Archbasilica of St. John Lateran tickets and tours

Crafted by Headout, a global experiences brand offering curated tours, tickets & experiences. Discover with ease, book with peace.
4.3/5
159,224 travellers from around the world love this
Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
























































From happy customers

Loved by 51 million+
Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5

Irina G

Armenia
Couple
Last week
All was great, I really enjoyed all the rooms. It desplayed masterpieces of different artists and periods of time. I felt the history myself.

Mariam A

Georgia
Group
Last week

+1 more

Everything went smoothly, no lines - we skipped everything, audiophile was also helpful, so over all it was an excellent experience

Deryk R

United Kingdom
Couple
2 weeks ago

+3 more

The history, the architecture, the mesuem, the half way arena built on top of wooden beams supports. Ontop of the advice to visit the Roman forum and Palestine hill from our trusted guide tours that saved us a hefty wait time.

Attilio C

Family
2 weeks ago
Excellent organization, well-designed app. Perhaps the route could have been improved, as the stops were scattered and not contiguous, but overall it was a positive experience.

Eszter F

Couple
2 weeks ago
The start was a bit stressful. We couldn’t find the contact person at the designated meeting point as quickly as we had expected. After searching for a while, a man appeared wearing a small badge on his shirt and a cord around his neck. Since we had already been looking everywhere and almost no one seemed to know anything about the company, we started to feel slightly panicked and even wondered if we had been scammed. He also arrived a little later than the indicated time. However, when we approached him, it turned out he was indeed the person who led us to the rest of the group. At that moment, a sense of relief set in, we finally felt we were in good hands. It did take some time before our guide arrived, and the waiting was a bit unpleasant. [It’s important to arrive well in advance at each location to ensure you’re on time and able to enter without issues.] Then our guide arrived, and from that point on, I can only write praise. She is truly a powerhouse. You simply cannot miss her voice, she speaks loudly and clearly. She engages actively with the group and makes sure to keep everyone involved. She prepared us well for the waiting time and filled it with genuinely interesting facts and historical insights, which made the long wait much more bearable. Unfortunately, the “skip-the-line ticket” didn’t quite feel like it, as one of the gates was closed—this remained somewhat unclear. In total, we ended up waiting in line for an hour and forty-five minutes. That said, the guide was very attentive, making sure no one cut in line. She confidently addressed anyone who attempted to do so, which was both reassuring and impressive to witness. She frequently checked in to make sure everyone was doing okay. It was also helpful that people were walking around selling ice-cold water in the heat for just €2. As an additional suggestion, it would be helpful to inform participants in advance to bring food and drinks, as it can be a long day. This simple tip would have benefited many people in the group and made the experience more comfortable overall. Once inside, everything went smoothly. The guidance within the church was engaging and informative. She even arranged for a priest to give our group a blessing, which was a very special moment. She was a warm, energetic, and passionate guide with many wonderful stories to share. The experience was absolutely worth it. Once again, thank you for this memorable tour. We loved her very much!!!! xxx

Ivan A

Spain
Couple
2 weeks ago
An incredible and truly wonderful experience—I highly recommend it. It’s one of the most beautiful places in Rome, and I’d love to go back again.

Tanya O

Switzerland
Couple
2 weeks ago
A really interesting and wonderful tour! Our guide, Valentina, gave clear explanations and provided fascinating background information! It was a long walk, but we weren’t bored for a single moment. She guided us smoothly through the crowded museum and eventually to St. Peter’s Basilica without any lines. Thanks for the fun afternoon!

Aleksei Z

Cyprus
Solo
2 weeks ago
Susanna was just awesome, showed everything in a pleasant 3 hours Spanish tour, that flew just like 5 minutes. One of the best experiences ever, highly recommended. Easy to find the meeting point, nicely organised, visit only highlights with no necessity to discover yourself. Just take the unpacked treasury of art prepared for you to enjoy!

Top things to do in Rome

Archbasilica of St. John Lateran as a pilgrimage site

The Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, consecrated in 324 AD, is the oldest public church in Rome, turning 1700 years old on November 9, 2024 - the Feast Day St. John Lateran. It serves as the cathedral of the Diocese of Rome and holds the title of "mater et caput" (mother and head) of all churches in the Catholic Church, making it the highest-ranking basilica.

