Walking routes between the major Basilicas in Rome

A pilgrimage to Rome during the Jubilee 2025 offers a unique opportunity to visit the city’s four major basilicas: St. Peter’s Basilica, St. John Lateran, St. Paul Outside the Walls, and Santa Maria Maggiore. One of the most meaningful ways to experience these sacred sites is by walking the pilgrimage routes that connect them. These routes not only allow you to engage in the spiritual journey of visiting each basilica but also offer the chance to explore the rich history and beauty of Rome along the way.
Here’s a guide to the best walking routes between the major basilicas, along with tips on how to make the most of your pilgrimage.
St. Peter’s Basilica to St. John Lateran
The route from St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City to St. John Lateran (Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano), the cathedral of Rome, is one of the most significant and spiritually rewarding walks in the city. The journey covers approximately 4.5 km (about 2.8 miles) and can take around an hour to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to admire the sights.
Key points along the route:
Castel Sant’Angelo: As you leave St. Peter’s Basilica, you’ll pass Castel Sant’Angelo, a historic fortress that was originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian. The view from the bridge over the Tiber River is stunning and offers a moment of reflection before continuing on your journey.
Piazza Navona: A slight detour will take you to Piazza Navona, one of Rome’s most beautiful squares. It’s a great spot to pause, enjoy the fountains, and reflect on your journey.
Campo de’ Fiori: This lively square is known for its bustling market and vibrant atmosphere. A walk through here will give you a sense of the everyday life of Romans as you make your way toward St. John Lateran.
Once you arrive at St. John Lateran, take time to appreciate its grandeur and importance as the Cathedral of Rome. Don’t forget to visit the Holy Stairs (Scala Santa) nearby, which tradition says were climbed by Jesus on the way to his trial.
My tip: Start this walk early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds, and plan for a quiet stop along the way for reflection.
St. John Lateran to Santa Maria Maggiore
The walk from St. John Lateran to Santa Maria Maggiore (Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore) is shorter, covering about 1.4 km (just under 1 mile). It’s an easy walk that takes around 20 minutes and leads you through the heart of Rome’s historic neighborhoods.
Key points along the route:
Basilica of San Clemente: On your way, consider stopping at the Basilica of San Clemente, an ancient church built on layers of Roman history. The basilica reveals Rome’s deep spiritual and historical layers, from its Christian roots to its earlier pagan past.
Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II: As you continue, you’ll pass through this large public square, where you can stop to rest before reaching Santa Maria Maggiore.
Upon arriving at Santa Maria Maggiore, take in the stunning mosaics and the basilica’s importance as one of the earliest churches dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is also one of the four papal basilicas and a key site for pilgrims.
My tip: This route is perfect for those looking to explore the ancient history of Rome while staying connected to the spiritual significance of their pilgrimage.
Santa Maria Maggiore to St. Paul Outside the Walls
The route from Santa Maria Maggiore to St. Paul Outside the Walls (Basilica di San Paolo Fuori le Mura) is the longest of the pilgrimage walks, covering around 5.5 km (3.4 miles). The walk takes about an hour and a half and crosses through a mix of bustling Roman streets and quieter neighborhoods.
Key points along the route:
The Colosseum and Roman Forum: As you begin this walk, you’ll pass by the iconic Colosseum and the Roman Forum. While these aren’t part of the pilgrimage route in a religious sense, they are landmarks of great historical significance and worth pausing to admire.
Circo Massimo: Continuing on, you’ll reach the Circo Massimo, the ancient Roman chariot-racing stadium. The open green space here offers a good spot for a brief rest.
As you approach St. Paul Outside the Walls, you’ll notice its impressive size, second only to St. Peter’s Basilica. The basilica is dedicated to St. Paul, and according to tradition, it is the site of his burial. The quiet and spacious grounds surrounding the basilica offer a peaceful end to your pilgrimage.
My tip: Given the length of this route, take your time and don’t hesitate to stop at some of the historical landmarks along the way. You can also take public transportation for part of the journey if needed.
Tips for your pilgrimage walk
Wear comfortable shoes: The pilgrimage routes between the basilicas involve a lot of walking on cobblestone streets, so be sure to wear supportive and comfortable shoes.
Stay hydrated: Rome can get hot, especially in the summer, so carry water with you to stay hydrated throughout your journey.
Take time for reflection: Each basilica you visit holds its own spiritual significance. Don’t rush from one site to the next; instead, take time to reflect, pray, or simply enjoy the peacefulness of the basilicas and the journey itself.
Consider splitting the walks over several days: While it’s possible to walk between all four basilicas in one day, it can be tiring. Consider spreading out your pilgrimage over two or three days to allow for a more reflective and relaxed experience.
A meaningful journey
Walking the pilgrimage routes between Rome’s four major basilicas during the Jubilee 2025 is a profound way to engage with the spiritual heart of the city. Each step between these sacred sites offers an opportunity for reflection, prayer, and connection to the rich history of the Church and the Eternal City. By carefully planning your route, taking time to appreciate the journey, and visiting each basilica with intention, your pilgrimage will become an unforgettable and deeply meaningful experience.