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Archbasilica of St. John Lateran tickets and tours
Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.
Explore Rome’s oldest basilica at your own pace with an audio guide and learn about its sacred relics.
- Step into Rome’s oldest and most revered basilica, the “Mother of all Churches,” as your audio guide brings Christian history to life.
- See the Cloister, featuring exquisite inlaid marble columns crafted by the legendary Vassalletto family—each with its own unique story.
- Climb the Holy Stairs, believed to have been walked by Jesus, leading to the Sancta Sanctorum, a private papal sanctuary.
- Upgrade to visit the Lateran Palace, once the grand residence of popes, and feel the legacy of Roman pontiffs around every ornate corner.
Explore Rome’s oldest basilica at your own pace with an audio guide and learn about its sacred relics.
- Step into Rome’s oldest and most revered basilica, the “Mother of all Churches,” as your audio guide brings Christian history to life.
- See the Cloister, featuring exquisite inlaid marble columns crafted by the legendary Vassalletto family—each with its own unique story.
- Climb the Holy Stairs, believed to have been walked by Jesus, leading to the Sancta Sanctorum, a private papal sanctuary.
- Upgrade to visit the Lateran Palace, once the grand residence of popes, and feel the legacy of Roman pontiffs around every ornate corner.
Inclusions
- Access to Basilica of St. John Lateran and Cloister (as per option selected)
- Access to Papal Chapel of the Sancta Sanctorum (as per option selected)
- Entry to Lateran Palace (as per option selected)
- Audio guide in English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, and Portuguese
Exclusions
- Live guide
- Admission to the Archbasilica itself is free. Tickets are needed for specific areas like the Cloister, Baptistery, and the Sancta Sanctorum chapel.
- It's advisable to arrive at least 15 minutes early for ticket redemption, which can be done via smartphone.
- Note that the Sancta Sanctorum chapel is closed on Sundays and during specific hours on weekdays. Various sections of the complex—such as the Basilica, Cloister, Baptistery, and Treasury museum—have different timings, so be sure to check before visiting.
- This is a sacred site, so dress modestly. Both men and women must cover shoulders and knees.
- The Basilica is wheelchair accessible.
- The entrance to the Lateran Palace is located on the right side of the main façade of St. John in Lateran Basilica. Arrive atleast 15 minutes before your time for a smooth check-in.
- These tickets can't be cancelled. However, they can be rescheduled up to 24 hours before the experience begins.
Reviews
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Snapshots from our guests
3.2
12 ratings
3
2
3
2
2
What our guests say
james
May 2025Verified booking
Very informative. Your website should explain that you must still line up for other entrances at the church.
Maria
May 2025Verified booking
Ivan
Apr 2025Verified booking
Angela
Feb 2025Verified booking
Giuseppe
Dec 2023Verified booking
It's an outstanding complex, where spirit and body meet, the inner cloister is really beautiful
View original review in Italian
Irene
Oct 2023Verified booking
very well explained, bring the audio guide you are doing it at your pace highly recommended.
View original review in Spanish
Walkiria
Oct 2023Verified booking
Marco
Dec 2022Verified booking
Eduardo
Dec 2023Verified booking
The physical audio guide equipment did not work well. We lost a lot of time in that process, until we decided to download the app that worked properly. I recommend not even giving the option of physical audio guide, or change those equipments.
View original review in Spanish
renzo
Oct 2023Verified booking
La basilica è splendida, da visitare assolutamente. L'audioguida a disposizione è da migliorare con spiegazioni più esaustive e dispositivi più smart! Anche la Scala Santa e il Sancta Sanctorum valgono la visita. Personale addetto agli ingressi molto gentile.
MARÍA
Jan 2024Verified booking
Llegué un poco tarde porque mi hijo se puso enfermo y tuvo que ir al baño. Al llegar allí, no había indicación clara del lugar en el atrio con el audioguía, ni nadie. Dentro del recinto, no había nadie con audiguía, ni guiando ni nada. Todo muy raro...
