St. Peter's Basilica Tours

Things to do in St. Peter's Basilica

When visiting St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, don't miss the opportunity to explore its stunning art and architecture. You can enjoy free tours that provide insights into the basilica's rich history and significance. Engaging in these activities will enhance your experience and allow you to appreciate the grandeur of this iconic landmark.

Shopping

Within St. Peter's Basilica, you can find the Vatican Gift Shop, offering religious items, art, and unique souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, the nearby Via dei Condotti features luxury boutiques and designer stores, perfect for upscale shopping in Rome.

Recreation

Experience tranquility at the Vatican Gardens, where you can stroll through lush landscapes and enjoy peaceful reflections. For a spiritual retreat, participate in a guided meditation session at St. Peter's Basilica, immersing yourself in its serene atmosphere and rich history.

Adventure

Climb to the dome of St. Peter's Basilica for panoramic views of Vatican City and beyond. Explore the intricate artwork and history inside, and don’t miss the impressive Pietà statue. For a unique experience, consider booking a guided tour to learn about the basilica's significance.

Nightlife

While St. Peter's Basilica itself closes at night, you can explore nearby venues like the charming Bar del Fico for Italian cocktails or the vibrant Caffè Rosati for gelato. For a lively atmosphere, head to Campo de' Fiori, where bars buzz with locals and tourists alike.

Find the best attractions near St. Peter's Basilica

When visiting St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, you'll discover a wealth of cultural experiences. Explore the awe-inspiring monument, delve into the museum, and stroll through historic sites surrounding the basilica. Highlights include the magnificent architecture and religious significance of Saint Peter. Whether you’re a history buff or a culture enthusiast, your visit to St. Peter promises to be unforgettable, offering a perfect blend of art, history, and spirituality.

• Vatican Grottoes: Beneath St. Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Grottoes offer a serene and historical atmosphere. This underground complex houses the tombs of popes and notable figures, showcasing the rich spiritual heritage of the Vatican.
• Tomb of St Peter: Considered one of the most important Christian sites, the Tomb of St Peter is believed to be the burial place of the apostle Peter. Pilgrims and visitors alike feel a profound sense of reverence here, surrounded by centuries of faith.
• Museo Storico Artistico: This museum presents a fascinating collection of artifacts and artworks that chronicle the history of the Vatican. Visitors can explore the intersection of art and history through various exhibits that reflect the cultural significance of the Vatican.

Best time to go to St. Peter's Basilica

The best time to visit St. Peter's Basilica can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around St. Peter's Basilica falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around St. Peter's Basilica falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy
January	46.9°F (8.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average
February	48.0°F (8.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average
March	51.8°F (11.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High
April	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High
May	64.4°F (18.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average
June	73.6°F (23.1°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average
July	79.3°F (26.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average
August	79.7°F (26.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low
September	72.3°F (22.4°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly High
October	64.4°F (18.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average
November	56.5°F (13.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low
December	49.3°F (9.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for St. Peter's Basilica

To save money on your visit to St. Peter's Basilica, consider traveling during the off-peak season for lower prices. Use public transport like buses or the Metro for affordable travel options. Look for budget-friendly accommodations on Expedia, where you can filter results by price and eco-certification. Booking a hotel package that includes flights and activities can lead to significant savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership offers exclusive discounts and allows you to earn credits for future bookings, maximizing your travel budget.

• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's user-friendly search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can easily arrange your search results to display hotels from the lowest to highest price, allowing you to find the most affordable options first. Furthermore, you can refine your search by hotel category; for instance, by selecting the Eco-certified filter, you'll be presented with sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay near St. Peter's Basilica with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
• Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.