The Jubilee, or Holy Year, is a significant event in the Catholic Church, marked by a year of spiritual renewal, pilgrimage, and forgiveness.
In Rome, the Jubilee transforms the city into a focal point for millions of pilgrims worldwide.
As the Eternal City prepares for this momentous occasion, here’s an in-depth look at what the Jubilee is, what will happen during this period, and practical advice for navigating the crowds and making the most of your visit.

What Is the Jubilee?
The Jubilee is a tradition rooted in the Old Testament, where it signified a year of forgiveness, liberation, and renewal.
In the Catholic Church, it was first institutionalized by Pope Boniface VIII in 1300.
Originally occurring every 100 years, the frequency has increased. Now, ordinary Jubilees are celebrated every 25 years.
Additionally, extraordinary Jubilees may be declared for special occasions, such as the Year of Mercy in 2015-2016.

The Holy Year typically involves:
- Opening of the Holy Doors: The Jubilee officially begins with the opening of the Holy Door in St. Peter’s Basilica on December 24, 2024, a symbolic act of inviting the faithful to enter a year of grace.
- Pilgrimage: Pilgrims are encouraged to visit the four major basilicas in Rome: St. Peter’s, St. John Lateran, St. Mary Major, and St. Paul Outside the Walls.
- Spiritual Indulgence: The Church offers a plenary indulgence for those who participate in specific rites, confess their sins, and receive the Eucharist.
- Special Events: Masses, processions, and other liturgical celebrations take place throughout the year.
The Jubilee’s theme varies, emphasizing different aspects of faith and renewal. For instance, the upcoming Jubilee in 2025 focuses on “Pilgrims of Hope,” a call for unity, faith, and renewal in uncertain times.

Guide To The Jubilee: Tips & More
What Will Happen During the Jubilee?
Rome becomes the epicenter of religious and cultural activities during the Jubilee. Here’s what to expect:
Opening and Closing Ceremonies
The Holy Year begins with the Pope opening the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica, followed by similar openings at the other major basilicas.
These ceremonies are highly symbolic and draw large crowds. The Jubilee concludes with the ceremonial closing of these doors.
The holy doors will opened on the following dates:
- St. Peter’s Basilica, December 24, 2024
- St. John Lateran, December 29, 2024
- Basilica of St. Mary Major, January 1, 2025
- St. Paul Outside the Walls, January 4, 2025

Pilgrimage Routes
Pilgrims from around the globe will walk designated routes leading to the four major basilicas.
Special walking paths, marked and organized by the Vatican, will guide pilgrims through historic and spiritual landmarks in the city. You can also book a guided Jubilee walking tour or this more lengthy private Jubilee tour.
Masses and Special Liturgies
Throughout the Jubilee, the Vatican will host masses, processions, and prayer gatherings led by the Pope and other church leaders.
These events often occur in St. Peter’s Square and other significant venues, such as Piazza San Giovanni in Laterano.
Cultural and Social Events
In addition to religious ceremonies, the Jubilee includes art exhibits, concerts, and charitable initiatives aimed at helping the poor and marginalized. Check the official website.
Increased Access to Religious Sites
Many historic churches and chapels that are typically less accessible may open to the public, providing unique opportunities to explore Rome’s spiritual heritage.

What to Expect in Terms of Crowds
The Jubilee draws millions of visitors, making Rome’s already bustling streets and sites even more crowded.
During the 2000 Jubilee, over 25 million folks traveled to Rome. And over 32 million are expected for the 2025 Holy Year. Just in Rome! That doesn’t even count the rest of Italy!
Here’s how the influx affects the city:
Busy Tourist Attractions
Popular sites like the Vatican Museums, the Colosseum, and the Roman Forum will see an increase in visitors.
Long lines and extended waiting times are inevitable. Last minute booking just won’t be possible.

Pre-book tickets for these sites/experiences well in advance (like months):
- imperial ruins ticket
- imperial ruins tour
- Vatican ticket
- Vatican tour
- early Vatican tour with Holy Door entrance
- Borghese Gallery ticket
- St. Peter’s Basilica tour & dome climb
- Trastevere food tour
- golf cart tour
Crowded Public Transport
Rome’s metro, buses, and trams will operate at maximum capacity, particularly near major basilicas and pilgrimage routes. I would try to leg it around the city as much as possible.
Accommodation Challenges
Hotels, hostels, and other accommodations will book up quickly, and prices are likely to surge during peak periods. Central Rome will be incredibly expensive.

