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- Basilica of St. Mary Major
- Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls
- St. Peter's Basilica
- Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
- Holy Doors
- Colosseum
- Vatican Museums
- St. Peter's Basilica
- Castel Sant Angelo
- Rome Pantheon
- Roman Catacombs Tour
- Borghese Gallery
- Bioparco Rome
- Big Bus Rome Hop-On Hop-Off Tickets
- Palazzo Barberini
- Musei Capitolini
- Leonardo da Vinci Museum
- Trevi Fountain Tours
- Roman Baths of Caracalla
- Palazzo Merulana
- Altare della Patria
- Rome Underground Tours
Celebrating Jubilee 2025
Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.
Unlock skip-the-line access to St. Peter’s Basilica with this 3-in-1 tour!
- Get the complete Vatican City experience coupled with expert insights about the smallest country in the world with this guided tour.
- This is the only experience that grants you fast-track access to all 3 sites – Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica.
- An engaging storytelling experience awaits. Watch art and history come to life as you walk through the Gallery of Maps with your guide.
- Get the flexibility to choose skip-the-line entry or a guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica and curate a Vatican City experience that suits you best.
- The cherry on top? With this tour, you'll head to St. Peter's Basilica via a back door from Sistine Chapel saving you 20 mins of walking time and a 2-hour queue.
Unlock skip-the-line access to St. Peter’s Basilica with this 3-in-1 tour!
- Get the complete Vatican City experience coupled with expert insights about the smallest country in the world with this guided tour.
- This is the only experience that grants you fast-track access to all 3 sites – Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica.
- An engaging storytelling experience awaits. Watch art and history come to life as you walk through the Gallery of Maps with your guide.
- Get the flexibility to choose skip-the-line entry or a guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica and curate a Vatican City experience that suits you best.
- The cherry on top? With this tour, you'll head to St. Peter's Basilica via a back door from Sistine Chapel saving you 20 mins of walking time and a 2-hour queue.
Inclusions
- Guided tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel with skip-the-line entry
- Skip-the-line entry or guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica (as per option selected)
- Expert English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, or Portuguese-speaking guide
- Headphones
Exclusions
- Gratuities
- Guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica and the Dome
- Tip: Planning your Rome itinerary? Be sure to set aside one entire day to fully explore the Vatican City. Comfy shoes are a must as you traverse all the nooks of this tiny nation!
- Strict dress code: Knees, shoulders, and back must be covered for all guests.
- Accessibility: While the tour is not accessible to wheelchair users, the Vatican Museums offer free wheelchair hire and free entry for visitors with mobility impairments (certified invalidity exceeding 74%) and a companion if required.
- Inside the Sistine Chapel, it's all about the quiet vibes. No chatter, no phones, and no photos, just pure awe. But don't worry, an expert guide will fill you in on all the details before you step inside.
- Expect a considerable wait at the security line, especially during peak times. Patience is key, it could take up to an hour!
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Combos
Jubilee Bronze Pass: Vatican Museums + Catacombs
from $144.88
$133.29
8% off
- Take advantage of this super-saver combo with a guided tour of the Vatican Museums with the Sistine Chapel and the Roman Catacombs.
- Marvel at Renaissance masterpieces like Raphael's School of Athens, and Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel with your expert guide.
- Interpret the symbolism within the iconic sculptures and murals at the Museum with 5 languages to choose from.
- Explore the labyrinthine Catacombs, adorned with flickering torches where early Christians lay their dead underground.
- View the winding tunnels full of faded frescoes of biblical scenes and cryptic symbols with your expert guide.
- Take advantage of this super-saver combo with a guided tour of the Vatican Museums with the Sistine Chapel and the Roman Catacombs.
- Marvel at Renaissance masterpieces like Raphael's School of Athens, and Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel with your expert guide.
- Interpret the symbolism within the iconic sculptures and murals at the Museum with 5 languages to choose from.
