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Santa Maria Maggiore Tickets
Explore world's oldest Marian basilica at your own pace.
- Enjoy timed entry to the first church dedicated to the Virgin Mary, a revered Marian shrine and one of Rome's four major papal basilicas.
- See beautiful 5th-century mosaics on the nave and apse and visit the Holy Cradle relic, believed to be part of the manger where Jesus was born.
- Your visit is elevated with an audio guide available in English, Italian, Spanish, French, or German, giving you a deep insights into the basilica’s art, history, and hidden treasures.
- Upgrade your experience with dome access for panoramic views of Rome and a unique perspective of the basilica’s grandeur.
Explore world's oldest Marian basilica at your own pace.
- Enjoy timed entry to the first church dedicated to the Virgin Mary, a revered Marian shrine and one of Rome's four major papal basilicas.
- See beautiful 5th-century mosaics on the nave and apse and visit the Holy Cradle relic, believed to be part of the manger where Jesus was born.
- Your visit is elevated with an audio guide available in English, Italian, Spanish, French, or German, giving you a deep insights into the basilica’s art, history, and hidden treasures.
- Upgrade your experience with dome access for panoramic views of Rome and a unique perspective of the basilica’s grandeur.
Inclusions
- Entry to Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
- Audio guide in Italian, English, Spanish, French, and German (as per option selected)
- Dome access (as per option selected)
Exclusions
- Entry to Polo Museale
- The ticket grants timed entry to the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major. Access to the Liberian Museum Center (Blessings Loggia, Hall of the Popes, Bernini's Staircase, and the Liberian Museum) requires a separate ticket.
- Entry is via a reserved line, but this does not include access through the Holy Door.
- Luggage and large bags are not allowed through the reserved line.
- Show your voucher at the entrance to get your audio guide. Return the audio guide to the Reception Desk within 60 minutes of your booked time.
- Strict dress code: Ensure that your shoulders and knees are covered to enter the cathedral.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Reviews
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Snapshots from our guests
3.8
53 ratings
22
18
2
5
6
Guests from Brazil, United States, United Kingdom and over 11 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Carmelo
May 2025Verified booking
The visit was good but I would have preferred that the guide did not have to speak 3 languages to make himself understood. I also would have liked a complete tour of the basilica and not just the upper part.
View original review in Italian
Mrs
Apr 2025Verified booking
Breathtaking beauty and architecture gives 5 stars, no wonder the pope wished to be laid to rest here. But we did not have to show our booking so a little confused why charged for tickets and had no audio guide offered so a 1 star on that. It seemed to be free entry for all at this sad time?
Erin
Apr 2025Verified booking
Our guide was excellent. He spoke English well and we could understand him easily. He gave good eye contact and watched out for all of the pilgrims.
Regina
Mar 2025Verified booking
I purchased a ticket for audio guide and access to dome. When I arrived and showed the QR code the voucher showed dome tour and no audio. I had to pay 6 extra euro. Also, the instructions by the tour operator was unclear as to where to start the audio. I actually had a guide but she spoke little English. Not a seamless experience.
Tiziana
May 2025Verified booking
Visit climb kindness exceptional panorama very good guide, skip line x holy door!!!
View original review in Italian
HORACIO
May 2025Verified booking
Good organization, despite the number of people.
View original review in Spanish
Everardo
May 2025Verified booking
Everything on time with attention was great I've recommended it to my friends
View original review in Portuguese
Kerstin
May 2025Verified booking
no guide received unclear where
View original review in German
Delio
May 2025Verified booking
Everything was fine and it worked smoothly
View original review in Italian
José
May 2025Verified booking
Organization and waiting time.
View original review in Portuguese
Wolfgang
Apr 2025Verified booking
Good all-round view, Bernini Staircase and plenty of time to visit and take photos.
View original review in German
Hedviga
Mar 2025Verified booking
Everything was on time, the Guide was very nice and full of informations. Great !
Ikaro
May 2025Verified booking
Klaus
May 2025Verified booking
Zsivnovszki
May 2025Verified booking
Mario
May 2025Verified booking
Antonio
May 2025Verified booking
Tiziana
May 2025Verified booking
Paolo
May 2025Verified booking
Serena
May 2025Verified booking
Roselayne
May 2025Verified booking
GIUSEPPE
May 2025Verified booking
Mollie
May 2025Verified booking
Antonello
May 2025Verified booking
zanardo
May 2025Verified booking
Uncover hidden ruins beneath this historic papal basilica on a guided underground tour.
- Enjoy entry and an expert-led guided tour through the underground archaeological area of the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major, the largest Marian sanctuary in the West.
- Elevate your visit with an expert guide who’ll bring the basilica’s fascinating origins and significance to life with lesser-know legends and stories.
- Explore an active dig site with ancient Roman houses and remnants of the original 4th-century basilica, revealing centuries of history beneath your feet.
