St. Peter Basilica, Passetto di Borgo & Castel Sant'Angelo Entry
Description
Discover three of Rome and the Vatican’s most iconic landmarks in one unforgettable experience: St. Peter’s Basilica, the Passetto di Borgo, and Castel Sant’Angelo. With reserved entry, skip the long lines and enjoy smooth access with on-site assistance from professional staff. Explore the Vatican’s spiritual heart inside the Basilica, admiring Michelangelo’s Pietà and the majestic Dome. Walk the hidden Passetto di Borgo, the secret corridor linking the Vatican to Castel Sant’Angelo—usually closed to the public. End your visit inside the impressive Castel Sant’Angelo, once a papal refuge and now a museum with breathtaking views over Rome and the Tiber River. A must-do for lovers of history, art, and European cultural heritage.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Step inside the spiritual heart of the Catholic world and marvel at one of the most important religious structures on Earth. Designed by some of history’s greatest architects—including Michelangelo and Bernini—the Basilica is a masterpiece of Renaissance and Baroque art. Admire Michelangelo’s Pietà, a moving sculpture of the Virgin Mary holding Christ’s body, and gaze upward at the spectacular dome, an engineering marvel that dominates Rome’s skyline. The majestic baldachin by Bernini, towering above the Papal Altar, will leave you breathless with its grandeur and symbolism.
Venture through the Passetto di Borgo, a 13th-century elevated passageway hidden in plain sight. This secret corridor connects the Vatican to Castel Sant’Angelo and was historically used by popes to escape danger during times of siege or political unrest. Rarely open to the public, walking this atmospheric route offers a unique and exclusive glimpse into the secret world of papal Rome, surrounded by towering stone walls that have stood for centuries.
Conclude your journey at Castel Sant’Angelo, a monumental fortress with a story that spans nearly 2,000 years. Originally built as the mausoleum of Emperor Hadrian, the structure later became a medieval stronghold, a papal residence, a prison, and now one of Rome’s most captivating museums. Inside, explore lavish papal apartments, ancient weaponry, Renaissance frescoes, and mysterious underground chambers. Don’t miss the panoramic terrace, offering breathtaking views over the Eternal City and the Tiber River—a perfect ending to a journey through Rome’s sacred and imperial past
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Please note that the meeting point is at Piazza Risorgimento, at the Touristation kiosk (in front of the Foot Locker store). You will be assisted upon arrival and provided with all the necessary information for your visit.
- Please note that entry to St. Peter’s Basilica is subject to security checks, which may take longer during high season, special events, or religious celebrations.
- However, with reserved access, you’ll have priority over the general line, making your entry smoother and faster.
- ⚠️ Kindly note: This is not a guided tour, but includes reserved entry with on-site assistance. Shoulders and knees must be covered to enter the Basilica, as it is a sacred site. It is mandatory to bring a valid ID or passport for each participant.
- All relevant details regarding your Passetto di Borgo and Castel San'Angelo entrances will be provided at the meeting point.
Reviews(3)
With this experience you are walked through the line and then use the audio guide as you explore. Unfortunately, I was not able to download the audio portion. The guide tried a few times to send me the link but with limited WiFi in the area, it didn’t work. I enjoyed walking g through the Basilica. The passage from St Peter’s to the castle was great. I would like to have gotten a map of the Basilica and of the castle. Good tour for those that do not want to follow a guide and explore on their own.
A fascinating experience full of history! The guided tour of the Passetto di Borgo and Castel Sant’Angelo was exciting: walking along the famous corridor used by the Popes to escape in case of danger is really suggestive. The guide was prepared, engaging and knew how to convey all the historical and symbolic value of the places. The panoramic view from Castel Sant’Angelo is unparalleled. A must-see for those who love Rome and want to discover its most mysterious and fascinating side.
Gentile Cliente, Grazie per aver dedicato del tempo a condividere la tua esperienza con noi. La soddisfazione del cliente è la massima priorità di Touristation e apprezziamo profondamente il tuo feedback costruttivo, che ci aiuta a migliorare i nostri servizi. Speriamo di poterti assistere nuovamente in futuro. Cordiali saluti, Touristation Customer Service
Beautiful tour immersed in the evening atmosphere. Thanks to the Touristation that was able to guide us and recommend this unique experience with great competence 💫💫💫💫💫
Gentile Cliente, Grazie per aver dedicato del tempo a condividere la tua esperienza con noi. La soddisfazione del cliente è la massima priorità di Touristation e apprezziamo profondamente il tuo feedback costruttivo, che ci aiuta a migliorare i nostri servizi. Speriamo di poterti assistere nuovamente in futuro. Cordiali saluti, Touristation Customer Service