- Explore the labyrinthine Catacombs, adorned with flickering torches where early Christians lay their dead underground.
- View the winding tunnels full of faded frescoes of biblical scenes and cryptic symbols with your expert guide.
Inclusions
Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel
- Guided tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
- Expert English, Spanish, French, Italian, and German-speaking guide
Roman Catacombs
- Guided tour of the Catacombs
- Roundtrip city transfers
Exclusions
Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel
- Guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica
Roman Catacombs
- Hotel transfers
Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel
- Tip: Stop for a coffee in the Belvedere Courtyard, or extend your visit to the Carriage Pavillion at the end of the tour.
- Strict dress code: knees, shoulders, and back must be covered for all guests.
- The tour is not accessible to wheelchair users, but the Vatican Museums offer free wheelchair hire and free entry for visitors with mobility impairments and a companion.
Roman Catacombs - Tip: Spend time at the museum located inside the catacombs of Saint Callixtus, which features artifacts and exhibits related to early Christianity.
- Entry to the catacombs of Saint Callixtus is replaced by Domitilla
as the former remains closed every Wednesday. - The experience is not accessible for people who are claustrophobic due to the small spaces.
- Large bags are not allowed.
- Pets are not allowed.
- Alcohol and aerosols are not allowed.
- Strict Dress Code: Guests should cover their shoulders and knees.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Combos
Jubilee Silver Pass: Vatican Museums + Catacombs + Castel SantAngelo
from $164.38
$151.23
8% off
- Save big with a combo of a guided tour of the Vatican Museums, the Roman Catacombs, and a visit to Castel Sant'Angelo.
- Marvel at Renaissance paintings like Raphael's School of Athens, and Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel with your expert guide.
- Interpret the symbolism within the Renaissance sculptures and murals at the Museum with 5 languages to choose from.
- Explore the labyrinthine Catacombs, adorned with flickering torches where early Christians lay their dead underground.
- Discover 5 floors of Roman sculptures and weaponry at Castel Sant'Angelo and the Tomb of Hadrian with its imposing cylindrical form.
- Save big with a combo of a guided tour of the Vatican Museums, the Roman Catacombs, and a visit to Castel Sant'Angelo.
- Marvel at Renaissance paintings like Raphael's School of Athens, and Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel with your expert guide.
- Interpret the symbolism within the Renaissance sculptures and murals at the Museum with 5 languages to choose from.
- Explore the labyrinthine Catacombs, adorned with flickering torches where early Christians lay their dead underground.
- Discover 5 floors of Roman sculptures and weaponry at Castel Sant'Angelo and the Tomb of Hadrian with its imposing cylindrical form.
Inclusions
Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel
- Guided tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
- Expert English, Spanish, French, Italian, and German-speaking guide
Roman Catacombs
- Guided tour of the Catacombs
- Roundtrip city transfers
Castel Sant'Angelo
- Entry to Castel Sant'Angelo and the terrace
Exclusions
Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel
- Guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica
Roman Catacombs
- Hotel transfers
Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel
- Tip: Stop for a coffee in the Belvedere Courtyard, or extend your visit to the Carriage Pavillion at the end of the tour.
- Strict dress code: knees, shoulders, and back must be covered for all guests.
- The tour is not accessible to wheelchair users, but the Vatican Museums offer free wheelchair hire and free entry for visitors with mobility impairments and a companion.
Roman Catacombs - Tip: Spend time at the museum located inside the catacombs of Saint Callixtus, which features artifacts and exhibits related to early Christianity.
- Strict Dress Code: Guests should cover their shoulders and knees.
- Entry to the catacombs of Saint Callixtus is replaced by Domitilla
as the former remains closed every Wednesday. - The experience is not accessible for people who are claustrophobic due to the small spaces.
- Large bags are not allowed.
- Pets are not allowed.
- Alcohol and aerosols are not allowed.
