Santa Maria Maggiore tickets give you access to one of the four papal basilicas of Rome and the largest church in the city dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Dating to the 5th century, it holds some of the most important early Christian mosaics in the world, a coffered ceiling gilded with the first gold brought back from the Americas, and, since 2025, the tomb of Pope Francis. This priority-entry ticket with audio guide lets you explore it all at your own pace.
Santa Maria Maggiore Tickets Details and Price (2026)
Santa Maria Maggiore Priority Entry with Audio Guide
- From $20 per person (discounted rates for children)
- Priority entrance (skip the general ticket line)
- Self-guided audio guide via app in multiple languages
- Access to the basilica’s main nave, chapels, and mosaics
- Flexible timing: explore at your own pace
- Highly rated by thousands of visitors
The basilica itself has free general entry, but a priority-entry ticket with audio guide saves you the wait during peak times and gives you the historical context that makes the visit meaningful. Certain areas (such as special museum sections or the loggia) may require separate tickets.
👉 Book your Santa Maria Maggiore tickets
Santa Maria Maggiore: What You’ll See
The 5th-century mosaics. The nave is lined with 36 ancient mosaic panels depicting Old Testament scenes, among the oldest Christian mosaics anywhere. The triumphal arch mosaics show the life of Christ. The audio guide explains the stories and symbolism.
The gilded coffered ceiling. The ceiling is decorated with gold said to be among the first brought from the New World, gifted by the Spanish monarchs to the Pope. It glows above the entire length of the nave.
The tomb of Pope Francis. Pope Francis chose Santa Maria Maggiore as his burial place, breaking with the tradition of papal burials at St. Peter’s. His tomb, near the Pauline Chapel, has become a place of pilgrimage since 2025.
The Cosmatesque floor. The intricate geometric marble floor is a masterpiece of medieval Roman craftsmanship.
The chapels. The Sistine Chapel (not the famous one in the Vatican, but the basilica’s own richly decorated chapel) and the Pauline Chapel, both stunning examples of Baroque art and home to the revered Salus Populi Romani icon.
Before You Book
- Dress code enforced. As an active place of worship, shoulders and knees must be covered. Bring a scarf or cover-up. You may be refused entry otherwise.
- Location. Piazza di Santa Maria Maggiore, on the Esquiline Hill, about a 10-minute walk from Termini Station. Easy to combine with other central Rome sights.
- Pope Francis tomb crowds. Since 2025, the basilica sees more visitors wishing to pay respects. Early morning is quieter.
- Photography. Allowed in most areas without flash. Respect worshippers and any posted restrictions.
- Free general entry. The basilica is free to enter. This ticket adds priority access and an audio guide, worth it during busy periods and for understanding what you’re seeing.
- Security screening. Bags are checked at the entrance. Avoid bringing large bags or luggage.
- Cancellation: free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Book Your Santa Maria Maggiore Priority Tickets
One of Rome’s four papal basilicas, 1,600 years of art and history, and the resting place of Pope Francis. Priority entry and audio guide from $20 per person.
👉 Check availability and book your tickets
Prices based on 2026 rates. General basilica entry is free; this ticket adds priority access and audio guide. Confirm details at checkout.