.
- Stairs only (551 steps): €8
- Elevator to first level + stairs (320 steps remaining): €10
Important: Even with the elevator option, you must still climb 320 narrow steps to reach the very top.
Treasury Museum — Paid
The Treasury Museum (Museo del Tesoro) houses sacred relics, vestments, papal tiaras, and precious objects spanning centuries of Vatican history.
- Adult entry: ~€5
Vatican Grottoes — FREE
The Vatican Grottoes beneath the basilica, containing the tombs of many popes including John Paul II, are free to visit. They are accessible directly from inside the basilica.
Necropolis / Scavi Excavations — Paid
The Scavi tour takes visitors beneath the basilica to the ancient Roman necropolis and the tomb of St. Peter.
- Guided excavation tour: €13 per person
Booking Information: This tour must be booked in advance directly through the Vatican Excavations Office by emailing [email protected]. Spaces are limited to groups of 12 and often fill up weeks in advance.