Last Updated on February 7, 2025
2025 is a special year to visit the Eternal City, marking the start of the Year of Jubilee – a significant tradition in the Catholic church, celebrated every 25 years in Rome. Also referred to as the “holy year,” this period is considered a time of spiritual renewal and reconciliation for Catholics around the world.
Each Jubilee Year, thousands of travelers visit the Vatican and other holy sites throughout Rome in hopes to attend special masses and ceremonies lead by the Pope, step through The Holy Door (Porta Santa) of St. Peter’s Basilica (sealed with brick during non-Jubilee years), seek confession, and strengthen their faith.
Classic Vacations global luxury travel company managing director Bonty Escallon shared some great trends and tips for traveling to Italy during this very special year. For those of us who’ve traveled to Rome during its peak and non-peak seasons, the advice is crucial for enjoying a visit to the Holy City.
Top Italian Travel Trends
Even during the Jubilee Year, Italy is still top of mind for American travelers, with Rome being the preferred entry gate to the country for Americans.
This Jubilee Year is seeing the most interest from couples and multi-generational families.
Milan is on the rise as one of the top performing Italian destinations, next to the Amalfi Coast.
There is a growing trend toward longer stays, with travelers combining a visit to Rome with other cities such as Florence, Venice, Milan, or countryside cities like Tuscany and Lake Como.
Tips for Traveling to Italy During the Jubilee Year
- Experts suggest traveling to March during the Jubilee Year, as Rome is not yet packed up for its peak season, and the weather is mild.
- August is also a great time to visit, as many locals are away and the streets are less crowded. Although temperatures can reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit, you won’t find long lines at museum entrances or other exhibits. November and December are also good months to be in Rome as the city slows down during this time.
- Make sure to book accommodations, dining reservations, tours and experiences well in advance. Many of Rome’s top experiences include entrance fees, especially those in the Vatican City.
- Arrive at major attractions early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid peak crowds.
- Opt for skip-the-line tours or private guides to streamline visits to Vatican City, St. Peter’s Basilica and other key sites. As a frequent traveler to Rome, I highly agree.
- Explore the well beaten path by balancing visits to major landmarks with time in quieter neighborhoods like Trastevere or Testaccio.
- Rome’s public transportation, specifically the Metro, can be a huge time saver when traveling around the city.
Alternative Destinations to Celebrate the Jubilee Year
To avoid crowds, consider exploring lesser-known destinations that still offer Jubilee celebrations such as Umbria, a hidden gem home to:
- Orvieto – just one hour by car or train from Rome, Orvieto is a beautiful medieval town, perched upon tuff cliffs with stunning views of its Gothic Cathedral.
- Assisi – two hours from Rome, Assisi is one of the capitals of the Catholic world, the hometown of the Italian Patron Saint, St. Francis.
- Perugia – Umbria’s capital is a vibrant city, home to the prestigious University of Perugia and the annual Umbria Jazz Festival.
Additional, lesser-known destinations include:
- Bologna: Known for its vibrant culinary scene, historic porticos, and rich cultural history. A perfect spot for food lovers and architecture enthusiasts.
- Siena and Lucca: Two picturesque Tuscan towns offering stunning medieval architecture, charming streets, and a relaxed pace of life. Siena’s Piazza del Campo and Lucca’s city walls are must-sees.
- Pisa: Famous for the iconic Leaning Tower, this city is great for a quick day trip or a few hours to explore its historic center.
- Chianti: A dream destination for wine enthusiasts. Enjoy a wine-tasting experience amidst rolling vineyards and charming villages.
The Benefits of Booking with a Travel Advisor
Traveling to Rome during the Jubilee Year will certainly take a lot of planning, but Classic Vacations and their advisors offer comprehensive support and services to ensure smooth travels, such as:
- Customized Itineraries: Tailored to include Jubilee events and lesser-known attractions.
- Exclusive Access: Strong partnerships with hotels and local providers to secure premium tours and experiences.
- 24/7 Support: Customer Service assistance with accommodations, transportation, and travel adjustments.
- Local Expertise: Recommendations for restaurants, hidden gems, and unique activities.
- Travel Insurance: To provide peace of mind for any unexpected changes or cancellations.
