Archbasilica of St. John Lateran travel guide

The Archbasilica of St John Lateran, or San Giovanni in Laterano, holds a rich and storied history. As the oldest and highest ranking of the four papal basilicas, it stands as the mother church of the Roman Catholic faith.

The basilica was founded by Emperor Constantine in the 4th century, and has since witnessed many significant events in religious history. Over the centuries, it has faced destruction and restoration multiple times, notably the devastating earthquake of 896, and fires in 1308 and 1361.

Despite the adversities, the basilica has been rejuvenated with each rebirth. Its interior today reflects the 17th century Baroque style, while retaining elements of its ancient past such as the stunning 13th century cloister.

The Lateran Palace adjacent to the basilica served as the papal residence for centuries before the Vatican was established. Today, the Archbasilica of St John Lateran stands not only as a testament to its enduring faith but also as an architectural marvel and a must-visit for any history enthusiast.

Located in the dynamic Rome, the popular Archbasilica of St. John Lateran is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Rome or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Italy.

Rome is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Rome offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Rome and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Trevi Fountain, Colosseum, Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and Roman Forum.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Rome has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Rome, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Italy!

Archbasilica of St. John Lateran is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Rome, Italy. If you're flying in, Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport is approximately 15 miles (24.1 km) away from Rome. From there, you can easily reach Archbasilica of St. John Lateran by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Rome, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, which is located 1.3 miles (2.1 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is P. Za di S. Giovanni in Laterano, 4, 00184 Roma RM, Italy.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Archbasilica of St. John Lateran!

To truly enjoy your visit to Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, joining a tour that features this popular Catholic cathedral in Rome is highly recommended. As one of Italy's most iconic attractions, Archbasilica of St. John Lateran draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Archbasilica of St. John Lateran starting at just 50 EUR below.

The best time to explore Archbasilica of St John Lateran is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). These seasons offer mild and pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and exploring the magnificent church and its surroundings. The summer months (July and August) often see a surge in tourists, leading to crowded spaces and longer wait times. To avoid this, you may prefer to visit on weekdays and arrive early in the morning. The church also celebrates its dedication feast on November 9th, a special event that enhances the overall visitor experience with liturgical ceremonies and a unique spiritual atmosphere. Additionally, the Easter period is a significant time for the Archbasilica, with religious services that offer a unique insight into Catholic traditions. Regardless of the season, remember that the basilica is a place of worship, so dress respectfully and maintain a quiet demeanor. By choosing the right time, your visit to the Archbasilica of St John Lateran can be a memorable experience filled with rich historical and cultural insights.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Archbasilica of St. John Lateran and Italy's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport and the city of Rome, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Italy cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Rome and beyond.

Conveniently explore Archbasilica of St. John Lateran and plenty more captivating attractions in Rome by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Archbasilica of St. John Lateran and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Rome has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Archbasilica of St. John Lateran below.

Aside from Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, Rome is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Rome, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Trevi Fountain, Colosseum, and Pantheon.

Trevi Fountain is a bucket-list park and top attraction in Rome, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 340,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Trevi Fountain is Piazza di Trevi, 00187 Roma RM, Italy.

Another appreciated attraction in Rome is Colosseum. Like Trevi Fountain, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars among 320,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this establishment is Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma RM, Italy.

Pantheon is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Rome. This establishment and top attraction in Rome has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 180,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Piazza della Rotonda, 00186 Roma RM, Italy.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Rome below.