Saint Peter's Basilica is one of the most visited destinations in the world and you easily get this sense via the crowds when you're here. As a second time visitor in April, this experience was very different than my first almost two decades ago. Previously the security and lines were much less organized. I recall a mad dash of several hundred people at the first entry time around 8:30 or 9am of tourists rushing towards the entrance of Saint Peter's--even though there were time slots back then, there were no cordoned areas, outdoor seating set up (the day I was there), or bag checks. Now there is a line that starts before you reach the Vatican threshold, along Via di Porta Angelica, where you go thru security and scan tickets for your timed entry. Plan accordingly because it takes about 30 minutes to get thru the line for most. They have a shortened queue for visitors needing special assistance and their caretakers, which is considerate. The initial 15 minutes of the line was not covered, the second section is under the outer columned area so there's some respite from the weather. Inside, I'd recommend an audio tour so you can wander at your own pace since it is always very crowded. The interiors are magnificent; left and right, floor to ceiling--the marble inset floors and walls, mosaics, sculptures and sheer magnitude of the interior is stunning. This time I made reservations to check out the dome, opting for the full climb of 551 steps* instead of paying for an elevator ticket that takes you partway past the first 231 steps. The interesting part of ascending which I hadn't anticipated was how tight the quarters were--there were sections where it was single file only, up curving, narrow walkways. A little claustrophobic and certainly warm with the number of bodies...it was a balmy 70ish degrees outside so I don't want to imagine what summer would be like. The dome was...BREATHTAKING. Being up close and personal to the colorful mosaics, peering down to the altar and nave below, really puts the size of the structure in perspective. Even looking up from the base of the dome, the height above was astounding. Then ascending to the dome top level--subtracting the intense crowds and confusing exit pathways which must be some sort of fire hazard--the sights for miles around the Vatican Gardens, Rome, were gorgeous. Just WOW. As so many have said before, I'll chime in with a --"if you have a chance to visit, take it!" For more info: https://basilicadisanpietro.com/blog/artistic-masterpieces-of-st-peter-s-basilica *which after walking over 20K steps a day in the Amalfi Coast the prior week I deeply questioned if I had thought this through before booking this ticket...lol at least I lived to tell the tale! read more

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You don't have to be a believer or religious to visit this amazing Basilica. It is a must visit must see for the Art, Sculptures, and the top view at the Duomo. I went inside a d is over 500 steps to reach the top Duomo. I paid 15.oo Euros for the elevator which lifted me part of the way, and I had like 300 more steps to go up. Going up is a unique adventure of itself...it was hard, a bit scary, and you must be fit to do it. The stairs are small in a very thin hallway style going up...so small that both my elbows and arms touch the walls. If you are claustrophobic, this is not for you. Like I said, you must be in good health to go up. Once at the top, the views of Rome and Vatican City are Amazing and worth the steps. Gorgeous views with fresh Rome air. Once inside, you can take a closer look at the interior top of the Duomo. Have a closer look at the paintings on the roof amd the wall ceramic art. The Main floor have thr Piety and many more Sculptures. A few hours or a whole day is needed to enjoy and absorb all of this artistic, one of a kind Art. read more

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Truly amazing experience. As others have already stated, there is so much to see and learn that it becomes overwhelming in a few hours let alone one day. For individuals that appreciate history and architecture, this is a must see in Roma. I would highly recommend for your first visit to do one of the early morning tours. We used "What a Life Tours" and we were in a small group of 8. We were able to arrive early into the Vatican and explore Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica. The Basilica is awe-inspiring and architecturally beautiful - photos do not capture the experience. read more

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What can I say that hasn't already been said? It is HUGE inside, you can spend days in here admiring every painting, sculpture, etc. We took the lift to the top of the dome and walked up the narrow stairs to the peak. It wasn't easy but the view was so worth it. Highly recommend this experience whether you are a Catholic. You must cover your shoulders inside so if you didn't bring a wrap, they offer disposable covers for you. read more

