4 Papal Basilicas

Sacred Rome

4 Papal Basilicas

Rome's four great basilicas in a single unforgettable day.

4 hoursMax 6English, German

About this tour

Join a small group (max 6 people) and dive into the spiritual and cultural significance of jubilee churches in Rome. With the help of a licensed, expert tour guide and a private driver, have a unique opportunity to connect with the city's rich religious heritage. The Papal Basilicas of Rome are significant pilgrimage sites that hold special importance within the Catholic Church, particularly during Jubilee years. Visit several key Jubilee sites, highlighting their architectural beauty, historical importance, and the unique traditions associated with Jubilee celebrations. This unique experience will cover the four Papal basilicas: The Saint Peter Basilica, Santa Maria Maggiore, San Giovanni il Laterano, and Saint Paul Outside the Walls. Start with the Saint Peter Basilica, the heart of the Catholic Church and central site for jubilee celebrations. The Saint Peter Basilica is the burial site of Saint Peter, who is considered to be the very first Pope. The building is renowned for its stunning architecture, Bernini's gilded bronze baldachin, and Michelangelo's Pieta. Next, visit the Saint Paul Basilica Outside the Walls. The basilica houses the tomb of Saint Paul and is famous for the beautiful medieval mosaics that miraculously survived a devastating fire in 1823. The vast airy nave is decorated with mosaics depicting the life of Saint Paul, and its famous for the mosaics that depict all the popes till our current day. The Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano is the oldest and one of the most important basilicas, serving as the cathedral of the Pope and the official ecclesiastical seat of the Bishop of Rome. It holds a unique place in the heart of the Catholic Church and is often referred to as the "Mother of All the Churches." The building is characterized by its vast nave, adorned with beautiful marble columns and intricate decorations. Next to this magnificent building are the Holy Stairs, a pilgrimage site believed to be the stairs that Jesus ascended during his trial. The last stop is the Santa Maria Maggiore church, the very first one to be dedicated to Virgin Mary. It is known for its stunning 5th-century mosaics in the triumphal arch and apse, depicting the life of the Virgin Mary and Christ. These basilicas not only offer spiritual significance but also showcase incredible art and architecture, making them must-visit sites for anyone traveling to Rome.

Photo gallery

What you'll see

1

St. Peter's Basilica

Begin at the heart of Christendom — Michelangelo's dome, Bernini's colonnade, and the Pietà.

2

St. John Lateran

The oldest public church in the Western world, and the Pope's own cathedral. Explore its ancient nave and the extraordinary Lateran Baptistery.

3

St. Mary Major

Climb the Esquiline Hill to find Rome's finest early Christian mosaics — shimmering gold panels from the 5th century, still vivid after 1,600 years.

4

St. Paul Outside the Walls

End at the serene basilica built over the tomb of St. Paul, with its magnificent cloister and the portraits of every pope in history lining the nave.

What's included

  • Entrance tickets
  • Licensed tour guide
  • Radio headsets
  • Transport between sites

Not included

  • Food & drinks
  • Hotel pick-up / drop-off
  • Gratuities (optional)

Meeting point

St. Peter's Square, Rome

Need something special?

We offer tailored private tours for every need. Message us and we'll arrange everything.

Private Tour

Exclusive experience just for your group — your pace, your questions.

Kid-Friendly

Engaging storytelling and a pace that keeps children curious and excited.

Wheelchair Friendly

Fully accessible routes adapted for wheelchair users and reduced mobility.

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Choose Your Language

Tours available in 🇬🇧 English and 🇩🇪 German. Let us know your preference when booking.

Message us to arrange

Price per person

€250

All taxes & fees included

4 hours
Max 6 guests
This tour is limited to max 6 participants. For larger groups, please send us a message and we'll arrange a private tour for your group.
Conducted in English, German
Rome, Italy

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Free cancellation up to 7 days before the tour

No refunds for cancellations within 7 days of departure

Nominative tickets — full names required

As stated in our booking terms and conditions, entry to this site requires tickets to be issued in the name of each individual participant. During checkout you will be asked to provide the full legal name (including middle names) of every adult and child attending, exactly as it appears on their passport or government-issued ID. Names cannot be changed after booking. You will also be asked for a contact phone number.

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