Landmarks

Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica Entry Tickets

4.4/5(197)

Baratta R

Couple

Verified booking

Jun 2026

I liked how easy it was to get the tickets, the staff member was very helpful, and the audio guide was fantastic. Thanks for everything—we loved the cathedral and were happy to see Pope Francis’s tomb.

Clemens O

Couple

Verified booking

Apr 2026

The instructions and descriptions of the available ticket options, as well as the reservation process, went smoothly. We arrived more than 30 minutes early. But since there weren’t many people there in the morning, we had no trouble getting into the beautiful basilica. Thanks to the audio guides, we received a detailed explanation of everything.

Step inside Rome’s oldest Marian basilica and take in its architectural grandeur, centuries of history, spiritual significance, and artistic beauty.

Admire the breathtaking gilded ceiling, the Virgin Mary apse mosaic, the Borghese and Pauline Chapels, and the Crypt of the Nativity, exploring each at your own pace.

Let the audio guide bring every corner to life, sharing stories, historical insights, and fascinating details about the basilica.

Enhance your visit with upgrades like panoramic terrace access, entry to the Liberian Museum, or a guided tour for deeper exploration.

Access to Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica

Access to Liberian Museum (as per option selected)

Access to 360° panoramic terraces (as per option selected)

Guided tour of Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica (as per option selected)

Audio guide in 5 languages (as per option selected)

Access through the Holy Door

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

197 reviews
How do we collect reviews?
These ratings include verified reviews from both Headout guests and our trusted partners who operate this experience locally. All reviews come from real travelers who've taken this experience.
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Guests from United States, Spain, Portugal and over 25 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Tilcia P
Couple
Verified booking
2 weeks ago
Everything was excellent, wonderful; they were with us the whole time and were very attentive. They waited for us. Thank you
Alejandro L
Family
Verified booking
4 days ago
It was very interesting and exciting, and the guide was very friendly.
Baratta R
Couple
Verified booking
Jun 2026
I liked how easy it was to get the tickets, the staff member was very helpful, and the audio guide was fantastic. Thanks for everything—we loved the cathedral and were happy to see Pope Francis’s tomb.
Irina F
Solo
Verified booking
Jun 2026
When we arrived at the Basilica, the line was huge, but thanks to our reservation, we were able to go right in. I made the reservation the day before. Thank you.
Cristina L
Solo
Verified booking
May 2026
A very beautiful church; for me personally, it was a unique experience because Pope Francis is buried there. The staff was very friendly. The museum is small but very interesting. The view from the terrace was lovely, and there weren't many people there (great—finally, not too crowded 😉)

Enjoy access to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, including its dome, museum, and panoramic terrace, in a concise visit.

Getting started

Begin at the entrance near the main doors, where your ticket is validated for access. After a brief security check, proceed directly into the basilica to start your self-guided exploration.

What to expect

Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore

This landmark is one of Rome’s four major basilicas, renowned for its centuries-old mosaics and religious significance. Founded in the 5th century, it houses sacred relics and showcases a blend of architectural styles.

Features

Iconic architecture: Admire the basilica’s impressive exterior, its towering bell tower, and the blessing loggia where papal blessings are given.

Masterpieces of art: Marvel at the stunning gilded ceiling and intricate mosaics that showcase centuries of artistry and devotion.

Sacred spaces: Explore the beautifully crafted chapels, visit the Crypt of the Nativity, and discover historical artifacts and art in the Liberian Museum.

What to bring

Wear comfortable footwear as the visit involves walking and standing for extended periods.

Dress appropriately for a religious site, ensuring shoulders and knees are covered.

Have your smartphone ready with your booking voucher to show at the entrance.

Carry a valid photo ID if it is requested at entry.

What’s not allowed

Large bags, suitcases, or oversized luggage are not permitted inside the Basilica or through the reserved entrance.

Entry through the Holy Door is not included with any ticket.

Pets are not allowed, except for registered service animals.

Accessibility

Wheelchair access is limited, as some areas include stairs and narrow passages.

Additional information

General admission to the Basilica is free, but this ticket provides added benefits such as the audio guide, terrace access, museum entry, and guided tours, depending on the option chosen.

Certain areas of the Basilica and Museum may be closed without notice due to unforeseen events, celebrations, or special functions. Such closures do not qualify for a refund.

Audio guides are offered in five languages: Italian, English, Spanish, French, and German.

Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.

Please arrive at the redemption point 15 mins before the scheduled time of your visit to avoid any delays.

Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the redemption point.

Ticket redemption point

Show your ticket at the reception desk inside Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major.

Address: P.za di Santa Maria Maggiore, 00100 Roma RM, Italy.

Get directions to the redemption point