12-Day Catholic Pilgrimage from Rome to Lourdes Itinerary

Begin your second day with a visit to the majestic Basilica of St. John Lateran (Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano). As the cathedral church of Rome and the official ecclesiastical seat of the Pope, this basilica holds immense religious significance. Afterward, take a short trip to see another iconic landmark: La Pietà by Michelangelo located within St. Peter's Basilica. This masterpiece is one of Michelangelo's most famous works and represents Mary holding Jesus after his crucifixion. For breakfast, stop by Pasticceria Regoli, famous for its fresh pastries and cappuccinos.

In the afternoon, delve into ancient Christian history with a guided tour: Rome: Crypts and Catacombs Underground Tour with Transfers. This tour takes you through some of Rome's most fascinating underground burial sites used by early Christians during times of persecution. Following this immersive experience, have lunch at Trattoria Da Enzo al 29, which offers traditional Roman dishes made from fresh local ingredients.

Spend your evening exploring one more hidden gem: Church of Saint Ignatius of Loyola (Chiesa di Sant'Ignazio di Loyola). The church is renowned for its stunning Baroque architecture and ceiling frescoes that create an illusionary dome. End your day with dinner at Osteria da Fortunata, known for its handmade pasta dishes that showcase authentic Roman flavors.

Start your third day by visiting one of Rome’s most famous landmarks: The Pantheon. Although not on your wishlist specifically named as such but falls under Ancient Rome category which you are interested in exploring more deeply. Next head towards another must-see attraction from wishlist - Piazza Navona - known for its Baroque architecture including Fountain Of Neptune . Enjoy breakfast nearby atCafé Della Pace offering delightful morning treats amidst charming surroundings.

In afternoon continue spiritual journey visiting Appian Way y Aurelian Walls listed under wishlist attractions providing insight into early Christian pilgrimages along these historic routes . Take part next guided tour :Rome : Colosseum Underground , Arena & Forum Tour[155115] offering exclusive access beneath Colosseum revealing secrets behind gladiatorial combats . Lunch break can be enjoyed atHostaria Antica Roma specializing traditional roman cuisine served within ancient settings .

Conclude third evening strolling around Campo de' Fiori vibrant square bustling market stalls selling local produce flowers souvenirs perfect place soak up lively atmosphere before heading towards dinner spotDa Francesco serving classic italian pizzas pastas making memorable end day three

Begin your fourth day with a visit to the Palácio Farnese (Palazzo Farnese). This Renaissance palace is one of the most important High Renaissance palaces in Rome and currently serves as the French Embassy. Its grand architecture and stunning frescoes are a must-see. For breakfast, head to Roscioli Caffè, known for its excellent coffee and freshly baked goods. Afterward, take a short walk to the nearby Piazza del Campidoglio, designed by Michelangelo. This square offers breathtaking views of the Roman Forum and is home to the Capitoline Museums.

In the afternoon, join a guided tour: Rome: Colosseum Arena Floor and Ancient Rome Guided Tour. This tour provides exclusive access to areas of the Colosseum that are usually off-limits to visitors, including the arena floor where gladiators once fought. The tour also covers other significant sites in ancient Rome. For lunch, dine at Armando al Pantheon, located near the Pantheon. The restaurant is famous for its traditional Roman dishes.

Spend your evening exploring Trastevere, one of Rome's most charming neighborhoods. Wander through its narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings, artisan shops, and lively piazzas. End your day with dinner at Da Enzo al 29, a cozy trattoria in Trastevere known for its delicious Roman cuisine.

Start your fifth day with a visit to Raphael's Rooms (Stanze di Raffaello) in the Vatican Museums. These rooms are adorned with frescoes painted by Raphael and his workshop, showcasing some of his most famous works. For breakfast, stop by Café Vaticano, conveniently located near the Vatican Museums. Next, head to Piazza Navona, one of Rome's most beautiful squares. Admire its stunning Baroque architecture and fountains while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere.

In the afternoon, join another guided tour: Rome: St. Peter's Basilica and Papal Grottoes Guided Tour. This tour takes you through St. Peter's Basilica, one of Christianity's holiest sites, and includes access to the Papal Grottoes where many popes are buried. Enjoy lunch at Borgo Pio 92, located near St. Peter's Basilica. The restaurant offers a variety of Italian dishes made from fresh ingredients.

Conclude your fifth day with a visit to Circo de Maxentius (Circo di Massenzio), an ancient Roman circus located along the Appian Way. It's one of Rome's best-preserved ancient stadiums and offers a glimpse into Rome's imperial past. For dinner, dine at La Pergola, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering exquisite Italian cuisine with panoramic views of Rome.

Begin your sixth day with a visit to Vittorio Emmanuele II Monument (Vittoriano). This grand monument is dedicated to Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of unified Italy. It offers stunning views over Rome from its terrace. Have breakfast at Antico Caffè Greco, one of Rome’s oldest cafes known for its historic charm and excellent coffee. Next on your itinerary isChurch Of Saint Ignatius Loyola(Chiesa Di Sant'Ignazio Di Loyola)[15385] renowned baroque architecture ceiling frescoes creating illusionary dome .