Castel Sant'Angelo
- Tip: For a unique experience, visit during sunset to enjoy breathtaking views of Rome from the terrace.
- The attraction is closed on Mondays.
- The experience is not accessible for wheelchair users, people with mobility issues won't be able to access all spaces of the monument.
- Large bags are not allowed.
- Free admission on 1st Sunday of every month.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Combos
Jubilee Gold Pass: Vatican Museums + Catacombs + Castel SantAngelo + Castel Gandolfo
from $182.90
$168.27
8% off
- Get more for less with a combo ticket of the Vatican Museums and the Catacombs, plus a visit to Castel Sant'Angelo and Castel Gandolfo.
- Stroll the Museum with your guide and admire the enrobed Gods in the School of Athens painting, and the towering bronze canopy designed by Bernini.
- Navigate the underground maze of the Roman Catacombs with your guide, passing by the dimly lit walls of the dead -- ancient Christian burial grounds.
- Gaze at the imposing cylindrical tomb of Hadrian, topped with Archangel Michael's statue gleaming in the Roman sunlight at Castel Sant'Angelo.
- Wander around the pillars of the Apostolic Palace at Castel Gandolfo and soak in the scents of rose and jasmine around a shimmering lake at Pontifical Gardens.
- Get more for less with a combo ticket of the Vatican Museums and the Catacombs, plus a visit to Castel Sant'Angelo and Castel Gandolfo.
- Stroll the Museum with your guide and admire the enrobed Gods in the School of Athens painting, and the towering bronze canopy designed by Bernini.
- Navigate the underground maze of the Roman Catacombs with your guide, passing by the dimly lit walls of the dead -- ancient Christian burial grounds.
- Gaze at the imposing cylindrical tomb of Hadrian, topped with Archangel Michael's statue gleaming in the Roman sunlight at Castel Sant'Angelo.
- Wander around the pillars of the Apostolic Palace at Castel Gandolfo and soak in the scents of rose and jasmine around a shimmering lake at Pontifical Gardens.
Inclusions
Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel
- Guided tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
- Expert English, Spanish, French, Italian, and German-speaking guide
Roman Catacombs
- Guided tour of the Catacombs
- Roundtrip city transfers
Castel Sant'Angelo
- Entry to Castel Sant'Angelo and the terrace
Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo & Pontifical Villas Gardens
- Entry to the Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo
- Audio guide in English, French, Spanish, and German
Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel
- Tip: Stop for a coffee in the Belvedere Courtyard, or extend your visit to the Carriage Pavillion at the end of the tour.
- Strict dress code: Knees, shoulders, and back must be covered for all guests.
- The tour is not accessible to wheelchair users, but the Vatican Museums offer free wheelchair hire and free entry for visitors with mobility impairments and a companion.
Roman Catacombs - Tip: Spend time at the museum in Saint Callixtus's catacombs, which features artifacts and exhibits related to early Christianity.
- Strict Dress Code: Guests should cover their shoulders and knees.
- Entry to the catacombs of Saint Callixtus is replaced by Domitilla
as the former remains closed every Wednesday. - The experience is not accessible for people who are claustrophobic due to the small spaces.
- Large bags are not allowed.
- Pets are not allowed.
- Alcohol and aerosols are not allowed.
Castel Sant'Angelo
- Tip: For a unique experience, visit during sunset to enjoy breathtaking views of Rome from the terrace.
- The attraction is closed on Mondays.
- The experience is not accessible for wheelchair users, people with mobility issues won't be able to access all spaces of the monument.
- Large bags are not allowed.
- Free admission on 1st Sunday of every month.
Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo
- Tip: Enjoy a leisurely picnic lunch in the Pontifical Villas Gardens and
enjoy the views of Lake Albano. - Strict dress code: No shorts or sleeveless shirts are permitted inside.
- Entry is free for children aged 5 and below.
- Reduced-price tickets are available for children between the ages of 6-18 and students up to the age of 25.