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Happy 3000th review! The Basilica di San Pietro, or St Peter's Basilica, is a separate experience than the Vatican Museum experience. I'm only saying this because we made that mistake thinking they were part of the same experience. After we got out of the Vatican we walked over and found a crazy long line, so we decided to save this for another day. We purchased time entry Tickets (7€/person) online for an early morning slot to avoid crowds. It was quite the journey over as we had some issues with the Rome bus system and I ended up calling a rideshare to avoid missing our time slot. My boyfriend said the St. Peter's Basilica was a must-see for him or he would have to return to Rome, so I was determined to complete the visit, so I wouldn't have to come back. St. Peter's Basilica is one of the holiest Catholic sites and a major pilgrimage destination, so to no surprise it is probably crowded at all hours... but less busy in the mornings. It is believed to be built over the tomb of St. Peter, one of Jesus' apostles and the first Pope. Additionally, it is an architectural masterpiece, designed by some of the renaissance's greatest artists: Donato Bramante, Michelangelo, Carlo Maderno, and Gian Lorenzo Bernini. One of the most notable pieces is Michelangelo's dome. If you are planning a visit, please dress modestly. Bring a scarf or cardigan if your outfit of the day isn't church-appropriate. There is also a set of metal detectors to go to, and a passport verification check to make sure your name matches your tickets. We had gone to the St. Mary's Basilica prior and we were already impressed but St. Peter's Basilica was exponentially even more impressive. We aren't Catholic but we were still in awe and in much respect of how spectacular the building and the artifacts are. read more

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Another must do when in Rome. I did not use a tour guide for the Basilica itself. In my opinion a tour guide is not needed for the Basilica. However for the Sistine Chapel and other museums I did use a tour guide. It is free to enter the Basilica, no reservation needed. I was so blessed to be here during Jubilee as the HOLY DOORS where open and I got to walk through them. I walked through the holy doors several times and each time was an amazing once in a lifetime experience. I was here for several hours, taking my time and looking at everything, soaking it all in. The frescos, the statues, the art work, the entire basilica is so breathtaking. Looking at artwork by THE MICHAEL ANGELO 10000/10000 I purchased items at the gift shop and I had them blessed there by a priest and gave them away as souvenirs Praying here and giving my thanks awesome life time experience read more

During our last few days in Rome, we decided to visit Saint Peter's Basilica. It was a hot day, so we went in the afternoon. When we arrived, we saw long lines to get inside and many people leaving the church. We chose not to go inside but instead walked around the area to see the nearby sights. Even being outside the Basilica is an intense experience. It is one of the most important religious buildings in the world. It is built on the site where the Apostle Peter is said to be buried. The massive church took over a hundred years to finish, with famous artists like Michelangelo and Bernini helping with its design. The vast dome and large plaza are impressive and tell a story of faith and fantastic architecture. read more

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Spanning the reign of 20 popes and every famous Renaissance architect one can name, St. Peter's Basilica is easily one of Rome's most recognizable buildings. The basilica's elaborate dome that could fit the Statue of Liberty inside it stands out in the Eternal City's skyline--serving as a compass for all who wander Rome's streets. Designed as a three-aisled Latin cross with a dome directly above the high altar, it covers the shrine of St. Peter the Apostle. It took 120 years to build the current basilica, which is pretty impressive considering the magnitude of the structure. There were many works that went on even after that timeline. The last fountain, built by Bernini, was not finished until 1675. My partner, our friends, family member, and I had the pleasure of visiting in mid-September, truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience even if one is not religious. Entrance was free, and there were public restrooms and a gift shop available. As expected, it was very crowded and needs a little patience. The dress code seemed more relaxed than expected. Some women were given disposable covers for their shoulders, but many visitors wore shorts or short skirts without any issues. The first thing one will notice when one enters is the sheer size of the building, leaving one in awe. That gold coffered ceiling is 150 feet high. On the ground level, the statues are six feet. We were led through the center nave unless one was going through the Holy Door on the far right, requiring a queue line. Unfortunately, we missed the opportunity to see Michelangelo's Pietà in the first chapel. Gian Lorenzo Bernini designed the Baldacchino with the purpose of marking the tomb of Saint Peter. His masterpiece is a 95-foot-tall bronze canopy. There were no paintings! They were actually all glass or ceramic mosaics. Every corner inside was filled with art, history, and devotion. Visiting St. Peter's Basilica not only stood as a masterpiece of faith, art, and architecture but also added another country to our list of travels, which was an unforgettable experience! read more

