12-Day Catholic Pilgrimage through Rome, Vatican, and Lourdes Itinerary

Commence with a Rome Priority Access Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Tour to understand the historical context of early Christianity. Follow this with a visit to the Pantheon, a marvel of ancient engineering.

Enjoy a peaceful lunch at Roscioli, a renowned spot for its culinary craftsmanship. Post-meal, continue your spiritual journey with a guided Rome Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and Basilica Tour that delves into the Vatican's religious treasures.

Dine at Pizzarium, where you can savor some of the best pizza in Rome. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Trastevere, known for its religious significance and vibrant atmosphere.

Begin with a visit to the Vatican City (Citta del Vaticano), the heart of the Catholic world. Explore the grandeur of the St. Peter's Square (Piazza San Pietro) and, if available, attend the Papal Audience.

For lunch, indulge in the culinary delights of La Pergola, a Michelin-starred restaurant with panoramic views. Post-lunch, take a serene walk up the Spanish Steps (Piazza di Spagna) and explore the nearby boutiques.

Enjoy an elegant dinner at Ristorante Aroma, located near the Colosseum. Afterward, witness the ancient amphitheater in a different light with the Colosseum & Arena Self-Guided tour (+Forum&Palatine Hill).

Start with a visit to the Borghese Gallery (Galleria Borghese), home to a stunning collection of art, including religious masterpieces. Explore the nearby Piazza Navona and its fountains, which have their own spiritual symbolism.

Have a delightful lunch at Trattoria Da Cesare al Casaletto, known for its Roman cuisine. Afterward, take a moment of quiet contemplation at the Raphael's Rooms (Stanze di Raffaello) within the Vatican, where the art itself tells stories of faith.

Conclude with a visit to the Circus Maximus (Circo Massimo), once the site of ancient chariot races. This vast space holds its own historical and spiritual significance, providing a peaceful setting for an evening walk.

Take a moment to rest and reflect, perhaps attending a morning mass at a local church or simply enjoying a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation.

Spend a peaceful afternoon at the Villa Borghese, Rome's largest public park. You can visit the Borghese Gallery (Galleria Borghese) again if you wish, or simply relax amidst nature.

For dinner, consider a quiet, intimate meal at Il Pagliaccio, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant known for its exceptional service and cuisine.

Depart from Rome to the serene town of Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis. Visit the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi (Basilica di San Francesco), a UNESCO World Heritage site, and pay homage to the saint's legacy.

Enjoy a simple yet satisfying lunch at a local trattoria, taking in the peaceful ambiance of Assisi. Afterward, explore the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli (Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli), where the Porziuncola, a sacred place for the Franciscan order, is located.

Take a moment to absorb the spiritual energy of Assisi as the day winds down. Consider attending vespers at one of the local churches or simply enjoy a quiet evening walk through the town.

Spend the morning in personal reflection and devotion. You may choose to attend a mass at a significant church or cathedral, or simply take a moment for private prayer and contemplation.

Enjoy a light lunch at a local cafe, and then visit a church or religious site that holds personal significance for you. Take the time to connect with your faith in a way that is meaningful to you.

Dine at a quiet, intimate restaurant, and then take a peaceful evening stroll through the city. Consider visiting a church or chapel that is known for its serene atmosphere, and spend some time in quiet reflection.

Begin with a visit to the San Giovanni in Laterano (Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano), the cathedral of Rome and the official seat of the Bishop of Rome. Take part in the morning mass if available, and spend some time in prayer and reflection.

Have a simple lunch at a local trattoria, and then visit the Santa Maria Maggiore (Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore), one of the four papal basilicas of Rome. Explore the beautiful interior and take time for personal prayer.

Dine at a restaurant with a peaceful ambiance, and then take a quiet evening walk to the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls (Basilica di San Paolo Fuori le Mura). Spend some time in the church, known for its serene atmosphere and the tomb of St. Paul.

Begin your day with a Vatican Early Entry to Museums, Sistine Chapel & St Peter's experience, allowing you to witness the Vatican's treasures in a more intimate setting. Take your time to absorb the spiritual and artistic significance of the collections.

For lunch, enjoy a meal at the Ristorante Aroma, which offers a refined dining experience. Afterward, visit the Citta del Vaticano (Vatican City) and explore the Vatican Museums (Musei Vaticani) at your own pace, focusing on the religious and historical artifacts.

Conclude your Vatican day with a visit to the St. Peter's Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro), where you can admire the grandeur of the church and, if available, attend an evening mass.

Begin with a visit to the Palatine Hill (Palatino), the center of the Seven Hills of Rome and a place of ancient history. Reflect on the layers of time and the endurance of faith as you overlook the city.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Trattoria Da Cesare al Casaletto, known for its Roman cuisine. Afterward, visit the Roman Forum (Foro Romano) and immerse yourself in the ruins of the ancient city, contemplating the passage of civilizations.

Dine at Roscioli, a place that honors both tradition and innovation in its culinary offerings. After dinner, take a guided Rome Pantheon Skip-the-Line Entry and Guided Tour to explore the history and architecture of this iconic temple.

Begin with a visit to the Arch of Constantine (Arco di Costantino), a triumphal arch that symbolizes the victory of Christianity. From there, proceed to the Colosseum (Colosseo) and take a moment to reflect on the martyrs who perished there.

Have a meaningful lunch at Da Enzo al 29, known for its traditional Roman dishes. Afterward, take a serene walk to the Circus Maximus (Circo Massimo), where ancient chariot races once took place, and contemplate the fleeting nature of worldly pursuits.

Conclude your pilgrimage with a visit to the Terme di Caracalla (Baths of Caracalla), an ancient site of leisure and luxury. As the day fades, ponder the contrast between earthly opulence and the spiritual riches you have sought on your journey.

Travel from Rome to Lourdes, a town renowned for its spiritual significance and the reported Marian apparitions. Upon arrival, visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes (Sanctuaire Notre Dame de Lourdes) and participate in the atmosphere of prayer and contemplation.

Enjoy a simple lunch at a local cafe, and then take the time to explore the sanctuary further, including the Grotte de Massabielle (Grotto of Massabielle), where the apparitions are said to have occurred. Take part in the rituals of the sanctuary and immerse yourself in the healing waters.

Dine at a restaurant with a view of the sanctuary, and then take a quiet evening walk, reflecting on the day and the culmination of your pilgrimage. Consider attending the Evening Candlelight Procession, a deeply moving experience that brings together pilgrims from around the world.

Spend the morning in quiet reflection, perhaps attending a mass at the sanctuary or simply taking a moment for personal prayer. Consider visiting the Museum of Lourdes (Musee de Lourdes) to learn more about the history and significance of the site.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, and then take a peaceful walk through the town, visiting the Basilica of St. Pius X (Basilique St-Pie X) and other points of interest. Take the time to express gratitude for the experiences of your pilgrimage.

Dine at a restaurant known for its regional cuisine, and then take a final walk to the sanctuary, joining in the Evening Candlelight Procession if you wish. As the day comes to a close, carry the spirit of Lourdes with you as you prepare to return home.