- The Castel Gandolfo tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.
- Only the Apostolic Palace is accessible by wheelchair.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
- Immerse yourself in the religious history and papal culture of St. John Lateran, the oldest church in the Western world, and the entire complex.
- Learn all about this sacred with an informative audio guide available in English, French, Spanish, German, and Italian.
- Explore the Baptistery, renowned for its stunning dome and two-tier colonnade. Don’t miss its faded mosaics and Luigi Valadier’s St. John the Baptist statue.
- You can upgrade your experience with a visit to the Sancta Sanctorum and the Holy Stairs, where believers ascend in devotion on their knees.
- Enhance your exploration with access to the Lateran Palace, and learn all about the former residence of the popes and the artworks it houses.
- Immerse yourself in the religious history and papal culture of St. John Lateran, the oldest church in the Western world, and the entire complex.
- Learn all about this sacred with an informative audio guide available in English, French, Spanish, German, and Italian.
- Explore the Baptistery, renowned for its stunning dome and two-tier colonnade. Don’t miss its faded mosaics and Luigi Valadier’s St. John the Baptist statue.
- You can upgrade your experience with a visit to the Sancta Sanctorum and the Holy Stairs, where believers ascend in devotion on their knees.
- Enhance your exploration with access to the Lateran Palace, and learn all about the former residence of the popes and the artworks it houses.
Inclusions
- Admission to the Lateran Complex
- Entry to St. John Lateran
- Audio guide in English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, and Portuguese
- Access to Papal Chapel of the Sancta Sanctorum (as per option selected)
- Entry to Lateran Palace (as per option selected)
Exclusions
- Live guide
- Tip: If you are short on time, visit the Basilica and its Cloister first, followed by the Holy Stairs and Sancta Sanctorum.
- Strict dress code: It is recommended to wear pants or long skirts and cover your knees and shoulders.
- There’s both ramp and elevator access for visitors with reduced mobility but not all sections or buildings are easily accessible for wheelchair users.
- These tickets can't be cancelled. However, they can be rescheduled up to 24 hours before the experience begins.
Get full access to the Dome on a guided tour of the Basilica.
- Admire Michelangelo's genius up close while climbing the Dome and learn all about its legends from an expert, local guide.
- This is one photo op you won't want to miss! Enjoy unparalleled views of the Eternal City, from the top of the Dome.
- Explore the intricate art-filled interiors of St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Papal Crypts in the Vatican Grottoes.
- Choose from 5 language options. On a French or English tour, you can opt to relish a sumptuous breakfast before you begin.
Get full access to the Dome on a guided tour of the Basilica.
- Admire Michelangelo's genius up close while climbing the Dome and learn all about its legends from an expert, local guide.
- This is one photo op you won't want to miss! Enjoy unparalleled views of the Eternal City, from the top of the Dome.
- Explore the intricate art-filled interiors of St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Papal Crypts in the Vatican Grottoes.
- Choose from 5 language options. On a French or English tour, you can opt to relish a sumptuous breakfast before you begin.
Inclusions
- Guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica and Dome with entry
- Expert English, Spanish, French, German or Italian-speaking guide
- Access by elevator to the base and stairs to the top
- Breakfast (for French and English options, if selected)
Exclusions
- Entry to Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
- Entry to the Necropolis / St. Peter’s Tomb / Scavi
- Tips: Don't forget to look down as you climb the dome. Through special windows, you can catch glimpses of the basilica's interior below, offering a unique perspective.
- Strict dress code: knees and shoulders must be covered for all guests.
- Accessibility: St. Peter's Dome is not suitable for wheelchair users or those who suffer from vertigo or claustrophobia. Even with elevator access, guests are still required to climb 320 steps to reach the top of the cupola.
- Expect a considerable wait at security, especially during peak times. Patience is key, it could take up to an hour!