Ute
Nov 2023Verified booking
We were at the meeting point at the agreed time. Nobody turned up and there was no response to my message.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION3 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Bus
START POINT
Central Rome
Meet your guide in the city center and climb aboard for a value-packed tour. Good news, if your hotel is in central Rome, you could be picked up from your lobby!
2 km
10 minutes
1
Holy Stairs
Within the Sancta Sanctorum next-door to the Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran lies this revered relic believed to be the very steps where Christ stood before Pontius Pilate!
0.14 km
1 minute
2
Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
This is Rome’s oldest and most prestigious basilica, and the pope’s official seat! Discover its grand Baroque architecture, stunning mosaics, and rich history with your expert guide.
1.5 km
3 minutes
3
Basilica of St. Mary Major
Marvel at the 5th-century mosaics in the nave depicting scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary, as well as an intricately decorated altar that houses the relics of the Holy Manger, believed to be from the nativity scene.
5.7 km
19 minutes
4
Catacombs of St. Callixtus
60 min
Tickets included
This vast underground labyrinth reveals early Christian history with ancient passageways, exquisite frescoes, and the resting places of popes and martyrs.
0.6 km
2 minutes
5
Catacombs of St. Sebastian
Tickets included
Glimpse into its underground basilica, serene chapels, and the revered tomb of St. Sebastian. Look out for Bernini's Salvatore Mundi marble bust representing Jesus.
7.5 km
25 minutes
6
END POINT
Central Rome
Visit the seat of the pope, the opulent Basilica of St. Mary Major and two ancient catacombs with expert-guided insights and transfers.
- Start at the Sancta Sanctorum, home to the Holy Stairs—believed to be where Christ stood before Pontius Pilate.
- Step into the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, the pope’s official seat, and admire the grandeur of St. Mary Major atop Esquiline Hill.
- Descend into the catacombs of St. Callixtus and St. Sebastian, where ancient Roman faith, art, and history intertwine.
- Enjoy seamless transfers between landmarks, with an expert guide bringing each site’s story to life.
Visit the seat of the pope, the opulent Basilica of St. Mary Major and two ancient catacombs with expert-guided insights and transfers.
- Start at the Sancta Sanctorum, home to the Holy Stairs—believed to be where Christ stood before Pontius Pilate.
- Step into the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, the pope’s official seat, and admire the grandeur of St. Mary Major atop Esquiline Hill.
- Descend into the catacombs of St. Callixtus and St. Sebastian, where ancient Roman faith, art, and history intertwine.
- Enjoy seamless transfers between landmarks, with an expert guide bringing each site’s story to life.
Inclusions
- Guided tour of the Holy Stairs at Sancta Sanctorum
- Guided tour of St. John Lateran Archbasilica & St. Mary Major Basilica
- Guided tour of St. Callixtus & St. Sebastian Catacombs with entry
- Expert English, Italian, or Spanish-speaking guide
- Round-trip AC coach transfers from central Rome
- This experience is not wheelchair accessible, and not recommended for those with claustrophobia or serious mobility issues.
- Strict dress code: Clothing that covers the knees and shoulders.
- Photography and videography is prohibited inside the catacombs.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 7 days before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
How do we collect reviews?
Snapshots from our guests
4.2
1,483 ratings
1.0K
119
59
74
194
What our guests say
Megan
Apr 2025Verified booking
Great experience! We enjoyed learning the culture and history and the tour was wonderful. We learned so much and were happy it wasn't cancelled due to the Pope's passing.
Gabriel-Eugen
Apr 2025Verified booking
The guide knowledge and the way of answerig of the questions. He is a very nice guy. Thanks!
Lilian
Jan 2025Verified booking
I booked the papal basilicas, you gave En Roma a different tour that was via Apia and I didn't do anything! I don't want a refund! The worst experience I've ever had! I wasted more than 2 hours trying to sort it out!
