Rome: Vatican Basilicas Tour & Holy Doors with Transfers

Summary

Rome’s sacred basilicas, relics, and the quiet awe of Jubilee doors

You’ll step inside three of Rome’s most storied Vatican basilicas with a local guide who knows every mosaic and legend. Feel the hush near Saint Paul’s tomb, walk through Holy Doors rarely open to visitors, and catch small moments—like incense drifting or sunlight on ancient marble—that stay with you long after.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it feels like to stand in front of a door only the Pope can open? I didn’t, honestly — not until our guide Alessia waved us over to Santa Maria Maggiore that morning in Rome. The square was busy but not frantic, and there was this faint scent of incense mixing with city air. Alessia handed out little earpieces (mine kept falling out, which made her laugh) and started weaving stories about relics and mosaics I’d never noticed on postcards. There’s something about hearing Latin murmured by old priests in the corner that makes you slow down, you know?

The drive between basilicas felt like a breather — Rome through the window, laundry flapping from balconies, scooters darting past. At Saint Paul Outside the Walls, we stepped into cool shadow after the glare outside. The floor tiles were smooth underfoot and there was this hush, almost like the building itself was holding its breath. Alessia pointed out Saint Paul’s tomb and then let us wander; I ended up next to an older Italian couple lighting candles. We exchanged nods — no words needed.

Saint John in Lateran was last. It’s grander than photos suggest but also stranger — the throne of Pope Francis sits there quietly while people shuffle by. The Holy Door stood open (only till December 2025, apparently), and even though I’m not religious, walking through gave me goosebumps. Maybe it was just the echo or the way sunlight hit the marble steps. Either way, I still think about that moment sometimes when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit three major Vatican Basilicas

• Meet guide at Santa Maria Maggiore
• Explore Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica
• See important Catholic relics
• Travel to Saint Paul Outside the Walls
• Discover Saint Paul Basilica
• Free time to explore Saint Paul Basilica
• Travel to Saint John in Lateran
• Visit Saint John in Lateran Basilica
• See the Pope's throne
• Visit the Scala Santa chapel

Top questions

How long does the Vatican Basilicas tour take?

The tour lasts about 3 hours including transfers between basilicas.

Which basilicas are included in this tour?

You visit Santa Maria Maggiore, Saint Paul Outside the Walls, and Saint John in Lateran.

Is transportation included during the tour?

Yes, transfers between each basilica are included for comfort.

Are the Holy Doors open during this tour?

The Holy Doors are open until December 27, 2025 as part of the Jubilee year.

Is this Vatican Basilicas tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and transportation options are wheelchair accessible.

Will there be free time at each basilica?

Yes, you’ll have some free time at each stop for photos or exploring on your own.

Does this tour include entry fees?

No entry fee is required for these basilicas; access is included as part of the guided visit.

Where do we meet our guide for this day trip?

You meet your guide at Santa Maria Maggiore square—wait in the center of the square outside.

What’s included

Your day includes guided visits to three major Vatican basilicas—Santa Maria Maggiore, Saint Paul Outside the Walls, and Saint John in Lateran—with comfortable transfers between sites so you don’t have to walk miles across Rome. You’ll join a small group led by an experienced local guide who shares stories behind Christian relics and art. Free time at each stop lets you take photos or rest before moving on together.