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Book Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran Tickets
Rome Lateran Complex
Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.
St. John Lateran Ticket with Audio Guide
- Immerse yourself in the religious history and papal culture of St. John Lateran, the oldest church in the western world, and the entire complex.
- This consists of the Cloister, the Baptistery, the Holy Stairs (Scala Santa), and its Sancta Sanctorum chapel.
- Explore this sacred location at your own pace with an informative audio guide available in English, French, Spanish, German, and Italian.
- The St. John Lateran Basilica has a history dating back to early Christianity and was also where the Pope lived up to the XIV century.
- Take note of the extraordinary details and Gothic architecture of the church, especially the 7-meter tall statue of Jesus – with the saints by his side – at the entrance, and the interior symbolic paintings of the Paleo-Christian tradition.
- The Cloister is the widest in the city at 36-meters on each side. The gilded marble columns were carved by the most talented stonemasons of Rome – the Vassallettos.
- Originally a place for monks to rest, pray, and meditate – feel the calm energy of this 800-year-old structure as you continue your self-guided tour.
- The Baptistery is next with its iconic dome and two-tier colonnade. Look out for faded mosaic decorations and frescoes, and art left by artists such as Carlo Rainaldi (the altar), and Luigi Valadier (the statue of St. John Baptiste).
- The Scala Santa or ‘Holy Stairs’ are extremely revered by worshippers who only climb up the stairs strictly on their knees.
- Legend has it that these 28 marble steps were the stairs that Jesus climbed upon to Pontius Pilate’s office during his trial.
- The Sancta Sanctorum chapel is considered to be one of the holiest Christian spaces and holds ancient relics including an ancient image of Jesus the Saviour holding the New Testament.
Inclusions
- Admission to the Lateran Complex: Basilica, Cloister, Baptistery, Holy Stairs, and Papal Chapel of the Sancta Sanctorum
- Audio guide available in English, French, Spanish, German, and Italian
Exclusions
- Live guide
- Face masks are mandatory.
- Both male and female visitors must follow an appropriate dress code wearing clothes that cover both shoulders and knees and no hats/caps.
- To make the best of this 2-hour experience, start with the Basilica and the Cloister, and the Treasure Museum. Then proceed to the Baptistery located in the square behind.
- Complete your tour by visiting the Holy Stairs and admiring the Chapel of the Sancta Sanctorum.
- If you only have 1 hour, visit just the Basilica and its Cloister first, followed by the Holy Stairs and Sancta Sanctorum.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Roma Pass & Omnia Card: Hop-on Hop-off Tour of Rome & Discounts
- Explore Rome with the Roma Pass and Omnia Card and get free entry to landmarks, a 72-hour hop-on hop-off bus tour and discounted tickets.
- Save big with reserved entry to Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel with access to the Spiral Staircase, Raphael Rooms, and the Papal Throne.
- Avail free entry to 2 of the city’s spots like the Colosseum and Palatine Hill, and more and enjoy a hop-on hop-off tour dotted with 12 central stops.
- Complimentary public transport access by bus, tram, metro, and overground trains ensures a seamless city experience too.
- After purchasing your pass online, reserve time slots for attractions and once arriving in Rome, pick your passes from collection centers.
Inclusions
- Validity: 72 hours
- 72-hour hop-on hop-off bus tour with 12 stops
- Free admission to 2 other attractions
- Museums, zoos, attractions:
- Museum of Rome, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill, Colosseum & more
- Guidebook and city map
- Unlimited access to Rome’s metro, trams, buses & overground trains
- Get complete details here
Exclusions
- Tour guide
- Attractions not included in the list
- Transport to and from Fiumicino or Ciampino Airports
- First bus: 10am from Termini Station
- Last bus: 4pm from Termini Station
- Frequency: 90 mins
Check out the route map here.
- Tip: As the hop-on hop-off tour connects major spots in the city, check the route map and disembark wherever you want to.
- Each attraction can only be visited once.
- Some attractions may require pre-booking. Please visit individual attraction websites for this information as well as daily operating hours.
- Pre-booking a time slot to visit the Colosseum is mandatory. This can be done online (a charge of 2 EUR per person will be levied) via a call center.
