Welcome to Rome, the eternal city and a profound spiritual destination for Catholics around the world. This travel guide is specially crafted to assist you on your remarkable journey of faith, uncovering the religious treasures that lie within this ancient metropolis.
As the heart of Catholicism, Rome holds an unparalleled significance in the history of Christianity. From the grandeur of St. Peter's Basilica to the spiritual allure of the Vatican City, Rome offers a multitude of sacred sites that will enrich your understanding and deepen your connection to your Catholic faith
.In this guide, we will navigate through the iconic landmarks and lesser-known gems that await you in Rome. Prepare to embark on a pilgrimage that encompasses not only the awe-inspiring architectural wonders of the Vatican, but also the mystical ambiance of catacombs, the serene sanctuaries of churches, and the echoes of centuries-old prayers.
Explore the Vatican Museums, home to some of the most extraordinary art collections in the world, including Michelangelo's breathtaking masterpiece, the Sistine Chapel. Immerse yourself in the spiritual intensity of St. Peter's Square, where the faithful gather for Papal blessings and historic events.Discover the Basilica of St. John Lateran, the oldest and highest-ranking papal basilica, and the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, with its stunning mosaics and rich history. Ascend the Spanish Steps and visit the Church of Trinità dei Monti for moments of quiet reflection.
Venture beyond the city center to explore the Catacombs of Rome, where early Christians sought refuge and buried their loved ones. Experience the ethereal beauty of the Appian Way, an ancient road that leads to catacombs and early Christian churches.As you traverse the streets of Rome, you will encounter countless chapels, shrines, and holy relics, each with its own compelling story. Engage in the local customs and traditions, attend Mass at historic churches, and partake in the sacraments in the heartland of Catholicism.
May this guide serve as your compass, illuminating the path to spiritual enlightenment and enriching your Catholic pilgrimage to Rome. Open your heart, embrace the sacred atmosphere, and allow the city's timeless spirituality to touch your soul. Your journey awaits.
I did Rome in three days as I also traveled around other parts of Italy (I have a guide for that coming out soon!). Do keep in mind that you can do this at your own pace, however, I have structured all the destinations to where you capitalize on transportation & walking time.
Before we get started here are some great tips to know in Rome:
1. It's important to carry your passport around just in case they do a passport check on you. However, keep your money and a passport in a bag that cannot be easily opened and is kept on the front of you. If you are a guy- please keep your important things in front pockets- not back.
2. Stay hydrated- don't forget to purchase water bottles throughout the day so that you are never without water. However, remember that hydration comes from mineral intake which you are NOT getting from just the water in Italy- so it's important to come armed with minerals (I bring beef liver pills)
3. Travel light- travel with just a backpack & if you have to, a carry on suitcase (never anything bigger than that & don't forget European carryon size is different than the USA)
4. Don't forget to have euros (many places you stay will also have travel tax- that needs to be paid in euros)
5. Make sure to have whatsapp- especially if you are staying in airbnbs because that is how they will contact you
6. To use public bathrooms you will need to pay with euros
7. Be sure to dress appropriately for churches (you must cover your shoulders and knees) otherwise they will cover you up with tulle that you do oftentimes have to pay for
8. Book train tickets (find them on trenitalia) in advance
9. Book tickets for any places that require tickets in advance & more times than not- book the skip the line tickets if it's in your budget. Show up 15-30 mins before you scheduled ticket time
10. Don't be afraid to use the metro system in Rome- use Apple Maps to help you but you will figure it out fast! The most likely place to get robbed in Rome is the taxi! Seriously- they will charge you an arm and a leg for a short ride!
This is the main Rome terminal. Once you arrive here you will follow the signs to "M" or metro. Once you arrive at the metro area purchase metro passes. I recommend purchasing the 3 day pass if you plan to follow this itinerary. The three day pass includes all public transportation, including busses. After purchasing passes, put the address to your stay in Apple Maps & follow the signs to the location you are going.
