Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica with Optional Dome or Underground

Join us to discover the hidden treasures of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore!

The Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore has dominated the city of Rome for sixteen centuries. This magnificent temple is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is considered to be a cradle of artistic civilisation. Situated atop the Esquiline Hill, it is one of Rome's four papal basilicas.

According to tradition, the Virgin Mary inspired the construction of her house on the Esquiline. The many treasures it contains make Santa Maria Maggiore a place where art and spirituality come together in perfect harmony, offering visitors unique emotions. Admire the tomb of the Bernini family, the Baptistery, the Holy Door and many other masterpieces.

Discover some facts about the Popes: Pope Francis places his apostolic journeys under the protection of the Salus Popoli Romani, which he usually visits before leaving and upon his return. Enjoy the breathtaking view from the dome of Santa Maria Maggiore, which offers a panoramic view of the city and will leave you enchanted.

Options

 • Basilica + Dome + Underground: You will see a rare frescoed calendar with scenes of agricultural work as well as some evidence of the early Christian basilica founded by Pope Sixtus III.

 • Basilica + Dome + St. Peter’s Basilica: Duration 5 hours. Begin your experience at St. Peter’s Basilica, the heart of the Vatican and a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Upon arrival, be welcomed by a professional team who will provide all the essential information you need for a smooth visit. Admire Michelangelo’s Pietà, the majestic Bernini Baldachin, and the awe-inspiring dome that dominates the Roman skyline. With reserved priority access, bypass the long general lines (after security checks) and make the most of your time inside. Beneath the basilica, visit the Vatican Grottoes, home to the Papal Tombs, where many popes—including Saint John Paul II—are buried.

Afterwards, continue your spiritual and cultural journey to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, one of the four papal basilicas and one of the oldest churches dedicated to the Virgin Mary. This basilica is renowned for its 5th-century mosaics, the opulent gold ceiling, and its unique architectural beauty. Most importantly, it houses the tomb of Pope Francis, who chose this sacred place as his final resting site—a profoundly symbolic choice for a pope known for humility and devotion to Mary.

What is included?

Basilica and Dome

* Welcome and assistance from Touristation staff

* Entry to the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major (free entrance)

* Official audioguide of the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major (available in Italian, English, French, German, Spanish)

* Access to the Dome of the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major

Basilica with an Audioguide

* Welcome and assistance from Touristation staff

* Entry to the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major (free entrance)

* Official audioguide of the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major (available in Italian, English, French, German, Spanish)

Basilica and Underground

* Welcome and assistance from Touristation staff

* Entry to the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major (free entrance)

* Official audioguide of the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major (available in Italian, English, French, German, Spanish)

* Access to the Archaeological area beneath the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore

Basilica with Dome and Underground

* Welcome and assistance from Touristation staff

* Entry to the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major (free entrance)

* Official audioguide of the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major (available in Italian, English, French, German, Spanish)

* Access to the Archaeological area beneath the Papal Basilica

* Access to the Dome of the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major

Important information

This is not a guided tour, but includes on-site assistance and priority access.

If you select the option with St. Peter’s Basilica, the meeting point is the TOURISTATION Green Kiosk in Piazza del Risorgimento, in front of the Foot Locker store.