Europe, Italy

How to do St Peter’s Dome Climb in Italy (Cost, Tickets and Tips)

July 18, 2024

Is a St Peter's Dome Climb An Unmissable Experience?

As someone who has visited Rome multiple times, it took me until my third visit to do the St. Peter’s Dome climb, and I wish I had done it sooner. This is one of those unique experiences in Italy that really offers a unique perspective and allows you to see the dome up close. Just seeing the inside of the dome, which I thought was painted but is actually made up of tiny mosaic stones, was pretty cool, right? And when you climb through the narrow walkway around the dome, you get to enjoy the iconic views of Vatican City and Rome.

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I loved St. Peter’s beauty before, but the dome itself is a marvel of architecture and history. So if you can make time, definitely start your day with a dome climb followed by exploring the basilica.

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Here's What you Need to Know

Is a St. Peter's Tour Including a Dome Climb Worth It?

100% Absolutely! Climbing St. Peter’s Dome gave me a closer look at the intricate details of Michelangelo’s masterpiece. Plus, the panoramic view from the top is simply breathtaking and provides a perfect viewpoint to appreciate the beauty of Vatican City and beyond. So, if you’re visiting Rome, this is a must-do activity that shouldn’t be missed.

How to Climb St. Peter’s Dome

Before you head to St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, you should choose how you would like to do it. You can choose between two types of tickets: one that includes an elevator ride partway up and one that requires climbing all 551 steps. The elevator option is easier, but I recommend the full climb for the complete experience. Starting early in the morning is the best way to avoid the crowds and the heat, making your climb more enjoyable. I did the climb at 7:30 AM, and I know that’s early, but it was so worth it to be one of the first people up there.

Do I Need to Be Fit to Climb St. Peter's Dome?

While you don’t need to be an athlete (I’m certainly not), a moderate level of fitness is helpful. The climb can be strenuous for some, especially the narrow and winding staircases near the top. It felt a little tricky how the walls curved in. Comfortable shoes are essential, and I would also suggest bringing water as you can’t purchase any at the top. The final part of the climb involves steep, tiny, and narrow steps, so being prepared for this is important. Once at the top, the reward of the stunning views makes it all worthwhile.

How Hard Is It to Climb St. Peter's Dome?

The climb can be challenging due to the 551 steps, especially the final part where the stairs are narrow and steep. However, the effort is manageable with frequent breaks, and you can let people pass if you want to take it slower. If you’re reasonably fit, you’ll find the climb no issue.

Can You Climb St. Peter's Dome for Free?

Unfortunately, climbing St. Peter’s Dome is not free. There are ticket options available, with prices around €10 for an elevator ride partway and €8 for climbing all the steps. Purchasing tickets in advance or as part of a guided tour, which is what I did, will make a big difference to your experience and save time.

How Long Does It Take to Climb St. Peter's Dome?

The time it takes to climb St. Peter’s Dome can vary depending on your pace and the number of people climbing. On average, it takes about 20-30 minutes to reach the top. The descent is usually quicker, taking about 20 minutes. Just bear in mind if you’re going during peak time, it will take longer as you can’t overtake and you have to follow in a single line up the stairs.

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How Many Steps Is St. Peter's Dome?

Climbing to the top of St. Peter’s Dome involves 551 steps. The first part of the climb, which can be done by elevator, covers about 230 steps, leaving 320 steps to be climbed on foot. The final climb is narrow and winding, requiring a bit of effort.

Opening Hours and Best Time to Climb

The dome is open from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM in summer and 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM in winter. The best time to climb is early in the morning to avoid crowds and the midday heat if visiting in summer. Planning your visit in the morning not only ensures a cooler climb but also leaves the rest of the day free to explore the basilica and other Vatican attractions.

Getting to St. Peter’s Basilica

St. Peter’s Basilica is located in Vatican City, easily accessible by public transport. The nearest metro station is Ottaviano-S. Pietro. From there, it’s a short walk to the entrance. If you prefer, you can also take a bus or a taxi. Be sure to allow extra time for security checks at the entrance, as lines can be long during peak tourist season.

Dress Code for the Dome Climb

Like all Vatican sites, St. Peter’s Basilica has a strict dress code. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. This can mean you might get a little hot during the climb, so be prepared. This rule applies to both men and women, so plan your attire accordingly to avoid being turned away at the entrance.

Getting Your Tickets for St. Peter’s Dome

Tickets can be purchased on-site once you pass through the security check, but there’s no guarantee they will be available, especially during peak times. There are two ticket options: one with an elevator (around €10) and one without (around €8). To avoid disappointment, consider booking your tickets in advance.

Skip-the-Line Tickets

To avoid long queues, consider purchasing skip-the-line tickets in advance, which are only available as part of a tour. These tickets save you time and hassle, allowing you to enjoy your visit fully. Check out skip-the-line tickets here.

Tour Options

Should I Do a Tour?

Tours offer added value with guided insights into the history and architecture of St. Peter’s Basilica and the dome. They often include skip-the-line access, which is a huge plus.

Skip the Line: St. Peter's Dome with Audio Guide

Overview: Skip the line with an audio guide.
Does this have Skip the Line? Yes.
Reviews and Rating: Highly rated for convenience and informative audio guide.
Places You See: St. Peter’s Basilica and the Dome.
Duration: Around 2 hours.
What’s Included: Skip-the-line access, audio guide.

Check This Tour Out Here: Tour Link

Bucketlist activity in Rome

👉 You can’t go past climbing the Dome and St. Peter’s Basilica. Watch my experiences.

👉 View tour here

Vatican St. Peter's Dome Access & Audioguide

Overview: Dome access with an informative audio guide.
Does this have Skip the Line? Yes.
Reviews and Rating: Positive reviews for detailed audio content.
Places You See: St. Peter’s Basilica and the Dome.
Duration: Approximately 2 hours.
What’s Included: Access to the Dome, audio guide.

Check This Tour Out Here: Tour Link

Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and Basilica Tour

Overview: Comprehensive tour covering major Vatican sites.
Does this have Skip the Line? Yes.
Reviews and Rating: Highly rated for thorough coverage and knowledgeable guides.
Places You See: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica.
Duration: Around 4 hours.
What’s Included: Skip-the-line access, guide, and museum tickets.

Check This Tour Out Here: Tour Link