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
- Be a part of the Wednesday Papal audience with guaranteed seats, as you witness the Pope lead serene hymnal prayers at St. Peter's Square.
- Immerse in a beautiful gathering surrounded by magnificent architecture. If you choose, an expert guide will let you in on everything taking place.
- Make the most of your visit to St. Peter's Square with a guided tour of the basilica, its chapels, and papal tombs.
- Be a part of the Wednesday Papal audience with guaranteed seats, as you witness the Pope lead serene hymnal prayers at St. Peter's Square.
- Immerse in a beautiful gathering surrounded by magnificent architecture. If you choose, an expert guide will let you in on everything taking place.
- Make the most of your visit to St. Peter's Square with a guided tour of the basilica, its chapels, and papal tombs.
Inclusions
- Invitation to the Vatican Papal Audience & guaranteed seating
- Guided tour of St. Peter's Basilica or the Papal Audience (as per option selected)
- Expert English or Spanish-speaking guide (as per option selected)
- Tip: Try to grab an aisle seat. The Pope will come through the crowd, so you have a better chance of getting a closer look.
- Strict dress code: knees and shoulders must be covered for all guests.
- Mobile phones must remain on silent mode inside the Basilica.
- This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Top things to do in Rome
Jubilee 2025 | Quick facts
- Dates: December 24, 2024 - January 6, 2026
- Duration: 1 year and 13 days
- Opening of the Holy Doors: Pope Francis will open the Holy Door of St. Peter's Basilica on December 24, 2024; Archbasilica of St. John Lateran opens on December 29, 2024; Basilica of St. Mary Major opens on January 1, 2025 and the Basilica of St. Paul’s Outside the Walls will open on January 5, 2025, the Vigil of Epiphany.
- Monthly thematic events: The Jubilee will feature monthly celebrations focused on themes like charitable works, environmental care, and hope.
- Registration & participation: You can register online to get a free Pilgrim pass to access key Jubilee events like the opening of holy doors ceremony.
- Expected footfall: Around 35 million over the course of the holy year.
Exploring Rome during Jubilee 2025
Vatican tours
- Join Jubilee blessings and Papal events, right from the heart of the Catholic world.
- Explore the Vatican’s spiritual treasures with an expert guide— a once-in-a-lifetime Holy Year experience.
- Skip the Jubilee crowds with fast-track entry to the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s.
Recommended tickets:
- Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica Guided Tour
Holy Basilica access
- For a deep spiritual experience, visit Rome’s most sacred basilicas, each home to a Holy Door.
- Participate in special Jubilee rites like crossing the Holy Door and receive special blessings tied to the Holy Year.
- Enjoy guided tours with priority access, designed to maximize your spiritual journey without the hassle.
Recommended tickets:
- St. Peter’s Basilica Dome Guided Tour
- Papal Audience Viewing Experience
City tours
- Combine culture with your pilgrimage as you tour other Roman landmarks like the Roman Catacombs and Castel Sant'Angelo.
- From ancient sites to the Pope’s summer residence, see the best of Eternal City in the Jubilee spirit.
- Guided tours with city transfers for a comfortable, hands-free trip.
Recommended tickets:
About the Vatican Jubilee 2025
Historical context
The Vatican Jubilee tradition has roots in the Old Testament when every 50 years, people would repent for their sins, seek forgiveness, reconnect with God and each other. The Catholic Church adopted the Jubilee tradition under Pope Boniface VIII in 1300 (Holy Year). Over the centuries, the frequency of Jubilees has varied, but today, they occur every 25 years, with occasional extraordinary celebrations like the Year of Mercy in 2015.
Significance
Jubilee years are times of profound spiritual reflection and transformation. Drawing from Isaiah and the Gospel of Luke, Jesus' mission was to bring good news to the poor, proclaim liberty to captives, debt forgiveness, land restoration, restore sight to the blind, free the oppressed, and declare a year acceptable to the Lord.