View original review in Portuguese
MARIA
Sep 2024Verified booking
It was a fantastic experience. The guide was a great professional and knowledgeable about the history of Rome. Both the catacombs and the major basilicas are a must see for anyone traveling to the Italian capital. A tour of 10
View original review in Spanish
BANNA
Sep 2024Verified booking
It was a guided tour that I cannot recommend. Everything was rushed because, as it's known, Fridays in Rome are very crowded, and the guide didn’t know how to get rid of us quickly enough. First, we went to the Catacombs of Saint Callixtus, then to Saint John Lateran Cathedral, and afterward to the Holy Stairs (which are a 2-minute walk from the cathedral). After that, the guide told us that the tour was over. When I told the guide that we were supposed to visit the Sebastian Catacombs as well, he said that there was no such thing on the tour and that I could file a complaint. We paid for something and got a tour where 80% of the time we spent on the bus. The only paid entrance was at the Catacombs of Callixtus (€10), and there were supposed to be another €10 for the Sebastian Catacombs, but they didn’t take us there, probably to pocket extra profit. I do not recommend this to anyone; you can take public transport on your own and save much more money! Oh, and we didn’t go to the Basilica of St. Mary Major either.
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Aug 2024Verified booking
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Unravel 1,700 years of history on a guided tour of Christianity's oldest basilica
- Skip the ticket lines and step straight into a masterpiece of faith—marvel at gilded ceilings, Baroque sculptures, and centuries-old mosaics.
- Walk in the footsteps of popes as you uncover the basilica’s papal past, its golden mosaics, and its deep significance in Catholic history.
- Wander through the serene Cloister, where medieval sculptures and graceful arcades whisper stories of faith and monastic life.
Unravel 1,700 years of history on a guided tour of Christianity's oldest basilica
- Skip the ticket lines and step straight into a masterpiece of faith—marvel at gilded ceilings, Baroque sculptures, and centuries-old mosaics.
- Walk in the footsteps of popes as you uncover the basilica’s papal past, its golden mosaics, and its deep significance in Catholic history.
- Wander through the serene Cloister, where medieval sculptures and graceful arcades whisper stories of faith and monastic life.
Inclusions
- Guided tour of the Cloister and St. John Lateran Basilica
- Expert guide in English and Italian
- Earphones
Exclusions
- Guided tour of the Baptistery, the Holy Stairs, and the Chapel of the Sancta Sanctorum
- Note that the tour does not cover visits to the Baptistery, Holy Stairs, or Chapel of the Sancta Sanctorum. These require separate tickets if you wish to explore them
- This is a sacred site, so dress modestly. Both men and women must cover shoulders and knees.
- Earphones are provided to ensure you don’t miss a word of your guide’s fascinating stories.
- The Basilica is wheelchair accessible.
- The entrance to the Lateran Palace is located on the right side of the main façade of St. John in Lateran Basilica. Arrive atleast 15 minutes before your time for a smooth check-in.
- These tickets can't be cancelled. However, they can be rescheduled up to 24 hours before the experience begins.
Make the most of Rome
Significance of the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran during Jubilee 2025
Jubilee 2025 is a time of spiritual renewal, drawing millions to Rome in search of indulgences, forgiveness, and grace. As the cathedral of the Bishop of Rome and the highest-ranking church in Catholicism, St. John Lateran holds deep significance—having hosted the first Jubilee in 1300. In 2025, it will again be a spiritual epicenter, offering pilgrims hope and renewal, with the Holy Door opening on December 29, 2024, marking the Jubilee’s commencement.
Holy door & pilgrimage route
- The Holy Door of St. John Lateran, opened only during Jubilee years, represents a passage into divine grace. Walking through it is a powerful act of faith and devotion.
- The basilica is one of Rome’s Seven Pilgrimage Churches, making it a key stop for those completing the traditional pilgrimage.
- Pilgrims believe that stepping through the Holy Door with true repentance allows them to receive a Jubilee indulgence—a remission of sins.
How to receive a Jubilee indulgence?
To obtain the indulgence*, pilgrims must:
✔ Pass through the Holy Door of St. John Lateran.
✔ Attend Mass or spend time in prayer inside the basilica.
✔ Confess their sins and receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
✔ Pray for the Pope’s intentions (Our Father, Hail Mary, and the Creed).
✔ Perform an act of charity or reflect on spiritual teachings.
