In 2025, millions of travelers are expected to descend upon Italy as the Catholic Church marks the long-awaited Jubilee Year, a significant spiritual occasion that draws pilgrims from all over the world. The Jubilee, a once-in-a-quarter-century event, holds deep significance for Catholics, providing a time for spiritual renewal and reflection. For the upcoming Jubilee, which commenced on Christmas Day 2025 and will continue until January 6, 2026, the theme is “Pilgrims of Hope,” emphasizing the journey of faith and renewal.
The origins of the Jubilee date back to 1300, and it has since become a cherished tradition. Every 25 years, the Vatican hosts a series of special events to welcome pilgrims, drawing them to Rome and other sacred sites across Italy and beyond. During this Holy Year, pilgrims and secular travelers alike will have the opportunity to engage in once-in-a-lifetime experiences. With the Jubilee in full swing, tour operators are gearing up to meet the anticipated demand for spiritual and cultural journeys, offering tailored itineraries for both religious and non-religious travelers.
Tour operators are already reporting an unprecedented surge in interest as the Jubilee Year approaches. ETS Tours, known for its faith-based travel offerings, has seen a remarkable 43% increase in Italy bookings from 2024 to 2025, reflecting the growing demand for Jubilee-related tours. David Welch, vice president of business development at ETS, noted that pilgrimage trips to Italy made up just 9% of their total business in 2024 but have skyrocketed to nearly 20% of sales for 2025.
ETS Tours is offering specialized itineraries that take travelers through the heart of Vatican City and Rome, focusing on iconic sites such as St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums. But there’s more to these tours than just the spiritual aspects. Welch explained that the interest in these trips is twofold: while many pilgrims are seeking profound religious experiences, others are also looking for intellectual and cultural enrichment. “People are searching for that ‘aha’ moment,” he said, referring to the profound insights and reflections that often arise during these journeys.
While Rome remains the focal point for Jubilee celebrations, many travelers are also eager to explore other parts of Italy or even nearby countries like Spain and Greece. ETS Tours has responded to this growing interest by offering expanded itineraries that include pilgrimage routes through Croatia and Poland, often with an optional Rome extension. Welch emphasized the unique opportunity these multi-destination tours present, combining the well-known sacred sites in Rome with lesser-known spiritual destinations across Europe.
This expanding interest in faith-based tourism is reflected in broader market trends as well. According to the Religious Tourism Market Report 2024, the global faith-based tourism industry is expected to reach $243.5 billion by 2028, up from $175 billion last year. The Jubilee Year, along with other major religious events such as the Oberammergau Passion Play in Germany, is expected to further fuel this growth.
For those seeking a more secular experience, Central Holidays offers tours of Italy during the Jubilee that focus less on the religious aspects and more on the cultural and historical richness of Rome. Maria Jose Merino, vice president of operations for Central Holidays, highlighted the uniqueness of visiting Rome during such a special time. “Whether religious or not, visiting during the Jubilee adds an extra layer of significance to the experience,” she said. The company is also offering guaranteed departure dates to ensure that travelers can book their trips with confidence.
However, with such high demand, travelers are encouraged to book early. Despite concerns about overcrowding, tour operators reassure that the spread-out nature of Jubilee events throughout the year will help alleviate congestion. Steve Perillo, CEO of Perillo Tours, noted that while some travelers may hesitate to book due to fears of large crowds, there is still plenty of availability for those who plan ahead.
Suzy Schreiner, owner of Azure Blue Vacations, cautioned travelers to be aware of the rising costs associated with high demand during the Jubilee Year. Peak travel months, particularly from April through September, will likely see higher airfares and hotel rates. However, travelers seeking to avoid the rush may find better deals in October, once the initial peak has passed.
As the Catholic Church ushers in the 2025 Jubilee Year, tour operators are prepared to accommodate an influx of pilgrims and tourists, ensuring that both spiritual seekers and cultural explorers alike have an unforgettable experience in the Eternal City. Whether visiting for religious devotion or simply to immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of Italy, travelers are in for an extraordinary journey during this once-in-a-lifetime celebration.
