The 4 Papal Basilicas by Ape Calessino
A private pilgrimage through Rome's four sacred sites, aboard a classic Italian tuk-tuk during the Holy Year
The 4 Papal Basilicas private tour offers a rare chance to visit all four of Rome's major basilicas in a single four-hour journey, accompanied by a licensed guide and transported in a vintage Ape Calessino — one of the most iconic vehicles in the city.
Designed for the Jubilee year 2025, this tour grants access to each basilica while the Holy Doors remain open, a tradition observed only once every 25 years. Passing through the four Porte Sante in a single outing is a spiritually and historically significant experience, whether or not you follow a religious faith.
The route covers the Basilica of San Pietro in the Vatican, Santa Maria Maggiore on the Esquiline Hill, San Paolo Fuori le Mura beyond the ancient city walls, and San Giovanni in Laterano — the cathedral of Rome. A stop for gelato is included along the way to help you recharge between visits.
The private format means the pace adapts to your group, and the qualified guide provides historical and cultural context at each site, going beyond the religious significance to explain the architectural, artistic, and civic roles these basilicas have played across the centuries.
Tour Highlights
Pass through all four Holy Doors, open exclusively during the Jubilee year 2025 — a once-in-25-years opportunity.
Travel between the basilicas aboard a classic Ape Calessino, a distinctive Italian three-wheeled vehicle ideal for Rome's streets.
A licensed and experienced tourist guide accompanies your group throughout, offering expert commentary at every stop.
A fully private tour — no shared groups, no strangers, just your party and a dedicated guide and driver.
A gelato stop is built into the itinerary, giving your group time to rest and refresh between basilica visits.
All four major basilicas — San Pietro, Santa Maria Maggiore, San Paolo Fuori le Mura, and San Giovanni in Laterano — in one tour.
Suitable for religious pilgrims and cultural travelers alike, with historical and artistic context provided at each site.
Itinerary
The tour begins at the most visited Christian church in the world, located within Vatican City. Your guide will introduce the basilica's architecture, its role as the heart of the Catholic Church, and the significance of its Holy Door during the Jubilee.
Situated on the Esquiline Hill, this basilica is one of Rome's oldest Marian churches and houses remarkable early Christian mosaics. The guide will explain its founding legend and its place in Roman devotional history.
Located outside the ancient Aurelian Walls along the Via Ostiense, this basilica was built over the tomb of Saint Paul and is one of the largest churches in the world. Its peaceful cloister and monumental nave make it a striking contrast to the city center.
As the cathedral of the Bishop of Rome, San Giovanni in Laterano holds a significance that predates even Saint Peter's Basilica. Your guide will cover its long history as the seat of papal authority and its distinctive baroque interior.
What Is Included
Included
- Private Ape Calessino transport for the full tour
- Licensed and qualified tourist guide
- Gelato stop and refreshment break
- Restroom stop included in the itinerary
- All four Papal Basilicas visited with Holy Doors open
Not Included
- Hotel pickup or drop-off
- Entry fees to any special exhibitions or reserved areas
- Gratuities for guide and driver
- Personal expenses
Important Information
Reserve Your Spot
Private availability fills quickly during the Jubilee year. Secure your date and experience all four Papal Basilicas with the Holy Doors open in one dedicated private tour.
Book Now
