Travellers to Rome are being warned that the city will be ‘very busy’ during the Holy (or Jubilee) Year, which runs from 24 December 2024 until 6 January 2026.
The Jubilee happens every 25 years, during which Catholics are encouraged to visit Rome’s Christian catacombs and its seven pilgrim churches.
Several events will take place throughout the city over the next 12 months, including Jubilee gatherings, papal audiences and marching bands.
In an update to its travel advice for Italy, the Foreign Office said Rome is expected to be ‘very busy’ for the next year, particularly during the ‘bigger’ events, such as the Opening of the Holy Door of Saint Peter’s Basilica this Christmas Eve.
The Foreign Office urges visitors planning to visit Rome in the coming weeks and months to check out the official Jubilee website or download the Jubilee app for a calendar of events.
Those planning to take part in the Jubilee are advised to get a free digital Pilgrim’s card. They will need this to take part in the main Jubilee events and to organise a pilgrimage to the Holy Doors of the four Papal Basilicas of Rome: St Peter’s in the Vatican, St John Lateran, St Mary Major and St Paul Outside the Walls.
“Transport routes around the city will be very busy,” said the Foreign Office, adding that visitors should plan journeys in advance and leave plenty of time, particularly during large events.
“For information on public transport in Rome during the Jubilee, see the Rome public transport website or use the Rome city journey planner,” it added.
