With the Jubilee Year, is now a good time to visit Rome?

If you're thinking of a trip to Rome in 2025, you should know that the Catholic Church is observing a Jubilee Year with the theme "Pilgrims of Hope". 

This year-long celebration, which starts on Christmas Eve 2024 and concludes in early 2026, will be marked by special events, pilgrimages to Rome, and opportunities for spiritual reflection and indulgences. 

With 1.4 billion Catholics representing about 17.7% of the global population potentially planning a pilgrimage to the Vatican this year, you might be wondering if now would be a good time to visit Rome.

Crowds in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican

The Illusionary Marvel: Sant'Ignazio Church's Fake Dome and Frescoes

Front and back of the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

I was just there in April this year, and my answer is a resounding yes!

If you're Catholic, it's almost a no-brainer as the recently-departed Pope Francis has enjoined you to make the "Pilgrimage of Hope".

Yes, there will probably be crowds at the must-visit St. Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, which the world recently saw live on TV for Pope Francis' burial.

But there are also over 900 other churches in Rome you can visit, including those within the Vatican City, which is a separate sovereign state.  

One that I visited and recommend is the 17th century church of Sant' Ignazio di Loyola, with it's beautiful frescoes and fake dome.  Yes, a fake dome with an interesting back story!

If you're not Catholic, there are many sights of pre-Christian ancient Rome to visit and explore.  

Must-see instagrammable sites include the Colloseum, of course, the Trevi Fountain (don't forget to throw a few coins in), and the Pantheon.

Another spot worth visiting is Piazza Navona, one of the most beautiful squares in Rome and home to some of its most famous fountains, like the Fountain of the Four Rivers and the Fountain of Neptune.

Another sight to see is the Castel Sant'Angelo, also known as Mausoleum of Hadrian.  It was initially commissioned by the Roman Emperor Hadrian as a mausoleum for himself and his family. The popes later used the building as a fortress and castle, and it is now a museum.

Fontana di Trevi, Pantheon, and Colosseo

Enjoying gelato in Trastevere

After a long day of sightseeing and exploring history, indulge in delicious Italian food -- Roman cuisine, to be exact.

Roman cuisine is known for its simple, hearty dishes that include pasta classics like Cacio e Pepe, Carbonara, and Amatriciana, as well as artichoke specialties like Carciofi alla Romana and Giudia. Other Roman dishes to try include Saltimbocca, Trippa alla Romana, and Coda alla Vaccinara.

Check out the colorful neighborhood of Trastevere - a funky, bohemian area that is known for traditional and innovative trattorias, craft beer pubs and artisan shops.  And a meal here won't break the bank!

So yes, now (and any time) would be a good time to visit the Eternal City!  As a pilgrim, or just another regular tourist.