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I am including a list of well acclaimed hotels in Rome. If you are traveling with 2 or more people I'd highly recommend airbnbs over hotels simply because you will get a better space (with a kitchen and washer!) in a better location! Here is the link to the lovely airbnb I stayed at with 2 other people:
I've crafted this guide with Mass times at the churches you will visit as well. Please keep in mind that those mass times are based on weekday masses and are likely to change,
I'd recommend starting your morning off early here- think 7:00am (it will be practically empty) and aim to be in line by 6:30am. My recommendation is to contact your local priest & see if they can find you a seminarian at the NAC (North American college) to give you a tour of St Peters. If you have a seminarian to do that, you can also enter in through the prayer line, and make sure to attend mass!
MASS TIMES:
8:30 AM: At the Blessed Sacrament Chapel; in Italian, with homily, followed by Eucharistic Adoration.
9 AM, 10 AM, 11 AM, 12 PM: At the Altar of St. Joseph (Left Transept); in Italian, with homily.
5 PM: At the Altar of the Chair (Cattedra); in Latin, homily in Italian.
You simply have to go here! It is one of THE most stunning churches in Rome. The times are weird so make sure to time it well: 7:45-13:00 16:00-20:00
MASS TIMES:
7:45 ; 11:00 ; 19:00
St John Lateran is the Pope's cathedral!
Six Popes are buried here:
Alexander III, Clement XII, Innocent III, Leo XIII, Martin V, Sergius IV. These centuries-old final resting places are beautifully crafted and works of art in themselves.
Sunday Mass
(a.m.) 7:00, 8:00, 9:00, 10:00, 11:00; 12 noon and (p.m.) 6:00.
Daily Mass
(a.m.) 7:00, 8:00, 9:00, 10:00, 11:00; 12 noon and (p.m.) 5:00.
You cannot miss one of the most emotional and spiritual places in Rome: the Holy Stairs. These are the steps Jesus walked up in down while He was being condemned. You get to climb up these stairs on your knees. I'd recommend paying the 2 euros (you will need it in cash) for the prayer booklet, so that you can pray a prayer on each step.
When I went to the Pantheon it was free but I believe that they are charging 5 euro for entrance now. The Pantheon is now a Catholic basilica and you will also find the tomb of Raphael in here. The line can look really long when you get there but it moves very fast!
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There's a great little cafe on the left side of the pantheon with the yummiest sandwiches for about 2.50 euro- I love the tuna and boiled egg one- SO good & filling!
You will find parts of Christ manger in the crypt of this church & the first depiction of the nativity scene
Sunday Mass
(a.m.) 7:00, 8:00, 9:00, 10:00, 11:15; 12 noon and (p.m.) 6:00.
Daily Mass
(a.m.) 7:00, 8:00, 9:00, 10:00, 11:00; 12 noon and (p.m.) 6:00.
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20 minute walk (it's worth the walk because it's beautiful):
These are ticket you NEED to buy well in advance to get a good price. Be sure to purchase the Roman Forum, Colosseum, & Palatine Hill combined ticket. I would prioritize doing this in the early morning or late afternoon because it is quite a hilly and hot walk!
These are ticket you NEED to buy well in advance to get a good price. Be sure to purchase the Roman Forum, Colosseum, & Palatine Hill combined ticket. I would prioritize doing this in the early morning or late afternoon because it is quite a hilly and hot walk!
These are ticket you NEED to buy well in advance to get a good price. Be sure to purchase the Roman Forum, Colosseum, & Palatine Hill combined ticket. I would prioritize doing this in the early morning or late afternoon because it is quite a hilly and hot walk!
Save hours for wondering around the Vatican museums because it is wayyyy more than the Sistene Chapel. Be sure to purchase tickets for this way in advance!
A beautiful MUST VISIT church!
Sunday Mass
(a.m.) 7:00*, 8:00, 9:00, 10:30; 12 noon and (p.m.) 6:00.
Daily Mass
(a.m.) 7:00*, 8:00, 9:00, 10:30; and (p.m.) 6:00.
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