religious tourism in europe

Religious tourism in Europe: pilgrimage sites, sacred journeys, and cultural heritage

Join millions on sacred journeys to Europe’s pilgrimage sites, where ancient traditions meet modern seekers in a quest for meaning.

Pilgrimage is one of the fastest growing movements in the world, with more than 330 million people going on pilgrimage every year. [1] In contemporary Europe, the renewed popularity of pilgrimage stands as a testament to the human pursuit of spiritual fulfilment despite prevailing currents of secularisation and declining religious observance. [2]

Reflecting on the Camino pilgrimage—a time-honoured Christian journey tracing its origins from France to the revered destination of Santiago de Compostela in north-western Spain—we witness a remarkable evolution. During the early 1980s, only a few thousand pilgrims trod its paths. However, by 2019, the annual tally had undergone a remarkable revival, attracting nearly 350,000 individuals to embark on this sacred journey. [3]

For writer and journalist Peter Stanford, the current trend represents a process of repurposing rather than resurrection. Regardless of whether their motivation stems from faith, a connection to nature, or a simple desire for cultural exploration, all modern-day pilgrims are immersed in a profound search for meaning. It is this fundamental quest for significance that lies at the core of pilgrimage, distinguishing it from conventional tourism. [4]

Modern pilgrims: motivations and perspectives

Pilgrimage routes have a unique characteristic: they are born from a deep religious calling, typically involving visits to sacred destinations or acts of penance. They can be seen as laying the groundwork for the modern phenomenon of tourism. However, as time has progressed, the motivations driving these journeys have undergone significant shifts. Today, alongside traditional religious pilgrimages, we observe the emergence of secular and spiritual pilgrimages. [5]

Professor Noga Collins-Kreiner from the University of Haifa suggests that pilgrimage is entering a phase of “rejuvenation,” wherein it transcends its solely religious roots and adopts new dimensions, particularly emphasising personal spirituality. [6]

Pilgrimage routes and destinations

One of Europe’s most significant pilgrimage routes is the Camino de Santiago. [7] It is not merely a singular path but rather a network of routes spanning across a vast region encompassing France, Spain, and Portugal. Its origins trace back to the 9th century when the tomb of the Apostle St. James was unearthed in Galicia, establishing it as one of the foremost pilgrimage routes of the Middle Ages. [8]

Another notable pilgrimage path, the Via Francigena, [9] spans 1,800 km from Canterbury to Rome, mirroring the journey undertaken by Archbishop Sigeric in 990 AD to meet Pope John XV and receive the pallium investiture. Since receiving recognition as a Cultural Itinerary from the Council of Europe in 1994, the Via Francigena route has experienced a steady growth in the number of pilgrims and walkers embarking on the journey. By 2015, this figure had reached 40,000 individuals per year. [10]

In the context of Europe, while pilgrimage sites with Christian origins often enjoy great renown and recognition, it is important to note that pilgrimage destinations do not have an exclusively Christian background. Furthermore, the rich and diverse tapestry of European pilgrimage sites also encompasses locations with different religious or secular origins.

The Hill of Tara stands as a prime example of a pilgrimage site with Pagan [11] origins. Situated in the Boyne Valley within County Meath, Ireland, this site holds profound religious and civic significance in Pagan Ireland. Renowned for its rich history and ancient monuments, the Hill of Tara has been a focal point of religious, cultural, and political activity for over 5,000 years. Today, it remains a popular destination for tourists and scholars intrigued by Irish history and culture. [12]

Interfaith dialogue and shared pilgrimage

Exploring the rich tapestry of European pilgrimage routes reveals diverse themes and networks, from historical to religious and environmental. Within this context, interfaith dialogue and shared pilgrimage experiences hold significant importance, reflecting the dynamic cultural landscape of Europe.

Embedded within the diverse fabric of European pilgrimage routes, the European Cultural Routes program was established in 1987 by the Council of Europe, coinciding with the Declaration of Santiago de Compostela. [13] Among its inaugural recognitions was the ‘Ways of Pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela’, symbolising a profound nexus of historical, religious, and environmental themes. This route, annually traversed by tens of thousands of pilgrims, serves as a focal point for interfaith dialogue and shared pilgrimage experiences, embodying the dynamic cultural landscape of Europe. [14]

Emerging networks are being established along either new or existing paths, encompassing a variety of themes including religious, historical, and awareness-raising routes. Examples range from religious networks like the sites associated with St. Michael [15] across Europe, to historical paths such as the Wool and Silk Road, [16] as well as awareness-raising trails like the Way of the Transformed Lands. [17]

Through her research, anthropologist and professor Catrien Notermans has encountered instances of non-believing tourists lighting candles for saints, Muslims extending invitations to Christian pilgrims to dine in their mosques, and women bringing their menstrual blood to a Catholic altar in a cave. These are examples of a growing trend in contemporary European pilgrimage, marked by interfaith dialogue and shared pilgrimage. [18]

Another interesting topic is the rise of green pilgrimage. The European Green Pilgrimage Network (EGPN) [19] started from the Green Pilgrimage Network, a global group of pilgrim cities committed to eco-friendly pilgrimage. Its goal is to reduce the environmental impact of pilgrimage and to encourage environmental care as a religious duty. Its website provides guidance on several essential aspects to consider when incorporating eco-friendly practices into a pilgrimage city, place, or route. The network includes pilgrimage sites and religious groups across Europe, from Canterbury in the United Kingdom to Vadstena in Sweden, and from Trondheim in Norway to Etchmiadzin in Armenia.

As pilgrimage experiences a revitalisation, it welcomes new dimensions and motivations, leading to a rise in interfaith dialogue and shared pilgrimage endeavours. This trend promotes understanding and unity among various religious and cultural groups. Additionally, initiatives like the European Green Pilgrimage Network underscore the growing acknowledgement of environmental sustainability within pilgrimage practices, enhancing the spiritual journey for modern-day pilgrims.

Talía Jiménez Romero

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Learn more about religion and society on the EARS Dashboard

[1] European Green Pilgrimage Network

[2] Gender, Nation and Religion in European Pilgrimage

[3] Secular pilgrims: why ancient trails still pack a spiritual punch

[5] The rejuvenation of European pilgrimage routes

[6] The rejuvenation of European pilgrimage routes

[7] Camino de Santiago

[8] The rejuvenation of European pilgrimage routes

[9] Via Francigena

[10] The rejuvenation of European pilgrimage routes

[11] Paganism in Europe: A contemporary revival unveiled

[12] The hill of Tara

[13] The rejuvenation of European pilgrimage routes

[14] The Cultural Routes of the Council of Europe

[15] Itinéraire Européen Saint-Michel

[16] Via della Lana e della Seta

[17] Il Cammino nelle Terre Mutate

[18] Gender, Nation and Religion in European Pilgrimage

[19] European Green Pilgrimage Network (EGPN)

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15 Pilgrimage Sites in Italy: Stunning Shrines, Monasteries, and Cathedrals for your Italian Pilgrimage

Last Updated on: 14th May 2024, 11:46 am

Italy is a land of wonder and enchantment, steeped in rich history and culture that has captivated pilgrims for centuries . Italy is the cradle of Christianity in the West, and at the heart of Italy and Christian Faith is the majestic Vatican, an iconic symbol of faith and spirituality that draws countless visitors each year . From the haunting beauty of ancient churches to the awe-inspiring magnificence of its towering shrines, Italy is a spiritual destination like no other.

