St. Peter's Dome
Ticket names translated from Italian · the venue's own wording is in the quote below
Dome with stairs (includes Basilica) > 17 €Translation · original in Italian
Cupola con scale (include Basilica) > 17 €Practical
St. Peter's Dome: address
dall’ingresso ordinario in Piazza San Pietro.Open in Google Maps →✓ basilicasanpietro.va/it/products/museo-del-tesoro · 2026-10-06St. Peter's Dome: opening hours
Winter period (26 October 2025 - 28 March) 7.30am - 5pm · Summer period (29 March 2026 - 25 October 2026) 7am - 6pm✓ basilicasanpietro.va/en/opening-hours · 2026-10-04St. Peter's Dome: closing days
The Dome remains open even in case of rain, but in case of extreme weather conditions, access may be temporarily closed.✓ basilicasanpietro.va/en/help/the-dome · 2026-10-06St. Peter's Dome: what should I know before visiting?
Tickets for the Dome cannot be modified or refunded. It is not possible to change the name, date or time of the booking. The ticket is valid exclusively for the purchased date and time slot.✓ basilicasanpietro.va/en/help/the-dome · 2026-10-06St. Peter's Dome: how to get there
The Basilica is easily accessible by public transport. The nearest metro station is Ottaviano-San Pietro on line A. Several buses stop near Saint Peter's Square.✓ basilicasanpietro.va/en/help/the-basilica · 2026-10-06St. Peter's Dome: parking
It is advisable to avoid coming by car as parking spaces in the surrounding area are limited.✓ basilicasanpietro.va/en/help/the-basilica · 2026-10-06St. Peter's Dome: is it wheelchair accessible?
No, the lift only goes up to the terrace level. From the inner Ring, visitors must climb 320 steps to reach the outer Ring of the Dome.✓ basilicasanpietro.va/en/help/the-dome · 2026-10-06St. Peter's Dome: are dogs allowed?
Animals are not permittedTranslation · original in Italian
Non è consentito l’ingresso con animali.The dome of Saint Peter’s Basilica was conceived and built up to the drum by Michelangelo Buonarroti and brought to completion, after the death of the Master, by the architect Giacomo della Porta, who worked there alongside Domenico Fontana from 1588 to 1590, raising the dome in just 22 months thanks to the tireless work of 800 labourers.
Designed by Michelangelo and completed after his death in 1590. Soars 136 metres above the altar.
Two access options: climb all 551 steps, or take the elevator to the terrace level and climb the remaining 320 steps. The ascent passes through the interior of the dome where visitors can view mosaics at close range from an internal walkway. The final section narrows considerably between the inner and outer dome walls.
Summit offers 360-degree panoramic views across St. Peter's Square, the Vatican Gardens, the Tiber, and Rome's rooftops. A café and religious articles shop are located at the terrace level.
Not recommended for those with claustrophobia, vertigo or heart conditions. Requires its own separate ticket — purchasable online through basilicasanpietro.va or on-site at ticket counters. Sells out weeks in advance during peak season.