- Pre-booking for the Colosseum at the Roman Forum/Palatine ticket offices on the day is free of charge (subject to availability).
- Secure your pass online and reserve time slots at the attractions you wish to visit.
- When you arrive in Rome, swing by one of our centrally-located collection centers to pick up your passes.
- Once you have your passes in hand, which are valid for 72 hours, explore all the top attractions and enjoy hop-on hop-off tours and free access to public transport like buses, trams, metros and trains.
- The pass is valid for 12 months from the day of purchase.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 90 days before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- These tickets are valid for 24 months from the date of purchase.
Combo (Save 5%): Catacombs of St. Callixtus + St. John Lateran with Audio Guide + Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Tickets
from €79
€75.05
Save 5%
Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
Audio Guide
Guided Tour
- Get ready for an immersive Roman adventure with access to the Catacombs of St. Callixtus, St. John Lateran, Vatican Museums, and Sistine Chapel.
- Venture deep into the mysterious Catacombs of St. Callixtus, ancient frescoes, winding passages, and resting places of popes guided by an expert.
- History comes to life at every corner with an audio-guided tour of St. John Lateran and discover gems like Holy Stairs and the Sancta Sanctorum chapel.
- Step into the lush Vatican Gardens and admire jaw-dropping artworks by Raphael, Bernini, and Michelangelo at the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.
- Choose to have the Catacombs of St. Callixtus guided tour in a language of your choice including English, German, Spanish, French, and Italian.
Inclusions
Catacombs of St. Callixtus
- Entry to Catacombs of St. Callixtus
- English, Italian, French, Spanish or German-speaking guide
St. John Lateran
- Admission to the Lateran Complex: Basilica, Cloister, Baptistery, Holy Stairs, and Papal Chapel of the Sancta Sanctorum
- Audio guide in English, French, Spanish, German & Italian
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
- Skip-the-line entry to Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
- Minibus tour of Vatican Gardens
Catacombs of St. Callixtus
- Tip: Don’t miss out on the “Cubicle of the Sacraments," containing frescoes and sacraments depicting how the early Christians practiced their faith secretly.
- Bags no larger than 40x30x20 cm are allowed. They must be carried on the front or held at your side.
St. John Lateran
- Tip: At the Baptistery consider taking a fun challenge of identifying ancient baptismal font.
- Facilities: Elevator and Ramp.
- Note that not all sections or buildings are easily accessible for wheelchair users.
- The experience is not accessible for wheelchair users, pram/stroller users.
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
- Tip: Art lovers, check out Michelangelo’s "The Last Judgment" on the altar wall in the Sistine Chapel.
- Please find your host at the meeting point specified on the voucher, who will assist you in the check-in process. Please do not head to the entrance of the Vatican Museum directly before meeting your host.
- For guests with documentation of disabilities and visible disabilities the entry is free along with an additional ticket for 1 companion.
- Although it is not included in these tickets, access to St. Peter's Basilica is free but there could be a waiting line during peak season.
- It is recommended to cover tattoos and any other similarly visible distinctive personal signs.
- Facilities: Wheelchair Accessibility.
- Note that the following are not allowed: photography, use of mobile phones
Luggage, large bags, pets, and other small animals (with the exception of guide dogs). - Strict Dress Code: Sleeveless blouses, miniskirts, shorts, and hats are not permitted. Knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Combo (Save 5%): Catacombs of St. Callixtus + St. John Lateran + Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Tickets
€59
€56.05
Save 5%
Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
Audio Guide
Guided Tour
- Experience 3 of Rome’s tourist attractions with this discounted combo ticket that offers a guided tour of the Catacombs of St. Callixtus, a St. John Lateran ticket with an audio guide, and tickets to Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel with escorted entrance.
- Join an experienced tour guide and uncover the long-held secrets of the St. Callixtus Catacombs and explore several tombs of the earliest popes.
- Embark on a self-guided tour of the 4th-century Basilica of St. John Lateran, the oldest basilica in the Western world, and experience it at your own pace.
- Listen to the audio guide in one of five available languages and get a keen insight into the history of the Cloister, Baptistery, Holy Stairs (Scala Santa), and Sancta Sanctorum chapel during your visit.
- Discover the astounding collection of 20,000 artworks in the Vatican Museums leisurely with an escorted entrance that will take you inside with priority access.