For those seeking a meaningful journey, there is no better place to explore the mysteries and wonders of faith than through a pilgrimage to Italy, this timeless land of rolling hills and ancient cities. With its grandeur and solemnity, Italy beckons pilgrims to embark on a journey of self-discovery and exploration, where they can immerse themselves in the wealth of the many pilgrimage sites in Italy.

Pilgrims seeking to deepen their faith should make sure to visit the top pilgrimage sites in Italy, which include St. Peter’s Basilica, The Montecassino Abbey, St. Marks Basilica in Venice and so many more.

Each of these sites holds immense cultural and spiritual significance , making them excellent places to start one’s pilgrimage journey in Italy. From incredible pilgrim walks and sacred architecture to stunning artwork, each pilgrimage site in Italy has something special to offer, leaving an indescribable impression on any traveler seeking connection with their faith.

It is no wonder that millions of travelers from all over the world journey to Italy each year in search of spiritual inspiration. Whether one seeks out the Vatican or any of the other sacred sites scattered throughout Italy, the experience is sure to leave a lasting impact on one’s heart and soul.

Top Pilgrimage Sites in Italy

The vatican – near rome.

Vatican City is one of the most important religious sites in the world for Catholics, as it is the home of the Pope and the seat of the Roman Catholic Church.

St. Peter’s Basilica is a stunning building, flanked by colonnaded arcades and classical statuary.  The basilica is built over the burial site of St. Peter, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus, and the first pope. The faithful flock to Piazza san Petro,  one of the most famous piazzas in Rome , for the once-in-a-lifetime experience of receiving a blessing from the Pope.

You’ll also want to visit the Vatican Museums to see the wealth of incredible sculptures and Renaissance art.  The highlight of a visit to the Vatican Museums is seeing the world-famous Sistine Chapel.   The Chapel’s art is awe-inspiring, especially  The Creation of Adam  by Michelangelo.  Be sure to buy your tickets in advance, as these are extremely popular and will sell out.

Vatican City is actually the smallest country of the world, and it is located completely inside of Rome, Italy.  Travel to the Vatican the same way that you travel to Rome, via the Rome Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport.  And while you’re here, explore Rome’s top historical sites such as the Colosseum and fantastic museums such as the Villa Borghese. 

The Route of the Seven Churches, Rome

The Route of the Seven Churches is Rome’s most famous pilgrimage, which was revived by Saint Philip Neri in the 16th century. The pilgrimage is linked to the medieval tradition of Roman pilgrims visiting the tombs of Peter and Paul, and it involves visiting the seven jubilee basilicas of the Eternal City. 

The pilgrimage was initially a personal initiative of Saint Philip Neri and his disciples, who called it “visits.” It later became a stable and organized practice, with a fixed day of the year dedicated to it, Maundy Thursday. 

It was a successful initiative because it combined moments of prayer with others of leisure, making it a moment of spiritual gathering and inner renewal. The entire journey was done in about two days, and each section of the itinerary represented one of Christ’s seven journeys during the Passion. Pilgrims were first visiting Saint Peter’s Basilica and ended at the Basilica of St. Paul. 

This pilgrimage was a great moment of conviviality, and it emphasized community religious life and spirituality to be lived as a group, precisely as an essential moment of Catholic religiosity.

The faithful had to pass through the Holy Doors of Rome’s four major basilicas and, to complete the itinerary, visit three other churches-symbols of Rome.

The seven churches, including basilicas, are:

• San Paolo Fuori le Mura
• San Sebastiano
• San Giovanni in Laterano
• Santa Croce in Gerusalemme
• San Lorenzo Fuori le Mura
• Santa Maria Maggiore

If you want to attempt this pilgrimage, know that it is about 16 miles of walking.

In these churches, you will have the chance to discover incredible works of art such as paintings to some of Rome’s most famous sculptures .

Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi – Assisi, Italy

Assisi, Italy is a town renowned for its historical and spiritual significance, primarily associated with Saint Francis of Assisi, one of the most revered figures in Catholicism.

Assisi is the birthplace and final resting place of Saint Francis, the founder of the Franciscan Order and one of the most beloved saints in Christian history. Pilgrims visit Assisi to connect with the life and teachings of Saint Francis, who embraced a life of poverty, simplicity, and compassion.

Pilgrims to Assisi should first visit the Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a magnificent architectural masterpiece. Divided into the Upper Basilica and the Lower Basilica, it houses exquisite frescoes by renowned artists like Giotto and Cimabue.

Assisi is home to several other significant religious sites, including the Basilica of Santa Chiara (dedicated to Saint Clare, a contemporary of Saint Francis), the Cathedral of San Rufino, and the Hermitage of the Carceri (a peaceful retreat nestled in the nearby mountains).

For any traveler, Assisi is situated amidst the picturesque Umbrian countryside, offering breathtaking vistas and serene landscapes. The town itself features charming medieval architecture, narrow streets, and delightful local cuisine, providing a delightful backdrop to your pilgrimage.

it’s easy to get to Assisi by train – many trains arrive daily from all the major Italian cities at the Assisi Santa Maria degli Angeli, which is located about 5 kilometers (3 miles) from the center of Assisi. Once you arrive at the Assisi train station, you can take a local bus or a taxi to the center of Assisi. It’s also possible to travel to Assisi by car and by bus.

Once you arrive in Assisi, the town is relatively small and easily navigable on foot. The historical center, where most of the attractions are located, is pedestrian-friendly and best explored by walking. Public buses and taxis are also available for getting around the town and its surroundings if needed.

Holy Shroud – Turin, Italy

The Holy Shroud, also called Turin Shroud, is a religious artifact surrounded by faith, mystery, and controversy. Many believe it is the burial cloth of Jesus Christ and that it bears an imprint of his body. For centuries, pilgrims from all over the world have come to Turin to see it. The Holy Shroud in Tourin is, without a doubt, one of the most important and spiritually moving pilgrimage sites in Italy.

The Holy Shroud is housed in the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist in Turin, Italy. The original shroud is not displayed to the public, but pilgrims can see and stay close to the place where it is kept safe. It is an altar with the image of the Holy Shroud. 

On special and rare occasions, the shroud is taken from its safe place and displayed to the public. There is no fixed calendar for these events, but you can keep an eye on the Sidone Museum website for all the news and information about the Holy Shroud. 

You can also visit the Museum of the Shroud ( Il Museo della Sidone in Italian) to learn more about its history and all the studies done about it. The museum is located 10 minutes walk from the cathedral.

For those planning a visit to the Holy Shroud, the best place to stay is near the cathedral or the Royal Palace. Turin has an international airport and getting to the city center is easy. You can get around by metro, bus and tram. The city center is rich in history, culture and architecture, being the heart of Turin’s royal past. 

Here is a comprehensive guide to visiting the Holy Shroud in Turin , with tips on where to stay and the religious museums and sites to visit.

