As Rome prepares to host two major global religious celebrations—the Jubilee of Youth in July and the Holy Year from December 2024 to January 2025—the Government of Canada has updated its travel advisory for Italy. Citing potential security concerns, overcrowding, and mobility disruptions, Ottawa is urging Canadian citizens to exercise a high degree of caution, particularly in and around the Italian capital.
The advisory, issued by Global Affairs Canada, encourages Canadian travelers to plan accordingly, remain vigilant in crowded places, and follow local authorities’ instructions. While the events are anticipated to draw millions of pilgrims, worshippers, and tourists to Rome and the Vatican, the government stresses that elevated risks—such as pickpocketing, transit delays, and restricted access to popular sites—require advance preparation and heightened awareness.
Jubilee of Youth 2025: A Spiritual Celebration with Global Crowds
Set to take place from July 28 to August 3, the Jubilee of Youth is one of the Vatican’s key events leading up to the Holy Year. Organized by the Dicastery for Evangelization, the event will welcome tens of thousands of young pilgrims from across the world for a week of prayers, processions, and faith-based gatherings.
According to the Vatican’s official calendar, events will include open-air masses, confessions, and youth meetings near major sites like St. Peter’s Basilica and Castel Sant’Angelo, as well as musical and cultural performances.
With such large-scale gatherings expected, Canadian officials are cautioning travelers about possible security restrictions, including:
- Increased surveillance around Vatican City
- Heavier police presence at major landmarks
- Temporary closures or limited access to streets and monuments
Tourists are advised to check event schedules and plan visits during off-peak hours to minimize disruptions.
Holy Year 2024–2025: A Historic Pilgrimage Moment
Beyond the Jubilee of Youth, Rome is also preparing for the Holy Year (Jubilee Year), an event that occurs every 25 years and offers Catholic pilgrims the opportunity to receive plenary indulgence through various rites, including walking through the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Running officially from December 24, 2024, to January 6, 2025, the Holy Year is expected to attract upwards of 30 million visitors, according to Italy’s Ministry of Tourism. Special religious ceremonies will take place at Rome’s four major basilicas—St. Peter’s, St. John Lateran, St. Paul Outside the Walls, and St. Mary Major—adding pressure on urban infrastructure and accommodation availability.
The Rome Jubilee 2025 urban redevelopment project, a €2 billion initiative supported by the Italian government, includes transport upgrades, increased signage, and improved accessibility for pilgrims. However, many of these projects are ongoing, and construction zones may further impact mobility during the events.
Key Travel Tips for Canadian Visitors During the Jubilee
To help Canadians navigate the religious festivities in a safe and enjoyable way, the Government of Canada and tourism experts offer the following guidance:
1. Monitor Travel Advisories
Stay up to date with the Canada Travel Advice and Advisories website (travel.gc.ca), which posts real-time updates on safety, transportation, and civil emergencies in Italy.
2. Protect Your Belongings
Crowds at major sites are hotspots for pickpocketing. Use anti-theft bags, carry only essential valuables, and store passports and travel documents in secure hotel safes.
3. Stay Hydrated and Dress Appropriately
July and August are among Italy’s hottest months. With daytime temperatures exceeding 35°C (95°F), visitors are urged to wear breathable clothing, sunscreen, and carry water.
4. Be Flexible with Your Itinerary
Due to expected road closures, rerouted public transport, and high visitor numbers, allow extra time for commuting. Visit lesser-known attractions in Rome and Lazio to escape the crowds.
5. Follow Local Security Guidance
Obey signage and instructions from police and event staff. Be aware that bags may be checked at entrances to religious or cultural venues, and access to areas like Piazza San Pietro may be restricted during events.
Rome’s Efforts to Support International Pilgrims
In response to the expected influx, Rome’s municipal government has developed a multilingual information platform and dedicated Jubilee tourism hotlines. The Tourism Rome 2025 website (in collaboration with the Vatican and Italian Ministry of Tourism) offers a mobile app with real-time updates, crowd control maps, and multilingual assistance.
Travelers flying into Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) or Ciampino Airport (CIA) will find enhanced security screenings and visitor information points. Additional signage will also direct pilgrims to shuttle buses and walking routes connecting the city’s religious centers.
Conclusion: A Memorable Yet Cautious Experience in Italy
The Jubilee of Youth and Holy Year 2025 represent extraordinary cultural and spiritual moments for Rome and the global Catholic community. For Canadian travelers, they also offer a unique opportunity to witness historic rituals and architectural grandeur.
However, with large crowds and heightened security inevitable, careful planning and personal awareness will be key to ensuring a smooth and safe trip. By following Canada’s travel advisory and staying updated with local resources, visitors can experience the richness of Italy while minimizing the risks associated with high-density gatherings.
Rome is ready to welcome the world—but preparation is essential for those hoping to enjoy the Eternal City’s beauty and solemnity during these once-in-a-generation events.
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