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You can't come to Roma without visiting the "mother church "& central hub for the global catholic population 1.42 billion people worldwide. It's best to arrive early we arrive at 8:15am. You're dropped off about 5 blocks in front of the square and the church, however the buildings on each side of the street have beautiful architecture structures to photograph. As we arrived at the entrance you put your possessions through an X-ray machine and as you approach another checkpoint this time you're being scrutinized by 2 individual who are the modest representative they will advise you to take a shawl to cover your self a little more appropriately. Once inside I was in awe of the picturesque architectural style and structure. I'm not catholic but was so impressed with the design not only inside but outside as well. We also observed 2 masses taking place in 2 different locations inside. It was a very memorable experience. Again most of the sites in Rome open about 8-8:30am no long lines when you arrive at these times. Generally just walk right in no crowds. read more

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I love huge and beautiful old architecture! This is one of the most ornate churches I've ever seen! It was a beautiful part of our Rome/Vatican City trip. There wasn't a church service going on when we arrived, but the building was crowded anyway. This was a wonderful trip, and the architecture is worth checking out! It's amazing how such an old church still stands. read more

St. Peter's Basilica is one of the 4 Major Basilicas in Rome and is considered one of the most sacred Catholic sites. Also one of the most beautiful Catholic churches I've been to. In the 4 times I've been there, I have not fully explored the church. 1 day is not enough. They open at 7am and lines can get long if you decide to visit in the middle of the day. So we always try to be there when it opens to beat the crowd and to be able to admire the inside architecture. Make sure to allot probably a day to explore the Basilica. They have a dome that was designed by Michelangelo and is the world's tallest dome. Visitors can climb 551 steps, costing 8-10 euros with a partially available elevator ( the elevator bypasses the 1st 200 steps) and it stops at the roof level. The climb can be strenuous and for claustrophobic individuals, it could be a challenge but the reward is a beautiful view of St. Peter's square and a view of Rome and so much more. When we climb the dome, it was so foggy and we waited an hour to get a good, semi clear view since it was still foggy. St. Peter's Basilica houses Michelangelo's Pieta, St. Peter's chair, Pope John Paul's tomb which is made into an altar where priests celebrate mass daily. Visiting this Basilica is truly one of the breathtaking, overwhelming experience in every trip that we took to Rome as no one can ever describe the beautiful works from Michelangelo and Bernini. The architecture is just simply magnificent. I will never get tired of visiting St. Peter's Basilica. March 2026 read more

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For my most recent trip to Rome, I made sure to swing by Vatican City for a quick visit. The first thing that I noticed that was different was that they had barricades along the perimeter of Saint Peter's Square. Along the north side of the entrance to Vatican City, there was a long queue of people waiting to get inside. Perhaps on my next return trip, I'll have time to get in that line. This was definitely a must-see if you've never been before. read more

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Huge monumental basilica. Everything is so grandeur and spacious inside. Tall ceiling, large rooms, huge statues, etc. Kinda crowded and expected. Came here by beginning of December 2025 and it was an amazing experience. I'd definitely recommend this place : ) read more

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WOW WOW WOW WOW WOOOOW! You HAVE to come here and see the Basilica. Breathtaking , beautiful and awe- inspiring . It's sad that there was an active church service going on and people were taking pictures of it like they were looking at zoo animals . I wish cameras and phones didn't exist so we could appreciate the magnitude and beauty of this place. Go check it out if you are in Rome. It is really a beautiful experience read more

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What can I say! Back to the Vatican and the square and cathedral It was this time around actually quite fast to get in I'm like new pope tons new people hard to get In but it was easy and fast and exploring inside did have some areas blocked out that didn't happen last time but we still saw most what we wanted and to experience pilgrimages coming in to pay them was moving It was packed in the store too packed I felt claustrophobic but I don't blame people Really great experience or site to behold even or you aren't religious read more