The Via Francigena

Via Francigena is an ancient pilgrimage route that crosses Europe, stretching from Canterbury in England to Rome, in Italy. It is a 3,000 kilometres pilgrimage in Italy and Europe was first walked in the 9 th  century, by Archbishop Sigeric of Canterbury who after was appointed by Pope John XV, walked home recording all the places where he stopped overnight.

The pilgrimage on Via Francigena is a symbolic way to reach the Eternal City of Rome, and the Vatican, the home to Catholicism in Europe.

The name of the Via Francigena means  “the road that comes from France”, because it was connecting Italy with France and further on, the rest of Europe. Initially, the road was used for trade between the south and the north of Europe. 

Modern pilgrims don’t walk the entire route from Canterbury to Rome but choose the much shorter stretch from Florence to Rome or the other way around. The Italian pilgrimage crosses beautiful Tuscany with its rolling hills, through charming villages, and alongside slow rivers. As all roads lead to Rome, this is where the pilgrimage ends, and where the pilgrims can reward themselves with a hearty  traditional Roman meal .  

The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence

The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is located in the great Renaissance city of progress and art, in Florence , Tuscany. Known as one of the largest cathedrals in the world, it has been an inspiration over the ages for other cathedral and church builders across the continent, making it one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Italy.

The outer white marble walls are decorated with intricate green and red marble details and the inlay marble work of the indoor floors showcases the great craftsmanship of its time. The pastel colors of the facade, the bell tower, the large red dome as well as the vibrant medieval stained-glass windows are invigorating.

Some of the most renowned Florentine artists, such as Donatello, had a hand in decorating the gothic architecture. The duomo of Florence is a must-see when in Florence.

Other notable  points of interests in Florence  are the medieval stone bridge known as Ponte Vecchio, the Uffizi Gallery and the Pitti palace with the Boboli gardens.

The convenient way to get to Florence is by train because connections are regular and affordable. Moreover, the best way to get around in Florence is by foot because most sites are not all too far from each other.

St Mark’s Basilica, Venice 

Explore one of the world’s most magnificent churches, St. Mark’s Basilica, also known as Basilica di San Marco in Italian. It is situated at the eastern end of the Piazza San Marco, the main square of Venice. It is widely renowned as one of the most admirable Byzantine architecture in the world and one of  Italy’s most iconic landmarks . 

You can explore the main nave of St. Mark’s Basilica, adorned with numerous works of art and relics, and the crypt where St. Mark’s remains are said to be housed. The basilica’s interior is equally stunning, with its soaring arches, gold leaf mosaics, and elaborate marble carvings.

The quickest way to travel from the Rialto Bridge in Venice to St. Mark’s Basilica is by walking. This is because the Church is situated in the southern part of the island, and the only public transportation option available to get there is by ferry. 

St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice, Italy, is considered a significant pilgrimage site for many Christians due to its connection to St. Mark, one of the four evangelists and the patron saint of Venice. 

There are many things you can do around St Mark’s Basilica. Admire the beautiful 16th-century Saint Mark’s clock tower. Experience a Gondola ride and be mesmerized by the outstanding view of the Canal Grande!

St. Mark’s Basilica is a must-visit, it is a place of great spiritual and cultural importance, and its connection to St. Mark and the Christian faith makes it a meaningful pilgrimage site in Italy for those seeking to deepen their faith and connect with the history and traditions of the Church.

San Luca Pilgrims’ Walk in Bologna

The San Luca pilgrims’ walk is the pilgrimage walk to San Luca Basilica, that is on a hill overlooking Bologna in Italy. The walk includes walking the entire length of the Portico di San Luca which is 3.8km long. Thus, it is the longest portico in the world, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are 666 arches on the way up to the church, with many icons and artworks to see on the way.

The Portico di San Luca leads all the way up the hill to the   Sanctuary of the Madonna of San Luca .  This is a Baroque church that was built in its current form in 1723.

The church is a pilgrimage site in Italy because of the shrine of the Madonna inside. This dates back to a story from 1160, when a Greek Pilgrim carried the painting of the Madonna with Child towards Rome, then found his way here.

The pilgrimage walk is splendid and lots to see on the way up to the church. When at San Luca you can also visit a viewpoint in the tower.

Lucca, Italy

Located along the Via Francigena, one of the most famous pilgrimage routes in Italy, the beautiful Tuscan city of Lucca is a fantastic place to visit for travelers looking to explore pilgrimage sites!

Nicknamed (among other things) the “City of 100 Churches”, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to pilgrimage destinations within Lucca’s historic city walls.

Traditional pilgrimage stops in Lucca include the Cathedral of San Martino, the Basilica of San Freidano, and the Basilica of San Michele en Foro.

The two basilicas are each home to a well-preserved mummy–in the case of the Basilica of Michele en Foro, specifically the mummy of an 11th century Armenian pilgrim who passed through Lucca along the Via Francigena.

Outside of pilgrimage sites, there are plenty of other fun things to do in Lucca , too!

Be sure to stroll along the intact city walls that encircle Lucca’s historic center, visit the city’s garden in the sky at Torre Guingi, and enjoy people-watching in the oval-shaped Piazza dell’Anfiteatro.

As a beautiful and well-connected city in northern Tuscany, Lucca is easy to reach by train and lies a little over an hour from Florence.

It’s also only 30 minutes by train from Pisa, and visitors often combine both Lucca and Pisa into one day trip from Florence.

If you are able to spend a few nights in Lucca, though, you won’t be sorry to have longer to save this beautiful place.

The Montecassino Abbey

Situated in Italy’s Lazio region, the  Montecassino Abbey  is a popular pilgrimage site for those seeking a blend of spiritual, historical, and natural experiences. Known as the ‘Lighthouse of Western Civilization’, this abbey holds a significant place in Western Christianity and is one of Europe’s oldest monasteries.

A short drive from Rome, the abbey’s location offers breathtaking views of the Latin Valley and the snow-capped Abruzzo Mountains. The abbey has a resilient history, having been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times, most recently after WWII when it was the site of the Battle of Monte Cassino.

You can explore the abbey’s grand architecture, including the cathedral-basilica adorned with golden relics and frescoes, the crypt with golden mosaics of religious figures, and the Monte Cassino Museum, which houses ancient manuscripts and a Roman well.

The chapel of Monte Cassino, just down the hill from the Abbey, is another religious and pilgrimage site. The shrine is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, and it is believed that a novena to Our Lady of Monte Cassino saved St. Meinrad village from a smallpox epidemic in 1871.

The Abbey is accessible via a switchback road from Cassino, a small town 130km southeast of Rome, and a bus service runs from the Cassino train station to Montecassino. The Abbey is open every day, but hours vary, so check before you go. While visiting, ensure to respect the dress code for churches and refrain from eating or drinking inside.

Sanctuary of Santa Rosalia

Every July, pilgrims flock to Palermo, Sicily, for the Festival of Santa Rosalia. To show their devotion, the pilgrims make the steep trek up Monte Pellegrino, barefoot, to visit the Sanctuary of Santa Rosalia.

The sanctuary, built within a cramped cave at the top of the mountain, contains the remains of Palermo’s patron saint.

