Planning a visit to Rome for Pope Francis' funeral: What you should know
Pope Francis
, who died on April 21, 2025 and
Rome
prepares to host thousands of pilgrims and dignitaries for his funeral. The funeral is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, at 10 a.m. in St. Peter's Square. Given the concurrent
Vatican
Jubilee, which is already attracting millions of visitors, those planning to attend should anticipate significant crowds and logistical challenges, as per a report by CNN.
Funeral arrangements for public to pay respects
Pope Francis's body lies in state at St. Peter's Basilica, allowing the public to pay their respects. The basilica remains open for visitors until midnight on Wednesday, from 7 a.m. to midnight on Thursday, and from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday. A ceremony to close the coffin is scheduled for 8 p.m. on Friday. The funeral service on Saturday will be held outdoors in St. Peter's Square and is open to the public without the need for tickets. However, attendees should expect extensive security checks and long waiting times.
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Rome will be experiencing an influx of visitors due to the Jubilee year, with over 32 million pilgrims expected, in addition to the 37.3 million tourists who visited last year. This surge in visitors means accommodations and transportation will be in high demand. Travelers should plan accordingly and must be prepared for delays and crowded conditions.
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Given the high demand, finding accommodation near the Vatican may be challenging. Areas such as Prati, Campo Marzio, and regions around Piazza di Spagna offer proximity to St. Peter's Basilica and are accessible via metro. Budget-conscious travelers might consider staying near Termini Station, where some two- and three-star hotels still have availability, albeit at increased rates. For instance, Hotel Lancelot near the Colosseum offers a three-night stay for €420.
Live Events
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Pope Francis' body to lie in state in St Peter's Basilica as faithful mourn
Restrictions for the public
During the mourning period, several Vatican sites, including the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel, will remain closed. However, visitors can explore other significant religious sites in Rome, such as the basilicas of San Giovanni in Laterano, Santa Maria Maggiore, and San Paolo Fuori le Mura. These sites hold historical and spiritual significance and are integral to the Catholic tradition.
Upcoming Conclave
Following the funeral, the College of Cardinals will convene to elect a new pope, according to CNN. The conclave will begin no earlier than 15 days after Pope Francis's death, making May 6 the earliest possible start date. During the conclave, the cardinals will be sequestered in the Sistine Chapel, and the public will await the traditional white smoke signal indicating that a new pope has been chosen.
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Travelers wishing to witness these historic events should plan meticulously, considering the anticipated crowds and heightened security measures. Staying informed through official Vatican announcements and local news sources will be crucial for a meaningful and respectful visit.
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