How to Enjoy Rome in the Jubilee Year 2025: Tips & Tricks

Every 25 years, the Catholic Church celebrates a Jubilee Year—an extraordinary event marked by pilgrimages, religious celebrations, and the opening of the Holy Doors in Rome’s major basilicas. Jubilee Rome 2025 will be one of the most significant spiritual gatherings in recent decades, attracting millions of faithful and curious travelers alike. With over 30 million visitors expected, it’s vital to understand both the spiritual and logistical aspects of the event.

Pilgrims will journey to visit St. Peter’s Basilica, St. John Lateran, St. Mary Major, and St. Paul Outside the Walls, all of which will be focal points throughout the jubilee. Aside from its religious importance, the event also brings a unique atmosphere to the city—festive yet reflective, busy but inspiring.

Visiting Rome during this time is a chance to witness history in motion, and joining a well-planned Rome tour can help you explore the city’s highlights with ease, even amid the crowds.

Is Rome crowded for Jubilee Year 2025? Yes—especially around major Catholic holidays like Easter, Christmas, and special events when the Pope is expected to appear. If your goal is to experience the spiritual side of the jubilee without the shoulder-to-shoulder foot traffic, avoid peak periods.

The best time to visit is during the shoulder months: late January to early March or mid-October to early December. These periods tend to be less busy, and the weather remains pleasant enough for sightseeing. Early mornings are generally quieter, so plan your visits to the major basilicas and landmarks before 9:00 AM.

If you're looking to combine your Jubilee journey with other highlights of Italy, consider the Bella Italia! private tour, which covers Venice, Florence, and Rome. This itinerary can be fully customised to include extra time in the Eternal City during Jubilee Rome 2025 while also allowing you to explore Italy’s artistic and romantic gems at your own pace.

Rome during the Jubilee Year 2025 will see surges of people in both religious and tourist hotspots. However, with a bit of strategy, you can still enjoy a peaceful experience. Start by booking skip-the-line tickets and guided tours in advance, especially for popular sites like the Vatican Museums, Colosseum, and Borghese Gallery. Consider visiting less-known churches such as Santa Prassede or San Clemente, which offer beauty and history without the crowds. Use side streets and quieter piazzas to move between neighborhoods—Trastevere and Testaccio, for example, offer authentic Roman charm far from the congested center. Public transportation will be busy, so walking or renting a bike can be a relaxing alternative.

Early mornings and late afternoons are your best bet for avoiding crowds at major landmarks, so try to plan your visits during these quieter times. A stroll along the Tiber River, especially at sunset, offers a serene escape from the bustle of the city. With a little planning, you can experience Rome’s rich history and culture without the overwhelming crowds.

While Jubilee Rome 2025 puts the spotlight on religious sites, the Eternal City is bursting with history, art, and culture beyond the basilicas. Venture to the ancient Appian Way for a serene walk or explore the aqueduct parks on the city’s outskirts. These off-the-beaten-path locations provide a welcome respite from the crowds.

The Jewish Ghetto, Aventine Hill with its keyhole view, and the Janiculum Terrace offer quiet corners of Rome with rich stories. These places are ideal for moments of reflection or simply taking in the views without elbowing your way through crowds.

For those wanting a broader Italian experience, the Bella Italia with Tuscany tour offers an inspiring journey through Venice, Florence, Rome, and the rolling hills of Tuscany. It’s a perfect option for blending iconic cities with peaceful countryside, all while avoiding the busiest spots during Jubilee Rome 2025.

With millions expected to attend Rome Jubilee 2025, smart planning is essential. Book your accommodation months in advance, preferably in areas with good access to public transport. Stay in neighborhoods like Prati, Monti, or Trastevere, which offer charm, walkability, and slightly less chaos than areas right next to the Vatican. Use a reliable app or map for navigation—many streets will be closed during major events. Always carry water, wear comfortable shoes, and keep an eye on crowd alerts from local authorities. Be patient—lines will form—but the experience is worth it. If you're coming specifically for a spiritual journey, consider joining a structured pilgrimage group or booking a tour with a knowledgeable guide who can explain the history and symbolism behind the jubilee traditions.

Remember to pace yourself and take breaks in the quieter corners of the city, allowing you to recharge amidst the excitement. Finally, enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime atmosphere, knowing that Rome will offer you a truly unique experience during this extraordinary year.