Internationally, Santa Rosalia is the saint invoked during times of plague, and visitors to her shrine in Palermo often pray that she heal their ailments. At the entrance to her shrine, you’ll see crutches, prosthetics, and other medical devices left by the faithful who have been healed by Santa Rosalia.

While the hike from Palermo to the top of Monte Pellegrino takes a grueling two hours, those interested in seeing the shrine without breaking a sweat can opt to take a public bus or taxi ride to the top. Better yet, make this a stop on your Sicily road trip itinerary !

While the Sanctuary of Santa Rosalia is the most important pilgrimage site in Palermo, there are many other churches to explore in the city. One of the most stunning is the Palatine Chapel. This intimate chapel within Palermo’s Norman palace is decorated floor to ceiling with gilded Byzantine mosaics. Once the private chapel of Sicilian royalty, this beautiful religious space can now be enjoyed by all.

St. Padre Pio Shrine

St Padre Pio of Pietrelcina is one of the most worshipped Catholic saints. 

Padre Pio was the most famous stigmata and the greatest mystic of the 20th century. Many miracles have been attributed to Padre Pio’s intercessions.

Padre Pio Shrine in San Giovanni Rotondo is among the largest churches in Italy today. Besides that, this monumental shrine has been built only by the means of faithful. After all, 300.000 faithful attended the canonization mass in the Vatican in 2002 when Pope John Paul II proclaimed him a saint.

Today St Padre Pio Shrine, which holds the intact body of Padre Pio, receives about 6 million visitors a year and is one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in the world.

The Padre Pio Shrine is in the small town of San Giovanni Rotondo in southern Italy. Padre Pio lived in this small southern Italian town most of his life. The closest airport to San Giovanni Rotondo is Bari. San Giovanni Rotondo is less than a two-hour drive from Bari Airport. San Giovanni Rotondo is also about 2 hour and a half drive from Naples. The Sanctuary of Saint Michael the Archangel is a short drive from San Giovanni Rotondo.

The Sanctuary stands above the cave where Saint Michael the Archangel appeared on Earth for the first time. Many popes, saints, royals, noblemen, and ordinary people made their pilgrimage to this site. St Francis of Assisi was among them. However, he never entered the cave. St Francis felt unworthy of entering it. Instead, he kissed the stone and carved the tau sign at the entrance. 

Head to southern Italy and visit  Padre Pio Shrine in San Giovanni Rotondo   and the nearby Sanctuary of Saint Michael the Archangel!

Pisa Cathedral

The Cathedral of Pisa, also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is a wonderful example of Romanesque architecture and is one of the most famous sacred sites in Italy. It was built as early as 1118 and is located right next to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. In the Middle Ages,  Pisa  was a religious center of the region and, on top of that, an important destination for pilgrims who wanted to go to Rome or even further to Jerusalem.

Today, believers come from all over the world to visit the cathedral but of course also to see the famous tower. Also interesting is the Cathedral Museum, located just a few steps from the cathedral!

Built by merchants from Pisa and renovated over the years, the cathedral shines with a mix of Islamic, classical and Byzantine elements. The Leaning Tower of Pisa is actually the freestanding bell tower of the cathedral and can even be climbed today. In addition, a special feature is the exterior facade made of Carrara marble, with the alternating black and white tones.

The city of Pisa has its own international airport. In addition, the city can also be reached quickly from Florence by train or bus.

Sacre Monte di Orta

On the eastern shore of  Lake Orta Italy  lies the charming medieval village of Orta San Giulio, a wonderful destination to spend a few days. Located in the Piedmont region of northern Italy, the town is an easy and leisurely drive from Milan of just over one hour.

Across from the village on a hill overlooking the lake is the Sacre Monte di Orta, a Roman Catholic “sacred mountain” complex dedicated to the life of St. Francis of Assisi. Work on the site began in 1583 and today includes twenty separate chapels that can be visited as you follow the path through the elegantly landscaped site.

Inside the chapels, you will find preserved frescoes, sculptures, and works of art created by some of the most prominent artisans of the day. The path through the gardens ends at the church of San Nicolao for which the hill is named. Inside is a grouping of wooden statues that represent Our Lady of Mercy.

In 2003, Sacro Monte di Orta was placed on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The complex personifies the Franciscan spiritual ideal of harmony between art and nature, and is a must-visit in Lake Orta.

Sacre di San Michele – near Turin

Sacra di San Michele sits on top of Mount Pirchiriano high above the Susa Valley in northern Italy near  Turin / Torino .  The 10th century Romanesque Gothic abbey inspired Umberto Eco’s ‘The Name of the Rose.’ 

This is a popular pilgrimage site as it lies midway on St Michael’s Line. This geographical straight-line features seven monasteries dedicated to St Michael stretching from Skellig Michael in the Republic of Ireland to Mount Carmel in Israel. 

Highlights of the impressive abbey include the entrance staircase, The Stairway of the Dead, in which the skeletons of previous monks at the church are forever entombed. See the ornate Portal of the Zodiac and the beautiful fresco Triptych by Defendente Ferrari. Plus, don’t miss the stunning views of the Susa Valley from the outdoor walkways. 

The easiest way to get to Sacra di San Michele is by car. Park at Piazzale Croce Nera and walk 800 metres to reach the abbey. Alternatively, take the train from Turin to Avigliana and then catch one of the special weekend shuttle buses that carry visitors to Piazzale Croce Nera. 

Another option is to catch the train to Sant D’Ambrogio and climb Monte Pirchiriano on foot. The trail is part of the Via Francigena and is not technically difficult but it is steep and is exposed in places. 

There are 15 Stations of the Cross to follow and fresh water springs provide valuable drinking water. The trek will give you a sense of the journey pilgrims had to make for centuries in order to reach the abbey.

As I hope you can see – Italy is filled with pilgrimage sites and is an extraordinary place for spiritual travels and meaningful encounters. Whether you are going for a weekend, a month, or a year – make sure to include some of these pilgrimage sites on your next trip to Italy!

Want more Pilgrimage inspiration? Read these next!

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Angie villanueva.

I enjoy following your sacred wandering sites and their stories. Thank you

Stacey Morrison

Hi! Thanks for you website. I’ve found it to be very helpful!. One suggestion… Catholics don’t “worship” St. Padre Pio or any other saint. We only worship God. Catholics respect and pray to saints to ask for their prayers and intercession on our behalf. Padre Pio is one of the most respected and well known Catholic saints.

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All you need to know about Religious Travel

What should i wear when visiting a religious place.

Every religion has different requirements on what to wear when visiting a sacred site, so it's always best to ask your travel guide about the appropriate dress. However, a good general rule is to always dress modestly. Both men and women should wear long skirts or trousers covering the knees and tops covering the shoulders and chest. Some Islamic and Jewish religious sites, such as mosques, will require you to cover your hair, while Buddhist temples require you to take off your shoes.

What is the best time to visit the Holy Land?

Israel, also known as the Holy Land, is at its best in spring (April and May) and autumn (September and October) when the temperatures are pleasantly warm, averaging around 26°C. Summer (June to August) heats up to an average of 32°C during the day, perfect for hitting the beach in Tel Aviv. The winter months (November to March) are cold and rainy, averaging around 15°C, and Jerusalem even sees occasional snowfall.

