Today
Open 07:00–07:00
Last Admission
06:30
Santa Maria Maggiore is open daily with generous hours, making it easy to fit into any Rome itinerary. Special hours apply during major religious events and holidays, so always check ahead if visiting during these times.
Jan 1 TO Dec 31 Timings Days (Jan 1 TO Dec 31) | TIMINGS | Last Admission |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 07:00–07:00 | 06:30 |
| Tuesday | 07:00–07:00 | 06:30 |
| Wednesday | 07:00–07:00 | 06:30 |
| Thursday | 07:00–07:00 | 06:30 |
| Friday | 07:00–07:00 | 06:30 |
| Saturday | 07:00–07:00 | 06:30 |
| Sunday (Today) | 07:00–07:00 | 06:30 |
Regular Hours: Open daily from 7am to 6:45pm.
Last Entry: Last admission is typically 15 minutes before closing (around 6:30pm).
Special Hours/Closures: The basilica remains open year-round, but certain areas may be closed during Masses, papal ceremonies, or special events. On August 5th (Feast of Our Lady of the Snows), expect large crowds and possible restricted access during the petal “snowfall” ceremony. Christmas and Easter periods may see extended hours or special services—arrive early for major feast days. No regular closure days, but check the official website for updates during major Catholic holidays or Jubilee years.
Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica Entry Tickets
Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica Guided Tour
Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica Underground Guided Tour
For a peaceful experience, visit on weekdays, especially Tuesday to Thursday, when the basilica is generally quieter and you can admire the art and architecture without crowds. Weekends, public holidays, and religious feast days (like August 5th or Christmas) tend to be much busier, with more tour groups and pilgrims. Early mornings (7–9am) and late afternoons (after 5pm) are the calmest times, even during peak season.
Peak season runs from April to October, with the highest visitor numbers in late spring, summer, and early autumn. During these months, expect more tourists and occasional short waits at security. For a more relaxed visit, come in the low season, January, February, or November, when the basilica is beautifully serene and you can enjoy the mosaics and chapels almost to yourself. Christmas and Easter are magical but busy, especially for those wishing to see the Nativity relics or attend special services. If you want to witness the unique “snowfall” of rose petals, plan for August 5th, but arrive early as it draws large crowds. Overall, Santa Maria Maggiore’s long hours mean you can usually find a quiet moment, even in high season, by visiting early or late in the day.
| Mass type | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|
Daily Mass (Weekdays) | 7am, 8am, 9am, 10am, 11am, 12pm, 6pm | Pauline Chapel |
Sunday Mass (Pauline Chapel) | 7am, 8am, 9am | Pauline Chapel |
Saturday Vigil Mass | 6pm | Papal Altar |
Sunday Solemn Masses | 10am, 12pm, 6pm | Papal Altar |
Special Masses & Liturgies | Eucharistic Adoration, Confirmations, Penitential Liturgies, Stations of the Cross, Lenten “Stationes” | Various chapels |
The time needed to tour Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome depends on what you want to see. A general visit to the basilica itself typically takes 30–45 minutes, allowing you to admire the nave, coffered ceiling, mosaics, and chapels. If you plan to explore additional areas such as the Liberian Museum, underground archaeological sites, and the terraces, you should allow 1.5–2 hours. Guided tours often last around 1–1.5 hours and provide deeper insight into the basilica’s art, history, and legendary events like the Summer Snowfall.
Yes, the basilica is generally open every day, though specific areas such as the terraces, Liberian Museum, or underground sites may have limited hours or require tickets.
The main basilica is rarely closed, but it may be inaccessible on certain public holidays, during special events, or for liturgical ceremonies. It’s best to check in advance before visiting.
Visiting early in the morning or late afternoon on weekdays is ideal for avoiding crowds. The basilica is busiest during weekends, religious holidays, and summer tourist season.
A general visit to the basilica takes 30–45 minutes. If you include the Liberian Museum, terraces, and underground areas, plan for 1.5–2 hours. Guided tours usually last around 1–1.5 hours.
Entry to the main basilica is generally free. Tickets are required for special areas such as the Liberian Museum, terraces, or underground ruins. Guided tours may also include ticketed access.
Yes, Santa Maria Maggiore is an active place of worship. Visitors can attend Mass, though certain areas may be restricted during services. Check the schedule for Mass times if you wish to participate.
It’s recommended to arrive 15–30 minutes before your scheduled time to allow for security checks and to ensure entry to ticketed sections like the museum, terraces, or underground areas.
Yes, summer, Easter, Christmas, and special Jubilee years attract more visitors. Visiting during the off-peak season or weekdays generally ensures a quieter experience.