Explore the Basilica of St Mary Major

Discover Rome’s St Mary Major Basilica with a guided tour, exploring sacred relics and ancient mosaics. Uncover hidden treasures and spiritual insights.

Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore - Discover one of Rome’s four Major Basilicas and walk through the Holy Door on this 1-hour exclusive tour of St Mary Major. Rich in history and tradition, this stunning landmark houses relics of Christ Himself, the sarcophagus of Pope Pius V, and the renowned icon Salus Popoli Romani.
What's Included
  • All Fees and Taxes
What's Not Included
  • Guide gratuity
  • In-vehicle air conditioning
Additional Information

Discover the Basilica of St Mary Major, one of the four Major Papal Basilicas in Rome, with a knowledgeable guide well-versed in Catholic tradition. Immerse yourself in the fascinating history and symbolism of ancient mosaics, the crib relic of baby Jesus, and the esteemed icon Salus Populi Romani, believed to be created by St Luke. This small group…

Location
P.za di Santa Maria Maggiore, 33
Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore
By the fountain in front of the basilica. What3Words location: chemistry.ember.braked Please download WhatsApp so that we can communicate in real time in the event of any issues. Google Maps location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/5Vw9zKV4eSWM7atx7
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.6
(20 Ratings)
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Linda_w
Apr 22, 2026
Excellent Guide - This was a very comprehensive tour and we were given a lot of information and time to experience the relics and sacred spaces.
Review provided by Viator
Debbie_v
Mar 27, 2026
Very knowledgeable - would give 11 out of 10! - Wa was amazing amazing! We have been on a pilgrimage through Portugal, Spain, France , Italy. very very knowledgeable- patient- made sure we understood - talked well. one of the very best guided we have experienced ! highly recommend!!!
Review provided by Viator
Charleslew919
Mar 21, 2026
St Mary major church - Very informative and hidden messages Very cordial guide and on time and can tell you about everything in the church
Review provided by Viator
Michelle_l
Jan 29, 2026
Wen was so great! I was... - Wen was so great! I was running a little behind but arrived before the tour began. She is clearly knowledgeable in all aspects of this tour. She was also so sweet and kind- allowing some space and time to reflect at certain parts of the tour and not overwhelming me with information like other tour guides do. She mixed history with religion and architecture, which all really enhanced the beauty of St Mary Della Nevi!
Review provided by Viator
Fabio_c
Dec 29, 2025
Excellent guide - Fantastic guide today, she was very knowledgeable. Will definitely share details with friends and family
Review provided by Viator
Kimberly_r
Nov 25, 2025
Wen is very knowledgeable... - Wen is very knowledgeable and friendly. Sometimes she talks a little fast but she is a great tour guide.
Review provided by Viator
Robert_s
Nov 25, 2025
Great Experience - Wonderful experience with Wen as our guide, offering wonderful historical background, appreciation of both the artistic and religious significance of St. Mary Major Basilica. Thank you.
Review provided by Viator
Claire_m
Oct 19, 2025
Would recommend 100% - Fantastic tour! So rich in history and our tour guide Wen was amazing. So knowledgeable and to see Pope Francis final resting place was emotional. Such a tranquil place, even with the crowds.
Review provided by Viator
Adri
Dec 27, 2025
Disappointed - The guide was very nice and knowledgeable, and even though she spoke English as her second language, there were still times that were difficult to understand her. In fact, I missed the whole part when she shared that the Holy Doors were not open on this day. The entire reason I booked this trip was to go thru those and skip the line. Neither of those things were true. To say the least, I was disappointed with the experience.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Daisy_p
Jan 28, 2026
Confused - I didn’t meet our tour guide and we just went inside the church without the tour guide. I didn’t received any instruction the day before how to meet our guide.
Review provided by Viator
From $65
up to 10 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).