St. Peter's Basilica Tickets & Tours (2026)

St. Peter's Basilica Opening Hours

Basilica

April – September	7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
October – March	7:00 AM – 6:30 PM

Dome

April – September	8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
October – March	8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Treasury Museum

April – September	9:00 AM – 6:15 PM
October – March	9:00 AM – 5:15 PM

Vatican Grottoes

Year-round

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Important: The basilica is closed during Papal audiences and special ceremonies, which usually take place on Wednesday mornings in St. Peter's Square. Check the Vatican calendar before your visit.

Opening Hours FAQ

Common questions about visiting times

Is the basilica open on Sundays?

Yes, the basilica is open on Sundays, but access may be limited during morning Papal Mass and the Angelus prayer at noon. The dome may have restricted access on Sunday mornings.

What happens during Papal audiences?

Papal general audiences are held on Wednesday mornings, usually at 10:00 AM in St. Peter's Square (or the Paul VI Audience Hall in winter). During these events, access to the basilica is typically restricted until the audience ends, usually around noon.

What is the last entry time?

Last entry to the basilica is typically 30 minutes before closing time. For the dome, last entry is approximately 1 hour before closing to allow time for the climb and descent.

Is the basilica open on Italian public holidays?

The basilica is generally open on Italian public holidays, though hours may vary for major Catholic celebrations such as Christmas, Easter, and other solemnities. Special Masses and ceremonies may restrict tourist access during parts of the day.

Opening Hours