St. Peter's Basilica Tours and Activities

Things to do in St. Peter's Basilica

At St. Peter's Basilica, immerse yourself in breathtaking art and architecture while enjoying guided tours that unveil the rich history of this iconic site. Don’t miss the chance to explore nearby sightseeing attractions and local tours that offer a deeper insight into Vatican City's cultural treasures. Whether you’re admiring Michelangelo's masterpieces or learning about the Basilica's significance, there's plenty to keep you engaged during your visit.

Shopping

In Vatican City, explore the Vatican Museums gift shop for unique religious souvenirs and artworks. If you're up for a drive, check out Rome's Via del Corso, located 3.2km away, offering a mix of fashion, accessories, and local artisan shops for great gift options.

Recreation

At St. Peter's Basilica, indulge in the tranquil atmosphere with guided meditation sessions amidst breathtaking architecture. Explore nearby wellness centres offering yoga classes designed to enhance your mindfulness while soaking in the spiritual ambiance of Vatican City, ensuring a rejuvenating experience during your visit.

Adventure

Explore the awe-inspiring dome of St. Peter's Basilica, where you can climb 551 steps for panoramic views of Vatican City. Experience the grandeur of the basilica's interior, adorned with stunning mosaics and sculptures, and feel the spiritual atmosphere that captivates millions each year.

Nightlife

While St. Peter's Basilica is not known for nightlife, the surrounding Vatican area offers charming cafés and gelaterias, perfect for an evening stroll. Nearby, the vibrant Trastevere district boasts bustling bars and restaurants, making it an ideal spot to unwind after your visit.

Find the best attractions near St. Peter's Basilica

St. Peter's Basilica offers a rich cultural experience with its stunning monuments, historic sites, and museums. While visiting, explore nearby attractions like the Vatican Museums and consider staying at local hotels for convenience. Whether you're keen on discovering the grandeur of the basilica or immersing yourself in the Vatican's history, there's plenty to see and do for every type of traveller.

• Vatican Grottoes: Explore the serene underground chapels of the Vatican Grottoes, where you can appreciate the rich history and artistry of papal tombs and monuments. This sacred space is steeped in cultural significance and offers a tranquil escape from the bustling above.
• Tomb of St Peter: Visit the revered Tomb of St Peter, believed to be the burial site of the Apostle Peter. This historic site is a pilgrimage destination, reflecting deep religious and cultural heritage, making it a profound experience for visitors.
• Chair of Saint Peter: Admire the stunning Chair of Saint Peter, an iconic symbol of papal authority. This magnificent piece of art housed within the basilica showcases incredible craftsmanship and is surrounded by a rich tapestry of spiritual meaning.

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 (dry). 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 (Dry)	Sunny	Average
July	79.3°F (26.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average
August	79.7°F (26.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	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

When planning your visit to St. Peter's Basilica, consider using Expedia to find budget-friendly accommodation by sorting options from lowest to highest prices. Look for Eco-certified hotels for sustainable choices. To save money, consider booking a package deal that combines your hotel, flights, and activities. Take advantage of free activities around Vatican City, and utilise public transport, which is affordable and efficient for getting around. Lastly, aim to travel during the off-peak season for cheaper rates on hotels and attractions.

• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to choose your budget, ideal location, and additional preferences with ease. You can sort your results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to identify the most affordable accommodation options right away. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel type—select the Eco-certified filter to discover sustainable and environmentally friendly accommodations available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your St. Peter's Basilica hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.