So, you’re thinking of hitting Rome in 2025 — maybe you’ve heard rumors about something called a Jubilee, which sounds vaguely like a posh party or a fancy pastry.
In fact, it’s a massive Catholic celebration that rolls around every couple of decades, and if you’re in the Eternal City while it’s happening, well, buckle up: you’re in for a swirl of faith, culture, history, and (of course) gelato.
Even if you’re not religious, there’s something about walking through a Holy Door that’s only open for a year that makes you feel like you’re part of something huge.
And guess what? The train ride can be half the fun — and way easier than scrambling through airport security lines. Here’s the lowdown.
What is the Jubilee in Rome, Italy?
In a nutshell: the Jubilee is a Holy Year celebrated by the Catholic Church, and Rome is the epicenter of the action.
The 2025 Jubilee will feature special masses, blessings, pilgrimages, and ceremonies — most of them centered around Vatican City and its awe-inspiring landmarks. Think St. Peter’s Basilica, the Holy Doors that traditionally remain sealed except during Jubilee years, and a general vibe that you’ve stepped into a once-in-a-generation event.
Getting to Rome by train:
- From London: Take the Eurostar under the Channel to Paris, then hop on a train down to Italy. You can connect via Milan or Turin for a scenic route.
- From Paris: Catch a direct train to Milan or Turin, then transfer to a high-speed train straight to Rome’s central Termini station.
- From other big European hubs like Munich or Zurich, high-speed connections and overnight sleeper trains make reaching Rome straightforward — just search on Trainline, tap a few times on your phone, and you’re on the way.
Once in Rome, Vatican City is just a short hop on the local metro (Line A to Ottaviano or Cipro stations) or a brisk walk if you’re feeling energetic.
Download the Trainline app to map out your journey and snag advance tickets — your future self will thank you.
Image Credit: Getty Images, carmengabriela. Image Location: Vatican City, Rome, Italy
When is the Jubilee in Rome, Italy?
The 2025 Jubilee kicks off on Christmas Eve 2024 and runs throughout the entire year of 2025 until the Epiphany festival in January 2026. That means you’ve got a solid 12+ months to show up, take it all in, and maybe even come back for seconds if you missed something the first time.
Jubilee Rome 2025 dates:
- Official start: December 24, 2024
- End date: January 6, 2026
Mark your calendar, plot out a train route, and get ready for an epic year.
What to see during the 2025 Jubilee in Rome, Italy
- Vatican City: The epicenter. Pilgrims flock here to attend masses, receive blessings, and walk through the Holy Doors.
- St. Peter’s Square & Basilica: The heart of it all. Expect big crowds, impressive ceremonies, and a sense that you’re standing at the heart of Catholic tradition.
- Holy Doors: Each major papal basilica in Rome has a Holy Door. They’re sealed shut except for Jubilee years. Passing through one is said to grant special indulgences for the faithful.
- Cultural sights: Don’t forget to wander beyond the religious events. Rome’s got the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the best cacio e pepe you’ll ever taste, and three-day itineraries if you’re short on time.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Neil Emmerson. Image Location: Vatican City, Rome, Italy
What are the Holy Doors, exactly?
They’re special entryways sealed from the inside and only unsealed during a Jubilee Year. Pilgrims passing through these doors are granted spiritual indulgences. Even if that’s not your thing, it’s hard not to be impressed by the ceremony and the symbolism. It’s like finding a secret entrance that only shows up every couple of decades.
When is the next Jubilee year?
The Catholic Church calls Jubilee Years periodically — historically every 25 years or so, though sometimes they declare extraordinary Jubilees. The next scheduled Jubilee after 2025 will likely be in 2050. So if you miss this one, set a really long-term reminder on your phone.
Why is 2025 a Holy Year for the Catholic Church?
2025 fits into the traditional 25-year cycle of ordinary Holy Years. The Church designates these years as times of special forgiveness, penance, and spiritual growth. For many, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to deepen faith, snag rare religious blessings, and connect with pilgrims from around the world. For everyone else, it’s a fascinating cultural event — like a global spiritual Super Bowl with centuries of tradition backing it up.
How long is the Holy Door open for?
The Holy Doors of Rome’s papal basilicas typically swing open at the start of the Jubilee and stay that way until it ends. In 2025, that means from late December 2024 until early January 2026, giving you a generous window to plan your visit.
Ready to hop around Europe and roll into Rome by rail? Just download the Trainline app and sort out trains from wherever you are.
Header Image Credit: Getty Images, TomasSereda. Image Location: Rome, Italy