St Peter’s Basilica Dome Climb: UPDATED!

Did you know that you can climb to the top of St. Peter's Basilica's dome? Come along with me for the journey to and the view from the top of this masterpiece designed by Michelangelo himself. Follow signs for the cupola or dome Bigliateria or Ticket Desk. It's located on the left side as you're looking at the front of St. Peter's Basilica. Here it is located underneath this statue of Charlemagne. The cupola climb opens at 7 30 a.m and at 7 45 there is already a 45 minute wait so be sure to get there early. Now notice there are over 500 stairs to the top and trust me it's not an easy climb. For two pounds more you can take an elevator but it only eliminates about 200 steps and the line for the elevator backs way up so to me it was well worth it to hike it all on foot and avoid the longer line. All right I've just passed the elevator line so I'm starting my ascent. Let's check it out. About the first 200 steps are a series of spiraling ramps and staircases that get you to the main roof of St. Peter's Basilica. Now this is the level that the elevator would dump you off at if you took it. If you hiked it on foot this will be a welcome break to step outside get some fresh air check out the views and little known fact there's a cafe up here so if you're so inclined get a cup of coffee and relax a few minutes before continuing your hike up the cupola. My favorite part at this level was checking out these massive statues at the facade of St. Peter's. Really puts into perspective just how large this place is. One of the perks of the cupola climb is getting to go inside of St. Peter's up at the cupola level and seeing the mosaics and the entire basilica from that vantage point. It is truly incredible. After seeing the inside of the dome you continue your journey to the top. It gets pretty interesting there are spiral stairs there are winding stairs back and forth the walls start leaning in and you definitely feel that you're getting close to the top. The final push to the top are some stairs that zigzag back and forth and then this spiral staircase with a rope to help you keep your balance. Once you get to the top you will not be disappointed with the fresh air and the beautiful view of Rome. I can just imagine all the people throughout history who have been up here and taken in this incredible view. Oh you can see the Pantheon in the distance look I read at about one o'clock over there. See the round dome. When you descend the cupola you'll be right inside St. Peter's so take some time and explore this magnificent basilica.