What is the most visited religious place in the world?

The Hindu Venkateswara Temple in India is said to be the most-visited religious place in the world, with around 50,000 to 100,000 pilgrims visiting the temple every day. The renowned Sensoji Temple, the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo, is another big contender, with around 30 million visitors every year.

Why is religious tourism important?

Religious tourism is one of the oldest and most special forms of travel, as pilgrims have travelled to pay homage to sacred places and icons for millennia. Religious tourism is now more important than ever as it helps to protect and conserve ancient holy sites, cultural treasures and spiritual traditions.

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14 Unmissable European Pilgrimages

Dear reader: This article contains links to products and services that I may be compensated for, at no extra cost to you.

by Anna from Camino Adventures

Though most pilgrimages started as journeys of moral or spiritual significance, modern ones are not necessarily confined to the most faithful. Whether you are interested in learning about history, culture, and admiring spectacular landscapes, you want to test your physical aptitudes, or you are on your own spiritual journey, walking one of the many European pilgrimages promises an unforgettable adventure and true bucket list experience in Europe .

If you are thinking about embarking on an inspiring voyage, continue reading this article and find out more about the best pilgrimages in Europe. To learn about inspiring walks in other corners of the globe, see this guide to the best pilgrimages in the world .

Table of Contents

Pilgrimages in the UK & Ireland

Pilgrims’ way: winchester to canterbury.

With many remarkable parts, the 141-mile pilgrimage from Winchester Cathedral in Hampshire to Canterbury Cathedral in Kent, promises adventurous hikers two unforgettable weeks. The Canterbury Cathedral is where the shrine of St Thomas Becket is buried.

Besides the outstanding landscapes, you will have the chance to see while walking the route, there are also many opportunities to go-off path and visit charming little churches along the way. One of the most beautiful is the 900-year-old St Benedict’s Church, located in Paddlesworth, Kent.

Before you begin your spiritual trip, make sure you are properly prepared, as the road to the mesmerizing Canterbury Cathedral is known for its great number of ups and downs, both literal and emotional.

When planning your trip to Europe, search for the best hotel deals here .

Stonehenge Pilgrimage: Glastonbury Tor to Stonehenge

If you love mystery and are into myths and legends, walking the 42-mile pagan trail from Glastonbury Tor to Stonehenge should be on your must-do list. Both Glastonbury Tor and Stonehenge are renowned mystical English sites, and this pilgrimage supposedly results in rebirth.

The starting point of your transcendental trip is Glastonbury Tor, a place where faeries were once believed to live, takes you through breathtaking scenery, and ends at the celebrated Stonehenge, a stone circle constructed 3,000 years BC. Whether you choose to do this in one or two days, in the end, you will feel proud and astonished by the fascinating prehistoric monument.

If you’re visiting other historical sites besides Stonehenge, you’ll want to consider getting a National Trust or English Heritage membership; both are valid at Stonehenge. To find out the differences, see this article comparing National Trust and English Heritage memberships .

St. Cuthbert’s Way: Melrose Abbey to Lindisfarne

Between Melrose in the Scottish Borders and Lindisfarne on the coast of Northumberland in England, there is a 62-mile long trail known as St Cuthbert’s Way.

The pilgrimage has the name of a monk, bishop, and hermit born in Northumbria. He was Anglo-Saxon England’s most praised saint, and this trail traces his life, starting where he spent his formative years and ending where he was buried after in 687.

The trail is loved for its dramatic landscapes and inspiring ruins. You don’t need, however, religious reasons to adventure into walking St. Cuthbert’s Way. What you do need are five days of vacation and a good fitness level, since the relaxing walks are often interrupted by strenuous climbs.

Croagh Patrick

Croagh Patrick is a 764-meter mountain in Co Mayo, western Ireland. It is the the holiest mountain and top pilgrimage destination in the country. Pilgrims climb the mountain in honor of Saint Patrick, the Irish patron saint who lends his name to the mountain. Pilgrims believe that Saint Patrick fasted for 40 days on the mountain in 441 CE. The mountain is also on the much longer Wild Atlantic Way , a driving route connecting numerous sights in the country.

According to archaeological finds in the area, the pilgrimage to the mountain goes back around 5000 years to the Stone Age. Pagans also celebrated the new harvest there. Today, the most popular time to do this sacred walk is the last Sunday of July, called Reek Sunday. For more information on planning this walk, see these backpacking tips for Ireland !

Pilgrimages in France, Spain & Portugal

Via podiensis: le puy to saint-jean-pied-de-port.

Travelers who have the possibility of taking more than a month off can enjoy a longer hiking adventure. It is one of the four routes through France on the pilgrimage to the tomb of St. James the Great in Santiago de Compostela. But this part is a 460-mile hike, from in south-central France to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in the Pyrenees. The pilgrimage takes over a month but, if this sounds too much, it can be done in shorter stages.

Catch a glimpse of the rural life, admire stunning scenery, explore rolling hills and relax in the charming fields of sunflowers, while following this fascinating spiritual path. And, if you are feeling fit to continue, after resting in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, walk the famous Camino Frances, until Santiago.

Les Chemins Du Mont-Saint-Michel: Rouen to Mont-Saint-Michel

During the Middle Ages, pilgrims walked to the statue of St. Michael that sits atop the church spire on Mont-Saint-Michel to praise St. Michael, the Archangel, who is known for leading the charge against Satan’s forces.

Today, though for different reasons, people still follow the same paths, the 200-mile trail from Rouen, or the shorter, 100-mile route that begins in Caen. No matter where you choose to begin, walking Les Chemins Du Mont-Saint-Michel promises you an adventure filled with impressive natural beauty.

Camino Frances: Saint Jean Pied de Port to Santiago

Staring in Saint Jean Pied de Port and finishing in Santiago de Compostela, El Camino Frances takes pilgrims from beautiful southwestern France to welcoming the Spanish region of Galicia. The pilgrimage promises 284 miles of natural beauty and fascinating culture, and more than one month of self-discovery and meeting amazing people.

El Camino Frances is now probably the most popular route that takes adventurers to the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral , the place where Saint James the Great was allegedly buried. So, it is usually filled with pilgrims from all over the world, especially during the summer months. If meeting crowds of travelers isn’t your cup of tea, there are plenty of other, more quiet routes to el Camino you can follow.

Camino Portugues: Lisbon to Santiago

Known for being less crowded and easier to walk, el Camino Portuguese is another great route that takes you to Santiago, from charming Lisbon (see here for planning your time in Lisbon and Barcelona ). There are 280 miles pilgrims usually walk in about one month, but if this seems too much for you, start in Porto and walk 150 miles until you reach the imposing Cathedral in Santiago.

Though less crowded, this incredible trail can also bring you valuable friendships, interesting talks, and, of course, a beautiful combination of two countries that deserve to be explored.

If neither, El Camino Frances or the Portuguese way, satisfy your desires, but you still want to reach Santiago by foot, while walking a spiritual path, we have great news. There are plenty of other routes of the famous Camino you can choose, depending on your personal preferences, time, and budget.

