DAY 1: Sunday 16th November
Our journey begins with an early morning departure from Dublin Airport at 06:50 hrs, with an expected arrival in Rome at 10:55 am, leaving us with the full day ahead.
Upon arrival, we will be greeted by our Joe Walsh Tours representative. After collecting our luggage from the carousel, we will transfer by private coach to Santa Maria Maggiore. There will be time to enjoy lunch (at your own expense) at one of the many local cafés or bistros, as recommended by our experienced tour guide.
In the afternoon, we will take part in an orientation walking tour, followed by Mass and a visit to the Major Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major, including its Holy Door and the nearby church of Santa Maria Prassede. The Basilica of St. Mary Major is one of Rome’s four Major Papal Basilicas and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
Later, we continue on to Casa di Santa Francesca Romana, our residence for the next four nights on a Half Board basis. Nestled in the charming Trastevere neighborhood, Casa di Santa Francesca Romana offers an excellent location close to lively bars and restaurants.
DAY 2: Monday 17th November
After breakfast, we will begin our day with the visit of the Major Papal Basilica of: St Paul Outside the Walls. St. Paul Outside the Walls is built over the burial site of St. Paul the Apostle, who was martyred in Rome around 67 AD. We will celebrate mass here and pass through the Holy Door before continuing our day with some lunch and a guided walking tour of some of Rome’s most iconic landmarks.
We will admire Piazza Venezia, uncovering stories that connect both ancient and modern Rome. The enchanting Trevi Fountain, where tradition invites us to toss a coin for good fortune. We will also visit the Pantheon (from the outside), once a Roman temple and now a Christian church, before arriving at the breathtaking Piazza Navona, one of Rome’s most picturesque squares. Return to the hotel for dinner and an overnight.
DAY 3: Tuesday 18th November
After breakfast, we will begin the day with the visit of the Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem before taking the time to experience the Major Papal Basilica of St John in the Lateran and its Holy Door. We will have Mass in this beautiful Basilica. The Archbasilica of St. John Lateran is the cathedral of the Bishop of Rome (the Pope) and holds the distinction of being the oldest and highest-ranking of the four Major Papal Basilicas.
Time to walk and admire the Holy Stairs (Scala Sancta), a sacred site in Rome believed to be the very steps that Jesus Christ ascended during His trial before Pontius Pilate. We will also have the chance to visit the Pontifical Irish College.
The College is a Catholic seminary in Rome dedicated to the formation and education of priests and serves as a residence for clerical students from around the world. We will then visit the Basilica of San Clemente. The Basilica of San Clemente al Laterano is one of Rome’s most fascinating churches, celebrated for its unique layers of history.
Time to admire the Colosseum, Rome’s most iconic ancient amphitheater and the Roman Forums. After a very insightful day, time to get back to the hotel for dinner. Free evening at leisure.
DAY 4: Wednesday 19th November
We will have an early start today. After breakfast, pick-up is scheduled around 8am, as we make our way to attend the Papal Audience. This unique and deeply moving occasion offers pilgrims and visitors the opportunity to see the Holy Father and receive his Papal or Apostolic Blessing, an unforgettable encounter with the successor of the Apostle Peter. The Audience includes short teachings and scripture readings, delivered primarily in Italian, with some parts also in English.
We will visit St. Peter’s Basilica and its grottoes, one of the most sacred sites in Christianity. According to tradition, it is built over the burial place of St. Peter, leader of the Apostles and regarded as the first Bishop of Rome, making him the Church’s first Pope.
Following this inspiring experience, we will enjoy lunch before continuing our spiritual journey with the Holy Door of St Peter and a free afternoon for shopping or personal exploration.
For those interested today is a good opportunity to visit the Vatican Museums (OPTIONAL)
Please note: If you wish to visit the Vatican Museums, it is essential to book your tickets in advance. Joe Walsh Tours will not be able to assist with securing entrance tickets.
DAY 5: Thursday 20th November
Today marks the final day of our Spiritual Journey in Rome. After breakfast and check-out, we will start our walking tour of the Trastevere area, giving us the opportunity to complete our final visits. Mass will be celebrated in St.Maria or Cecilia in Trastevere.
Our first stop will be the exterior of the Colosseum, the city’s world-famous ancient amphitheater, where we will delve into its remarkable history.
Lunch before our final transfer to the airport for our evening flight to Dublin, departing at 20:20 pm.