*A Jubilee indulgence is a special grace that removes the spiritual consequences of past sins, granted to pilgrims who follow certain acts of faith, such as passing through a Holy Door, confessing, praying, and performing good deeds.
Special Jubilee Masses & religious events
As the Pope’s official cathedral, St. John Lateran will host:
- Daily Jubilee Masses and special liturgies.
- Sacramental celebrations, including confessions and blessings.
- Spiritual teachings and prayer services, deepening the Jubilee experience.
💡 Plan ahead: Major feast days and Jubilee events will attract large crowds—arrive early to secure a good spot!
Papal visits & major events
Given its status as the mother church of Catholicism, the basilica will be at the heart of the Jubilee celebrations:
- Opening of the Holy Door by Pope Francis on December 29, 2024, marking the start of the Jubilee.
- Papal blessings, processions, and special ceremonies held at the basilica.
- Pilgrimage gatherings, where the faithful come together in devotion.
💡 The Jubilee will bring millions of visitors to Rome—book guided tours and accommodations early to enhance your experience!
Archbasilica of St. John Lateran highlights
Ancient Facade
The giant bronze doors guarding the Basilica have been taken from the Roman Senate Forum and are older than the Church itself. The entrance has a 7-meter-tall statue of Jesus, surrounded by his saints and disciples, with Latin inscription, “Christo Salvatori.”
Plan your visit to the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
Timings
Mass
Location
Facilities
Tips
- Basilica: 7am – 6:30pm
- Cloister: 9am – 6pm (last admission at 4:30pm)
- Baptistery: 7am – 12:30pm and 4pm – 7pm
- Sancta Sanctorum: April – September: 8am – 12pm and 4pm – 6pm (Closed on Sundays and public holidays)
- Treasury: Monday – Friday: 10am – 5:30pm; Saturday: 9am – 1pm (Closed on Sundays); Museum of the archbasilica: 10am - 5:30pm; Lateran Palace: 9:30am - 6pm and closed on Sundays and Wednesdays
Best time to visit
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Visit early in the morning (7-10 am) to avoid crowds. If you're lucky enough to visit during a Jubilee year, you'll experience its special significance as the birthplace of this tradition. Jubilee years happen every 25 years or at the Pope's discretion.
Daily Mass: 7am, 8am, 9am,10am, 11am, 12pm, 5pm
Sunday Mass:, 7am, 8am, 9am, 10am, 11am, 12pm, 6pm
- Entry to the basilica is free, but beware of security checks. Items such as glass bottles and aerosol cans are prohibited, which may lead to queues similar to airport security.
- As a place of worship, modest attire is recommended. Avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless tops, or revealing clothing.
- During significant liturgical events, such as the Feast of the Dedication of the Archbasilica on November 9th, attendance may be higher, and special services may be held.
- If visiting during a Jubilee year, register online and get a pilgrim’s card to attend special Masses and events held there. Also, arrive well in advance to secure a good spot, as these services can draw large crowds.
Address: Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano, 4, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
Getting there
- By bus: Take bus lines 714, 792, 81, or 85, 87, F02
Nearest stop: Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano - By train: Board on trains along the FL1, FL3, FL4, and RV lines.
Nearest stop: Piazza di Porta Maggiore - By metro: Take the Line A metro and stop at San Giovanni.
Nearest stop: Vittorio Emanuele (3 mins) or San Giovanni (5 mins) - By car: The Lateran Complex is 28.9km from Rome Airport.
Nearest stop: INPS Roma Parcheggio Auto or Super Rimessa Metronio
- Public restrooms are available inside the basilica for visitors.
- There is a small gift shop located inside the basilica where you can get religious items, souvenirs, and books related to the church.
- Audio guides in multiple languages are available for rent, allowing visitors to take a self-guided tour of the basilica and learn about its history and significance at their own pace.
- The basilica is accessible to visitors with mobility challenges.
- While general photography is allowed for personal use, tripods and flash photography is prohibited.
- While the main basilica is impressive, don't miss the treasures beyond. Explore the Baptistery, a beautiful example of early Christian architecture. Climb the Holy Stairs on your knees for a spiritual experience. See the Sancta Sanctorum, a papal chapel brimming with history.