The Holy Door
Holy Doors are special doorways in Rome's four major basilicas, symbolizing the pilgrim's journey from sin to grace - the ultimate goal of the pilgrim. They represent following Jesus and finding peace. Traditionally, these doors are sealed shut with mortar and brick and only opened during a Jubilee year by the Pope. Let’s take a closer look at each of these doors:
St. Peter's Basilica
The world's largest church, it is home to the most significant Holy Door, ceremonially opened every 25 years.
St. John Lateran
It's the official cathedral church of the Pope as the Bishop of Rome and is known as, "ecumenical mother church".
Basilica of St. Mary Major
Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, it is another of Rome's oldest churches, dating back to the 4th century.
Basilica St. Paul's Outside the Walls
Built in the 4th century by Emperor Constantine, this basilica stands above St. Paul's tomb.
Planning your Vatican Jubilee 2025 experience
Timings
Transportation
Events
Travel info
Accessibility
Rules
Tips
The opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter's Basilica on December 24, 2024 starts at 4:30pm - officially commencing the Jubilee 2025. Here are the opening hours of four major pilgrimage sites:
- St. Peter's Basilica: Daily from 7am to 7:10pm during the Jubilee year (last admission is 6:30pm).
- The Basilica of St. John Lateran: 7am to 6:30pm everyday. The medieval cloister is open from 9am to 6pm.
- The Basilica of St. Mary Major: Daily from 7am to 7pm (last admission is 6:30pm).
- The Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls: 7am to 6:30pm.
- Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel: From Monday to Thursday: 8am to 7pm, Friday - Saturday: 8am to 8pm, last Sunday of the month: 9am to 2pm; last admission is 2 hours before closing time.
With over 4 million people expected to visit, Rome has added a whole new metro line to its transport system. The public transportation system in Rome, including the metro, buses, trams, and urban trains, is managed by ATAC. All services use the same type of ticket, making it easy to get around. You can purchase tickets at tobacco shops, automated kiosks, and newsstands. A single-ride ticket costs €1.50 and is valid for 100 minutes across the entire network. For more convenience, consider getting a Roma Pass.
- By metro: Rome has a comprehensive metro system with 3 main lines (A, B, B1 and C) that connect the city's major attractions, including the Vatican. It runs from 5:30am - 11:30pm, every 3 min.
- By bus: The city’s bus network is extensive with 350+ lines and 22 night buses. There are four types - Urban (U), Night (N), Express (X), Exact (E). Day buses run from 5:30am - Midnight & night buses from 12:30am - 5:30am.
- By tram: There are 6 main lines (#2, #3, #5, #8, #14, #19). Lines #3 & #8 are newer with amenities like Wi-Fi and AC. They run from 5:30am - Midnight.
- By trains: There is a limited network (3 lines) connecting the outskirts to the city center. The Roma-Lido line connects Testaccio with Ostia Antica, while the Roma-Nord line runs from the city center to Parioli district and beyond to Viterbo. Roma-Centocelle connects the city center to Porta Maggiore. Runs from 5:30am - 11:30pm, every 10-20 min.
- By taxi: At designated taxi stands throughout the city (cannot be hailed from the street)
- December 24, 2024: The Jubilee year kicks off with the opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter's Basilica, presided over by Pope Francis.
Upcoming themed celebrations:
- January 24-26: Jubilee of the World of Communication
- February 8-9: Jubilee of the Armed Forces, Police, and Security Forces
- February 16-18: Jubilee of Artists
- February 21-23: Jubilee of Deacons
- March 8-9: Jubilee of the World of Volunteering
- March 28: 24 Hours for the Lord
- March 28-30: Jubilee of Missionaries of Mercy
- April 5-6: Jubilee of the Sick and the World of Health
- April 25-27: Jubilee of Adolescents
- April 28-30: Jubilee of Persons with Disabilities
- Country Code: +39 (for calling Italy from abroad). Also, get a data plan since WiFi isn’t available everywhere.