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We visited Saint Peter's Basilica at the end of a three-hour tour of Vatican City, and holy Jesus, was it incredible. Built between 1506 and 1626, it stands on the purported burial site of St. Peter, who was, according to tradition, crucified by Nero. The structure was financed in part by the sale of indulgences, and I can only imagine how many sins were supposedly erased in order to pay for this huge, sumptuous church. Our visit was perfectly timed, on a pleasant November Monday during the 2025 jubilee. The crowd was relatively thin, and we were able to pass through the Holy Door, which is only open during jubilees, every twenty-five years. The church is, as a rule, flooded with both pilgrims and tourists, but we managed to avoid the worst of both. The basilica is colossal and spectacularly ornate. Gold and marble everywhere, with fine detailing on every last square foot of wall and ceiling. There are insane mosaics that look like paintings, extravagant altars and multiple lavishly decorated domes. The main dome, of course, is the church's most famous feature, impressive both inside and out, where it has a place of honor in Rome's skyline. Six centuries after its construction, it remains the tallest dome in the world. We stood in a fast-moving line to go through the Holy Door, then saw the marvel of Michelangelo's Pietà, one of the most famous sculptures of all time. I'd seen pictures of it for years and was surprised by how moving it was in person. A definite highlight in a morning full of awe-inspiring sights. Also worth seeing, though in a different way: the dead popes, preserved through various methods, a couple of them just hanging out on the ground floor of the church. I didn't know I'd be seeing dead popes when I woke up that morning. There were more of them in the crypt below, but we decided to skip that part of the Basilica, which would've been an extra ticket. We also decided not to climb the dome, though part of me wishes we'd done it, while the weather was good and the crowd manageable. We got our money's worth from St. Peter's Basilica, though, even if it didn't buy us reprieve from divine punishment. It's an amazing place, a must visit for all tourists in Rome. read more

I went to Rome, Italy this month (June) for the Jubilee Year. If you are a Catholic you know what I'm talking about. Holy door only opens every 25 years. In Rome, there are four holy doors. One of them is here at Basilica de St Peter. I am blessed to be able to crossed holy door. I hope to be able to go back in year 2050 again. Jubilee year ends January 6, 2026. For those who want to cross holy door highly suggest to get a guided and pass the line tour like I did otherwise you will be in the long line for hours. Get your tickets ahead of time they likely sell out! This church is one of the most beautiful church I have ever seen in my life! I had goosebumps when I entered inside. The marble structures, detailed ceilings and the wall everything has meaning and history. I an in awe. Rome does have a very good transportation system so you don't need a car. Just hop in the metro or bus and it drops you near the basilica. Dress code is enforced no sleeveless and shorts. read more

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Absolutely unforgettable experience at St. Peter's Basilica during the Jubilee Year. Walking through the Holy Door was incredibly moving-whether you're religious or not, there's something powerful about being part of such a meaningful tradition. The basilica itself is beyond stunning, but during the Jubilee, there's an extra sense of reverence and energy in the air. The line to get in was long but moved surprisingly fast, and the staff and volunteers were super organized and kind. Once inside, the scale and beauty of everything-from the dome to the Pietà-just stops you in your tracks. Make sure to look up and take your time. read more

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I'm not religious but absolutely loved St. Peter's. The architecture is beautiful and art work is breathtaking. Highly recommend going early morning. It's nice calm and quiet early morning around 7-9am before the Vatican tour groups get inside and before the pilgrimage groups. Starts to really fill up a little after 9 am. You can buy stuff from the gift shop inside and then have them blessed by a priest. read more

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The line for security stretches down the street and is unpatrolled and disorganized. People do cut in line and merge and break off. Once through security, you enter an enormous plaza and can make your way to the church itself. Worth noting: water for hydration is allowed through security. There are tours but we went somewhat spontaneously. Do not forget to see the pieta. It is off to the right at the front. I missed it! read more

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St. Peter's is more than grand. It's layered, even at the sanctuary level. Here, golden light catches marble and you're called into stillness. The scale is immense, yet somehow immensely intimate. Descend to the papal grottoes, a hushed subterranean hall of tombs. Quiet reverence dominates: popes lie in rest and you pass them with the weight of centuries. The tomb of John Paul II, in particular, draws ample attention. If one is lucky enough to be granted pilgrimage, a separate day should be scheduled for the Scavi Tour so as to be able to fully absorb and reflect. read more

文藝復興建築典範之一 ， 不論你是折服於它有形還是無形的美，聖彼得大教堂，是無數天主教徒靈魂的港灣，信仰的殿堂，這輩子值得至少去一次的地方！ 舊地重遊，二十幾年前跟前男友來世因為穿了迷你裙，沒有辦法進去，再去買衣服換成長褲才進的去，這個歐洲最大的教堂，真的實在是太壯觀了 read more

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The Basilica di San Pietro is one of the most renowned works of Italian Renaissance architecture and is the largest church in the world by interior measure. It may not look as impressive from the outside, but it's quite opulent inside. It is also regarded as one of the holiest Catholic shrines. I have to say the lines getting into the church are very disorganized, and there are people intentionally cutting off the lines. read more

