Cheap accommodations for pilgrims in Rome

For pilgrims visiting Rome during the Jubilee 2025, finding affordable accommodation can make the journey more accessible and enjoyable. Rome offers a variety of budget-friendly options, ranging from religious guesthouses to hostels and budget hotels, that provide comfort and convenience without breaking the bank. Here are some general tips and suggestions for affordable accommodations in Rome.
1. Stay in religious guesthouses
Many convents, monasteries, and religious guesthouses in Rome offer affordable lodging, often located near major basilicas and pilgrimage sites. These accommodations are typically run by religious orders and cater specifically to pilgrims, providing a welcoming and peaceful atmosphere.
Advantages: These guesthouses are usually quieter and more tranquil than traditional hotels, creating an ideal environment for reflection. Rates are often much lower than typical hotels, and some include amenities like breakfast, a chapel, or organized prayer times.
Tips: Book well in advance, as these accommodations are popular among pilgrims and can fill up quickly, especially during the Jubilee year. Check whether they have specific requirements, such as curfews or limited access hours.
2. Consider hostels in central areas
Hostels are a good choice for budget-conscious pilgrims who want to stay in central areas close to key pilgrimage sites. Many hostels in Rome offer private rooms as well as shared dormitories, allowing you to choose based on your preference and budget.
Advantages: Hostels often have convenient locations and provide amenities like kitchen facilities, allowing you to save on meals. Many also organize social events or tours, which can be a great way to meet fellow travelers.
Tips: Look for hostels that offer free breakfast or have communal kitchens, so you can prepare simple meals to save on dining costs. Booking a private room may provide more privacy and still be less expensive than a hotel.
3. Opt for budget hotels outside the city center
Staying slightly outside Rome’s city center can help you save on accommodation costs. Many budget hotels are located near major public transportation routes, making it easy to reach pilgrimage sites without paying premium city-center rates.
Advantages: Staying outside the central tourist areas often means quieter neighborhoods and lower rates. Many budget hotels still offer basic amenities like free Wi-Fi and breakfast, making them a convenient choice for pilgrims.
Tips: Look for accommodations near metro stations or bus lines that provide direct routes to the Vatican and other key sites. This will allow you to commute easily and affordably, even if you’re a bit farther from the center.
4. Explore vacation rentals
Vacation rentals, such as apartment stays, can offer good value for groups or families traveling together. Rentals allow you to book an entire apartment, often at a lower per-person cost, especially if you’re staying for several days.
Advantages: Vacation rentals provide flexibility and privacy, with amenities like a kitchen, washing machine, and sometimes multiple bedrooms. This can be a more comfortable and cost-effective choice, particularly for extended stays.
Tips: If possible, book rentals near public transport or within walking distance of pilgrimage sites. Having access to a kitchen can also help you save on meals, as you can buy groceries and prepare simple dishes.
5. Look for family-run bed and breakfasts
Family-run B&Bs in Rome often provide affordable rooms and personalized service, offering a more homey experience. These small accommodations are usually located in quieter neighborhoods, allowing pilgrims a peaceful retreat after a day of visiting holy sites.
Advantages: Bed and breakfasts often include breakfast in the room rate, which can help reduce overall expenses. The hosts are usually very knowledgeable about the area and can offer local tips for navigating the city and finding affordable dining options.
Tips: Consider staying in neighborhoods like Trastevere, Monti, or Testaccio, which are slightly removed from the tourist hubs but still accessible to main sites. Booking well in advance can help secure a lower rate, as B&Bs have limited availability.
6. Join group accommodations for pilgrimage groups
If you are traveling as part of a pilgrimage group, inquire about group accommodations specifically organized for pilgrims. Some religious organizations and travel agencies arrange group stays in larger guesthouses or pilgrim centers that are equipped to host larger numbers of visitors at a reduced rate.
Advantages: Group accommodations often include meals, transportation to pilgrimage sites, and communal spaces for prayer and gatherings, enhancing the pilgrimage experience.
Tips: Check if your diocese or parish is organizing group accommodations, as they often have contacts with local religious institutions or agencies that cater to pilgrim groups. Group rates are often lower than individual bookings, and these accommodations can create a stronger sense of community.
Final tips for budget-friendly accommodation
Book early: During the Jubilee year, accommodations in Rome will be in high demand. Reserving your stay as early as possible can help you secure better rates and ensure availability at your preferred location.
Consider meals included: Many budget accommodations offer breakfast, and some religious guesthouses even offer dinner. Having meals included can reduce your daily expenses significantly.
Stay near public transportation: Rome’s metro and bus lines connect most areas of the city to pilgrimage sites, so choosing a budget accommodation near a public transit stop is both convenient and economical.
By exploring these budget-friendly options and planning ahead, you can find affordable accommodation that supports your pilgrimage experience, providing comfort and accessibility while keeping costs low.