Wheelchair rental at St. Peter's Basilica

Hi Jim,

I saw quite a few people in wheelchairs at St. Peter's. I do not know if they owned them, borrowed or rented them. Depending on time of year, there is a lot of open space to wheel a chair comfortably and have the patron see everything in St. Peter's. I went in early December, and I found the crowd there minimal.

I know you are not interested in the Vatican, but I saw an elderly gentlemen being wheeled by an escort - I am not sure if she was part of the Vatican staff or she was an aide - she was wearing a red vest with some insignias - I did not catch it too much. The Vatican was very, very, very crowded. But, with that, I went on the Saturday of the Immaculata - so, many visitors were there.

As I went into St. Peter's, as I mentioned above, it was totally different - a lot of free space, being able to stop and ponder at a favorite statue without feeling pressure to move. Again, that was my experience on that particular day at that time of year. Of course, any given day could be different. Just thought I would let you know what I encountered.

Edit to Add: I did go to St. Peter's later in the afternoon after the Vatican, so that might make a difference? Either way, when you walk in and see the Pieta - just "wow!" That is one of my favorites. In case you are not aware, the Pieta is protected behind some plexiglass or similar due to some characters' vandalism. Sad, but you will still see the beauty. Other statues and altars are just as breathtaking and awe inspiring. There is an altar with pews for those who want to sit and reflect, say a prayer or just take a little rest. No one times you, and there are enough pews. There are the "men in black" < humor (security or some sort of guards who dress in black suits, wear long coats (did at that time) and circle around to keep a protective eye on those who may sit on the bases of statues or whatever. They do it nicely though, lol. I am not implying you would do that; just part of my observations.

Good luck. I hope you and your Uncle enjoy.

Here are a couple links that might be helpful.

http://stpetersbasilica.info/People/Accessible/AccessibleStPeter%27s.htm

http://stpetersbasilica.info/People/Accessible/AccessibleStPeter%27s.htm#rental

I googled “wheelchair rental St Peters Rome” and came up with a bunch of sites but none specifically renting wheelchairs but looked like some useful info regarding accessibility - have a look and see what you can find.

When I went to St.P mid-oct it was jammed packed and I left quickly having just got a glimpse of the Pieta over the heads of the crowds....I wouldn’t have wanted to be coping with a wheelchair in there. Mind I’d just done a tour of the Vatican Museum which was also jammed.....not fun.

This may be your best bet. Scroll down to see what's available.

https://www.mobilityequipmenthiredirect.com/mobility-equipment-hire/c447-wheelchair-hire-in-italy-rome/