5 hour(s)
English
Included
Visit all four Major Papal Basilicas of Rome
Step through the Holy Doors during the Jubilee Year
See relics of Saints Peter and Paul
Admire Michelangelo’s Pietà and golden mosaics
Expert Catholic guide and private transport included
€ 84.8
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Free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling leads to total flexibility while you plan your travels
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Step into a centuries-old tradition and follow the footsteps of millions of pilgrims who, since the year 1300, have journeyed through the Holy Doors of Rome’s Four Major Papal Basilicas. Accompanied by an expert Catholic guide, this sacred tour takes you to St. Peter’s Basilica, St. Paul Outside the Walls, St. John Lateran, and St. Mary Major—each a cornerstone of faith and history. Experience the breathtaking beauty, relics, and stories that define these monumental sites, from Michelangelo’s Pietà to the tombs of Saints Peter and Paul.
Travel in comfort with private, air-conditioned transport between basilicas, as you uncover the deep spiritual and historical significance behind each sacred landmark. This immersive pilgrimage offers not only architectural splendor but also a profound connection to the living tradition of the Church—a once-in-a-lifetime journey for the faithful and history enthusiasts alike.
Entry to the each site included in the tour
Expert Local Guide
Headsets for groups when appropriate
Transport during the tour
Transport to and from the meeting point
Some temporary exhibitions and special events
Food and Drink
Gratuities
Comfortable walking shoes
Modest clothing
Water bottle
Hat, sunscreen, and umbrella
Light jacket
Public transportation nearby
Arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the tour
Tours operate in all weather conditions
Detailed instructions and Pilgrim’s Card information sent after booking
Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Type in your hotel/accommodation to see how far the attraction or departure point is.
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The Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore is a true masterpiece and one of the most significant religious and artistic buildings in Rome. It is one of the four Papal Basilicas and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is the only major early Christian basilica in Rome that has retained its original paleochristian plan and structure virtually intact, despite numerous later additions and embellishments. According to legend (the Legend of the Snow (Miracolo della Neve)), the site for the basilica's construction was miraculously determined: on August 5, 358, in the height of summer, snow fell on the Esquiline Hill, and Pope Liberius traced the perimeter of the future church in the snow. In memory of this miracle, white petals are dropped from the basilica's ceiling every year on August 5 during a solemn mass. The basilica is famous for its mosaics, created in various eras. The Sistine Chapel (Sistina) and the Pauline Chapel (Paolina), built in the late 16th and early 17th centuries, are magnificent examples of Baroque architecture and art, housing the tombs of the popes. Another unique and curious fact is the burial place of Pope Francis. Pope Francis expressed a wish to be buried in this basilica, highlighting his special devotion to the icon of the Salus Populi Romani (Salvation of the Roman People), which is also enshrined here. A good tip: the best time to visit is in the morning, when you can admire this basilica in peace and quiet.
Visiting Saint Mary Major Basilica on a weekday this summer was one of the most memorable parts of my trip to Rome. Because 2025 is a Jubilee Year, the atmosphere around the basilica felt especially meaningful, with pilgrims arriving steadily throughout the day to pass through the Holy Door, which is only opened during Jubilee celebrations. Despite the increased spiritual traffic, the weekday timing made the experience surprisingly manageable. The line to the Holy Door moved smoothly, and volunteers were present to guide people respectfully through the process. The moment of entering through the door felt solemn yet uplifting, with a quiet reverence among visitors. Inside, the basilica is breathtaking—as always. The gold-tiled ceiling shimmered beautifully under the summer sunlight, and the mosaics along the nave looked even more vivid than I remembered. Even with more pilgrims than usual, the basilica never felt overcrowded; there were plenty of peaceful corners for reflection and photography. I recommend visiting either early morning or late afternoon to avoid the mid-day rush. The surrounding area is also pleasant to explore, with cafés and gelaterias nearby—perfect for cooling down after the visit. Overall, Saint Mary Major during the Summer 2025 Jubilee is an unforgettable combination of history, art, and spiritual significance. Whether you're religious, an architecture lover, or just a curious traveler, it's absolutely worth adding to your itinerary.
I enjoyed the tour and found the guide to be very knowledgeable. The Jubilee itself was profound. Although crowded, it was so nice to see so many ppl participating in the pilgrimage!
We took this tour in the October high season, so all four locations were very crowded and certain sections of the cathedrals were unfortunately closed. Also, this tour is a massive undertaking - includes lots of walking and in cases we needed to hurry. But these are really the only two things you need to consider - everything else was P E R F E C T! The tour guide was excellent, he was very knowledgeable and kind. He was walking and talking fast, in order to squeeze in as much information and experience as possible. The transportation from one location to another was smooth, the cars we used were quite luxurious. The instructions (where to meet, what to do, etc) were clear and we managed to keep the time of the activities.
Very beautiful and will maintained basilica! We very much enjoyed staying in the church and viewing the well decorated church. The day we visited was Saturday and was very busy with a lot of mass prayers. The audio guide was not really helpful because there were restrictions to enter the church’s premises that need some translations or guide like the Sistine Chapel’s room, etc.
Incredibly beautiful church! First time we walked by there was quite the line to get in (midday). I came back early and was able to walk right in as soon as it opened (there is security). Really nice to have a few moments to myself at Pope Francis’ tomb. So characteristically simple for him, especially compared to all around. A morning mass was going on in the side chapel housing the oldest icon of Mary. Other great highlights as well. Enjoy your visit.
Everything went very well and our guide Daniel was excellent.
Absolutely amazing! Definitely worth the visit The Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Majore is a beautiful catholic church in Rome. It's one of four Papal Basilica and a important place for catholic people and also for tourist. Here you will find the resting place of the last Pope. Pope Francis was buried here on his request and you can see where they have marked his burial/tomb. The architecture of the church it's absolutely incredible inside and also outside. The ark twork and the stained glass above the door is absolutely breathtaking. It's one of the most beautiful churches that I visit and I highly recommend it to go visit. The entrance it's free but you have to go through a security check.
The tour was exceptional, and we could not have been more pleased; we cannot say enough good things about our guide Paul. He was so knowledgeable and presented so much insight on the whole experience. We left for home the next day, so we can truly say that we saved the best for last!
Guide was wonderful and knowledgeable, great experience