Another incredible network of hiking trails in Portugal is Rota Vicentina , which follows the southwestern coast of the country.

Camino de Finisterre: Santiago to Finisterre or Muxia

Finisterre or Fisterra in Gallego translates as “the end of the world”, and it is a great way to finish your El Camino de Santiago adventure, continuing from Santiago to Finisterre, and then to Muxia, the westernmost point of mainland Europe.

Besides the lovely scenery, arriving in Finisterre, at the place where pilgrims have been known to throw their shoes into the sea to symbolize their new beginning in life after completing the Camino, will make you feel amazing.

Read more about mindful travel and doing meditation while traveling .

Pilgrimages in Germany

Via coloniensis: cologne to trier.

As you can see, there are many paths to Santiago de Compostela. In Germany, for instance, there are 30 well-known routes that take pilgrims to France, where they can begin Via Podiensis.

One of the best German trails is Via Coloniensis, from charming Cologne to Trier. Before setting out, pilgrims shouldn’t miss the impressive cathedral in town, one of the top things to do in Cologne .

On the walking route, after passing through delightful villages and town, admiring the beautiful architecture and historic landmarks, the route ends at St Peter’s Cathedral, which was commissioned by Emperor Constantine in the fourth century, and is now the oldest church in Germany.

Pilgrimages in Italy

Via francigena: canterbury to rome.

Via Francigena is another classic walking trail in Europe, following an ancient pilgrimage route from Canterbury in the UK to Rome, in Italy, and crossing France and Switzerland on the way.

Not only because of its importance in medieval times, but also thanks to the crucial landmarks and beautiful landscapes it passes, this route has been a European Cultural Route by the Council of Europe since 1994.

The 1180 miles pilgrimage promises adventurous pilgrims the chance to see amazing places like the stunning Tuscan countryside, the imposing Alps, or the battlefields in Northern France. And if you don’t have months of vacation, choose only the French-Italian part of the trail.

Via di Francesco: Florence to Rome

Following the steps of Saint Francis of Assisi, who was the founder of the Franciscan Order, Via di Francesco or Camino di Francesco is an alternative route along an ancient Roman road, passing through mesmerizing sites, that takes pilgrims from Florence to Rome.

What used to be a religious voyage devoted to the life of Saint Francis is now, for many adventurous travelers, a way to test their limits and admire Italy’s immense beauty, before reaching the Basilica di San Francesco in Rome.

Madonna del Ghisallo, Rome to Lake Como

If you are looking for an exciting Italian Pilgrimage on two wheels, go first to fascinating Rome, where you can start cycling, with Lake Como as your destination. The pilgrimage takes you to the 17th-century Madonna del Ghisallo chapel in Lombardy, after offering you the chance to admire some of the most spectacular Italian landscapes.

The ride is far from being long, having only 6,5 miles, but it is challenging. So, make sure you have a good fitness level before you begin this cycling adventure.

Arriving at your destination, there are plenty of fun and/or relaxing things to do in Lake Como , rounding out unforgettable trip.

Pilgrimages in Montenegro

Ostrog monastery: multiple starting points to ostrog.

The Serbian Orthodox Monastery of Ostrog is one of the most picturesque and visited monasteries in Europe. The structure has been carved into sheer cliffs, with panoramic views of the Montenegrin countryside. Over 100,000 pilgrims make the journey to Ostrog every year to pay homage to Saint Basil of Ostrog, who is interred there.

While getting to Ostrog Monastery is relatively simple, the best way to go is to follow the steps of pilgrims by trekking from remote Ostrog train station to the monastery high up on the cliffs. The fairly simple walk can be done in two hours return and can even be done as a day trip from the popular tourist town of Kotor or, easier yet, from the capital Podgorica.

These are our suggestions for the best European pilgrimages. No matter which of these trails you choose, you will have a memorable experience, filled with adventure, self-discovery, and so many answers. Don’t forget, however, that they are all different, and completing one should only be a good reason to start planning the next on your list.

Also, remember that there are so many other incredible pilgrimages in Europe that promise glorious adventures for all outdoorsy, curious travelers who are interested in testing their physical or spiritual limits.

Related Posts

1 thought on “14 Unmissable European Pilgrimages”

Interesting blog , it reminds me of Lourdes , pilgrims may visit Lourdes to be cleansed of their sins and to be cured of their illnesses. I tried to write a blog about Lourdes, hope you also like it: https://stenote.blogspot.com/2019/07/ave-maria-day-at-lourdes.html

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Keytours Vacations Blog

Top 10 religious pilgrimages and christian tours in europe & the mediterranean.

Whether embarking on a Hold Land Tour of Jerusalem, following the famous and sacred network of ancient pilgrim routes of the Way of Saint James, exploring the Chapel of the Apparitions with throngs of pilgrims in Fatima, or venerating the Virgin Mary by visitng the Chapel of Grace and Black Madonna in Altötting Germany, be prepared for a unique and unforgettable religious pilgrimage experience handcrafted by Keytours that is unique to your group.

Delve into Keytours  Top 10 Religious Pilgrimages and Christian Tours in Europe & the Mediterranean   to get inspired and ready to plan your next group religious pilgrimage. Expore the best Christian pilgrimage tours and Christian pilgrimage sites.

1. Jerusalem, Israel

Journey to Jerusalem and the Holy Land and visit popular sites including  The Western Wall, also referred to as the Wailing Wall, the site of the original Jewish Temple.  Along your pilgrimage tour the  The Temple Mount, considered the third holiest Islamic site after Mecca and Medina where two mosques are located: Al-Aqsa and Dome of the Rock. The Church of the Holy Sepulcher is a church built on the spot where some Christians believed Jesus was crucified, buried, and resurrected, now one of the most sacred places of the Christian faith.

Interested in traveling to Israel? Check out our Israel Travel Packages

2. Rome, Italy

Take in the beauty of this historic city with visits to the many religious and sacred sites of Rome. Begin with Saint Peter's Basilica, the great cathedral of the Vatican and one of the seven ancient pilgrimage churches of Rome. Continue on to the Papal Basilica of Saint Paul outside the Walls, one of Rome's four major basilicas. Another site to visit is the Abbey of the Three Fountains, the site of the martyrdom of Saint Paul.  Interested in traveling to Italy? Check out our Italy Travel Packages

3. Way of Saint James, Spain

Follow the path to spiritual growth on The Way of Saint James, aka the Camino de Santiago. There are dozens of pilgrimage routes to choose from on the way to Santiago de Compostela. Visit the many cathedrals on the way including the Santa María de León Cathedra l, a masterpiece of the Gothic style and the Cathedral museum which houses a large collection of sacred art. Other notable religious sites include: the Cathedral of Astorga, the Episcopal Palace of Astorga (designed by  Antoni Gaudí) , the  Cruz de Ferro (a cross on the Camino de Santiago, located between Foncebadón and Manjarín), and the Royal Monastery of San Xulián de Samos. 

