Rome: Santa Maria Maggiore and Panoramic Dome Guided Tour
Embark on an unforgettable guided tour of one of Rome’s most magnificent basilicas, Santa Maria Maggiore. Your expert guide will lead you through the rich history and architectural marvels of this iconic landmark, highlighting the stunning mosaics, the impressive interior, and the sacred art that have made it a symbol of the Eternal City. As part of the tour, you'll climb the Dome, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Rome. From this incredible vantage point, you can admire the city’s landmarks and natural beauty in all directions. Explore the Liberiano Museum, the Loggia delle Benedizioni and Sala dei Papi, your guide will provide in-depth insights into the masterpieces, offering a deeper understanding of the basilica's cultural and spiritual importance. Besides, you will have the opportunity to see the Scala del Bernini, designed by Flaminio Ponzio. This stunning staircase, renowned for its elegance.
Options
Guided Tour
Basilica Tour & Dome Access
What's included in Rome: Santa Maria Maggiore and Panoramic Dome Guided Tour
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
Explore a Vatican territory without being in Vatican City. Discover a church where classical antiquity, Christianity and modernity meet. Visit the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, one of Rome’s four patriarchal basilicas, one of the most significant Catholic Churches in the world. As you arrive at Santa Maria Maggiore, you find yourself in front of a beautiful elaborate facade and a striking bell tower. Upon entry to the church, the expansive central nave stretches out in front of the viewer. Its ceiling was decorated with the first gold brought back to Europe from the New World. Dominating the front side of the nave is a triumphal arch covered with intricate mosaics arranged in four rows which depict scenes from Jesus’ childhood. Beneath the triumphal arch, is the high altar which is above a relic which contains five pieces of wood said to be from the manger in which Christ was laid in Bethlehem.
Inclusions
- Ticket for the Dome of the Basilica (accompanied by an authorized staff for security reasons)
- Headsets (if needed)
- Access to Loggia of Benedictions, Room of the Popes, Bernini’s Stairs, Historic Liberian Museum
- Live guide
- Hotel pick up and drop off
- Gratuities
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Not suitable for Children under 7 years
- What to bring: Passport or ID card (mandatory), Comfortable shoes, Weather-appropriate clothing
- Not allowed: Shorts, Baby strollers, Luggage or large bags, Short skirts, Sleeveless shirts, Backpacks, Umbrellas, Tripod, Animals, Weapons or sharp objects, Food and Drinks
- Please note that access to the panoramic dome will last approximately 30 minutes. An authorized staff member will accompany you to the dome for security purposes. No explanations or insights will be provided during this time.
- In accordance with attraction’s "mandatory" regulations, we kindly request that you provide the complete name(s), preferably as stated on your passport, for "each" participant during the booking process. Name change requests for booking are allowed up to 24 hours before the activity.
- For the verification process, you must present a valid passport or identification during the activity
- Wear clothing that covers at least the shoulders and knees, if your clothing does not comply with the rules, you may be denied entry.
- Some parts might not be accessible and are subject to unexpected closures until further notice due site’s restrictions.
- Photography with a flash is not allowed inside. The staff are authorized to delete any files taken.
- Not suitable for: People with mobility impairments, Wheelchair users
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting / End Points
- - Please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the activity starts - The meeting point is right in front of the attraction, across from the obelisk in the square. Look for our staff holding a 'Loving Rome' flag.
Redeem
Ticket Redemption
- Please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the activity starts - The meeting point is right in front of the attraction, across from the obelisk in the square. Look for our staff holding a 'Loving Rome' flag. - All guests must undergo airport-style security. During high season the wait may be up to 1 hour - The entry ticket is only valid for the selected entrance time. - Late arrivals will neither be accommodated nor refunded.