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So breathtakingly beautiful! It was truly was a wonderful moment to visit the Basilica di San Pietro. In order to get into the Basilica one does have to wait in a long line and go thru a security check. The line may look daunting and it can get hot but I found that it moved very fast. We lined for less than an hour which wasn't bad at all. Admission is free. It is definitely worth the wait to get in here because the moment you step in; it is so beautiful. The beauty can't even be described in words. I felt no matter where I looked there was amazing art work everywhere. One of the famous art pieces there is Michaelangelo's Pieta. There is also Bernini's Canopy; which is the huge bronze canopy up above. I was very fortunate to also attend mass here. It was such a special moment and one I will never forget. The basilica is a must when in Rome. Grandiose and full of history; this is a place that will sure to leave any visitor in awe. read more

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amazing! once in a lifetime. get your tickets early. the heat and crowd is no joke.

Our tour of Vatican City ended at the breathtaking Basilica di San Pietro. Built in 1506 and completed in 1626 the largest church in the world is truly magnificent Renaissance and Baroque masterpiece of architectural design. Not to be missed! As many recommend here and all over. Breathtaking - Bellisima! Grazie mille! DIOCESE OF ROME https://www.diocesidiroma.it/ read more

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The Basilica was well worth the visit and tour. It was beautiful. So much history was incredible. A must visit. read more

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It's a beautiful church with mosaic paintings on the ceiling and walls. There is an ornate bronze canopy in the middle that was just freshened up for the Jubilee in Rome next year. The Pietra was being restored so a replica was used instead. The holy doors will be opened on Christmas Day by the Pope for the Jubilee and they will remain open for the 2025 year. We got to see the doors. It is the biggest Catholic Church in the world. No other Catholic church is allowed to be larger. It's a beautiful cathedral. There was a mass going on while we were there as it is a working church. There are access to the tombs under the church and access to the dome. There is no line for the tomb viewing but there is a really long line for the dome climb. HIGHLY recommend the early access tours. It was a zoo with lines wrapping around the buildings just to get in when we left after 11am on a Monday. I can't imagine how crowded it would be later on in the day. read more

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By far my favorite church. Upon entering, you see how massive it is. The tallest ceilings I've seen other than possibly Sagrada Familia. But this church is much more majestic. read more

Construction of the Basilica becan in 1506 and completed in 1615. It is the second largest Catholic church in the world* and is quite literally the church of popes. Access to the Basilica is controlled and requires a ticket and passage through magnetometers. Most of the Basilica is open to the public and free to roam. There are a few spots where photographs are not permitted and that's generally where there are people praying. Yes, this is an active church and so you are expected to be respectful of that. Walk around, examine the amazing structures and chapels and keep quiet. [Review 19178 overall - 333 in Italy - 148 of 2023.] * The Yamoussoukro in Côte d'Ivoire is now the largest. read more

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I have been inside Pope Peter's Basilica twice in 2009 and 2016. There is a way to become Pope in there without having to be in a conclave as it involves the figurine of Pope Peter stationed there! :) When i was there i also was blessed by two Popes, Pope Benedict XVI and Pope Francis at their generale audience outside at Pope Peter's square that they hold on a Wednesday, this was during summer in early June. A Pope can be forgotten about and yet world leader No. 1! :) Benedict XVI was the holiest person i had ever seen. It was such a gesture from one German to another as i since became German Catholic. I did see Francis on his pope mobeel and he said out loud this must be 'cristos'! :) read more

The structure and artwork is insane. They do hand out returnable covers for the guy and gals that have their shoulders or knees revealed, near the front entrance. We did not have to purchase a ticket to enter. Kind of a bummer the surrounding areas were closed off to tourists at the time though. We happen to stumble upon this place by accident and kind of glad we did. read more

