Roman Catholic celebration occurs every 25 years and attracts millions of visitors seeking spiritual renewal.
Rome is preparing to host one of its most remarkable events in recent memory: the Rome Jubilee 2025. During our three unforgettable weeks in the Eternal City in October 2024, we witnessed a whirlwind of activity around town in anticipation of this massive event.
Between all of our breaks walking through history and amazing ruins, incredible pasta dishes (cacio e pepe, I’m looking at you), creamy gelato and amazing fresh produce, we saw a lot of preparations underway. The locals joke about how nothing ever gets completed, but the race is on and they appear to be working in earnest to be ready.
From major infrastructure upgrades (and the expansion of the C line of the subway) to the meticulous restoration of sacred landmarks (and Rome has many), it’s clear the city is gearing up to welcome millions of visitors. With plans to return for the Jubilee, we’ve curated this insider guide for travelers who, like us, appreciate a seamless blend of comfort, efficiency, and rich cultural experiences—the very essence of a Digital Roamad.
Understanding the Rome Jubilee 2025
The Jubilee, a centuries-old Roman Catholic tradition, occurs every 25 years, offering pilgrims a chance to visit hallowed sites, partake in unique ceremonies, and receive indulgences. For 2025, the city anticipates a vibrant influx of visitors drawn to experiences like Holy Door pilgrimages, special masses at St. Peter’s Basilica in nearby Vatican City, and artistic performances scattered across Rome.
Rome Jubilee 2025 will officially open on December 24, 2024, at 7pm with a Mass presided over by Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Square. The event will run through Epiphany on January 6, 2026.
Such a grand event demands careful planning. Whether your interests lie in spirituality, history, or simply exploring Rome’s electrifying atmosphere, understanding the event’s scope ensures a confident and stress-free journey.
Strategic Planning for Accommodations
As Rome braces for an influx of visitors, lodging near major landmarks is already in high demand. Here’s how to secure your ideal stay:
- Loyalty programs: Tap into points from programs like Marriott Bonvoy or Hilton Honors for prime locations near Piazza Navona or the Spanish Steps. We found a great choice using Hyatt points in the Borghese area. We do suggest booking now – it’s going to be busy. And hotels are expensive in Rome. Airbnb or Booking.com might be a consideration.
- Charming alternatives: Seek out boutique hotels or rental apartments in Monti or Trastevere for a cozy, authentic vibe. We stayed part of the time in Monti and it was a perfect area to base without being completely overrun with tourists and crowds.
- Credit card perks: Leverage travel cards offering free nights or room upgrades for added comfort.
Navigating Rome with Ease
Exploring Rome during the Jubilee will require a mix of patience and savvy strategies:
- Public transit: A multi-day metro pass offers convenience but expect bustling trains. Google Maps will help you get around. And, we walked. A lot.
- Scenic strolls: Opt for Rome’s walkable streets to bypass crowded buses while uncovering hidden gems.
- Timed entry tickets: Beat the crowds at popular attractions like the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and Borghese Gallery by booking in advance.
Maximizing Comfort and Value
Practicality and style go hand-in-hand. Keep these essentials in mind:
- Packing tips: Choose versatile layers and sturdy footwear to match Rome’s temperate climate. However, it will depend on when you go. Personally, we recommend avoiding the summer (and especially August) if you can. It’s hot, busy, and in 2025 could be a debacle.
- Insurance safeguards: A comprehensive travel insurance policy is advisable and can protect against disruptions.
- Wellness advice: Stay hydrated, pace your explorations, and familiarize yourself with local pharmacy options.
Leveraging Rewards and Travel Credit Cards
For Digital Roamads, smart planning includes maximizing rewards:
- Loyalty points: Programs like Delta SkyMiles or American Express Membership Rewards can boost your travel experience. If you are looking for flights, it might be smart to right now get a credit card with a great sign-up offer to grab some points and use these as quickly as possible to redeem for flights. These are our favorite travel reward credit cards.
- Card benefits: Use credit cards with perks like no foreign transaction fees, lounge access, and concierge services to elevate your trip.
Add Experiences To Your Stay
The Jubilee offers an ideal backdrop for enriching cultural and culinary adventures. Ideas include:
- Special excursions: Join a guided tour of the Catacombs or hone your cooking skills with a pasta-making class. We had a great time doing both.
- Dining gems: Savor traditional dishes at hidden trattorias in Testaccio or Campo de’ Fiori.
- Relaxing day trips: Escape the crowds with visits to nearby gems like Orvieto, Tivoli, or Assisi. You might want to get out of town if it gets too chaotic. We took a fun day trip to Tuscany that included Montepulciano and Pienza – and some wine.
A Culinary Journey in the Heart of Rome: Savoring Local Flavors and Authentic Experiences
Budget-Savvy Travel Tips
Even during a marquee event like the Jubilee, savvy travelers can find ways to stay on budget:
- Flexible rates: Opt for refundable bookings to take advantage of potential savings.
- Expense tracking: Use apps like Trail Wallet or Splitwise for easy budgeting.
- Thoughtful splurging: Prioritize investments in unique experiences over costly keepsakes.
Rome Jubilee 2025: Conclusion
With thoughtful preparation, the Jubilee 2025 promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for visitors to Rome and Catholics alike. By blending comfort, efficiency, and meaningful cultural immersion, you’ll embrace Rome in true savvy traveler style. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifteenth, let the Eternal City inspire and delight you.
Stay tuned as we return to Rome next year with fresh insights and recommendations tailored just for you!
