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7 Reasons to Visit Italy During the Jubilee (Even If You’re Not Religious)
Let’s talk about Jubilee year in Italy. Maybe you’ve heard about it, maybe not—but trust me, this isn’t just a big deal for pilgrims. Jubilee 2025 is shaping up to be a once-in-a-generation cultural moment, and Italy is pulling out all the stops. Yes, it’s spiritual. Yes, it’s crowded. And yes, it’s absolutely worth it.
Here’s why Italy during Jubilee year should be on your radar—even if you’ve never stepped foot in a cathedral.
Rome Is Pulling Out the Red (and Gold) Carpet
Rome during a Jubilee year = the Eternal City in full-on showcase mode. Streets get spruced up, monuments shine brighter, and infrastructure actually gets repaired (a miracle in itself). Expect grand processions, elaborate lighting, extended museum hours, and the kind of pageantry Italians do better than anyone else. If you’ve been thinking about a trip to Italy, 2025 will offer travelers a polished, elevated version of Rome that only happens once every 25 years.
The Vatican Will Be the Center of the Universe
Whether you’re Catholic, curious, or just appreciate beautiful architecture, the Vatican will be buzzing. Special Masses, rare relic displays, and spiritual events you won’t see again for another generation make it the epicenter of Jubilee travel. Even St. Peter’s Basilica gets a glow-up, and there’s nothing like walking through the Holy Door during a Jubilee year. It’s a spiritual and cultural experience all rolled into one—perfect for those planning a meaningful European vacation.
It’s a Photographer’s Dream
From candlelit processions to gorgeously restored piazzas, the Jubilee brings a visual feast. Picture yourself snapping photos of ancient churches lit up with special Jubilee lighting or capturing pilgrims walking the cobblestone streets at dawn. The ambiance alone will add magic to your travel photos, and if you’re a content creator or blogger, Italy in 2025 will be rich with once-in-a-lifetime backdrops. A dream destination for travel photography, no filter required.
You Can Collect a Pilgrim’s Passport
Yes, it’s a real thing. And no, you don’t have to be religious to enjoy collecting stamps as you explore significant basilicas around the city. It’s like a spiritual scavenger hunt—with way better food stops along the way. Plus, it’s a fun way to structure your Rome itinerary and experience the city from a fresh perspective. If you’re planning a multi-day vacation in Rome, this adds an interactive and memorable element to your trip.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Italy Still Shines
While Rome draws the crowds, other Italian cities—like Assisi, Florence, Siena, and Milan—will also host Jubilee events. That means you can get in on the magic while still sipping wine in the Tuscan countryside or wandering cobblestone streets without elbowing through selfie sticks. Incorporating these lesser-known destinations into your Italy vacation itinerary offers a more relaxed, authentic experience—perfect for slow travelers and those craving a deeper cultural connection.
Once-in-a-Lifetime Experiences
Some doors only open during Jubilee years. Literally. The Holy Doors of Rome’s four major basilicas are only unsealed for Jubilee pilgrimages. Plus, many churches offer special art exhibits, guided reflections, and concerts—often free and hosted in places dripping with history. It’s one of those rare opportunities where a single trip to Italy can check multiple once-in-a-lifetime boxes, especially for travelers seeking meaningful and immersive travel experiences.
Jubilee or Not… It’s Still Italy
Let’s be honest: you don’t need an excuse to visit Italy. The pasta still slaps. The wine still flows. The gelato still heals broken hearts. But add in the once-every-25-years magic of the Jubilee, and you’ve got the perfect blend of spiritual, cultural, and culinary inspiration. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Italy traveler, this is a rare moment that adds serious sparkle to your European vacation plans.
Final Thought
You don’t have to be religious to feel the energy of Jubilee year in Italy—you just have to be there. Whether you’re drawn to the sacred, the scenery, or the spritzes, this is a trip worth planning now. Want help crafting the perfect Jubilee itinerary (with or without the Holy Doors)? I’ve got you.
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