You’re heading to Rome in 2025 for the Jubilee. Bellissimo! Whether you’re a pilgrim seeking spiritual renewal or a traveler chasing la dolce vita, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure. But let’s be honest, Rome can be a little chaotic especially in 2025 for the Jubilee. Long lines, tourist traps, and overpriced gelato can steal precious moments of your time. Don’t worry, we’ve got your back. Here’s how to eat, pray, and love in the Eternal City like a true Roman during the Jubilee year 2025, avoiding the crowds and diving deep into authentic Roman life. If you ever get hungry, you know you can always count on our Streaty Rome food tour! 🙂
WHAT IS THE JUBILEE?
The Jubilee, or Holy Year, is a special year of grace in the Catholic Church, traditionally marked by pilgrimages, prayer, and the opening of the Holy Doors in Rome’s major basilicas. The Jubilee of 2025 is particularly significant, as it’s the first ordinary Jubilee since 2000 and is expected to draw millions of visitors from around the globe. It’s a time for spiritual renewal, forgiveness, and community, with events planned throughout the year, including Masses, cultural celebrations, and opportunities for confession and indulgences. Whether you’re deeply religious or simply curious about this ancient tradition, experiencing the Jubilee in Rome is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
The Jubilee Controversy: A Double-Edged Sword for Romans
While the Jubilee is a sacred and globally celebrated event, for many Romans, it’s a mixed blessing. On one hand, the influx of pilgrims and tourists boosts the local economy, especially for hotels, restaurants, and shops. On the other hand, the city often struggles to manage the sheer volume of visitors, leading to overcrowded streets, strained public services, and mounting frustrations among locals. Infrastructure projects, meant to prepare the city for the event, frequently result in delays, construction chaos, and even accusations of mismanagement or corruption. For Romans, the Jubilee can feel like an invasion of their everyday life, with some choosing to escape the city entirely during peak weeks. It’s a time of spiritual renewal for the world but often a logistical headache for those who call Rome home. Given this topi our tip #1 would be, respect the locals.
Tip #1 Be patient with the locals
As you have understood the Jubilee 2025 in Rome is a huge event which will test the patience of locals. Let’s make it clear, It’s nothing against you as a visitor, it’s just a matter of limited space and time. So here are three things we would suggest not to do while in Rome in 2025: 1) While the idea of a picnic with a view of the Colosseum or the Trevi Fountain may sound dreamy, Romans see this as disrespectful. 2) Whether you’re strolling through Trastevere or Campo de’ Fiori, keep noise levels down after 10 PM. Remember, people actually live here—it’s not just a playground for tourists
TIPS TO ENJOY ROME DURING THE JUBILEE 2025
First Things First: Timing Is Everything
Rome in 2025 will be buzzing with visitors from all over the world. Translation? Long lines at the Vatican and major basilicas like St. Peter’s. Make sure you book your tickets online in advance. For St. Peter’s Basilica, skip the midday crowds and go early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Want to climb the dome for that iconic view? local travel agencies can make memorable moments like this happen!
Holy doors alert! The Jubilee’s sacred Holy Doors open in major basilicas only during Jubilee years, so plan a visit to St. John Lateran, Santa Maria Maggiore, and St. Paul Outside the Walls. The lines can be intense, so bring comfy shoes and a good podcast or audiobook for the wait.
EAT LIKE A LOCAL IN ROME 2025
Leave the city center if you want to enjoy Roman food away from the tourist mass. All tourists remain stuck with tourist menus in the district of Trastevere, the most picturesque and nowadays the most touristy area in town. If you want to reserve some time to treat your taste buds. Here is what we suggest:
1. Take a guided food tour around Testaccio Market to discover real local cuisine and taste dishes unknown to tourists. Take a look at our Rome food tours
2. Book some cozy Roman trattorias off the beaten paths. Once again…make sure you book your table with plenty of time in advance especially on weekend dinners! You will find a complete list of recommended restaurants in our Rome blog, just let us provide you here our top 3 trattorias not to miss in 2025
- Osteria del Velodromo Vecchio in Via Genzano 139
- Il Grottino a Testaccio in Via Marmorata 165
- Al Callarello in Via Salvator Rosa 8
3. Take a delicious excursion to Ariccia
If you want to do what tourists don’t, this is a highly suggested activity reserved to passionate foodies. Head to Ariccia, a small town in the Castelli Romani region, famous for its porchetta—slow-roasted pork seasoned with garlic, rosemary, and fennel. The best spot? Osteria Dar Vignarolo, where locals gather for rustic meals paired with Frascati wine. Getting there is easy: take the regional train from Rome’s Termini Station to Albano Laziale (about 45 minutes), then hop on a short bus ride or taxi to Ariccia. Alternatively, if you’re up for a scenic drive, rent a car and enjoy the rolling hills of the Roman countryside. It’s a perfect escape from the city crowds and an authentic taste of rural Lazio.
PRAY LIKE A PILGRIM IN ROME JUBILEE 2025
The papal basilicas are the most important churches in the Catholic Church, directly associated with the Pope, who is the Bishop of Rome. These basilicas hold particular spiritual, historical, and liturgical significance and represent the main centers of Christianity. During the Jubilee 2025 the main religious events and mess will be held in the Papal Basilicas
- St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City
- Located in Vatican City, it is the center of the Catholic Church and a symbol of the papacy. Built over the tomb of St. Peter, it is the largest and most important church in the Catholic world.