- From history buffs and devout pilgrims to architecture enthusiasts, this intimate experience caters to everyone's inspiration.
Uncover hidden ruins beneath this historic papal basilica on a guided underground tour.
- Enjoy entry and an expert-led guided tour through the underground archaeological area of the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major, the largest Marian sanctuary in the West.
- Elevate your visit with an expert guide who’ll bring the basilica’s fascinating origins and significance to life with lesser-know legends and stories.
- Explore an active dig site with ancient Roman houses and remnants of the original 4th-century basilica, revealing centuries of history beneath your feet.
- From history buffs and devout pilgrims to architecture enthusiasts, this intimate experience caters to everyone's inspiration.
Inclusions
- Admission to the Basilica of St. Mary Major
- Guided tour of Treasury Room and Archaeological Area
- English or Italian speaking guide
Exclusions
- Transfers
- The tour involves underground areas and is not recommended for individuals with walking difficulties.
- The tour is NOT available for children under the age of 7 years & kids under 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult.
- Starting from January 1, 2025, access through the reserved line entrance will prohibit bags and luggage.
- You can modify your reservation once, up to 24 hours before the tour, subject to availability. However, changes to the number of participants are not allowed.
- Students up to 25 years old (with a valid student ID) and children aged 7-18 can avail of reduced pricing. Proof of eligibility is required on the day of the visit.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
RomeSanta Maria Maggiore Basilica
Make the most of Rome
Why visit Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica?
- One of the four major basilicas in Rome: As one of the four major basilicas in Rome, Santa Maria Maggiore holds great religious significance. Pilgrims and visitors come to the basilica to pay homage to the Virgin Mary, and the church's history is tied to various religious events and miracles.
- Steeped in legend and miracles: According to legend, the Virgin Mary appeared in a dream to both the Pope and a Roman patrician named John. She instructed them to build a church at the site where snow would fall the following day, despite it being the height of summer. The next day, August 5th, snow fell on Esquiline Hill, and the basilica was built to honor this miraculous event.
- Papal connection: Although located in Italy, the basilica enjoys extraterritoriality, meaning it's considered Vatican territory for legal and diplomatic purposes. Popes, particularly Pope Francis, frequently visit Santa Maria Maggiore. Francis even stated that his tomb is "already prepared" there.
- Panoramic views of Rome: Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica is situated on the Esquiline Hill and offers panoramic views of the city. Its central location makes it convenient for visitors to include it in their itinerary as well.
Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica Highlights
Bell Tower
Mosaics of the Triumphal Arch
Chapel of the Nativity
Papal Altar
Crypt of the Nativity
Overlooking the basilica, the Bell Tower of Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica stands almost 75 meters, making it the tallest bell tower in Rome. With its Romanesque design and elegant proportions, the Bell Tower provides some of the most stunning views of the Rome skyline.
The triumphal arch is located above the main altar of the Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica. The stunning mosaics on the arch depict scenes from the Old and New Testaments, including the Coronation of the Virgin Mary and other instances from the life of Christ.
The Chapel of the Nativity within Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica is particularly noteworthy. It features frescoes depicting the birth of Jesus and adds to the overall artistic and religious experience of the visit.
Located just beneath the main altar at Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, the ornate Papal Altar is decorated beautifully. The Papal Altar is of great significance at the basilica, since it is presided over by the Pope during special religious ceremonies.
Located beneath the main nave, the Crypt of the Nativity is an altar that is believed to contain five fragments of the original Bethlehem manger of Jesus Christ. Owing to this, Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica is one of the seven pilgrimage sites of Rome.
Plan your visit to Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica
Timings
Location
Facilities
Tips
Eat
Stay
7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Last entry: 6:30 PM.
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica is early in the morning, just after it has opened. During this time crowds are less and you easily and comfortably explore the basilica and marvel at its beautiful frescoes and mosaics.
Address: P.za di Santa Maria Maggiore, 00100 Roma RM, Italy.
- By bus: 16, 70, 71, 75, 117, 360, 590, 649, 714, F20
Nearest stop: S. Maria Maggiore - By subway: A, B, B1
Nearest stop: Termini - By train: Trenitalia
Nearest stop: Roma Termini
- Wheelchair accessible
- Washrooms
- Information desk
- Gift shop
- Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and comfortably explore Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica.
- On August 5th every year, white flower petals are dropped from the ceiling of Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica. This event commemorates the day when snow, during the height of summers in Rome, miraculously fell on Esquiline Hill.
- Conversely, if you’re in the vicinity at night, catch a glimpse of the basilica’s beautiful illumination. If you’re lucky, hear the choir sing too!
- The Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica is a place of worship, so dress modestly. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered when you visit the basilica.
- Plan your visit to Santa Maria Maggiore on August 5th, so that you can be a part of the ceremony where white flower petals are dropped from the ceiling of the basilica to commemorate the miraculous event that led to the creation of the basilica.
