The Rome 2025 Jubilee is shaping up to be one of the most extraordinary events in the city’s history. Known as a Holy Year, the Jubilee is a time of spiritual renewal, cultural celebration, and bustling activity. Whether you’re a pilgrim on a faith-filled journey, a history enthusiast looking to explore Rome’s spiritual legacy, or a curious traveler excited to see the Eternal City at its liveliest, this guide is here to make your visit unforgettable.
Will you be one of the many visitors at the Vatican during the special Jubilee year?
Rome, a city of endless wonders, will transform during the Jubilee, hosting millions of visitors eager to partake in its rich traditions and celebrations. Planning ahead is essential to navigating the city with ease. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your 2025 Jubilee adventure.
The Jubilee, or Holy Year, is a special event in the Catholic Church, typically celebrated every 25 years. It’s a time for reflection, forgiveness, and pilgrimage, offering spiritual indulgences to those who participate in its rites and traditions.
For 2025, Pope Francis has chosen the theme “Pilgrims of Hope”, emphasizing unity, compassion, and renewal. This Jubilee promises a year filled with not only religious significance but also cultural and historical experiences that everyone can enjoy.
During the Rome 2025 Jubilee, expect crowds during important events at St. Peter’s Basilica.
Insider’s tip: Check out our complete guide to San Giovanni in Laterano (St. John Lateran), one of Rome’s most underlooked churches and an important site in the Jubilee of 2025.
Elyssa from RomeWise shares her insights on the upcoming Rome Jubilee 2025, drawing from her extensive experience living through previous Jubilees.
Some travelers might consider skipping Rome in 2025 due to concerns about crowds. Elyssa advises against letting the Jubilee deter you.
Rome is an amazing City – I think the genie is out of the bottle. I’ve seen these comments of ‘I think I’ll wait till 2026 when things get back to normal.’ Tourism is not going to get any less and it’s going to be crowded next year. Rome is going to be crowded, Jubilee or no Jubilee.
— Elyssa of RomeWise
For those planning a trip to Rome in 2025, the Jubilee is a unique opportunity to experience a rare spiritual and cultural tradition. If you’re Catholic or interested in celebrating the Jubilee, it’s a deeply meaningful time to visit. Even for non-Catholics, Rome during the Jubilee offers a vibrant atmosphere and a chance to witness history in the making.
However, some visitors might worry about the impact of the Jubilee on your plans. Here’s what you need to know:
Curious about the conservation and restoration work at St. Peter’s Basilica? The Vatican Mosaic Studio offer a fascinating look at this process – perfect for anyone on a pilgrimage during the Rome 2025 Jubilee! Photo credit: Picture_To_Paint
The origins of the Jubilee date back to ancient Jewish customs, where every 50th year was a time of rest, debt forgiveness, and renewal. The Catholic Church adopted this concept in 1300 when Pope Boniface VIII declared the first Christian Jubilee. Pilgrims were encouraged to travel to Rome to seek forgiveness and partake in religious ceremonies.
Over the centuries, Jubilees have been moments of transformation for both the Church and the city of Rome. Extraordinary Jubilees, such as the 2016 Jubilee of Mercy, are held for specific purposes, but ordinary Jubilees, like the upcoming 2025 event, are scheduled every quarter-century. Each one brings millions of visitors and a unique energy to the Eternal City.
The incredible Vatican Museums – filled with art and historical artifacts amassed by the Catholic Church over centuries – are a must-visit during the Jubilee of 2025.
The Jubilee year is packed with events, ceremonies, and special traditions that make it an unparalleled experience. Here’s what you can look forward to:
The Opening of the Holy Door
The Jubilee officially begins on December 24, 2024, with the opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica. This door, usually sealed shut, symbolizes the pathway to grace and forgiveness. Each of the four papal basilicas in Rome—St. Peter’s, St. John Lateran, St. Paul Outside the Walls, and St. Mary Major—has its own Holy Door, which remains open throughout the Jubilee year.
San Giovanni in Laterano is also known as the Basilica of St. John Lateran. Photo credit: Antoine Taveneaux
Pilgrimages to the Four Major Basilicas
One of the most cherished Jubilee traditions is the pilgrimage to Rome’s four papal basilicas. Each basilica is a masterpiece of architecture and spirituality:
St. Peter’s Basilica is incredible – both from afar and up close.
From Papal Masses at St. Peter’s Square to intimate services in lesser-known chapels, the Jubilee offers countless opportunities for worship. Don’t miss the Stations of the Cross at the Colosseum on Good Friday or the World Meeting of Families, a vibrant gathering that celebrates unity.
Rome’s museums, galleries, and theaters will join the Jubilee celebrations by hosting special exhibitions, concerts, and performances. These events are perfect for those looking to combine faith with culture.
Not many people visit the Vatican’s library, but it’s definitely worth a stop during Rome’s 2025 Jubilee. Photo credit: candiche
The Jubilee runs from December 24, 2024 to December 24, 2025, but certain times will be busier than others. Key dates like Christmas will see a surge in visitors. Easter in Rome is always busy, but expect 2025 to be especially crowded. For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting in early spring or late autumn.
Rome’s neighborhoods each offer a unique atmosphere. Here are a few top picks:
The Trastevere neighborhood is known for its trattorias, craft beer pubs, and artisan shops. Why not visit during the Rome 2025 Jubilee?
Rome’s public transport system is efficient and affordable, with buses, trams, and a metro network connecting the city. For shorter distances, walking is the best way to explore Rome’s winding streets and hidden treasures.
Bonus tip: Bookmark the official Jubilee website for up-to-the-minute details on events.
Another perk to getting around on foot? Stumbling across the tastiest gelato shops.
While the Jubilee’s religious and cultural events are the main attraction, Rome offers countless other experiences. Here’s how to make the most of your trip:
Escape the crowds and explore Rome’s quieter corners:
We’re huge fans of the Testaccio Market, where you can find everything from bite-size pizzas to fresh fruit and veggies.
Food is central to Roman culture. Be sure to try:
Join a Devour Tour for a deeper dive into Rome’s culinary scene. The Twilight Trastevere Food Tour combines history, culture, and delicious bites.
Visiting during the 2025 Jubilee? Don’t miss our incredible food tours for a deep dive into Italian culture and cuisine.
Don’t miss Rome’s most famous sites:
No trip to Rome would be complete with a visit to the Colosseum.
Rome is the perfect starting point for exploring the rest of Italy. Consider these destinations:
Walks of Italy offers expert-led tours in all these locations, ensuring a seamless experience.
Need an escape from the capital? We make it easy to reach the Amalfi Coast from Rome!
With millions of visitors expected, it’s crucial to minimize your environmental impact:
Make sure to support local businesses during the Rome 2025 Jubilee.
The Rome Jubilee 2025 is a once-in-a-generation event that adds an extra layer of significance to your visit. Whether you’re coming for the religious celebrations or to experience Rome’s timeless beauty, the Jubilee year promises to be an unforgettable time to explore the Eternal City.
The Rome 2025 Jubilee is more than an event—it’s a celebration of faith, culture, and community. Whether you’re coming for the spiritual journey, the history, or the excitement of exploring Rome, this guide has everything you need to plan a memorable trip.
Guided tours will help you make the most of your visit during the Jubilee year.
With Walks of Italy and Devour Tours, you can experience Rome like never before. From exclusive access to the Vatican to culinary adventures in Trastevere, our tours offer something for everyone.
Ready to start your journey? Visit Walks of Italy and Devour Tours to book your Rome 2025 Jubilee adventure today.
We can’t wait to see you in Rome!
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