Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore Tour

Rome, Italy

2 hours (approx.)
Pickup offered
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English

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Overview

Santa Maria Maggiore was among the first churches in the world dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Enjoy an in-depth look at this premier cultural and religious site on this small-group tour that takes in its 5th-century mosaics, relics of Christ’s crib, and ancient icon of the Virgin Mary. Learn about its art and architecture while admiring the tombs of greats like St. Jerome and the artist Gian Lorenzo Bernini.

Discover the history and art of Santa Maria Maggiore with a guide
Admire magnificent Byzantine interiors dating from the fifth century
See Rome’s other “Sistine Chapel”, dedicated to Pope Sixtus V
Hear how this basilica was used as a Papal residence in the 1300s

What's Included

Pick-up
Live guide
Small group limited to a maximum of 14 people

Tips
Drop off

Meeting and Pickup

You can head directly to the meeting point, or request pickup

Pickup points

Select a pickup point

Pickup details

Pickup is included for all accommodation within Aurelian Walls. If your hotel is not in the list send us an email with your hotel /B&B/accomodation in Rome, we will let you know if the pick up is included.

Meeting point

P.za della Repubblica, 48, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
Meeting point is in front of Palazzo Naiadi hotel.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Start time
.2:00 pm

Itinerary

Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

2 hours • Admission Ticket Free

Additional Info

Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Wheelchair accessible
Stroller accessible
Most travelers can participate

It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes
A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirement
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 14 travelers

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Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

Traveler Photos

Gallery picture 1 (from a traveler's review)

Gallery picture 2 (from a traveler's review)

Gallery picture 3 (from a traveler's review)

Gallery picture 4 (from a traveler's review)

Gallery picture 5 (from a traveler's review)

Reviews

4.6

based on 10 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

We perform checks on reviews

Basilica of Santa Maria

Peggy_J, Jan 2026

The church is a must see. From the Popes buried there, to the history on the walls, including the New and Old Testament s depicted in the paintings. Boromini is buried also at this church. Christianity has built this church over several centuries. Our guide said it was a church of the people, which is why some Popes have decided to be buried inside. This is one you really don't want to miss. The day we went in January was cold and rainy. Make sure you are dressed warmly, if the church is heated I could not tell. To me it was very cold. Pay attention to the side Chapel, one has cherub and Angels in black marble, not the usual white. According to our guide, she indicated this was done to enhance the gold decorations, of which this church has everywhere.

Response from Host, Jan 2026

Thank you so much for your review! We're glad you enjoyed the beautiful Basilica.

Two hour tour took 40 minutes. The basilica deserved a little more.

David, Aug 2023

The description was a 2 hour small group tour with hotel pickup. The guide left after 40 minutes. Hotel pickup was great and fortunately the car stayed till the guide showed up. It was extremely hot curtailing what could be discussed outdoors.