Italy's Jubilee Year 2025 will be extra crowded

[WORLD] Italy will experience an unprecedented influx of visitors during its Jubilee Year in 2025, and those planning a trip should prepare for significant crowds and disruptions. The Jubilee Year, which occurs every 25 years, is a deeply religious time for Catholics, drawing millions of pilgrims to Rome and the Vatican. As a result, travelers should expect heightened demand for accommodations, long lines at attractions, and higher-than-usual prices. Here’s everything you need to know about navigating Italy during this special year.

The Jubilee Year is a Catholic tradition that brings together millions of pilgrims to Rome for a series of religious events. It officially began on December 24, 2024, when Pope Francis opened the Holy Door in St. Peter’s Basilica, marking the start of the year-long celebration. The 2025 Jubilee Year is expected to draw an estimated 25 million visitors to Italy, many of whom will flock to religious sites such as St. Peter’s Basilica, the Holy Stairs, and other key locations throughout Rome.

During this year, the Vatican will host numerous papal masses, audiences, and pilgrimages, making it one of the busiest times in the country for both religious observance and tourism. As a result, hotels, transportation, and major attractions are likely to be overcrowded, especially during key Catholic holidays like Easter.

Increased Tourist Numbers and Crowds

According to experts, travelers can expect a 20% to 30% increase in visitors to the Vatican and other significant religious sites in Rome during the Jubilee Year. Raffaele Di Santo, regional manager for Italy at Daytrip, advises visitors to plan ahead if they wish to experience the most popular attractions, as demand will be high. He adds, “To avoid the busiest times, it’s best to visit the major attractions early in the morning or later in the afternoon.”

This surge in tourism will impact everything from hotel availability to public transportation. Hotels in Rome are expected to reach nearly 90% occupancy rates, and prices will likely increase due to the higher demand. Additionally, Italy’s metro system is anticipated to see a 15% to 20% increase in passengers, which could lead to crowded conditions and longer wait times.

Key Religious Events During the Jubilee Year

The Jubilee Year is packed with religious events that are central to the celebration. One of the most significant times to visit Rome will be during the papal masses, especially at Easter. These services often attract between one to two million attendees, with large crowds gathering in St. Peter’s Square and other locations for prayer and reflection.

Other important events throughout the year will include pilgrimages to sacred sites in Rome, such as the Holy Stairs, which are traditionally climbed by pilgrims seeking spiritual renewal. Visitors will also have the opportunity to participate in special masses and attend papal audiences at the Vatican. These events are not only popular with tourists but are deeply meaningful for the Catholic faithful, underscoring the religious significance of the year.

Planning Tips for Visiting Italy During Jubilee Year 2025

Given the expected crowds and religious significance of the Jubilee Year, visitors will need to plan their trips with extra care. Here are a few tips for making the most of your visit:

Book in Advance: With hotel occupancy rates soaring, it is essential to secure your accommodations early. Booking well in advance can help ensure you get a place to stay and avoid paying exorbitant prices.

Plan Visits for Off-Peak Times: The most popular attractions in Rome, such as the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica, will be crowded throughout the year. To avoid long waits, consider visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the crowds tend to thin out.

Respect Local Customs: While the Jubilee Year will bring tourists from all over the world, it’s important to remember that this is a deeply religious event for Catholics. Respect for local customs, especially around sacred sites, is essential. Visitors should dress modestly when entering churches and follow guidelines set by religious authorities.

Expect Higher Transportation Demand: With an influx of visitors, public transportation in Rome, including the metro system, will be more crowded than usual. Be prepared for possible delays and crowded conditions, especially during peak hours.

Be Prepared for Long Lines: Popular attractions such as the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Colosseum will likely see longer lines than usual. To save time, consider purchasing tickets in advance, or use skip-the-line services where available.

Is Jubilee Year Worth Visiting?

While Italy’s Jubilee Year in 2025 will undoubtedly be crowded, it also presents a unique opportunity to witness an event of immense religious and cultural significance. For Catholics, the year offers a chance to participate in special pilgrimages, attend papal masses, and visit sacred sites with deep historical and spiritual meaning. Even for non-religious tourists, the atmosphere of reverence and celebration will provide a one-of-a-kind experience in one of the world’s most iconic cities.

However, visitors should be prepared for the crowds, higher prices, and logistical challenges that come with such a large influx of tourists. By planning ahead and being flexible, travelers can make the most of their trip to Italy during this special time.

Italy’s Jubilee Year in 2025 will be an exciting and transformative time for both pilgrims and tourists. While it will bring record numbers of visitors to Rome and other key destinations, it is also a time of spiritual renewal and celebration. For those planning to visit, early preparation, respect for local customs, and strategic timing will help ensure a rewarding experience.

As Raffaele Di Santo notes, “Remember that the Jubilee is not just a tourist event; it’s a deeply religious time, so respect for local customs, especially around sacred sites, is crucial.” By following these guidelines, travelers can enjoy all that Italy has to offer while honoring the importance of the Jubilee Year.