If you want to stay in Vatican City to be near the action, check out these hotels:
The Hotel La Rovere is a good option. It’s a pretty boutique hotel in a 19th century building with stone walls and vaulted ceilings.
For a luxe stay, check out Gran Melia Roma. It’s a resort-type hotel on a hilltop overlooking the Vatican. it’s just a 7 minute walk to the St. Peter’s.
The Eden is a beautiful hotel just a stone’s throw from the basilica. It has luxurious interiors and good views.
Finally, the Hotel de Russie has a sleek contemporary look, with a fabulous pool and spa.

Special Security Measures
To ensure the safety of pilgrims and tourists, the city implements heightened security protocols, including checkpoints and increased police presence, particularly around the Vatican.
You will most likely need your passport to enter at least the Vatican and the Colosseum. Guard it with your life, under your clothing preferably.
Large Gatherings for Papal Events
Events led by the Pope, especially those in St. Peter’s Square, attract enormous crowds.
Expect tight security and the need to arrive early to secure a spot. Be on the lookout for pickpockets.

Outside Rome
The Jubilee in 2025 is expected to draw enormous crowds not just to Rome but across Italy, with an estimated 40+ million visitors.
While Rome will be the epicenter of activity, other parts of Italy will likely experience increased tourism as pilgrims and travelers extend their trips beyond the Eternal City.
Assisi, home to St. Francis and his frescoed basilica, will likely see a surge in visitors seeking spiritual experiences.
Florence, Venice, and Naples are natural extensions for travelers combining their pilgrimage with sightseeing and even more celebrations.
Florence will host a variety of cultural events and exhibitions throughout the Jubilee Year. You can look forward to special art displays, musical performances, and Jubilee-themed exhibitions at iconic venues such as the Uffizi Gallery and the Duomo.

In Venice, the Jubilee celebrations will be infused with the city’s unique charm. Anticipated events include traditional Venetian concerts, elaborate parades on the canals, and masked balls, all tailored to honor the Jubilee.
The Amalfi Coast, Tuscany, and Cinque Terre are already super popular during peak seasons. They will feel even busier as tourists combine the Jubilee with leisure travel. I shudder thinking how packed Amalfi will be.
Milan, as a major transit hub, might also experience an uptick in visitors exploring northern Italy.
The city is expected to host modern art exhibitions, fashion shows, and concerts that reflect the spirit of the Jubilee.

So, in short, while Rome will bear the brunt of the crowds, the Jubilee’s influence will ripple throughout Italy, making early planning essential if you’re looking for a more tranquil experience.
Tips for Navigating the Jubilee
Despite the challenges, a well-planned visit can make your Jubilee experience unforgettable.
This is especially true if crowds don’t ruin your mojo or overly deter you. Sometimes expectations are everything.
Here are some practical tips:
Plan ahead and book early. Reserve accommodations, tickets to major attractions, and guided tours well in advance. I listed the ones you need to book in advance above.

Stay updated on Jubilee events and plan your itinerary around them.
Beat the crowds by visiting popular sites early in the morning, especially the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica.
I would be extra cautious if you are taking the metro or buses. The metro is the main venue for petty theft in Rome.
It’s rife with gangs of thieves, often gangs of girls, pickpocketing passengers. They may even try to surround you.
Because the major attractions will be packed, try exploring some of Rome’s hidden gems. There are so many!
Even during high season, some of these gems are empty. Check out my complete guide to Rome’s secret spots for ideas.

Making the Most of Your Visit
The Jubilee is more than just a religious event. It’s an opportunity to connect with history, culture, and faith in one of the world’s most beautiful cities.
Whether you’re a pilgrim or a curious traveler, the experience of being in Rome during the Jubilee is truly unparalleled.
By planning ahead, remaining flexible, and embracing the unique atmosphere, you can navigate the crowds and immerse yourself in the magic of this once-in-a-lifetime event.
I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to the Jubilee. You may find these other Rome travel guides useful:
- 3 day itinerary for Rome
- 4 day itinerary for Rome
- 5 day itinerary for Rome
- Hidden gems in Rome
- Best museums in Rome
- Guide to the Borghese Gallery
- Guide to the Capitoline Museums
- Guide to Palatine Hill
- Guide to the Roman Forum
- Guide to the Colosseum
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