Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica and Dome Guided Tour

4.8 (6 reviews) Rome, Italy
Duration1h 30m
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish, Italian, French, Spanish
Group sizeUp to 15 travelers

Overview

Visit the breathtaking Santa Maria Maggiore, one of Rome’s most revered Papal Basilicas, where history, art, and faith come together in an unforgettable experience. With exclusive access, expert guidance, and hassle-free entry, there’s no need to worry about long queues, confusing itineraries, or missing the basilica’s treasures.

Admire stunning mosaics and frescoes as your knowledgeable guide brings centuries of stories to life, explore the Liberian Museum, home to priceless relics and masterpieces.

The highlight of your journey is exclusive access to the terraces, offering a rare opportunity to stand on one of the highest points in Rome. From here, take in a breathtaking view of Rome as your guide points out its most iconic landmarks.

Skip the stress of organizing tickets or wandering aimlessly. This expertly curated tour lets you fully immerse yourself in Rome’s beauty and history.

Book now for an experience that will be the highlight of your visit to the Eternal City!

Options

Private English tour

private English guided tour

Private French tour

private French guided tour : Enjoy a private French-speaking tour of Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica and its dome

What's included

  • Headsets to clearly hear your tour guide throughout the visit.
  • Ticket for exclusive access to the Dome area
  • Ticket for Liberian Museum
  • Tour Guide

What to expect

  1. Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
    30m
    Step into one of Rome’s most awe-inspiring landmarks with an expert tour guide who will bring its fascinating history to life. As the only one of Rome’s four Papal Basilicas to preserve its original paleochristian structure since 432 A.D, this extraordinary site is filled with breathtaking mosaics, frescoes, and architectural wonders that tell a story spanning centuries.
    Your guide will share fascinating stories about the many popes and world-renowned artists who contributed to Santa Maria Maggiore, transforming it into a masterpiece that is not only sacred but also houses artistic treasures as the The Sacred Cradle by Valadier, an exquisite silver and crystal reliquary, said to contain fragments of Jesus’ manger.
  2. Museo del Tesoro Liberiano
    30m · Admission ticket included
    Your journey continues inside the Liberian Museum, an extraordinary area that preserves the artistic, historical, and spiritual heritage of the basilica. This area provides a deeper understanding of Santa Maria Maggiore’s significance through a collection of priceless relics, sacred artifacts, and remarkable artworks.
  3. Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
    30m · Admission ticket included
    The highlight of the tour will be the exclusive dome area, where you will make your way to one of the highest points in Rome. From this privileged spot, standing on the highest hill in the city, you will enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of Rome. Your guide will point out the most important landmarks and share fascinating stories that reveal the city’s secrets and hidden gems.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Meet your host holding a light blue flag that read 'INSIDE OUT ITALY' in front of the Obelisk in Piazza Santa Maria Maggiore

End point

Meet your host holding a light blue flag that read 'INSIDE OUT ITALY' in front of the Obelisk in Piazza Santa Maria Maggiore

Additional information

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • children under 7 years old are not allowed to the dome area

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

4.8 (6)
From
€249.00 per person
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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • Instant confirmation
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
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