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Italy/Things to Do in Rome, with baby

Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major (with baby)

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How Baby-Friendly is Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major?

63%Baby-Friendly
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What makes it 63% Baby-Friendly: Babies may stay in strollers and staff can loan a lightweight buggy, yet steps at the entrance, no confirmed changing tables, and echoing interiors that amplify cries cut comfort.

Google
Reviews4.8/ 5
(from 46,834 reviews)
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Positives:

  • Free entry: No ticket required to enter the main basilica, simplifying your visit with a baby.
  • Baby facilities: Free stroller and infant seat loans plus nearby restrooms and drinking fountains

Challenges:

  • Entrance steps: The main door has steps, so you must leave larger strollers at the cloakroom.
  • No dedicated nursing room: There is no private nursing space; use a quiet chapel corner or bring a nursing cover.
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🏖️ Explore Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major?

  • A papal major basilica in Rome, founded in the 5th century and dedicated to the Virgin Mary
  • A repository of early Christian art, housing 5th-century mosaics, ancient marble columns repurposed from Roman temples, and a gilded coffered ceiling
  • A layered architectural ensemble crowned by a 75-meter 14th-century bell tower and an 18th-century Baroque façade

What is so special about Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major for with baby?

  1. Free ground-floor entry lets you explore mosaics and ceiling with a baby
  2. Cloakroom service loans strollers and infant seats at no cost
  3. Stroller-friendly ramp at entrance simplifies access
  4. Quiet weekday Mass offers peaceful break for feeding or changing
  5. Nearby restrooms and drinking fountains support baby needs

Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours

Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Allows a relaxed ground-floor visit without tiring your baby.

(View Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major on Map)

Baby-Friendly Activities in Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major

Stroller-friendly entry and cloakroom loan:

Use the entrance ramp and cloakroom to drop off a large stroller and borrow a lightweight fold-up stroller or baby carrier free of charge.

Tip: Ask staff at the cloakroom on arrival to swap your pram for a loaner stroller.

Ground-floor mosaics and gilded ceiling:

Admire 5th-century Roman mosaics above the nave and the 13th-century gold coffered ceiling without climbing stairs.

Tip: Stay near the center aisle for the best view of the Coronation of the Virgin mosaic.

Peaceful weekday Mass:

Join a weekday morning Mass for a calm atmosphere and quieter side chapels.

Tip: Use the sacristy or side aisles to feed or change your baby during the service.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major

  1. Early arrival: Visit right at opening to get cloakroom help before crowds build.
  2. Light luggage: Store extra bags at the cloakroom to move easily with your baby inside.
  3. Use side chapels: Side chapels offer quieter spots to rest or tend to your baby.
🏖️ Tour Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major

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Rachel B

Rachel B

Sep 2025

This is an amazing basilica to visit. I recommend getting the full ticket as well as free entry. It was very cool going up on the roof terraces. Book ahead for the underground or you'll miss out. Large queue on left to see Pope Francis' tomb, but other than that access is easy after the security check. It is an active church so shoulders and knees covered, no hats for men.

Wilfred Yiu

Wilfred Yiu

Sep 2025

Basilica of Saint Mary is very worthwhile to visit. This is also where Pope Francis and Bernini are buried. Amazing architecture and rich artwork. We went around 8am Monday and there is no line.

Sami Peterson

Sami Peterson

Aug 2025

Definitely worth a stop at. It is a beautiful papal Basilica one of four and the holy doors are open for the jubilee this year so that was very cool to see this is also where the last Pope is buried and you can see where they have marked his burial/tomb. As always, the artwork and the stained glass above the door is absolutely breathtaking. Definitely worth a stop even if you only have 20 minutes ...

Misiu martino

Misiu martino

Aug 2025

IT'S A MUST IN ROME!!! St. Mary Major stands slightly elevated with respect to the street layout of the Esquiline district and, in addition to being a station in the Pilgrimage of the Seven Churches , it is one of the six papal basilicas of Italy, which are of particular importance within the Catholic Church. Most likely founded in the 5th century by Pope Sixtus III, it is the only one of the grea...

JK V

JK V

Jul 2025

The architecture is absolutely breathtaking; as I tilted my head upward to take in the intricate details of the ceiling, I felt as though I was being transported into a narrative woven through time. Each ornate design and subtle flourish seemed to whisper tales of history and artistry, evoking a profound sense of reverence within me. In that moment, I truly sensed the embrace of the holy spirit gr...

When is the best time to visit Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major (Rome, Italy)?

In summer, arrive before 10:00 am to avoid crowds and heat. In winter, the basilica’s interior stays warmer than outside air, making it a cozy visit.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Rome on Trip.com

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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Basilica entryEUR 0
Optional audio guideEUR 8
Total EstimatedEUR 8

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Map of Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major

Address: P.za di Santa Maria Maggiore, 00100 Roma RM, Italy

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About Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major

Opening Hours

Monday:7:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Tuesday:7:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Wednesday:7:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Thursday:7:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Friday:7:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Saturday:7:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Sunday:7:00 AM – 6:30 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+39 06 6988 6800

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