Tour

Early Bird Tour Santa Maria Maggiore & Underground

5.0(2 reviews)
1h 20m
From $36.85
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Early Bird Tour Santa Maria Maggiore & Underground
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About This Tour

Beat the crowds with exclusive early morning access to the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, Pope Francis' most beloved church and one of Rome's four Papal Basilicas, before it opens to the public. Expert-guided intimate experience through the Loggia of Blessings featuring the rare mosaic of the Miracle of the Snow, the stunning Bernini Staircase, the historic Hall of the Popes, and the museum housing precious liturgical treasures, ancient manuscripts, and the world's first nativity scene. Explore hidden underground chambers in the archaeological excavations, where a preserved Roman domus, medieval foundations, and paleochristian remains reveal 2,000 years of continuous history. Access to restricted areas within the basilica's magnificent Baroque interior, home to the tombs of Pope Francis and Bernini, plus the legendary Holy Crib containing authentic fragments of Baby Jesus' manger. Perfect for history lovers seeking an authentic, peaceful Rome experience in serene morning light.

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Early Bird Tour Santa Maria Maggiore & Underground
Early Bird Tour Santa Maria Maggiore & Underground
Early Bird Tour Santa Maria Maggiore & Underground
Early Bird Tour Santa Maria Maggiore & Underground
Early Bird Tour Santa Maria Maggiore & Underground
Early Bird Tour Santa Maria Maggiore & Underground
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Tour Analysis

Tour Characteristics

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What's Included

Audio headsets to ensure you can hear the guide clearly at all times
Guided tour conducted by a professional, licensed guide
Early entry at 7:25 AM, before regular opening hours — exclusive by Tourismotion
Ticket to the Archaeological Area, with access to the undergrounds
Check-in assistance on-site, with Tourismotion staff easily recognizable by branded T-shirts
Ticket to the Museum Areas, including the Loggia of Blessings, the Bernini staircase, and the museum

What's Not Included

Tips
Transfers
Terrance

Additional Information

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The underground area is not suitable for visitors with reduced mobility or those who suffer from claustrophobia. Participation in this part of the tour is optional, but the ticket price remains the same.

Meeting Point

Our team will be waiting for you at Via Liberiana 27 (on the left side of the Basilica, at the beginning of the barriers for the entrance with reservation).

Special Instructions

Travelers must present their Viator voucher to our check-in staff at Via Liberiana 27 (left side of the Basilica). Our assistant will be there with a sign that says “Tourismotion”. Please, we strongly recommend you to arrive to the meeting point at least 15 minutes before the beginning of the tour. The guide will manage your tickets.

Cancellation Policy

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

Tour Operator

Tourismotion

Official supplier for this experience. Bookings are handled directly through Viator with verified partners.

Viator Certified

Trusted local operator

Guest Ratings

Based on 2 verified reviews

5.0

Average rating

5
2100%

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Dest ID: 511
Slug: 511