Pope Francis passed away on April 21, 2025—a moment that mixed deep sorrow with an unexpected boom in religious tourism. His warm, approachable nature and hopeful outlook broke down traditional barriers. In many ways, he wasn’t just a Catholic church leader; he came to be seen as a cultural and spiritual figure. Now, thousands are retracing his life’s steps—from Buenos Aires to the Vatican—to honor his memory. This ripple effect even touches Rome, impacting local businesses and stirring international diplomatic chatter.
A Surge in Religious Tours
Around the world, specialized tour companies are reporting a notable spike in bookings tied to the Pope’s life. Initially, these visits began when whispers of his declining health spread, but they surged further after his passing. In Buenos Aires, for example, tours that delve into his early years have jumped upward by around 30%, a jump that seems almost uncanny. Visitors now wander through the modest Flores neighborhood (where he first learned life’s lessons) or stop by the Basilica of San José de Flores, recalling how he turned to God at just 17. Then there’s the Metropolitan Cathedral, remembered as the place where many Argentines gathered back in 2013 when he was elected. Oddly enough, some tours even include a stop at the San Lorenzo de Almagro Athletic Club—an ode to his fondness for football—and the Church of San Francisco de Asís, which nudged him into choosing his papal name.
Vatican Tours – In the Pope’s Footsteps
Over in the Vatican, guided strolls through St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel have seen similar growth. Now, during this Jubilee year, visitors get intimate looks at treasures like Michelangelo’s frescoes and the famed Raphael Rooms while also peeking through the Holy Door. It’s worth noting that in the past, catching a public audience with him in St. Peter’s Square was a cherished experience, but with those gatherings paused, expert guides now fill in the gaps with rich insights into the Church’s storied history.
Assisi, linked to his namesake from Saint Francis, isn’t left behind either. Pilgrims are flocking to see the Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi and to wander along the Franciscan Trail, a journey through rustic monasteries and landscapes that echo his humble legacy.
Rome: A Hub of Religious Tourism
The eternal city braces itself for an unusual mix of grief and tourism. Generally speaking, local tourism is expected to pump nearly €50 million into the economy, mostly through hotels, restaurants, and guided tours that cater to these new trends. Adding to this dynamic, the recent funeral attracted not just the devoted but also official delegations—each incurring daily costs anywhere between €3,000 and €8,000 for accommodation, security, transport, and protocol. This blend of emotional pilgrimage with state protocol has turned Rome into a focal point of both mourning and political anticipation, with security measures and even charter flights adjusting to the scene.
Economic and Logistical Impacts
This sudden rush underlines Rome’s established role as a hub for high-profile travel. In most cases, events like these bring the city’s logistical capabilities to the fore. Hotels scramble to adjust, luxury car services get busy, and even local eateries and airports coordinate extensively to meet the unusual demands of the moment. One industry insider from TOP remarked, “Every detail counts,” hinting that such events, despite their heavy emotional tone, position Rome firmly as a benchmark for managing high-stakes travel on the global stage.