- There are special designated areas exclusively meant for prayers and reflection. These areas are clearly marked inside the basilica, so be mindful of these areas, and ensure that you do not disturb the visitors here.
- The Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica is centrally located, so plan to visit nearby attractions as well.
- Look beyond the obvious highlights like the mosaics and Sistine Chapel. Pay attention to details like the Cosmati floor in the nave, the tomb of Bernini, and the exquisite marble reliefs depicting the life of the Virgin Mary.
- Photography is permitted inside Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, but flash photography and tripods are not allowed inside the basilica.
- Ristorante Alessio: Situated 1 km from the basilica, Ristorante Alessio serves traditional Italian cuisine, including pizza, pasta, and seafood. The outdoor seating area is pleasant for dining al fresco.
- La Carbonara: If you're a fan of the classic Roman pasta dish, carbonara, this restaurant is a good choice. Located 1.5 km from the basilica, La Carbonara specializes in various pasta dishes.
- Ai Tre Scalini: This is a popular wine bar and restaurant in the Monti district, that is only 1.3 km from Santa Maria Maggiore. Ai tre Scalini offers a selection of wines, craft beers, and a menu featuring Roman and Italian specialties.
- Il Bocconcino: 2.5 km from the basilica, Il Bocconcino is known for its pizza, pasta, and seafood dishes. It's a casual restaurant with a warm ambiance.
Budget: Relais Santa Maria Maggiore (180m), Hotel Demetra Capitolina Roma (220m), Hotel Valle Rome (240m).
Mid-range: Hotel Gallia (100m), Mecenate Palace Hotel (150m), The Hive Hotel (270m).
Luxury: DoubleTree by Hilton Rome Monti (210m), Monti Palace Hotel (450m), Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel (540m).
Beyond Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica
Roman Forum
Located 1.3 km from Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, the Roman Forum is a rectangular forum (plaza) surrounded by the ruins of several important ancient government buildings at the center of Rome. It was the focal point of public life in ancient Rome and served as a marketplace, ceremonial center, and social and political hub.
Trevi Fountain
Located 2.6 km from Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, Trevi Fountain is arguably the most famous fountain in Rome. Don’t forget to toss a coin into the fountain and make a wish when you visit the attraction.
Frequently asked questions about Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica tickets
How much is a ticket to Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica?
A ticket for Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica will cost you €19.
How to book tickets to Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica?
You can purchase tickets for Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica online or purchase them directly at the attraction. The best way to book your tickets is online, since it helps save time and money.
Why should I book Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica tickets online?
- Convenience: With a simple tap of your fingers, you can book online tickets for the attraction from wherever you are. You can also choose the time and day that works best for you when booking tickets online.
- Guided tours: You can opt for a guided tour of the attraction when booking online. This option may not be available if you purchase your tickets offline.
- Cancellation policy: You can cancel online tickets for a full refund.
- Skip-the-line access: Certain online tickets provide skip-the-line access to popular attractions. Skip-the-line may not be available for offline purchase.
What do Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica tickets include?
Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica tickets include access to the basilica. You can also upgrade your standard ticket to include an English-speaking guide, entrance to Loggia of Benedictions, escorted entrance to the basilica, and skip-the-line access to the Santa Prassede Church.
Can I get skip-the-line tickets for Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica?
You can upgrade your standard tickets for Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica to include skip-the-line access to the Santa Prassede Church.
How do I access the Loggia of Benedictions and the Santa Prassede Church?
You can upgrade your ticket for Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica to include entry access to the Loggia of Benedictions and priority access to Santa Prassede Church.
What is the cancellation policy for Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica?
You can cancel your Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica tickets 24 hours before the experience begins for a full refund.
How long does it take to complete a Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica tour?
It can take you around 1 to 2 hours to complete a tour of Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica.
Millions love heading out with us
Soumya
United KingdomJuni, 2023
We were informed well in advance that the tour was rescheduled, and it was extremely easy to manage that with the provider over WhatsApp.
Our guide Mattia Santandrea was very nice and professional, and explained everything fabulously. Would definitely recommend!
English Guided Tour of Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica
Patricia
United StatesMai, 2025
Walking through the Holy Doors. Most amazing. But the underground tour was very well explained by our tour guide. But definitely recommend this Basilica as a must see when I'm Rome. Pope Francis resting place is there. Opportunity for confession and mass, and it's beautiful.
Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore Underground Guided Tour
Carmelo
Mai, 2025
The visit was good but I would have preferred that the guide did not have to speak 3 languages to make himself understood.
I also would have liked a complete tour of the basilica and not just the upper part.
View original review in Italian
Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore Tickets with Audio Guide
Mrs
United KingdomApr., 2025
Breathtaking beauty and architecture gives 5 stars, no wonder the pope wished to be laid to rest here.
But we did not have to show our booking so a little confused why charged for tickets and had no audio guide offered so a 1 star on that. It seemed to be free entry for all at this sad time?
Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore Tickets with Audio Guide