Interested in traveling to Spain? Check out our Spain Travel Packages

4. Lourdes, France

A popular destination for pilgrims, the Grotto at Massabielle & the surrounding Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes is a site where an apparition of the Immaculate Conception is claimed to have been seen and where pilgrims are reputed to be healed by the Lourdes water. Lourdes is also the site of a number of churches including the Crypt, the Upper Basilica, the Rosary Basilica, the Church of Saint Bernadette, and Saint Joseph's Chapel.  Interested in traveling to France? Check out our France Travel Packages

5.  Fátima , Portugal

Fátima is home to the Sanctuary of Fátima, a Catholic pilgrimage site and  a group of Catholic religious buildings . The Chapel of the Apparitions marks the spot of  famous apparitions of the Blessed Virgin Mary . Other sacred sites include the  Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary , the church of Igreja da Santíssima Trindade and the Museu de Arte Sacra e Etnologia which exhibits religious artifacts.

Interested in traveling to Portugal? Check out our Portugal Travel Packages

6. Seven Churches of the Revelation, Turkey

The Seven Churches of Revelation in Turkey are also known as the churches of Asia which were  cited in the Book of Revelation : Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea.  Ephesus is one of the top visited touristic attractions in Turkey and home to the Library of Celsus as well as many other monumental buildings. Smyrna is the site of an Ancient Greek city known today known as Izmir, Turkey where visitors can explore the Columns of the Western Stoa.  In  Pergamum visitors come to  see the Hellenistic theatre, acropolis, and  Roman baths complex. Interested in traveling to Turkey? Check out our Turkey Travel Packages

7. Canterbury, England

Follow the "Pilgrim's Way" taken by pilgrims from Winchester in Hampshire England to the shrine of Thomas Becket at Canterbury in Kent. Although much of the traditional route is now park of a modern road network, the North Downs Way National Trail parallels the old Pilgrim's Way. The Canterbury Cathedral, one of the oldest and most famous Christian structures in England, is both a holy place and part of a World Heritage Site.  Interested in traveling to England? Check out our England Travel Packages

8. Assisi, Italy

Assisi is the home town and burial place of Saint Francis and an important Franciscan pilgrimage destination. One of the highlights of Assisi is the Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, comprised of two churches known as the Upper and Lower church including a crypt.   Interested in traveling to Italy? Check out our Italy Travel Packages

9. Altötting, Germany

Altötting, in the heart of Bavaria, is called the "Lourdes of Germany" as many pilgrims journey to the Shrine of the Black Madonna in search of healing. The Chapel of Grace is the national shrine dedicated to the Virgin Mary, Another notable site is the   Basilica of St. Ann, the largest church built in Germany in the twentieth century.  Interested in traveling to Germany? Check out our Germany Travel Packages

10. San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy

An important site in San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy is the  Church of Our Lady of Grace (Santa Maria delle Grazie) and the Shrine of Padre Pio , the second most visited shrine in the world, centering on the tomb of Saint Padre Pio of Pietrelcina. Saint Padre Pio is known to have supernatural abilities including  miraculous healings, the readings of souls, and personal visits from Jesus and Mary.  Interested in traveling to Italy? Check out our Italy Travel Packages

Ready to travel? Start planning your vacation with Keytours Vacations, your expert in personalized travel experiences.  hbspt.cta._relativeUrls=true;hbspt.cta.load(3310086, '6b7e2f60-6e6f-4cd4-9f27-d6240938d2b7', {"useNewLoader":"true","region":"na1"});

Topics: Religious , Groups , Spain , italy , germany , portugal , france , turkey , england

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The European market potential for religious tourism

The religious tourism market covers a broad range of tourism products, including pilgrimage trips, visiting sacred sites, church tourism, travel for worship and religious missions. While a large part of European residents are Christian, halal tourism has been growing in the last few years, as well as the demand for spiritual tourism. Important target markets in Europe include Germany, the United Kingdom and France. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a great impact on the religious tourism market.

Contents of this page

• Product description
• What makes Europe an interesting market for religious tourism?
• Which European countries offer most opportunities for religious tourism?
• Which trends offer opportunities on the European religious tourism market?

1. Product description

Religious and spiritual tourism refers to travel for religious or spiritual purposes, such as undertaking a pilgrimage and visiting sacred sites. Also known as sacred or faith tourism, it is one of the oldest forms of tourism. Religious tourism is a niche within the segment of cultural tourism , comprising four specialist niches: pilgrimages, visiting sacred sites, church, mosque and temple tourism, and travel for the purpose of mission or worship.

Table 1: Specialist niches of religious tourism

Many tour operators combine various of these specialist niches. For example, Pilgrim Tours offers pilgrimages, naturally, but also trips involving visiting sacred sites and churches.

Travellers who visit religious sites can be divided into two main target groups: believers and non-believers. Both are important target groups, but they require different approaches.

Believers seek spiritual support or reinforce their religious beliefs. Often, they undertake a pilgrimage for religious reasons or for the purpose of worship. Examples of these kinds of trips include the Hajj to Mecca for Muslims, pilgrimages to Jerusalem or the Vatican for Christians, and traveling to Bodh Gaya for Buddhists. Most religious tourists are very motivated to travel, so they are willing to spend more money than the average traveller. This inherent motivation also makes religious tourism less vulnerable to economic lows. Believers like to travel in groups of like-minded people.

Nonbelievers

Non-believers are attracted to sacred sites, churches, mosques, synagogues and other places of worship, not because of their religious value, but for their cultural significance, architectural importance, aesthetic beauty or historic value. Non-believers may be religious, but religion is not their main purpose for traveling. Some non-believers who seek self-improvement by travelling to religious sites require some form of catering geared to offering a spiritual experience with the destination. Collete’s faith tours are an example of putting this idea to work, offering travel to sites and places of religious significance, supplementing the trip with a spiritual angle related to the place.

For most developing country operators, Europe’s non-believers offer a much bigger market than believers because a very large part of European believer travellers already go to the Middle East.

Religious tourism can be considered a high-quality form of tourism, because of the positive payback for the destination’s culture and society. This form of tourism helps to raise awareness of people’s common heritage s, which helps with their preservation, in addition to the financial gains that can eventually be reinvested into conservation of the local culture and religious heritage. Religious tourism is a great source of community empowerment and development as well. The interest of tourists in local values and communities helps in developing a sense of empowerment and pride in the local community, its culture and history. Naturally, religious tourism also contributes to regional economic increase, employment and better quality of life.

Figure 1: Varanasi, a holy city in India that attracts many believers as well as non-believers

Source: TourmyIndia

• Be aware of the religion aspects in a specific destinations, and make sure to take into account all aspects of its aspects, especially habits and believes. This includes anything from food to the time of certain events, to the music played, to religious calendars. If not all parts of your product are well established and connected, you may lose customers.
• Look into tour operators that organise faith trips to see what their needs are: Globus Faith focuses on Christians, Dham Yatra on Hinduists, and Asia Buddhist on Buddhists.
• Regularly organise meetings with your local community to make sure that everything is in order. Support from the local community requires full integration and engagement with tourism.
• Cooperate with other religious sites, tourism agencies and cultural routes, in order to create a better product aligned to related business. This also provides opportunities for making a product that can be combined with others. Creating a hiking trail, for example, can connect multiple activities and accommodations, such as the kora around Mount Kailash in Tibet .
• Contact European churches or Christian missionary organisations to attract Christian missionaries. These purpose of these travellers is to contribute for the sake of religion, but many will also make use of the trip to see your country. Use the websites Missionfinder and Mission Africa to find some missions in your country.

