Italy is one of those places that’s always worth visiting—whether you’re strolling through a Tuscan vineyard, standing in awe at the Colosseum, or just eating your weight in gelato. But every now and then, something special happens that makes the country’s already magnetic pull even stronger. I’m talking about the Jubilee.
If you’ve never heard of it, don’t worry—I hadn’t either until recently. The Jubilee is a big deal in the Catholic Church, drawing millions of people to Rome to celebrate, reflect, and maybe snap a selfie or two in St. Peter’s Square. But here’s the thing: While Rome is the epicenter of it all, the rest of Italy doesn’t suddenly get overrun by tourists. Let me explain what the Jubilee is all about and what you can expect if you’re planning a trip during this once-in-a-generation event.
So, What Exactly Is the Jubilee?
The Jubilee, or Giubileo, is like the Oscars of the Catholic world—except it’s been around for centuries. It’s a Holy Year that usually happens every 25 years (though sometimes the Pope throws in an “extraordinary Jubilee” for a special reason). It’s basically a time for renewal, forgiveness, and, for many, a spiritual pilgrimage to Rome.
The tradition started way back in 1300, and the idea has remained the same: open the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica (and a few other major churches), invite pilgrims to come through, and offer spiritual blessings and indulgences. In 2025, the theme is “Pilgrims of Hope,” which feels especially fitting after the rollercoaster of the past few years.
But here’s the kicker: While the Jubilee is a deeply religious event, it also draws in people who are curious, cultural, or just love an excuse to visit Italy.
Rome: The Heart of the Action
When it comes to the Jubilee, Rome is the star of the show. The Vatican City is ground zero, with St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and other sacred sites becoming the focal points for millions of visitors.
The energy is contagious—there’s something magical about seeing people from all over the world coming together for a shared purpose. But let’s not sugarcoat it: Rome gets crowded. Think long lines at the Vatican, packed piazzas, and bustling streets filled with pilgrims, tourists, and locals trying to navigate it all.
If you’re someone who thrives in the middle of the action, you’ll love it. But if crowds aren’t your thing, you might want to plan carefully (or explore other parts of Italy—I’ll get to that in a minute).
Does the Jubilee Take Over All of Italy?
This is a question I’ve heard a lot: Does the Jubilee affect all of Italy? The short answer is no. Rome definitely feels the impact, but the rest of the country? Not so much.
Take Florence, for example. Sure, there might be a slight uptick in visitors, but the city isn’t going to grind to a halt. And if you head out into the countryside—places like Chianti or the lesser-known hill towns—you’ll barely notice the difference. The same goes for other regions like Sicily, the Amalfi Coast, or even Venice. These spots have their own unique vibe and draw their own type of traveler, Jubilee or no Jubilee.
So, if you’re dreaming of a quieter Italian getaway, you’ve got options. Italy is more than capable of giving you a peaceful escape, even during such a big event.
Should You Visit Rome During the Jubilee?
Here’s the million-dollar question: Is it worth braving the crowds to experience the Jubilee in Rome? Honestly, it depends on what you’re after.
If you’re religious or curious about the spiritual side of things, this is a bucket-list opportunity. Even if you’re not particularly religious, there’s something moving about being part of such a historic and meaningful event. The ceremonies, the sense of community, the sheer scale of it all—it’s unforgettable.
But, let’s be real: it’s not all smooth sailing. Hotels will book up quickly, and prices might make you wince. Lines for major sites will test your patience. That said, if you go in with a plan (and realistic expectations), it’s absolutely doable.
My Tips for Navigating a Jubilee Trip
If you’re set on visiting during the Jubilee, here’s how to make it a little easier on yourself:
1. Book Early
Don’t wait to find a place to stay. Rome fills up fast during normal tourist seasons, and the Jubilee is next level.
2. Time Your Visits Wisely
Go to popular spots like the Vatican early in the morning or late in the day to avoid the worst of the crowds.
3. Mix It Up
Balance your Jubilee activities with some off-the-beaten-path exploring. Wander through Trastevere, visit the Testaccio neighborhood for authentic Roman food, or stroll along the Appian Way.
4. Take Day Trips
When Rome feels too overwhelming, hop on a train and escape for a day. Nearby towns like Tivoli, Orvieto, or Castel Gandolfo are easy to reach and offer a change of pace.
5. Be Patient
This is easier said than done, but a little patience goes a long way. The Jubilee is an extraordinary event, and things might not always run perfectly.
For the Rest of Italy Lovers
If the Jubilee sounds amazing but the idea of massive crowds gives you pause, don’t worry. Italy is a big country with plenty of places to explore far from the Jubilee buzz.
Imagine sipping wine in the rolling hills of Tuscany, wandering through the colorful villages of Cinque Terre, or taking a boat ride along the Amalfi Coast. These experiences are just as magical and might even feel like a breath of fresh air during such a busy time in Rome.
A Final Thought
The Jubilee is one of those events that brings out the best of Rome—it’s historical, spiritual, and vibrant. But it’s also just one chapter in the story of Italy. Whether you’re drawn to the bustling energy of the Holy Year or prefer to lose yourself in the quiet beauty of the countryside, there’s something for everyone here.
If you go, soak it all in: the crowds, the culture, the chaos, and the charm. And if you decide to skip the Jubilee and explore the rest of Italy instead, you’ll still find plenty of unforgettable moments waiting for you.
Either way, Italy is always a good idea. Buon viaggio!
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