The historical significance of St. Peter's Basilica as the epicenter of the Catholic Church inspires 10 million visitor a year. That's 40-50 thousand people a day so go early, be prepared to wait a long time to enter or pay for a tour so you can enter by a much shorter line. Thats what I did and feel it's totally worth it. As grand as the outside is with the many columns, center square and fountain, as you enter the basilica the enormity is astounding and somewhat overwhelming. Measuring 164 feet long and aprox 164k square feet, the basilica is shaped like a crucifix. Take your time and wander. You can get lost in the detail, beauty, history and the shear magnitude of what this basilica represents over the course of it's existence. The central space is covered with one of the largest domes in the world; the walls adorned with mosaics that look like paintings but don't get damaged by smoke from the candles; statues and sculptures by famous artists everywhere; crypts and memorials; elaborate alters; wooden confessionals throughout; intricate inlaid marble floors (look for the various coat of arms of the Popes) and gilded everything! Catholic tradition holds that the basilica is the burial site of St. Peter, chief among Jesus's apostles and the first Pope of Rome. His tomb is directly below the high altar. Don't miss the Pietà, the famous sculpture by a 25 year old Michelangelo (and the only one he signed) depicting the ever youthful Virgin Mary holding the dead body of her son, Jesus, after his body was removed from the crucifix. The first time I saw this masterpiece, the incredible beauty, softness, and lifelike image of a grieving mother cradling her dead son, it moved me to tears. The sculpture is located to the right of the entry, behind plexiglass to keep it protected after someone attempted to vandalize it in 1972. Opposite of the Pietà, to the left of the entry is my 2nd favorite sculpture. It's a marble monument by Antonio Caniva commemorating the last three members of the Royal House of Stuart: James Francis Edward Stuart (d. 1766), his elder son Charles Edward Stuart (d. 1788), and his younger son, Henry Benedict Stuart (d. 1807) recognized by the Jacobites as kings of England, Scotland and Ireland. On each side two weeping, female angels carved in the purest white marble, their athletic bodies and exquisitely gorgeous faces detailing standards of beauty of that time period that still exist to this day. They are mesmerizing. And you must visit the bronze statue of St Peter sitting on his throne, designed by Bernini. His right foot is actually worn down from so many believers touching or kissing it as they ask for a blessing. The thought that millions and millions of hands have touched it and can actually wear down bronze is mind blowing. On my last visit I was moved by a current, human scene. Several Swiss nurses were escorting nursing home patients and veterans, pushing their wheelchairs around so they could enjoy the basilica. They stopped to take a group picture and I couldn't help but also snap a pic of this very touching moment. St. Peter's Basilica is a place of pilgrimage for many Catholics and a destination for anyone wanting to experience and admire the architecture, art and history. It's also a basilica where the Pope holds Mass and other significant ceremonies. On these days and the day before, the street traffic can be crippling as extra protection is being set up. And the limited hours at the basilica means even longer lines to get in so definitely do your research and make adjustments if needed. We had to change our Wednesday tour to Tuesday because the Pope was holding Mass on Wednesday for school children. But since they were setting up barriers, it meant sitting in traffic for two hours just to drive a few miles. There is so much to see and experience in this basilica that I haven't even scratched the surface. Just go and see for yourself if you are in Rome! read more

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St. Peter's Basilica is a stunning church. The dome is very grand from the inside. It costs €8 to climb the stairs to get to the top of the dome, which gives you amazing views of the Vatican. It was crowded but worth the experience. read more

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How can something this amazing exist ? This is a must see for everyone who travels to Rome. So much to see and feel. So many beautiful sculptures, pictures and works of art. So much to take in. We went all the way to the top of the dome. Amazing view of Vatican City from top. Hard to go up so many stairs and narrow areas but worth the views. If you have health issues I wouldn't recommend going up. Plan ahead get skip the line pass for a few euros cause the lines get super long. A must see at least once in your lifetime ... read more

