How to Visit St. Peter’s Basilica During the Jubilee Year: 10 Tips & FAQ

How to Visit St. Peter’s Basilica During the Jubilee Year

St. Peter’s Basilica is one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, drawing millions of visitors worldwide. If you’re wondering how to visit St. Peter’s Basilica during the Jubilee Year, here’s everything you need to know for a smooth and enjoyable experience.

1. Ticket Booking and Entry

During the Jubilee (2025), how to visit St. Peter’s Basilica efficiently starts with booking tickets in advance. While entry is free, reserving a ticket helps skip long lines. Tickets can be booked through the official website: www.basilicasanpietro.va, where you can also purchase access to the Dome.

For Vatican Museums tickets, visit their official site separately.

2. Opening Hours

St. Peter’s Basilica is typically open from 7:00 AM to 7:10 PM, but special events during the Jubilee may affect hours. Always check before your visit.

3. Dress Code

If you’re planning how to visit St. Peter’s Basilica, remember that a strict dress code applies: shoulders and knees must be covered. Visitors not adhering to this rule may be denied entry.

4. Avoiding Crowds

One of the biggest challenges when figuring out how to visit St. Peter’s Basilica is managing the crowds. Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon, and avoid Wednesdays and Sundays due to Papal events. Special Jubilee Audiences (often on Saturdays) can also make the Basilica busier than usual.

If you want to visit the Basilica, avoid going in the morning on Wednesday and Sunday, and also on the day of the Special Jubilee Audiences (usually on Saturday morning). You can check the full calendar of the Jubilee Events here.

5. Visiting the Dome and Other Attractions

If you want to make your visit to St. Peter’s Basilica even more memorable, consider climbing the Dome. The panoramic views of Rome are spectacular! Tickets for the Dome should be purchased in advance during the Jubilee Years to save time and ensure availability.

7. Walking through the Holy Door

As of January 5, 2025, with the opening of the Holy Door at St. Paul’s Outside the Walls, pilgrims can now visit all four Holy Doors of Rome’s major papal basilicas: St. Peter’s, St. John Lateran, St. Mary Major, and St. Paul’s.

To receive the Jubilee plenary indulgence, pilgrims must go to confession, receive Holy Communion, and enter a Holy Door. Visit the official Jubilee website to register: https://www.iubilaeum2025.va/en.html.

Registration Process:

• Individuals: Register in the “Reserved Area” to receive a Pilgrim Card with a QR code, then select a Basilica, date, and time under “Holy Doors Registration.”
• Groups (up to 60 people): Only the leader registers and adds members. Larger groups must contact the Dicastery at pilgrims@iubilaeum2025.va.

Meeting Point:
For St. Peter’s Basilica, pilgrims meet in Piazza Pia (near Castel Sant’Angelo) at the confirmed time, where volunteers will distribute an official Holy Year cross.

For assistance, consult the tutorial: Registration Guide.

7. Guided Tours

If you’re unsure how to visit St. Peter’s Basilica efficiently, or if you want to truly enjoy the treasures of the Vatican, consider booking our private tour of St. Peter’s Basilica for a complete and smooth visit. Our guides provide an excellent overview of the Basilica, ensuring you don’t miss any of its key highlights.

Additionally, if you book one of our Vatican Museums tours, you can access St. Peter’s Basilica directly from the Sistine Chapel. This is a great option to avoid the main entrance lines, but note that this access is only allowed if you’re part of a guided tour, as individual visitors are not permitted to enter the Basilica this way.

8. Accessibility

Wondering how to visit St. Peter’s Basilica if you have mobility issues? The Basilica is fully accessible, with ramps and elevators available. While reaching the Dome requires climbing over 330 steps, an elevator provides partial access for those who need it.

Book your elevator access along with Dome tickets here.

In order to reach the top of the Dome, it’ll be necessary to climb over 330 steps, but you can still enjoy a great view from the top of the basilica by taking an elevator, even in a wheelchair.

9. Security and Safety

Due to its popularity, security checks are mandatory before entering St. Peter’s Basilica. Be prepared for these screenings, especially during busy times. Booking your tickets in advance will help streamline the entry process, but make sure to allow extra time for security checks.

10. Key Tips for the Jubilee Years

• Book tickets in advance to skip the long lines.
• Visit early or late to avoid the crowds. Better early than late.
• Dress appropriately by covering your shoulders and knees.
• Consider a guided tour for a more comprehensive visit to St. Peter’s Basilica.
• If you want an easier entry, book a Vatican Museums tour for access through the Sistine Chapel.

Conclusion

Knowing how to visit St. Peter’s Basilica during the Jubilee Year ensures a hassle-free and memorable experience. Whether booking tickets in advance, choosing off-peak hours, or opting for a guided tour, planning ahead will enhance your visit.

No matter how you choose to explore St. Peter’s Basilica, this iconic landmark will leave you with unforgettable memories. Make sure to prepare ahead to make the most of your visit!