Necropolis under the Basilica of St. Peter/ how to enter?

Number 3 pretty much tells you what you need to know. Entrance is on the left of the Basilica (outside). As you stand facing the entrance of St. Peters look to the left at the bottom of the stairs and there is a gate with barricades and Swiss Guards. You'll enter through that gate/barricade and proceed on that road. You will find the Scavi entrance on the right. I think it says "Scavi" above the door.

I find your intitial question a little confusing. You ask if you will have to reenter security after the tour. Which tour, you mention two different ones?

The Scavi tour has its own security and unless it has changed (we were there in 2011) you do not have a line. Follow their instructions on the checkpoint and Swiss Guards and they will direct you to the Scavi tour office. Very easy and straightforward. At the end of our tour we finished in the area of the Papal Tombs that were underneath the main basilica. You could spend time down there or go on up directly into the Basilica. They did not make us leave and go back through security.

I Assume your tour in the morning covers both the Basilica and the museum/Sistine chapel? if so, once you are done, go get some lunch and relax for a couple hours.

To get to the Scavi tour, you will encounter no general security, just enter St Peters Square, head to the left, present your letter, and you will be directed to the Scavi office for the tour.

Someone that has been there more recently might be able to confirm, but once done with the Scavi tour, we were let out in the Crypt under the Church, others mention being let out into the Basilica.

It will be a long day, but very doable. Wear comfortable shoes, lots of walking and the Scavi tour is on uneven ground.

If your museums tour includes the basilica you will not be able to re-enter the museums without purchasing another entry ticket. Once you exit you cannot re-enter. If your museums tour doesn't include the basilica you will be able to go back inside the rest of the museums without exiting.

For the necropolis, you will go through security under the colonnade then show the guard your reservation and he will direct you.

Donna

Jeff,

We returned from Italy last week and still dreaming of its beauty. The Scavi tour is remarkable and a highlight of our trip. Be sure to arrive 15- 20 minutes before your tour is scheduled. Wear long pants, they strictly enforce the dress code for this tour. There are no pictures allowed during the tour, I did have my camera with me but kept it in my bag to use later in the day. Our day started with walking to the Vatican from the Spanish Steps, taking the 10:00 Scavi tour, explored the Basilica ( no need to re-enter security), lunch, and then spent the afternoon exploring the Vatican Museums. We were exhausted but it was a wonderful day. Enjoy!
Shar