- Consider a guided tour to fully understand and appreciate the basilica's rich history and significance.
- The Archbasilica is one of the four major basilicas in Rome. Consider visiting St. Peter's Basilica and Santa Maria Maggiore on the same day for a comprehensive experience of Rome's ecclesiastical heritage.
- Pack a water bottle for refreshment, particularly during warm weather. Food and drinks aren't allowed inside, so plan breaks for sustenance.
- Silence is key during Mass. Avoid using phones or taking photos during services.
- Take a break in the peaceful cloister or nearby gardens to reflect and recharge, away from the bustling crowds.
Frequently asked questions about Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
How can I get a pilgrim’s card for Jubilee 2025?
You can register online to get a free of cost pilgrim’s card. It is the key to attending key Jubilee celebrations throughout the four major basilicas.
Are there any specific rituals or ceremonies associated with the Archbasilica for me to see?
From the annual Feast of the Dedication honoring its status as "mother of all churches" to the grandeur of Papal Masses, the basilica offers a profound spiritual experience. Pilgrims can participate in Eucharistic adoration or witness the opening of the Holy Door during Jubilee years.
Can I receive a blessing from the Pope during my visit?
While it's unlikely to receive a personal blessing from the Pope during a casual visit, the basilica often hosts papal events. Check the schedule for any opportunities.
How can visitors stay informed about events and schedules related to the Jubilee at the Archbasilica?
To stay informed about events and schedules related to the Jubilee at the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran you can stay updated with the Jubilee calendar. Also, you can contact your local parish or diocese for information on pilgrimages, Masses, or other Jubilee-related events being organized in your area. Many dioceses will be hosting their own Jubilee celebrations in addition to the ones in Rome.
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Helen
Apr., 2025
+ 2 more
Our guide, Francesca, was funny and easy to listen to. She brought the history to life with her stories and kept us all interested at what was a very busy time in the Vatican. The Vatican museums and gardens were stunning, the Sistine Chapel was breathtaking and St Peter's Basilicia was beautiful. Francesca's stories about the art in the Sistine Chapel and Michelangelo's antics were the highlight for me.
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Our tour of the Vatican museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's basilica was amazing. The crowds were crazy but our tour guide kept us together and helped us get where we wanted to go. Her information was great and she was entertaining.
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Lalande
FranceApr., 2025
Antonio was great, with clear and precise explanations of the history of the monuments. Lots of humor, which made the visit very enjoyable!
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Jason
PortugalApr., 2025
It was an exceptional experience! The super friendly and efficient guide at the entrance to the Vatican! He was right at the meeting point and I called him in 2 minutes and he returned my call quickly! I recommend it! We loved the experience!
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Chinyelu
United StatesApr., 2025
+ 2 more
Good, a little disorganized and a lot of wasted time.
But it was good.
I went off on my own to explore, because the history can be googled or read in the library, most people already read and heard, then come to SEE it . Tour guide needs to focus on getting people inside, taking them to various biblical status, and areas, for pictures. This is not a history class, we only had 1-2hrs , but our tour guide spent 40 mins telling us stories and history outside and on the door way, While I applaud her of her knowledge, however this is not a history class, 6 of us had other tours scheduled right afterwards, so we left the tour midway to explore the Basilica on our own, including the Tomb areas underneath.
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Apr., 2025
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Sasa
SerbiaApr., 2025
This was my first Headout experience and it was A+! First of all, our guide, Brigitta, was wonderful! So many informations and fun facts, she was also full of humor and funny comments, it was so nice! She really made us feel close to Rome, Vatican and their history. She eas really easy to talk to and that means a lot! The climb wasn't hard, whole 551 steps. The crowd on top was big, but that is what happens with big turistic places. Our trip was so much better because we had this day in the Vatican!
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Marche
FranceMärz, 2025
I came in 2017 ans now 2025 but still the same surprise.
Everything was so beautiful, museums, paints, monuments...
I was with my mother 79 years old and I would to congragulate the Vatican organization, specially for the people with reduce mobility.
We appreciate
Grazie Mille !!!!
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