Inclusions
Guided Tour of Catacombs of St. Callixtus
- Access to the Catacombs of St. Callixtus
- Expert multilingual tour guide (English, Italian, French, Spanish, and German)
St. John Lateran Ticket with Audio Guide
- Admission to the Lateran Complex: Basilica, Cloister, Baptistery, Holy Stairs, and Papal Chapel of the Sancta Sanctorum
- Audio guide available in English, French, Spanish, German, and Italian
Tickets to Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel with Escorted Entrance
- Escorted entry to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
Exclusions
Tickets to Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel with Escorted Entrance
- Tickets to St. Peter's Basilica
Guided Tour of Catacombs of St. Callixtus
- Tip: People who are claustrophobic should avoid this experience due to its underground location.
- The tour is available in English, Italian, French, Spanish, and German languages.
- Luggage: The maximum size of backpacks or handbags brought should not exceed 40x30x20 cm dimensions. Plus, visitors must carry the luggage on the front or hold them by their side.
- The experience is not suitable for wheelchair users and pram/stroller users.
St. John Lateran Ticket with Audio Guide
- Tip: Download an online map for free to easily navigate between the locations.
- Facilities: Wheelchair Accessibility, Pram/Stroller Accessibility.
- This audio guide is available in English, Italian, Spanish, French, and German languages.
- Guide dogs are allowed inside the venue.
- Dress Code: The clothing of both men and women should cover their knees and shoulders and should not include hats/caps.
- Please note that certain sections or buildings included in this ticket may not be accessible for wheelchair users.
Tickets to Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel with Escorted Entrance
- Tip: Do online research before visiting the museums and prepare a checklist of the artworks and rooms you absolutely want to visit.
- Facilities: Wheelchair Accessibility, Pram/Stroller Accessibility.
- Guide dogs are allowed inside the venue.
- Visitors are strictly prohibited from using mobile phones or taking photographs inside the Sistine Chapel.
- Avoid dressing in sleeveless blouses, miniskirts, shorts, and hats in order to maintain decorum.
- Luggage and/or large baggage cannot be carried inside the venue. You can drop them off at the cloakroom service for free.
- Except for guide dogs, other pets and small animals are not permitted inside the museums.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
RomeSt. John Lateran Complex Tickets
Top things to do in Rome
Why Visit Archbasilica of St. John Lateran?
- Slice of History: The Archbasilica of St. John Lateran has witnessed the ravages of time and two large fires. Initially, the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran was a Lateran family mansion.
- Architectural Marvel: The Archbasilica of St. John Lateran contains impeccable Renaissance architecture, marble columns, tapestries, paintings, and frescoes. The entrance facade dating from the Roman times, St. John's five naves, and the biggest Egyptian Obelisk are the highlights of the Lateran Archbasilica tour.
- Papal Relics: The Cloister and Baptistery buildings beside the main residence are some important highlights of the Basilica. It is also an important reliquary that houses the skulls of Saint Peter and Paul and other papal tombs.
- Grand Interiors: Back in the days of Constantine, the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran boasted seven silver altars, a gold-coated apse vault, and about 100 chandeliers. The Cosmatesque interiors are also fantastic historical remnants not to be missed out on.
- Religious Importance: Although its importance as the Papal residence waned, the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran ranks above all other churches in Rome. The Latin inscription at the entrance declares Christ to be the real savior.
Your Archbasilica of St. John Lateran Tickets Explained
St. John Lateran Ticket with Audio Guide
- Book the St. John Lateran Ticket with Audio Guide for a deeper understanding of the historicity of the most sacrilegious cathedral in Rome.
- The informative audio guide included in the St. John Lateran Ticket comes in English, French, Spanish, German, and Italian for a more personalized experience.
- The St. John Lateran tickets include the Cloister, Baptistery, Scala Santa Stairs, and Scala Sanctorum Chapel. These attractions are among some of the holiest places among Catholics.
Super Flexible Cancellation Policy
Enjoy a Super Flexible Cancellation Policy with your St. John Lateran Tickets by booking them online. You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund. For more information, make sure to check your details before purchasing.