Attending Jubilee 2025 guide

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.
Explore all five holy doors in Rome

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!
Attend Papal audience at Vatican

Things to know before you book your Archbasilica of St. John Lateran tickets

  • You can visit the main basilica for free, but access to the Cloister, Lateran Treasury, and Scala Sancta (Holy Stairs) require a ticket or guided tour.
  • While self-guided visits are possible, a guided tour enriches your experience with expert insights into the basilica’s history, architecture, and role as the oldest papal church in Rome. Many tours include restricted areas and nearby sites like the Sanctuary of the Holy Stairs, where pilgrims climb the steps believed to have been walked by Jesus before His crucifixion.
  • Pilgrims attending special masses and events during the Jubilee 2025 must register online for a free pilgrim’s card.

Archbasilica of St. John Lateran highlights

Ancient Facade of the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
Egyptian Obelisk near the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
Fresco on the Nave of the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
The Altar of the Sacrament of the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
Mosaic Cloister Building of the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
Lateran Baptistery San Giovanni in Fonte near the Archbasilica of St John Lateran
Scala Sancta Stairs of the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
The Achiropita Painting inside Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
Sancta Sanctorum Chapel, Chapel of St Lawrence of the Lateran Palace
1/9

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.”

Biggest Egyptian Obelisk

One of the most noteworthy highlights of the Lateran Basilica is the towering Egyptian obelisk in front of the northern facade. It originally belonged to the Karnak Temple in Egypt. Much later, it was sent to Constantinople and then erected at Circus Maximus.

St John’s Five Naves

As you step through the entrance, you will see St John’s long five naves, separated by towering marble columns. The golden painting above symbolizes Pagan traditions like doves holding an olive branch, laurel, and crossed palms.

The Altar of the Sacrament

The Altar could either have been shipped from Jerusalem or could be an adaptation of the Pagan Altar in the Capitoline Jupiter Temple. One of the most poignant relics in the Basilica is the wood fragment contained in the tympanum. It is said to have been a part of the Last Supper table, where Jesus dined with his 12 Apostles.

Mosaic Cloister Building

The cloister adjacent to the Lateran Archbasilica is almost 36 meters wide on both sides. They were carved by the Vassalletti, the most talented stonemasons of Rome. The most striking feature is the intimacy and pinching silence of the 800-year-old establishment.

San Giovanni in Fonte

Originally established in the 4th century, the Baptistery connects to a church called St John in Fonte. A two-tier colonnade at the center of the structure gives it an octagonal shape and forms a dome. Throughout centuries, the mosaics have worn off and many artists like Borromini, Rainaldi, and Sacchi have left their frescoes on these walls.

Scala Sancta Stairs

Scala Sancta Stairs, also known as the Holy Stairs, are a series of 28 steps on the right side of the St. John entrance. They are believed to be the ones Jesus climbed on his way to Pontius Pilate’s Office during his trial. The walnut plates and rich layering of frescoes are the main highlights of these stairs.

The Achiropita Painting

The Achiropita, literally meaning ‘not created by mankind’ is a painting located inside the chapel that shows Jesus holding the New Testament. Its origin is unknown, however this ancient relic has been around since the 8th century. The silver and gold wrappings over this fresco are truly spectacular.

Sancta Sanctorum Chapel

Pilgrims undertake the reminiscent Sancta Stairs journey on their knees to this day. Upon reaching a thick glass wall at the top, pilgrims can see the most sacred place of Christianity, the chapel of St. Lawrence. It functioned as the personal chapel of the early Popes of the Lateran Palace.

Plan your visit to the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran

Visitors inside the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
  • 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.

Pilgrim praying at the Archbasilica of St John Lateran during a Vatican Jubilee 2025 mass

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
Audio Guide Facility at the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
  • 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. 
Visitor tips for the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
  • 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

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.

Other Holy Doors

St. Peter's Basilica

Book Now

Basilica of St. Paul's Outside the Walls

Book Now

Basilica of St. Mary Major

Book Now