The death of Pope Francis has sent ripples across the world, not only as a moment of profound mourning for the Catholic Church but also as a historic event expected to reshape global travel in the coming weeks. From increased pilgrimages to Rome to changes in Vatican protocols, the world’s attention is once again turning to the Eternal City.
As tributes begin to flow in from around the globe, Vatican officials are preparing for an unprecedented influx of travellers—religious and secular alike—seeking to pay their respects to the late pontiff and witness the historic proceedings that follow the passing of a Pope.
Rome prepares for a surge in visitors
Travel to Rome is expected to spike significantly in the days ahead, with tens of thousands of pilgrims anticipated to descend on St. Peter’s Square. Airlines are likely to add capacity to Rome from major cities around the world, and hotels across the city are already reporting a surge in bookings.
Tour operators specialising in religious travel and pilgrimage tours are preparing for a sharp increase in demand. For many, the journey to the Vatican will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness both the farewell to a globally respected religious leader and the preparations for a new era in the Catholic Church.
Historic travel moments ahead
The death of a Pope triggers one of the oldest and most meticulously planned traditions in the world: the papal conclave. As the College of Cardinals prepares to convene in Vatican City to elect a new Pope, travellers will have the rare opportunity to witness the centuries-old rituals of the sede vacante—the period when the papal seat is vacant.
Travel experts are advising visitors to plan ahead, remain flexible, and expect tight security across the Vatican and wider Rome. For many, this moment will be a spiritual journey; for others, a chance to be present during one of the most historically significant events in modern religious history.