- Emergency Services: Police - 112 (general emergency) or 113 (police hotline); Ambulance - 118, Fire Department - 115
- Currency: Euro (€). While ATMs are widely available, exchanging some currency beforehand can be helpful.
- Language: Official language is Italian. Although English is spoken in some tourist areas, a translation app can be a lifesaver for navigating menus, signs, or basic communication with locals. Also, learning a few basic phrases could go a long way, few examples:
Hello - Ciao (Chow); Please - Per favore (Per fa-voh-reh); Thank you - Grazie (Grat-see-eh), Excuse me - Scusi (Shoo-see); Yes - Si (See); Do you speak English? - Parli inglese? (Par-lee in-gleh-seh?); Where is...?: Dov'è...?; How much does it cost?: Quanto costa?
- St. Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and other major sites have ramps, elevators, and designated wheelchair-accessible entrances.
- The metro, buses, and trams in Rome have accessibility features like ramps and designated seating.
- Audio guides with descriptive narration are available at many sites to assist visually impaired.
- Induction loops and sign language interpretation will be provided for select Jubilee ceremonies and events for visitors who are deaf or hard of hearing.
- Quiet rooms and sensory-friendly spaces will be set up at key pilgrimage locations to provide a calmer environment.
- Service animals are welcome at the Vatican and other Jubilee sites, though they may be subject to security screening.
- Dedicated accessibility desks will be set up at major Jubilee sites to provide information and assistance.
- Wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees. No shorts, sleeveless shirts, or revealing attire.
- Follow instructions from security personnel and guides. Rome’s security is extra vigilant and strict during Jubilee events.
- Be mindful of noise levels inside churches and basilicas. Keep conversations quiet and avoid loud talking or disruptive behavior.
- Photography is usually allowed in churches, but be respectful and avoid using flash during ceremonies. Check signage or ask staff if unsure about photography policies.
- Follow designated queues and avoid pushing or shoving, especially during crowded events.
- Large bags or backpacks might be subject to security checks at entrances to major basilicas and Jubilee events.
- While not everything will require registration, some special Masses and ceremonies, like the Holy Door opening, do, and these fill up fast. Registrations are already open, so get this done as soon as your trip is finalized. Staying updated with the Jubilee calendar and pre-booking can eliminate last-minute frustration.
- Expect higher accommodation prices, especially for budget options, and limited availability due to the influx of pilgrims. Book your stay early!
- Ticket reservations are also recommended for major attractions like the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and Borghese Gallery.
- December to January will see the highest density of crowds in Rome. If you don’t mind missing the opening of the Holy Doors ceremony, it’s better to wait till crowds start thinning from late February until the week before Easter.
- Explore lesser-known holy sites like Rome's smaller churches or catacombs, which have rich histories and might even offer Jubilee indulgences with smaller crowds.
- Rome's weather can be unpredictable, especially during the Jubilee shoulder seasons (March-May, September-November). Pack light layers that you can easily adjust to temperature changes. An umbrella and comfortable walking shoes are a must.
- Use the Omnia Vatican and Rome Card which includes skip-the-line entry to Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, free entry to top Rome attractions, and free public transport, saving time and money.
- Attend Vespers at Sant'Anselmo. This evening prayer service, sung in Latin by Benedictine monks, is a peaceful and spiritual experience away from the busiest Jubilee sites.
Churches of Jubilee 2025
The Vatican has designated several churches as special spiritual hubs for pilgrims during the 2025 Jubilee. These Jubilee Churches will host activities including catechesis sessions in multiple languages, opportunities for the sacrament of reconciliation, and spaces for prayer and reflection.
Sanctuary of Divine Love
This modern church, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, is known for its unique architecture and peaceful surroundings.