Archbasilica of St. John Lateran Highlights
Ancient Roman Facade
The giant bronze doors guarding the Basilica have been taken from the Roman Senate Forum and are older than the Church itself. The entrance has a 7-meter-tall statue of Jesus, surrounded by his saints and disciples. The Latin inscription declares, “Christo Salvatori.”
Biggest Egyptian Obelisk
One of the most noteworthy highlights of the Lateran Basilica is the towering Egyptian obelisk in front of the northern facade. It originally belonged to the Karnak Temple in Egypt. Much later, it was sent to Constantinople and then erected at Circus Maximus.
St John’s Five Naves
As you step through the entrance, you will be enchanted by the sight of St John’s long five naves, separated by towering marble columns. The golden painting above symbolizes Pagan traditions like doves holding an olive branch, laurel, and crossed palms.
Altar of the Sacrament
The Altar of the Sacrament could either have been shipped from Jerusalem or could be an adaptation of the Pagan Altar in the Capitoline Jupiter Temple. One of the most poignant relics in the Basilica is the wood fragment contained in the tympanum. It is said to have been a part of the Last Supper table, where Jesus dined with his 12 Apostles.
Mosaic Cloister Building
The cloister adjacent to the Lateran Archbasilica is almost 36 meters wide on both sides. They were carved by the Vassalletti, the most talented stonemasons of Rome. The most striking feature of the Lateran cloister is not the statues or Roman gilded columns, but the intimacy and pinching silence of the 800-year-old establishment.
San Giovanni in Fonte
Originally established in the 4th century, the Baptistery connects to a church called St John in Fonte. A two-tier colonnade at the center of the structure gives it an octagonal shape and forms a dome. Throughout centuries, the mosaics have worn off and many artists like Borromini, Rainaldi, and Sacchi have left their frescoes on these walls.
Scala Sancta Stairs
Scala Sancta Stairs, also known as the Holy Stairs, are a series of 28 steps on the right side of the St. John entrance. They are believed to be the ones Jesus climbed on his way to Pontius Pilate’s Office during his trial. The walnut plates and rich layering of frescoes are the main highlights of these stairs.
Sancta Sanctorum Chapel
Pilgrims undertake the evocative Sancta Stairs journey on their knees to this day. Upon reaching a thick glass wall at the top, pilgrims can see the most sacred place of Christianity, the chapel of St. Lawrence. It functioned as the personal chapel of the early Popes of the Lateran Palace.
The Achiropita Painting
The Achiropita, literally meaning ‘not created by mankind’ is a painting located inside the chapel that shows Jesus holding the New Testament. Its origin is unknown, however this ancient relic has been around since the 8th century. The silver and gold wrappings over this fresco is awe-inspiring.
Plan Your Visit to the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
Timings
Getting There
Facilities
Nearby
Visitor Tips
Basilica Timings
Monday to Sunday: 9 AM to 5 PM
Sancta Stairs and Sancta Sanctorum Timings:
Monday to Saturday: 9 AM to 1 PM, 3 PM to 5 PM
Sunday: 3 PM to 5 PM
- Duration of Visit: The Archbasilica of St. John Lateran Tickets with Audio Guide last for about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Best Time to Visit: The pleasant weather and peak tourist season during the months of April to May and September to October make it the best time to visit the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran.
Address: Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano, 4, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
Find on Maps
- By Bus: Get on any bus on the 714, 792, 81, or 85, 87, F02 route.
Nearest Stop: Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano - By Car: The distance from the Rome Airport to the Lateran Complex is 28.9km.
Nearest Stop: INPS Roma Parcheggio Auto or Super Rimessa Metronio - By Train: Board on trains along the FL1, FL3, FL4, and RV lines.
Nearest Stop: Piazza di Porta Maggiore - By Metro: Take the Line A metro and stop at San Giovanni.
Nearest Stop: Vittorio Emanuele (3 mins) or San Giovanni (5 mins)
- Toilets: There are modern washroom facilities inside the St. John Lateran Archbasilica.
- Accessibility: There are ramps inside and outside the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran.
- Audio Guides: The St. John Lateran Tickets with Audio Guide comes in 5 languages- English, French, Spanish, German, and Italian.
- Photography: You are permitted to click photographs without flash inside the cathedral.