- Basilica of St. John Lateran
- This is the Cathedral of the Pope as Bishop of Rome and is known as “Mother and Head of all the churches of the world.” It is the oldest Christian basilica, dedicated to Christ the Savior.
- Basilica of St. Mary Major
- This basilica is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is the largest Marian church in Rome. It is famous for its artistic beauty and its connection to the worship of the Madonna.
- Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls
- Located outside the ancient walls of Rome, this basilica was built over the tomb of St. Paul the Apostle. It is known for its beautiful cloister and mosaics.
Jubilee 2025 in Rome: calendar of events
December 24, 2024: Opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica on Christmas Eve. This marks the first major event initiating the Ordinary Jubilee of 2025, announced by Pope Francis on May 9, 2023, with the proclamation “Spes non confundit.” This event symbolizes a special opportunity for personal renewal and spiritual enrichment for all members of the Church.
December 29, 2024: Pope Francis will open the Holy Door at the Basilica of St. John Lateran.
January 1, 2025: The Holy Door at the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major will be opened.
January 5, 2025: The Holy Door at the Papal Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls will be opened.
January 24-26, 2025: Jubilee of Communication, featuring moments of reflection, spirituality, and a mass celebrated by Pope Francis.
February 2025: Jubilee of the Armed Forces, Jubilee of Artists, Jubilee of Deacons (end of February).
March 2025: Jubilee of Volunteers, Jubilee of Missionaries of Mercy.
April 2025: Jubilee for the Sick and the Healthcare Community, Jubilee of Adolescents, Jubilee of People with Disabilities.
May 1-4, 2025: Jubilee of Workers.
May 10-11, 2025: Jubilee of Entrepreneurs and meeting with musical bands.
May 12-14, 2025: Jubilee of Eastern Churches.
May 16-18, 2025: Jubilee of Confraternities.
May 30-June 1, 2025: Jubilee of Families, Children, and Grandparents.
June 7-8, 2025: Jubilee of Movements, Associations, and New Communities.
June 9, 2025: Jubilee of the Holy See.
June 14-15, 2025: Jubilee of Sport.
June 20-22, 2025: Jubilee of Government Leaders.
June 23-24, 2025: Jubilee of Seminarians.
June 25, 2025: Jubilee of Bishops.
June 25-27, 2025: Jubilee of Priests.
July 28-29, 2025: Jubilee for Catholic Digital Missionaries and Influencers.
July 28-August 3, 2025: Large Jubilee event for young people in Rome.
September 15, 2025: Jubilee of Consolation.
September 20, 2025: Jubilee of Justice Workers.
September 26-28, 2025: Meeting with Catechists.
October 4-5, 2025: Jubilee of the Missionary World and Migrants.
October 8-9, 2025: Jubilee of Consecrated Life.
October 11-12, 2025: Jubilee of Marian Spirituality.
October 31-November 2, 2025: Jubilee of the Educational World.
November 16, 2025: Jubilee of the Poor.
November 22-23, 2025: Jubilee of Choirs and Chorales.
December 14, 2025: Jubilee of Prisoners at St. Peter’s Basilica.
Special Features of the Papal Basilicas
- Holy Door: Each of the four basilicas has a Holy Door, which is opened during the Holy Year as a symbol of divine grace and mercy.
- Liturgical Privileges: The papal basilicas have a papal altar (reserved exclusively for the Pope or those authorized by him) and a symbolic papal throne related to the Pope’s authority.
- Pilgrimage Rite: Pilgrims who visit the four basilicas during the Holy Year can receive a plenary indulgence.
LOVE LIKE A ROMAN ❤️
Ready to channel your inner Roman? Rent a scooter and experience the city like a true local. Scooting around Rome gives you freedom to explore hidden corners and iconic landmarks without worrying about parking or crowded buses. Start your romantic adventure with a ride up to Gianicolo Hill, where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the city’s rooftops and domes—perfect for a sunset photo op. Next, head to Pincio Terrace in Villa Borghese Gardens, a dreamy spot overlooking Piazza del Popolo, where couples gather to admire the city’s timeless charm. Looking for a unique getaway? Take your scooter (or hop on a quick train) to Ostia Antica, an ancient Roman harbor town that feels like a time capsule. Wander through remarkably preserved ruins, including an amphitheater, baths, and mosaics, and imagine life as it was in ancient Rome. End the day with a stroll along the nearby modern beach town of Lido di Ostia, where you can sip an aperitivo by the sea. Now that’s amore!
Move smart: Public Transport Tips
Rome’s public transport system—buses, trams, and the metro—is a lifesaver for getting around the city quickly and affordably. A single ticket (€1.50) lasts 100 minutes and works across all modes of transport. Pro tip: download the Moovit app to navigate like a pro. But a word of caution—watch out for pickpockets, especially on crowded buses and metro lines like the infamous 64 (the Vatican Express) and Termini station. Beware! when using public transportation make sure to keep your bag zipped, hold it in front of you, and avoid keeping valuables in your back pockets. When in doubt, channel your inner Roman and walk or rent a bike — it’s safer, healthier, and infinitely more scenic.
So there you have it—a Jubilee-worthy guide to Rome that will have you eating, praying, and loving like a local. Buon viaggio!
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