Basilica of Saint Mary Major Audioguide and Optional Add-Ons
Overview
The Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore has stood over Rome for sixteen centuries, housing an extraordinary blend of art, history, and spirituality.
Located on the Esquiline Hill, it is one of Rome’s four Papal Basilicas. According to tradition, the Virgin Mary inspired its construction, making it one of the city’s most revered sites.
Inside, admire the Bernini family tomb, the Baptistery, the Holy Door, and countless masterpieces. The basilica also holds the tomb of Pope Francis, adding a contemporary and meaningful touch. Learn about the pontiffs: Pope Francis places his apostolic journeys under the protection of Salus, visiting the basilica before departure and upon returning. The Christmas Eve Mass has been celebrated here for centuries, a cherished papal tradition.
Enhance your visit by climbing the Dome, where a breathtaking panoramic view of Rome awaits—a perfect way to combine art, faith, and an unforgettable perspective over the Eternal City.
What's Included
- Visit to the Basilica Dome (only if this option is selected)
- Access to the Dome of the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major
- Entry to the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major (free entrance)
- Welcome and assistance from Touristation staff at the meeting point in Piazza dell’Esquilino
- Official audioguide of the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major (available in Ita, Eng, Fr, Ger, Spa)
- Transportation to/from the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major
- Access to the Archaeological Area beneath the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major
Meeting Location
Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore 42, Rome 00185, Italy
Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What To Expect
Book Online
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Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
Admission Ticket Included
Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major
1 hour Admission Ticket Included
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- The entrance to the Basilica is free of charge and doesn't require an entrance ticket.
- You must observe the dress code to access the Santa Maria Maggiore (no shorts, vests, or sleeveless tops)
- For safety reasons, the Dome visit is not suitable for children under 7 years old.
- Please bring an ID as caution for the audioguide.
Frequently Asked Questions (7)
Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Basilica of Saint Mary Major Audioguide and Optional Add-Ons?
Cancellation Policy
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Activity code: C-41353P133
Traveler Photos
Reviews
Average 4.08 out of 5 stars based on 25 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor
Additional Info
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Frequently Asked Questions (7)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Balloon Tours customers.
Filter by:
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
- Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (CET).
- Visit to the Basilica Dome (only if this option is selected).
- Access to the Dome of the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major.
- Entry to the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major (free entrance).
- Welcome and assistance from Touristation staff at the meeting point in Piazza dell’Esquilino.
- Official audioguide of the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major (available in Ita, Eng, Fr, Ger, Spa).
- Transportation to/from the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major.
- Access to the Archaeological Area beneath the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major.
The minimum age to participate is 7..
Apr 2025If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.
If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.
Apr 2025Accessibility information for the Basilica of Saint Mary Major Audioguide and Optional Add-Ons is as follows:
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Basilica of Saint Mary Major Audioguide and Optional Add-Ons will be included in your confirmation email from City Balloon Tours. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!
Mar 2024Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.
Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.
If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.
Oct 2026What's Included
- Visit to the Basilica Dome (only if this option is selected)
- Access to the Dome of the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major
- Entry to the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major (free entrance)
- Welcome and assistance from Touristation staff at the meeting point in Piazza dell’Esquilino
- Official audioguide of the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major (available in Ita, Eng, Fr, Ger, Spa)
- Transportation to/from the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major
- Access to the Archaeological Area beneath the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- The entrance to the Basilica is free of charge and doesn't require an entrance ticket.
- You must observe the dress code to access the Santa Maria Maggiore (no shorts, vests, or sleeveless tops)
- For safety reasons, the Dome visit is not suitable for children under 7 years old.
- Please bring an ID as caution for the audioguide.