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Getting in: We arrived here around 1:15 p.m. on a Tuesday and it took 40 minutes in line to get through the security screening. The line tends to follow the curved porticos that border the oval 'square' in front of the church. I'm not sure when you should arrive for a shorter wait, or if that is an option at any given time... It is free to enter the church. Restroom line: The restroom facilities are at the bag check, which is to the right as you face the front steps. There was apparently a 10-minute line for the ladies' room. This is very much worth seeing even if you are non-religious just for the art / history / architecture aspects. It is enormous. You definitely feel smaller just by entering, which is part of the point. It is an awe-inspiring building, definitely. Many people have written extensively, so I won't go on at length. You can just wander at your own pace and try to take it all in. One additional attraction is to descend one level to the crypt where many popes are entombed. This is well lit and not at all creepy. It doesn't take long to wander through. You exit outside to the right of the church (but inside the security perimeter). You can just wander to the front again and re-enter. The other side-attraction we checked out was the dome climb. There is a queue on the left side of the portico at the top of the initial stairs to buy tickets for this. The line took about 10 - 15 minutes. The cost was, I think, 8 Euros if you walked up the entire way, or 10 Euros if you take the elevator up to the main flat roof and just climb the dome itself. After a lot of walking, I opted for the elevator-assist. The elevator had some odd sound of a chain re-spooling that at first sounded like ping pong balls. Once you get to the roof and walk about 50 meters across an open area, the rest of the climb is inside the dome. It was worth it to me, but beware if you have a fear of heights. The views from the top were nice, though when I was there it was in between rain showers. If you do it on a sunny day I'm sure it is even better. I skipped the elevator on the way down as there was a short line, and descending was easier. If you are looking for the Swiss Guards, there is a small guard post on the left corner of the front façade. They appeared to change guards on the hour also. Side note: you can supposedly access the Basilica from the Vatican Museum (which requires a ticket). However, that has its own set of challenges in that it may be a one-way entry (i.e., you cannot then go back to the museum). Also, you'll have to pass through the line for the Sistine Chapel instead, which is long. If you are interested, you should research this option in advance. read more

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With a place like this, it is so decadent that it was a sensory overload. How the hell can something like this exist and how can one person possibly absorb it all in one day? They can't. You could spend probably an entire week in this place alone and still not absorb it all. Tourists, yes. Some of them in guided tours that are herded somewhat yet will cross your path and get in the way of your selfies inevitably. If you are considering going to the top of the dome... it's an adventure. DEFINITELY not for the weak minded, hearted, or bodied. I use a cane to get around and the guide even told me I might reconsider it. But stubborn as I am, I did it anyway, grimacing at the winding passages that get progressively narrower and claustrophobic. Just when you think the end is approaching, you find a new M.C. Escher set of stairs to climb. By the end, I was wheezing and in dire need of water, of which there was none... then I realized I still had to get back to the bottom. Jumping is not an option. You do get water by the time you finish the descent and I gotta say that was the sweetest water I ever tasted. It is well worth a visit, but there is simply no way one person could realistically "see it all" in one day. Keep that in mind and absorb in small amounts. Enjoy a single day of viewing and accept the fact you won't "see it all" read more

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Our paid tour of the Vatican Museum included a direct route into St. Peter's. Basically the deal is that you go through security to get into the museum and then stay within the secure area to get into the church so yo don't have to wait in line to be re-screened. It is free to get into the church, but the lines are long wrapping around St. Peter's square. For Wednesday mass, the lines were long many hours before mass was scheduled to start. So...if you want to see the Vatican Museum too, it might be worth seeing both on the same day and doing a tour...no idea why they don't just let everyone, tour or no tour, stay within the secure area and head for the church. Anyway, St. Peter's is amazing and one could easily spend a few hours here looking at all the art and architecture. For those who wish to pray, there are side chapels designated as areas for prayer only - no photos or crowding in to just look. Definitely nice that they do this since the main areas of the church are insanely crowded and not really conducive to prayer or reflection. The church is undergoing substantial renovation at present but there is still a lot to see that isn't covered by barriers. read more

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Basilica di San Pietro Designed by Donato Bramante, Michelangelo, Carlo Maderno and Gian Lorenzo Bernini, St. Peter's is the most renowned work of Renaissance architecture and the largest church in the world. While it is neither the mother church of the Catholic Church nor the cathedral of the Diocese of Rome, St. Peter's is regarded as one of the holiest Catholic shrines. Naturally if you visit Rome I recommend visiting the Basilica. I had my moments in awe of the architecture that will always be etched in my mind. I'm a huge fan of Michelangelo. This is a must see. read more

The Basilica is a building you can easily spend half a day. You absolutely MUST arrive early because you will be stuck waiting a hour or more in line by mid day just to get through security. From security, you can walk into the Basilica pretty quickly. On the far right around the corner as you enter there is a hidden souvenir shop with the cheapest prices. You will also find this gift shop if you exit from the papal tombs. Anyway, as you enter the Basilica on the left is the entrance to climb to the top of the cupola. Get up there right away when you arrive to see one of the best views in Rome. It costs €8 to climb on foot, or €10 to use an elevator to get halfway up. Overall, this is the single most impressive building I have ever visited. It's absolutely gorgeous and a marvel to stand within. read more

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