In afternoon take part guided tour :Rome : Catacombs Saints Marcellino Pietro Guided Tour[408985] exploring underground burial sites early christians during times persecution providing deep insight into christian history . Lunch break can be enjoyed nearbyL'Arcangelo serving traditional roman dishes within elegant settings .

Conclude sixth evening visiting another iconic landmark listed wishlist - Trevi Fountain(Fontana Di Trevi) tossing coin ensuring return eternal city . Dinner can be enjoyed nearbyIl Chianti offering delightful tuscan cuisine making perfect end day six

Start your seventh day with a visit to the Cemitério Protestante de Roma (Cimitero Acottolico di Roma). This serene cemetery is the final resting place of many notable figures, including the poets John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley. It's a peaceful spot for reflection and offers a unique glimpse into Rome's diverse history. For breakfast, head to Barnum Café, known for its artisanal coffee and delicious pastries. Afterward, take a short walk to the nearby Parque del Acueducto (Parco degli Acquedotti), where you can marvel at the ancient Roman aqueducts that once supplied water to the city.

In the afternoon, join a guided tour: Rome: Traditional Pasta with Cocktails Drunken Cooking Class. This hands-on experience will teach you how to make traditional Italian pasta from scratch while enjoying cocktails. It's a fun and interactive way to immerse yourself in Italian culture. For lunch, enjoy your freshly made pasta during the cooking class.

Spend your evening exploring Piazza della Bocca della Verità, home to the famous Mouth of Truth. Legend has it that if you tell a lie while placing your hand in its mouth, it will be bitten off! End your day with dinner at Ristorante Ad Hoc, known for its gourmet Italian cuisine and extensive wine list.

Begin your eighth day with a visit to Arch of Constantine (Arco di Costantino), one of Rome's most important triumphal arches. Located near the Colosseum, this ancient monument commemorates Constantine's victory at the Battle of Milvian Bridge. For breakfast, stop by Caffè Propaganda, offering excellent coffee and freshly baked pastries. Next on your itinerary isPalácio Montecitorio(Palazzo Montecitorio)[14027] seat italian chamber deputies showcasing baroque architecture .

In afternoon take part guided tour :Rome : Vatican Museums Sistine Chapel Basilica Guided Tour[1879] providing comprehensive insight into vatican treasures including michelangelo's sistine chapel frescoes st peter's basilica . Lunch break can be enjoyed nearbyHostaria Romana serving traditional roman dishes within cozy settings .

Conclude eighth evening visiting another iconic landmark listed wishlist - Spanish Steps(Piazza Di Spagna) renowned baroque stairway connecting piazza trinita dei monti church above bustling shopping district below perfect place relax people watch before heading towards dinner spotAntica Pesa offering delightful italian cuisine making memorable end day eight

Start your ninth day with a visit to Theater of Marcellus (Teatro di Marcello), an ancient open-air theater that predates the Colosseum. It's an impressive example of Roman engineering and architecture. For breakfast, head to Sant'Eustachio Il Caffè, famous for its rich espresso and delicious pastries. Afterward, take a short walk to see another must-see attraction from wishlist - Fountain Of Neptune(Fontana Di Nettuno) located within Piazza Navona known baroque sculptures .

In afternoon continue spiritual journey visiting another iconic landmark listed wishlist - Baldacchino Di San Pietro(Baldacchino Di San Pietro) magnificent bronze canopy designed by bernini situated above st peter's basilica altar providing awe inspiring sight pilgrims visitors alike . Take part next guided tour :Rome : Crypts Catacombs Underground Tour Transfers[13997] exploring underground burial sites early christians during times persecution providing deep insight into christian history . Lunch break can be enjoyed nearbyLa Carbonara serving traditional roman dishes within historic settings .

Conclude ninth evening strolling around Campo De' Fiori vibrant square bustling market stalls selling local produce flowers souvenirs perfect place soak up lively atmosphere before heading towards dinner spotDa Francesco serving classic italian pizzas pastas making memorable end day nine

Begin your tenth day with a visit to the Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo (Basílica di Santa Maria del Popolo). This basilica is known for its stunning Renaissance art, including works by Caravaggio and Raphael. It's a serene place for reflection and prayer. For breakfast, head to GiNa, known for its delightful pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a short walk to the nearby Piazza del Popolo, one of Rome's most famous squares. The square is surrounded by historical buildings and offers a beautiful view of the city.

In the afternoon, join a guided tour: Rome: Colosseum Underground, Arena & Forum Tour. This tour provides exclusive access to areas of the Colosseum that are usually off-limits to visitors, including the underground chambers where gladiators once prepared for battle. The tour also covers other significant sites in ancient Rome. For lunch, dine at Il Gabriello, located near the Spanish Steps. The restaurant offers delicious Italian cuisine with a focus on traditional Roman dishes.

Spend your evening exploring Campo de' Fiori, a vibrant square known for its bustling market stalls selling local produce, flowers, and souvenirs. It's the perfect place to soak up the lively atmosphere of Rome. End your day with dinner at Ristorante La Carbonara, known for its classic Italian pizzas and pastas.