Admire the stunning blend of architectural styles and rich historical significance of Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, one of Rome’s four patriarchal basilicas and the largest church in the city dedicated to the Virgin Mary. This majestic basilica showcases a harmonious mix of early Christian, medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque elements. Marvel at its glorious mosaics, ornate chapels, and the impressive coffered ceiling gilded with gold from the New World. As you explore, appreciate its profound role in the religious and cultural history of Rome, standing as a testament to centuries of devotion and artistic achievement.
What's Included
Headsets (if needed)
Expert guide
Access to Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
What to bring: Comfortable shoes, Weather-appropriate clothing that covers the shoulders and knees
Not allowed: Shorts, Baby strollers, Luggage or large bags, Short skirts, Sleeveless shirts, Backpacks, Umbrellas, Tripod, Animals, Potentially dangerous objects
Know before you go: Wear clothing that covers at least the shoulders and knees ,If your clothing does not comply with the rules, you may be denied entry. All guests must undergo airport-style security. During high season the wait may be up to 30 minutes Late arrivals will not be accommodated Photography with a flash is not allowed inside. The staff are authorized to delete any files taken. Food and drinks are not allowed, with the exception of water.
Before the activity: Please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the activity starts The meeting point is at Piazza Santa Maria Maggiore. Located in the between via Gioberti (Esquilino district) and via Merulana (Esquilino-Monti). Our staff will be meeting you holding a “LOVING ROME” flag and escorting you through the main entrance and there will be an official employee that accompanies you entering the basilica.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews for Rome: Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica Guided Tour
No show and a terrible experience
David_S
We were waiting at the piazza looking for the “loving Rome” flag, to get the tickets and to go inside of the grand basilica with the expert guide. But our guide from Love Rome never showed up for the English speaking expert guided tour. No call either.
I did ask the museum staff at 3:55 PM, and he said I needed to stay in the plaza per the voucher instruction. Apparently, he did not receive any advanced notification from the operator. So I waited and waited..
At around 4:10, I had to make a long distance call (I am from US) to the operator and I had to hand the phone to the museum staff. After almost 15 minutes exchanges, the museum staff finally receive the ticket number from the Love Rome operator. We were then rushed to the 2nd floor to join a on-going tour in the middle of their tour. Most members of the group speak Italian or most of them understand Italian. After making a protest on the language, the innocent tour guide who had no idea what was happening was then trying to insert some English phrases.. We went up the roof and then were escorted out. The tour guide , an archeologist, was trying very hard to spent couple minutes with us in english, but she is really not trained for the extra work put on her. I really feel sorry for her. But I believe it is victor and the tour operator’s responsibility to make sure the tour was conducted smoothly.
Recently, I had two Colosseum guided tour thru Viator (I reserved one, it was canceled, I made the 2nd reservation), It was also also abruptly canceled leaving me not able to re-book anything.
Not happy with the tour operator
Garry_A
The tour itself was excellent……once i got in 20 minutes after the tour started (missing the start) even though I was at the meet point early.
The tour operator failed to turn up as per the instructions and I had to go in to seek assistance. I couldn’t get in until I had the actual entry ticket from the tour operator. The front desk contacted the operator several times and finally a ticket was sent to my WattsApp
The lady at the front desk was extremely helpful and if it wasn’t for her I would never have gained entry.
I have received no apologies from the tour operator for the stress (of missing out) that I endured.
Engaging, interesting, memorable
Chantelle_H
Such a knowledgeable and engaging guide. We learnt so much!
Would thoroughly recommend.
The church is absolutely stunning too. Incredible.
Good Tour Guide
Kevin_D
Tour Guide Was Very Passionate About the history of rome Gave us very good detail of everything we seen
Worth your time.
Jeff_L
Tour guide was great and very personable. Mattia taylored the tour for my level of knowledge and religions. Also, loved the recommendations of more things to see in Rome. Basilica was impressive and worth seeing with a guide.
I've been creating content and applications online since 1996. I've created several successful online businesses and enjoy creating content and tools that people enjoy using. I love to travel with my family and have visited more than 50 countries across all continents. We're building the Visit.Network to bring interesting travel guides to travellers around the world.
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