How To Plan A Group Pilgrimage To Rome, Italy

Are you ready to reconnect with wonder on a pilgrimage to Rome, Italy? Rome invites your team to walk the steps of renowned faith leaders, stand in the Colosseum, or kneel at a saint’s tomb.

Let’s look at what a pilgrimage to Rome looks like, why your group should consider this once-in-a-lifetime adventure, and how Wonder Voyage can help.

What makes a pilgrimage to Rome unique?

Faith and history meet on the streets of Rome. As your team explores the footsteps of the apostles, their faith becomes more intimate and personal. 

Must-Visit Sacred Sites on a Pilgrimage to Rome

On a Wonder Voyage pilgrimage to Rome, we don’t focus on checking off tourist destinations. The goal is to experience the presence of God in places where faith has lived for centuries.

While Wonder Voyage personalizes every pilgrimage to fit the specific team, here is a sample of what your trip may include.

Day 1

The adventure begins at the Church of Domine Quo Vadis, where Christ spoke to Peter as he fled Rome. Then, your team can descend into the catacombs beneath Rome to learn about centuries of martyrs.

Day 2

Your day begins at the iconic Colosseum, where you hear the story of Telemachus. Then, explore the Roman Forum and climb the infamous Spanish Steps. The day is capped when you toss coins into Trevi Fountain, hoping to return to the Eternal City.

Day 3

On your third day, your team can walk in the steps of many pilgrims before you, starting at Santa Croce in Gerusalemme. Visit the chapel of Helen, the mother of Emperor Constantine, and explore the relics from the Holy Land at the Basilica. Then, visit the Holy Stairs, climbed by Jesus on His way to see Pontius Pilate. Often, pilgrims ascend these ancient steps on their knees in silence and prayer. In addition, see the Basilica di San Pietro in Vincoli, which houses the chains Peter wore when imprisoned.

Day 4

Your fourth day can land your team at the Ruins of Pompeii or a day trip to Orvieto. These side trips allow your team to personalize their journey to meet your individual needs.

Day 5

Today, your team can spend the day in a country within a city. Did you know Vatican City has its own laws, diplomats, and police? Visit St. Peterʼs Square, the Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel before finishing your day with a trip to the Pantheon.

Day 6

Teams often prefer a day of small-group exploration during their last full day in Rome. Visit museums, go sightseeing, or enjoy a leisurely walk on the streets full of history before reflecting on the week of wonder with a celebratory gathering.

Day 7

Finally, your team heads home with a renewed sense of connection with your faith tradition and each other.

How to Prepare for Your Pilgrimage to Rome

If you choose Wonder Voyage as your guide on your pilgrimage to Rome, we will help you with each step of the journey, from planning to spiritual prep to packing lists. Here are the things to keep in mind.

1. The best time to travel to Rome on pilgrimage

Rome is beautiful year-round, but timing can make all the difference. 

• March to May and September to November offer the best balance of mild temperatures and smaller crowds. For this reason, Rome can be a great Spring Break pilgrimage.
• Rome is often hot and packed with tourists during the summer months. 
• In the winter, Rome is much quieter. 

2. Packing Essentials

Wonder Voyage will provide your team with a season-specific packing list. In general, your team will need the following essentials.

• Comfortable Walking Shoes for the cobblestone streets and long walks
• Modest, Breathable Clothing to tour the churches that often require covered shoulders and knees
• A Journal to write reflections and record moments of wonder
• A Refillable Water Bottle to enjoy Rome’s fountains of fresh drinking water
• A Small Backpack to keep essentials handy without weighing yourself down

3. Understand Local Customs and Religious Etiquette

Silence and reverence are expected when visiting sacred sites. Your Wonder Voyage Guide will encourage your team to pause and absorb the holiness of each space. 

4. Prepare Your Heart and Mind for Pilgrimage

With 25 years of experience leading pilgrimages and mission trips worldwide, we’ve seen that well-prepared teams are the ones who genuinely experience wonder.

To help your group prepare for their journey, Wonder Voyage offers a free resource designed to deepen preparation and enrich the adventure ahead. The Way of Wonder is available to any pilgrimage group, whether or not you choose to hire Wonder Voyage for your trip planning.

Tips for a Meaningful Pilgrimage to Rome

As you plan your pilgrimage to Rome, consider the following tips.

1. Balance Your Schedule Between Sightseeing and Spiritual Reflection

Pilgrimage shouldn’t have a rushed itinerary. To avoid that, your Wonder Voyage Guide may use encounter moments to facilitate quiet times of reflection and prayer.

2. Work with a Trusted Pilgrimage Tour Group

Wonder Voyage helps you avoid the logistical headaches. We take care of the planning so you can focus on your team.

3. Plan for Crowds and Book in Advance

Touristy sites like St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museum, and the Colosseum can get crowded. Wonder Voyage takes the guesswork out of tickets and timing, but if you choose to plan the trip yourself, plan ahead and reserve tickets where possible.

4. Budget Wisely Without Missing Key Experiences

While Rome can be expensive, careful planning can help maximize your pilgrimage experience. While churches are often free to enter, other places have an entry fee. 

A well-planned pilgrimage allows space for structure and spontaneity, allowing your group to embrace the sacred journey without unnecessary stress.

Conclusion: The Sacred Journey Awaits on a Pilgrimage to Rome

A pilgrimage to Rome is an encounter with the very roots of the Christian faith. For church leaders, bringing a group to Rome offers your community a chance to step away from the everyday and into something sacred. So, why wait? The Eternal City is calling. Start planning your pilgrimage today, and lead your group on a journey they will never forget.