Basilica di Sant'Andrea delle Fratte
Home to Bernini angels, this church witnessed a miraculous conversion of Alphonse Ratisbonne.
Church of Saint Prisca
One of Rome's oldest churches, it's built over the house where St. Prisca was allegedly baptized by St. Peter.
Basilica of Saints Silvester
Housing important relics and Constantine-era frescoes, the site gives pilgrims a glimpse into early Christian Rome.
Church of Santa Maria in Monserrato
Spanish-speaking pilgrims in Rome should visit the national church of Spain. It houses artworks by prominent Spanish artists.
Church of San Giovanni Battista dei Fiorentini
As the national church of Florence in Rome, it represents the rich artistic and spiritual heritage of the Renaissance city.
Church of Santa Maria del Suffragio
This church, dedicated to souls in Purgatory, gives you a unique spiritual perspective to the afterlife.
Church of Spirito Santo dei Napoletani
This church serves as a spiritual and cultural center for pilgrims from Naples and southern Italy.
Church of Santa Caterina da Siena
This church, dedicated to St. Catherine of Siena, is a must-visit for pilgrims seeking her blessings.
Church of Santa Maria in Vallicella
Also known as Chiesa Nuova, this church is associated with St. Philip Neri and the Oratorians.
Church of San Salvatore in Lauro
Housing a venerated image of Our Lady of Loreto, this church is a focal point for Marian devotion during the Jubilee.
San Paolo alla Regola
Built on the site where St. Paul lived under house arrest, this church offers a tangible link to the Apostle's time in Rome.
Frequently asked questions about Jubilee 2025
Can I attend Mass celebrated by the Pope during the Jubilee?
Yes, you can! Pope Francis is likely to celebrate special Jubilee Masses throughout the year. However, securing a spot might require some planning. Check the Jubilee calendar closer to your visit date for a schedule of Papal events. Some Papal Masses might be ticketed or require pre-registration due to limited space. Every Wednesday, Pope Francis delivers a message in St. Peter's Square. Tickets are generally free but required.
How far in advance should I book tickets and accommodations for Jubilee 2025?
It's advisable to book as early as possible. The Vatican is expecting around 35 million visitors during the Jubilee year. Given this high number, accommodations and event tickets are likely to fill up quickly. Consider booking at least 6-12 months in advance, if not earlier.
Is there a dress code for attending Jubilee events and visiting religious sites?
Yes, there is a dress code for religious sites and events. Visitors should dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Shorts, sleeveless shirts, and revealing attire are not permitted. For papal events, more formal attire is recommended.
How accessible are the Holy Doors and other major sites for elderly pilgrims?
Accessibility for elderly pilgrims at the Holy Doors and other major sites in Rome during Jubilee 2025 will vary depending on the specific location. Most major basilicas in Rome, including St. Peter's Basilica, have ramps or elevators to access the main worship areas where the Holy Doors are located. While many popular churches and historical sites have made accessibility improvements in recent years, some older locations like the Catacombs might still have challenges.
Are there special services or assistance available for families with young children?
While specific services for the 2025 Jubilee haven't been announced, the Vatican has mentioned that families and children will receive special attention during the event. In past Jubilees, family-friendly events and services have been provided.
Where can I find medical assistance if needed during my visit?
Rome has several hospitals and medical facilities. During major events, the Vatican typically sets up first aid stations. For emergencies you can always dial 118 for the ambulance.
What are some local customs or traditions I should be aware of during the Jubilee?
Walking through the Holy Doors: This is a central tradition of the Jubilee. Pilgrims walk through the Holy Doors at the four major basilicas in Rome to receive indulgences.
- Pilgrim's Passport: While not confirmed for 2025, in past Jubilees, pilgrims could obtain a special passport to be stamped at various holy sites.
- Confession and Communion: Receiving these sacraments is typically part of obtaining a Jubilee indulgence.
- Praying for the Pope's intentions: This is often required to receive the Jubilee indulgence.