Pantheon

The basics

Pass through the bronze doors and stand under the center of the dome, where light shines down into the open interior (and occasionally rain pours down, too). Guided private and small-group Pantheon tours are great for learning about the structure's history and architecture.

Many other tour options, lasting 3 to 4 hours, combine visits with skip-the-line entry to the Colosseum or other popular Roman sights, such as the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, and the Roman Forum. You can also admire the Pantheon from the steps of the obelisk in Piazza della Rotonda.

Things to know before you go

• Book a bus tour or take a cool walking night tour around the illuminated fountains and buildings to avoid the worst of Rome's heat.

• Bring your appetite on food tours of Rome's historical center that pass the Pantheon.

• As the Pantheon is an active religious building, flash photography and loud conversations are discouraged.

• The Pantheon is free to visit and open every day.

How to get there

The Pantheon is located in the center of Rome, a short walk from the Tiber River, the main shopping street of Via del Corso, and many other attractions. It's possible to walk to the site or catch a bus or tram that stops at Largo di Torre Argentina. Alternatively, visit on a guided walking tour.

When to get there

The Pantheon is open and draws lots of visitors every day. To see the building buzz with energy, attend weekend public mass, held on Saturdays at 5pm and Sundays at 10:30am. Though the interior is not open at night, seeing the illuminated ancient architecture after dark is worth a visit in itself.

Things to do nearby

The Pantheon is one of Rome's top attractions, but there's plenty more to see and do nearby. Be sure to check out the stunning Gothic interior of the Basilica di Santa Maria Sopra Minerva, just one block behind the Pantheon; then, continue to the Spanish Steps on the Piazza di Spagna or head to the Trevi Fountain to make a wish.

Is a tour of the Pantheon worth it?

Yes, the Pantheon is one of Rome’s most spectacular and well-preserved ancient buildings, home to a magnificent dome, the largest unreinforced concrete dome ever built. In addition, this ancient wonder houses illustrious tombs, including that of the Renaissance painter Raphael.

How long does it take to tour the Pantheon?

The interior of the Pantheon is one single space, so once you’re inside, it only takes a few minutes to walk through it. Plan to spend about 20-30 minutes marveling at its soaring dome and oculus, admiring the ornate marble decorations, and walking the circumference to take in the lavish tombs.

Do you need a reservation to enter the Pantheon?

Rome made history recently by announcing that all visitors must purchase admission tickets to visit the Pantheon as of July 2023. You can buy tickets online in advance via the Pantheon’s official website at the ticket counter at the site’s entrance immediately before entering.

What is the best day to visit the Pantheon?

The Pantheon is open daily but is most crowded on the weekends and holidays when Mass is held inside this ancient temple-turned-church. The best day to visit is on a weekday morning before the crowds flow in or on weekday evenings just before the 6:45pm last entry (the site closes at 7pm).

How long do you have to queue to visit the Pantheon?

It was once very quick and easy to enter the Pantheon, one of Rome’s last unticketed attractions. Today, however, the line at the ticket counter can stretch across the square, though it does tend to move quickly. Consider that you may wait in line for up to 30 minutes before reaching the entrance.

How much does it cost to tour the Pantheon?

Until just recently, the Pantheon was free to enter. In July 2023, however, the site announced that visitors must purchase a €6 admission ticket to visit. Alternatively, you can reserve a 35-minute audio tour for €15 or a 45-minute guided tour for €20–€30.

Ways to explore

The Pantheon was once one of Rome’s most beloved free attractions, but now visitors must purchase a ticket to enter. Avoid long lines at the door by joining a Pantheon tour that includes pre-booked admission, and hear in-depth commentary to better understand this ancient structure’s unique history and architecture.

Many longer tour options also include guide visits inside the Colosseum and the Roman Forum or stops at other popular sights in Rome’s historic center, such as the Trevi Fountain and Piazza Navona. You can also admire the Pantheon’s exterior from the steps of the obelisk in Piazza della Rotonda.

Accessibility

The Pantheon is wheelchair accessible via a ramp at the entrance; visitors in wheelchairs and their companions may enter for free.

Age limits

None; free entry for kids under 18

What to pack

A battery pack for phone or camera, travel binoculars (for a good look at the dome)

What to wear

This ancient temple is today a Catholic church, so wear clothing that covers shoulders, knees, and midriffs.

Not allowed

Food and drinks, pets (aside from service animals), talking on cell phones

Amenities

Audio guides for rent, souvenir kiosk

Address

The Pantheon marks the heart of Rome’s attraction-heavy historic center and is located about halfway between tourism headliners Piazza Navona and the Trevi Fountain. You can walk to the Pantheon from these two must-see sights in less than 10 minutes.

Driving

Much of Rome’s historic center is restricted to authorized vehicles, and parking is scarce. Visit the Pantheon on foot as part of a sightseeing stroll, or join a bike or golf cart tour that includes a Pantheon stop.

Public transportation

Rome’s metro line does not run beneath the historic center, so the only option for reaching the Pantheon is ATAC buses. Largo di Torre Argentina is the nearest transportation hub, where more than a dozen bus lines stop.

Best times to visit

Book your ticket for the first morning entry or the final entrance in the afternoon to avoid the midday crowds that overrun this popular attraction.

Best days to visit

Weekdays tend to be less crowded than the weekends. Avoid the first Sunday of the month, when entrance is free and the Pantheon bursts with visitors.

Best months to visit

Rome’s top sights, including the Pantheon, are most enjoyable during the low-season lull from November through March.

Special events

The most spectacular day to visit is Pentecost (50 days after Easter Sunday), when thousands of rose petals are dropped through the oculus onto the crowd.