Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome with tourists in the foreground.
Visitors at the altar of Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore, Rome, with ornate ceiling and columns.
Dome and ceiling artwork of Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome.
Dormition of the Virgin Mary mosaic in Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore, Rome, depicting apostles and angels.
Aerial view of Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore and Piazza Esquilino in Rome.
Spiral staircase inside Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore, Rome.
Altar of Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome with gold detailing and ornate columns.

Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica Entry Tickets, Rome

Rome
Landmarks
Google Verified Seller

Duration: 1 hour

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Explore the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome with your entry tickets, which include access to its dome, museum, and panoramic terrace for an enriching visit. Begin at the entrance near the main doors where your ticket is validated, then proceed through a brief security check into this historic landmark. Known as one of Rome’s four major basilicas, it stands out with centuries-old mosaics and religious significance since its founding in the 5th century.

From its inception as Rome's oldest Marian church, Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica Entry Tickets allow you to experience architectural splendor, deep-rooted history, spiritual essence, and artistic allure.

Explore iconic features such as the gilded ceiling with stunning detail, a Virgin Mary apse mosaic rich in symbolism, the Borghese and Pauline Chapels' opulence, and explore the Crypt of the Nativity at your leisure.

With an audio guide available in five languages, uncover fascinating stories, historical insights, and intriguing details as you explore every corner of this magnificent basilica.

Entry to the iconic Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica

Use of Liberian Museum, Italy (based on option selected)

Ticket for access to 360° panoramic terraces (on the cruise)

Guided tour features at Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica (as per option selected)

Audio guide available in five languages (based on option selected)

Entry via Sacred Portal

Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome with tourists in the foreground.

Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome with tourists in the foreground.

Your Experience at Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica

Gain entry to this iconic basilica located in Rome, which includes access to its dome, museum, and panoramic terrace. The visit is designed to be concise yet enriching.

Getting Started

The experience begins near the main entrance doors where your ticket will be validated for access. Following a quick security check, you can enter the basilica to start a self-guided exploration of its wonders.

What to Expect at Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica

Santa Maria Maggiore is one of Rome’s four major basilicas and stands out for its centuries-old mosaics and deep religious significance. Established in the 5th century, it holds sacred relics and exhibits a blend of architectural styles.

Features to Discover

  • The iconic architecture: Take in the impressive exterior design, including the towering bell tower and blessing loggia where papal blessings are traditionally given.
  • Artistic masterpieces: Be captivated by the stunning gilded ceiling and intricate mosaics that reflect centuries of artistry and devotion.
  • Sacred spaces to explore: Visit beautifully crafted chapels, explore the Crypt of the Nativity, and discover historical artifacts within the Liberian Museum.
Visitors at the altar of Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore, Rome, with ornate ceiling and columns.

Visitors at the altar of Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore, Rome, with ornate ceiling and columns.

Dome and ceiling artwork of Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome.

Dome and ceiling artwork of Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome.

Dormition of the Virgin Mary mosaic in Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore, Rome, depicting apostles and angels.

Dormition of the Virgin Mary mosaic in Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore, Rome, depicting apostles and angels.

  • Wearing comfortable footwear is recommended as the visit involves walking and standing for extended periods.
  • Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered, respecting the religious site's norms.
  • Ensure your smartphone has the booking voucher ready to present at entry.

A valid photo ID might be requested upon entering; have it handy if needed.

What’s not allowed

  • Large bags, suitcases, or oversized luggage are prohibited inside the Basilica and through reserved entrances.
  • The Holy Door entry isn't included with any ticket purchase.

Pets aren’t permitted except for registered service animals.

Accessibility

    Wheelchair access is limited due to stairs and narrow passages in some areas.

    Additional information

    • The ticket offers extra benefits like an audio guide, terrace entry, museum admission, and guided tours based on your selection. General Basilica admission remains free.
    • Closures of certain Basilica or Museum areas may occur without notice due to events, celebrations, or special functions; these do not warrant refunds.

    Audio guides are available in five languages: Italian, English, Spanish, French, and German.

    Aerial view of Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore and Piazza Esquilino in Rome.

    Aerial view of Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore and Piazza Esquilino in Rome.

    Spiral staircase inside Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore, Rome.

    Spiral staircase inside Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore, Rome.

    Book at least a day in advance during peak season to avoid sold-out sessions and ensure entry into Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica.

    Come prepared with your smartphone displaying the booking voucher for quick validation upon arrival, saving you time at the entrance.

    Dress comfortably and appropriately—opt for shoes suitable for walking and attire that covers shoulders and knees—as these are necessary for a smooth visit to this religious site.

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    Operating hours

    Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica

    Monday
    7:00am - 7:00am • last entry 6:30am
    Tuesday
    7:00am - 7:00am • last entry 6:30am
    Wednesday
    7:00am - 7:00am • last entry 6:30am
    Thursday
    7:00am - 7:00am • last entry 6:30am
    Friday
    7:00am - 7:00am • last entry 6:30am
    Saturday
    7:00am - 7:00am • last entry 6:30am
    Sunday
    7:00am - 7:00am • last entry 6:30am
    • Timings are displayed in the venue's time zone.

    By proceeding with any booking via Staybook, you acknowledge and agree to adhere to all the .

    FAQs

    Step inside Rome’s oldest Marian basilica to experience its architectural grandeur, centuries of history, spiritual significance, and artistic beauty.
    Yes, have your smartphone ready with your booking voucher to show at the entrance.
    Large bags, suitcases, or oversized luggage are not permitted inside the Basilica or through the rese
    Enhance your experience with upgrades like panoramic terrace access, entry to the Liberian Museum, or a guided tour for deeper exploration.
    An audio guide is available in 5 languages as part of optional enhancements you can select.
    Access through the Holy Door is excluded from your entry ticket.
    Admire the stunning gilded ceiling, the Virgin Mary apse mosaic, the Borghese and Pauline Chapels, and explore the Crypt of the Nativity.
    Your ticket includes access to the basilica, and optionally the Liberian Museum or panoramic terraces depending on your selected options. A guided tour is also available as an option.
    Wear comfortable footwear for walking and standing. Dress appropriately with shoulders and knees covered. Have your smartphone ready to show your booking voucher at entry and carry a valid photo ID if requested.
    Begin at the entrance near the main doors where you'll validate your ticket and proceed after a brief security check into the basilica for self-guided exploration.

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