Discover the Glamour of St. Peter's Basilica at Night
St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the oldest and most famous churches in the world, known for its architecture and art. Sitting in the heart of Vatican City and dominating its skyline, the Basilica is a proud symbol of Roman history. There’s much to marvel at both, during the day and night, at this spectacular Church and World Heritage Site.
Why Visit St. Peter’s Basilica at Night?
During the day, the Basilica poses as an architectural marvel, while at night, it almost comes to life with lights beaming from its corners. The whole area including St. Peter’s Square is lit up, creating a beautiful and picturesque sight after sunset that you don't want to miss out on.
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Your St. Peter’s Basilica at Night Itinerary
Sistine Chapel
Since the Sistine Chapel closes earlier than the other attractions in Vatican City, we recommend starting your evening off here. You can begin your visit around 2:00 PM and try to spend at least an hour here. Take a close look at all the sculptures, frescoes, and some of the best art in the world.
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Vatican Museums
Next on your list is the Vatican Museums. The museum houses a vast collection of ancient artworks spread across 50 art galleries. Walk along the iconic spiral staircase and explore the many masterpieces inside including the Gallery of Maps, the Raphael Rooms, and so much more.
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St. Peter’s Basilica
There is so much to see at St. Peter’s Basilica. Once you enter, spend your time walking through the aisles and taking a good look at all the monuments, chapels, frescoes, and more. Don’t forget to make your way to the Grottoes and the Vatican Necropolis below where you will find the Papal tombs, parts of Old St. Peter’s Basilica, and the tomb of St. Peter himself.
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The Dome
Being the most striking feature of St. Peter’s Basilica, the Dome or Cupola is an unforgettable sight. At a height of about 136 meters, the Dome dominates the skyline of Rome. Climbing to the top of the Dome will give you some breathtaking sights of the city, especially around sunset. Once you’re done exploring the Basilica, Grottoes, and Necropolis, make your way to the top of the Dome.
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St. Peter’s Square
St. Peter’s Square is a massive expanse right outside St. Peter’s Basilica, adorned with colonnades creating its borders. With its statues, fountains, and columns lit up at night, it’s a beautiful place to visit. You can simply walk around or find a seat facing the Square and Basilica, as the lights of the night transform the space into a magical area. This is the perfect way to end your evening at Vatican City.
More about St. Peter's SquareVisitor Tips
- If you’ve visited the Cathedral during the day, then you should visit at night as well. It is completely lit up at night, creating a unique picturesque sight.
- Don’t miss out on climbing the Dome towards the evening to catch the sunset across the skyline.
- The Church closes by 6: 30 PM (October and March) and 7:00 PM (April - September) so make sure you start your tour by at least 5:30 PM or 6:00 PM.
- If you’re visiting the Vatican Grottoes, then make sure you’re done before 5:00 PM because it closes earlier than the Basilica.
- You can make a day out of your visit to the Vatican and visit the Museums, Sistine Chapel, and save St. Peter’s Basilica for the evening to admire its beauty at night.
- You’ll definitely want to take pictures of St. Peter’s Basilica at night. You can do this from the outside of the Church.
St. Peter's Basilica at Night | Images
Frequently Asked Questions About St. Peter’s Basilica at Night
A. You can visit St. Peter’s Basilica any time before 6: 30 PM (October and March) and 7:00 PM (April - September).
A. St. Peter’s Basilica closes by 7:00 PM. All tours will be completed by then.
A. Start your evening by visiting the Sistine Chapel, then head over to the Vatican Museums, followed by St. Peter’s Basilica, and end your evening at St. Peter’s Square.
A. St. Peter’s Basilica is a 16th-century church built over the Tomb of St. Peter.
A. St. Peter’s Basilica is in Vatican City, Rome.
A. St. Peter's Basilica is open between April to September from 07:00 AM to 07:00 PM and between October to March from 7:00 AM - 06:30 PM.
A. St. Peter’s Basilica closes at 7:00 PM between April and September and at 6:30 PM between October and March.
