Pope Francis’s Funeral to Attract Millions: Travel Warning Issued for Rome

Charlie Italy 21 April 2025 | Updated On April 23, 2025 | 0

British travellers heading to Italy are being urged to stay informed and cautious as crowds gather in Rome and Vatican City following the death of Pope Francis.

The Pope passed away at the age of 88 in the early hours of Easter Monday, April 21.

His death sparked a major global pilgrimage, with millions expected to travel to the Vatican to pay their respects and participate in historic Catholic ceremonies. This is being described as one of the largest religious gatherings in modern times.

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has warned of large crowds and heavy congestion in Rome and Vatican City in the coming days. Travellers are advised to follow local authority instructions, stay up to date with official travel guidance, and allow extra time for transport and security checks.

According to Vatican News, Pope Francis died from a stroke that led to a coma and cardiac failure. He had previously suffered from several health issues, including pneumonia, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Despite recent hospital stays, he appeared in public for the last time on Easter Sunday in St Peter’s Square.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell confirmed the news of his passing, saying:

“At 7:35am this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father… His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church.”

Public viewing of the coffin begins Wednesday, April 23, at St Peter’s Basilica.

The Pope’s funeral is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, at 10 AM in St Peter’s Basilica. The process of selecting the next pope is expected to begin within the next few weeks.

Travel and Tourism Disruption

The FCDO also reminds travellers that Rome will be especially busy over the next two years due to the Jubilee Holy Year, taking place from 24 December 2024 to 6 January 2026. Major events, like the Opening of the Holy Door on 24 December, are expected to draw huge crowds.

If you’re planning to travel to Rome during this time, it's advised to:

Check the FCDO’s latest travel updates
Expect road closures and packed public transport
Follow directions from local authorities

Rome Feels the Ripple Effect

Rome is seeing a surge in tourism not seen since the last papal funeral in 2005. Hotels near the Vatican are nearly fully booked, and prices for Airbnb listings have tripled. Many visitors are coming from across the world to attend special events honouring Pope Francis.

Tour companies are offering special guided tours focusing on the Pope’s legacy, and several masses, concerts, and candlelight vigils are being held across the city.

Local businesses are also experiencing a boom, such as souvenir shops are reporting record sales of Pope Francis memorabilia, such as rosaries and commemorative medallions.

However, the city’s transport and security systems are under pressure. The Rome Metro has extended its hours, and police and military presence have been increased. Additional first-aid stations and hydration points are being set up to support the influx of visitors.

To manage crowd sizes, the Vatican Museums now require time-slot reservations. Anyone hoping to visit the Sistine Chapel must now pre-book through official tour providers or religious groups.

Do you plan to visit Rome? Talk to us in the comment section below. Or if you need more advice on the above, contact us for further travel & immigration advice.

Check out the deals we have found below and tell us your travel plans.

Check out the offers and discounts from:

And because of the pandemic, don’t forget to get your travel insurance, which will cover you for flight disruptions and pandemic related matters.

IaM can help with your visa application to Europe, the United States, the UK & other countries

If you need help with a US visa, a UK Visa, or a visa to Europe, including help with appointment booking obligations, IaM can help. For more information and advice on US immigration, UK immigration law and US visa applications or if you need any help or assistance please, reach out to your Visa Coordinator at IaM.

Some of our posts include affiliate links. If you choose to purchase any of these products, we might get a small commission. For more information, check out our TOS.