How Do I Book the Scavi Tour in Rome?

By Robert Palmer

If you’re planning a trip to Rome and have a fascination for history and archaeology, then booking the Scavi Tour should be on your must-do list. The Scavi Tour takes you beneath St. Peter’s Basilica to explore the ancient necropolis and the tomb of St. Peter himself. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of booking this exclusive tour.

Step 1: Visit the official website

The first step is to visit the official website of the Vatican Excavations Office. You can easily find it by doing a quick search on any search engine. Once you’re on their website, look for the section dedicated to the Scavi Tour.

Step 2: Read about the tour

Before proceeding with your booking, take some time to read about the Scavi Tour. The website provides detailed information about what to expect during the tour, including historical background and important guidelines to follow.

Important Guidelines:

  • Age Restriction: The tour is not recommended for children under 15 years old due to its intense nature.
  • Dress Code: Visitors must dress modestly, covering their shoulders and knees. Sleeveless tops, shorts, and mini-skirts are not allowed.
  • No Photography or Filming: Taking photos or filming during the tour is strictly prohibited.

Step 3: Fill out the reservation form

Once you have familiarized yourself with all the necessary information, it’s time to fill out the reservation form available on their website. The form will ask for personal details such as your name, contact information, and preferred date of visit.

Step 4: Submit your request

After filling out the form, review your information to make sure everything is accurate. Double-check the date you selected and ensure that it aligns with your travel plans. Once you’re satisfied, click on the submit button to send your request.

Step 5: Wait for confirmation

After submitting your request, the Vatican Excavations Office will review it and process your booking. As the Scavi Tour is extremely popular, it’s advisable to book well in advance to secure a spot. The office will send you an email confirmation with further instructions on how to proceed.

Note: It’s important to mention that due to the limited capacity of the tour and its high demand, not all requests can be accommodated. Therefore, receiving a confirmation email does not guarantee immediate access to the tour.

Step 6: Follow the instructions

Once you receive your confirmation email, carefully read through all the instructions provided by the Vatican Excavations Office. They will include details about where and when to meet for the tour, as well as any additional requirements or documents you need to bring along.

Final Thoughts

The Scavi Tour is a unique opportunity to explore one of Rome’s most significant archaeological sites. By following these steps and properly booking your tour, you’ll embark on an unforgettable journey through history beneath St. Peter’s Basilica.

Note: Due to ongoing renovations or unforeseen circumstances, there might be occasional closures of the Scavi Tour. It’s always recommended to check their website for updates before planning your visit.