- Roman Colosseum: The Colosseum is a standing testament to the ancient Roman tradition of letting gladiators fight to the death to entertain the Emperor and a rowdy crowd. Make sure to visit the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
- St. Peter’s Basilica: Known for having the tallest dome in the world, St Peter’s Basilica boasts the intricacies of Renaissance-era architecture and offers breathtaking views of the city. The Vatican Necropolis, an ancient burial ground, offers a deeper insight into the mausoleums and tombs of the 1st and 4th centuries.
- Vatican Museum: A dream for art lovers, the Vatican Museum showcases the Sistine Chapel, Raphael’s Transfiguration, and the Pinecone Courtyard in all its glory. The Maps Room, Tapestries Hall, and Rotunda Room are some of its other marvels.
- Baths of Caracalla: The Caracalla Baths are the second-largest bathing complexes and could accommodate almost 1600 Roman bathers back in the day. Like every Roman architecture, the Baths are dotted with frescoes, mosaics, and sculptures.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The Archbasilica of St. John Lateran tour will involve a lot of walking. Wear the most comfortable shoes you can find, like sneakers or flip-flops, as there is a lot to cover.
- Wear A Hat: Wear a hat and sunscreen for added protection.
- Book a Guided Tour: To appreciate the rich historicity and legacy of the cathedral, it is recommended that you book a guided tour of the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran.
- Maintain Dress Code: Please note that Catholic churches have a strict dress code. Wear clothes that cover your knees and shoulders.
- Photography: You are permitted to click pictures without flash inside the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran.
- Wheelchair Accessible: There are ramps inside and outside the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran for wheelchair visitors.
All Your Questions About Archbasilica of St. John Lateran Answered
Q. Can I buy Archbasilica of St. John Lateran Tickets online?
A. Yes, you can buy the St. John Lateran tickets online.
Q. What is the best way to buy Archbasilica of St. John Lateran Tickets?
A. The best way to buy the St. John Lateran tickets is to purchase them online.
Q. Is there any discount on the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran Tickets?
A. Get great deals and attractive discounts on booking the St. John Lateran tickets online.
Q. How long is the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran tour?
A. The St. John Lateran Tour with Audio Guide lasts for approximately an hour and 30 minutes.
Q. Is there an entrance fee for the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran?
A. There is no entrance fee for the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran.
Q. When to avoid visiting the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran?
A. The open space outside the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran is used for a concert on the 1st of May (Labor Day). It might be difficult to walk around the area on that day.
Q. Why is the Archbasilica of St. John called the Lateran Basilica?
A. The Archbasilica of St. John Lateran was originally built by an influential house in Rome called the Lateran family. Suspected of treason, Emperor Nero seized the Lateran Complex and the first Catholic Roman Emperor gave it to the Church.
Q. Why is the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran important?
A. The Archbasilica of St. John Lateran is the oldest church in the West. It houses several Holy relics. Its rich historicity is marked by renowned painters and sculptors from the ancient Roman to the Neoclassical era.
Q. Where is the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran located?
A. The Archbasilica of St. John Lateran is located on Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano, 4, 00184 Roma RM, Italy.
Q. What is the best way to reach the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran?
A. The best way to reach the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran is to grab a metro from Line A and get down at Vittorio Emanuele or San Giovanni.
Q. What are the timings of the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran?
A. The Archbasilica of St. John Lateran is open for public viewing from 9 AM to 5 PM.
Q. What are the major attractions of the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran?
A. The Sancta Stairs and Sancta Sanctorum, St John’s five naves, the Cloister and Baptistery buildings, and numerous other frescoes, paintings, and sculptures attract plenty of visitors to the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran year after year.
Q. Is the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran wheelchair accessible?
A. There are ramps inside and outside the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran for wheelchair visitors.
Q. Is photography allowed inside the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran?
A. Photography without flash is permitted inside the cathedral.
Q. What is the best time to visit the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran?
A. The pleasant weather and peak tourist season during the months of April to May and September to October make it the best time to visit the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran.
Q. What are some attractions near the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran?
A. The Roman Colosseum, St. Peter’s Basilica, Baths of Caracalla, and the Vatican Museum are some of the attractions near the Lateran Archbasilica.