Travel Advisory for Italy Ahead of Holy Year 2025

The number of UK holidaymakers to Italy has steadily grown over the years, reaching approximately 6.2 million in 2024.

Travellers heading to Rome are being advised to prepare for an exceptionally busy year as the Holy (or Jubilee) Year begins on December 24, 2024, and runs until January 6, 2026.

Held every 25 years, the Jubilee Year is a significant event for Catholics worldwide, encouraging millions of pilgrims to visit Rome’s renowned Christian catacombs and its seven historic pilgrim churches.

What to Expect During the Jubilee Year

The year-long celebration will feature a wide range of events, including:

Papal audiences
Jubilee gatherings
Marching bands and religious processions

The Opening of the Holy Door at Saint Peter’s Basilica on Christmas Eve marks the official start of the Jubilee Year and is expected to draw massive crowds.

In an update to its travel advice for Italy, the UK Foreign Office has warned that Rome will experience heavy congestion, particularly during high-profile events like the opening ceremony and other key gatherings.

What the Foreign Office Says

The UK government has issued a travel advisory for those planning trips to Italy, particularly Rome, over the next year.

A message on the UK Foreign Office’s website says:

The Jubilee, known as the Holy Year, will take place in Rome from December 24, 2024, to January 6, 2026.

The city is expected to be very busy, particularly when the bigger events take place including the Opening of the Holy Door of Saint Peter’s Basilica on December 24, 2024.

Transport routes around the city will be very busy. Plan your journeys ahead and leave plenty of time, especially during major Jubilee events.

It also has cautioned travellers about heightened crime levels linked to the surge in tourism, warning of risks such as passport theft, drink spiking, and car break-ins.

Additionally, British tourists are reminded that in many cities, including Florence and Rome, entering or bathing in public fountains is considered a legal offence.

Tips for Travellers

Visitors planning to explore Rome during the Jubilee Year are urged to stay informed and plan ahead.

The Foreign Office recommends:

Check event details: Visit the official Jubilee website or download the Jubilee app for a comprehensive calendar of events.
Obtain a Pilgrim’s Card: This free digital card is essential for participating in main Jubilee activities, including pilgrimages to the Holy Doors of the four Papal Basilicas:
- St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City
- St. John Lateran
- St. Mary Major
- St. Paul Outside the Walls
Plan transport in advance: Rome’s public transport routes will be particularly busy during large events. Use the Rome public transport website or the city’s journey planner app to map out your routes and allow extra travel time.

With millions of visitors expected to flood Rome over the next year, preparation will be key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Do you have plans to visit Rome next year and join the celebration? 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.