The countdown to 2025 has begun, and Rome is bracing for its biggest spiritual extravaganza in a quarter-century. The Jubilee Year is coming, and it’s set to transform the Eternal City into a hub of faith, culture, and yes, mind-boggling crowds.
Pro Tip: Planning what to do on your trip to Rome? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you’re in the city. See our guide to Rome for more planning resources, our top Rome tours for a memorable trip, and how to see Rome in a day.
Everything to Know About Rome’s 2025 Jubilee
If you thought Rome was busy during a regular summer, you haven’t seen anything yet. The 2025 Jubilee is poised to draw tens of millions of pilgrims and curious onlookers from every corner of the globe. It’s a once-in-a-generation event that blends centuries-old traditions with modern-day logistical challenges.
In this guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know about this extraordinary celebration, from its fascinating history to insider tips on how to make the most of your visit. Plus, we’ll let you in on a little secret: why booking your tours now might just save your entire Jubilee experience.
What Is the Jubilee Year?
Let’s start with the basics. The Jubilee, also known as the Holy Year, is a time of universal pardon and renewal in the Catholic Church. It’s like a spiritual reset button, offering believers the chance to strengthen their faith and seek forgiveness for their sins.
But here’s where it gets interesting: the 2025 Jubilee is no ordinary Holy Year. It’s an “ordinary” Jubilee, which is anything but ordinary as it only happens every 25 years. The last one was in 2000, so if you missed that one, this is your chance to be part of history.
What to Expect During the Jubilee Year
• Opening of the Holy Door: On Christmas Eve 2024, Pope Francis will dramatically open the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica. It’s usually sealed shut, so this is a big deal.
• Pilgrim’s Path: Follow in the footsteps of countless believers by visiting Rome’s four major basilicas: St. Peter’s, St. John Lateran, St. Mary Major, and St. Paul Outside the Walls.
• Special Masses and Events: The Vatican will host a jam-packed calendar of religious ceremonies, concerts, and cultural events throughout the year.
• Crowds. So. Many. Crowds: Brace yourself for an estimated 30 million visitors descending upon the Eternal City.
Pro Tip: Rome wasn’t built in a day, and you shouldn’t try to see it all in one either. Plan for at least a week to truly soak in the Jubilee atmosphere without feeling rushed.
Why You Need to Book Your Tours Early
Here’s the cold, hard truth: Rome is going to be swarmed with people. We’re talking “make the summer tourist crowds look like a cozy dinner party” levels of busy. But don’t panic! Here’s why booking early is your golden ticket:
1. Colosseum Tours:Want to channel your inner gladiator? So does everyone else. Colosseum tours will sell out faster than you can say “Are you not entertained?” Booking early ensures you don’t miss out on this iconic experience.
2. Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel During the Jubilee, these will be the hottest tickets in town. Early bookers get the best time slots and skip the line entry. Trust us, you don’t want to be stuck in a 3-hour line only to be herded through like cattle.
3. Food Tours and Day Trips With the unprecedented influx of visitors during the Jubilee, it’s not just the major attractions that will be swamped. Even food tours and day trips to nearby destinations will book up at record speed. The sheer volume of people in Rome means every type of tour and experience will be in high demand. Don’t underestimate how quickly these slots will fill – book early to avoid missing out on these essential Roman experiences.
Hidden Gems to Explore
While the major sites will be packed, here are some lesser-known spots to add to your Jubilee itinerary:
• Basilica di San Clemente: A 12th-century church built on top of a 4th-century church, built on top of a 1st-century Roman house. It’s like a historical lasagna!
• Palazzo Doria Pamphilj: A stunning private art gallery that most tourists overlook. Bonus: it’s usually blissfully uncrowded.
• Quartiere Coppedè: A whimsical neighborhood that looks like a fairy tale come to life. Perfect for escaping the Jubilee crowds for an afternoon.
Practical Tips for Your Jubilee Journey
• Accommodation: Book it far in advance. Check out our blog article Where to Stay In Rome 2025
• Transportation: Consider staying near a metro station. Rome’s busy roads will be pushed to their limits during the Jubilee.
• Dress Code: Remember, you’re visiting religious sites. Pack clothes that cover shoulders and knees.
• Language: Learn a few key Italian phrases. A little “grazie” goes a long way.
• Patience: Bring a hefty dose of it. Lines will be long, crowds will be thick, but the experience will be unforgettable.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Jubilee journey now. Book those tours, reserve that hotel, and get ready for an adventure that’ll make your friends back home green with envy. Trust us, when you’re standing in St. Peter’s Square as the Holy Door opens, you’ll be glad you did.
Where To Stay in Rome
Rome has a rich cultural history and many iconic landmarks to explore. Plan where to stay in the magnificent Eternal City in the best neighborhoods.
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