Religious sites and places of worship are important meeting grounds for different kinds of visitors and hosts. Tourism breaks down cultural and religious barriers and builds bridges between people and communities. This results in better cross-cultural understanding, which improves social cohesion. Tourism businesses should appreciate and understand possible conflicting ideologies, underlying deeper meanings and forms of interaction with religious sites, which may conflict with the socioeconomic and political norms of the parties concerned.

In order to maintain religious tourism sustainable, two criteria must be met:

• preservation of the religious sites or monuments
• upholding respect to local traditions and religious practices

The main reason for making a trip can be religious, but visiting a religious site or place of worship can also just be part of another trip, or it can provide additional attractions to a specific destination. The level of religious tourism can be anything from small scale, visiting specific places of worship (temples, altars, etc.), to medium scale, such as visiting Mecca, Jerusalem or the Vatican, and even large scale, such as visiting Israel as a whole.

• As there are many forms and levels of religious tourism look at what is already available nearby to see if you can add something to it. There doesn’t necessarily have to be a religious site nearby to justify a religious tourist attraction. Look, for example, for any artefacts or other historical facts that relate to the place and focus on that. An example of this in England is called ’ champing ’, which means camping in churches. Remember, however, that different religions have different values, rules and standards. It is therefore necessary to acknowledge and respect those differences, as well as give everyone the freedom to think and express what they want.
• In order to compete effectively in the religious tourism market, use faith in your product name and other branding, making it easily recognisable with signs and marks. Branding helps to enhance connection with the place, create desired perceptions and generally attract people to the place.
• Remember that different tourists require different information and see different things based on their motivations. Try to customise your tour or information guide according to your customers by making it diverse or by having multiple versions.
• Be creative about possible streams of revenue. Among the many goods and services related to religious or spiritual tourism, consider souvenir items, religious books, outlets for halal or kosher food, faith-based music, spiritual or faith-based centres in local communities.

2. What makes Europe an interesting market for religious tourism?

The global market for religious tourism is one of the biggest tourism segments. In 2018, an estimated one-third of 1.4 billion international tourist arrivals travelled for religious purposes. This means that approximately 450 million international trips were made for religious purposes. The popularity of faith-based tourism cannot be understated, as even 25% of travellers are interested in this kind of tourism.

For many countries, religious tourism around its historical and religious heritage is a significant part of their total tourism market. Saudi Arabia, for example, received 13 million religious tourists in 2019, and is expected to more than double this number to 30 million visitors by 2030. In the state of Gujarat, in India, almost 36% of all of tourist visits are spiritual tourists . The religious tourism market in Brazil is one the largest tourism segments in the country, estimated at €14 billion generated by 20 million trips.

The COVID-19 pandemic is expected to affect every tourism segment. All markets are expected to decline, since virtually all attractions and accommodations had to be closed at least temporarily. The European overall outbound tourism market is expected to shrink by 39% in 2020, then return to the same level of 2019 in 2021. Of course, these estimates heavily depend on the duration and impact of the pandemic.

In one example of how the pandemic is affecting religious tourism, in the southern governorates of Iraq, this segment is reported as the second-largest source of income after oil. Normally, religious tourism generates billions of dollars and creates thousands jobs in Iraq every year, but in the city of Najaf, which used to host approximately 5,000 visitors a day, 300 out of 350 hotels are closed. The impact of the COVID-19 crisis is already noticeable in Mexico as well, where millions of religious travellers are normally expected, but most religious sites have been sitting empty this year.

• Read our study on how to respond to COVID-19 in the tourism sector to learn what you should do if your company is affected by the pandemic.
• Focus on tour operators instead of targeting free independent travellers directly. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, European tourists will be far more interested in buying from tour operators in the coming years, because they provide a feeling of security.
• In order to keep religious sites accessible, create a virtual visit of your destination. The Vatican , churches, mosques and other religious sites and places of worship already See other examples of virtual tours on the Rome Reports website.
• Improve online visibility by using social media, interactive website and blogs. We also recommend investing in trying to improve your Google ranking, following tips from the website of Neil Patel or Google’s SEO Starter Guide .
• Make sure that sites and routes in your location are easily accessible for people with reduced mobility. Make sure to mention it upfront in case you have any places which might prove difficult for some people to access. The website of the United Nations offers more information and links to resources on how to promote accessibility at your destination.

3. Which European countries offer most opportunities for religious tourism?

Although Christianity is the most prevalent religion in Europe, it is split into different branches and churches, and those also vary among European countries. Table 2 shows demographic data on religion in the most important European source markets for religious tourism: Germany, United Kingdom, France, Italy, Spain, and Netherlands. Most of these source markets offer opportunities for Christian pilgrimage and travel for the purpose of worship, as well as visiting sacred sites and tourism to places of worship for non-believers.

Table 2: Percentage of the population per religious movement

Source: European Union , 2019

The percentage of Christians in the German population is one of the highest in Europe: approximately 60%, which means that Germans are relatively fast drawn to other religious sites when they are on vacation. The number of Muslims in Germany is relatively high, comprising 4% of the country’s population.

With approximately 82 million citizens, Germany has the largest population in the EU. The country also has the largest GDP in the EU, and fourth in the world: €3.3 trillion equivalent to €50 thousand per capita. In addition, Germany also has the largest EU market for outbound travel . Germans spend on average €2,500 on their summer holidays, which is approximately 25% more than the European average. All of this makes Germany a great target market for religious tourists. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the German GDP is expected to shrink by 7% in 2020, then grow 5% in 2021.

In 2017, German travellers made 10 million trips to developing countries. According to Europ Assistance, German travellers find discovering new cultures very important , as 37% see exploring new cultures as an interesting aspect of their holiday. Since religious tourism for non-believers and cultural tourism overlap in many ways, destinations in the developing world where local customs have religious origins can benefit from this interest.

Table 3: German travellers long-haul destinations, 2017

Source: Reiseanalyse , 2020

When trying to attract German tourists, you need to offer plenty of information. German tourists tend to read a lot before choosing to visit a place. They are, like most Europeans, direct in their communication, and are well known for their tendency towards organisation and punctuality.

Table 4: Key statistics on the attitude of German travellers towards tourism

Source: EU, 2016

United Kingdom

The potential religious tourism outbound market of the United Kingdom is significant as well. With a population of 66 million and a gross domestic product of €2.3 trillion, the United Kingdom is it the fifth-largest economy in the world and the second in Europe. With a GDP per capita of €44 thousand per year, the British have less to spend than the Germans. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the British GDP is expected to shrink by 6.5% in 2020, then grow 4.7% in 2021. The UK officially left the European Union on 1 February 2020 (Brexit), but the country remains in the EU common market, under the same EU rules, during a transition period that goes until 31 December 2020. At this moment, it is still unclear what will happen afterwards, as the EU and the UK negotiate the post-Brexit terms.

Although the British economy is smaller than Germany’s, British travellers have a higher preference for destinations in developing countries than German travellers. British travellers find discovering new cultures very important , as 52% sees exploring new cultures as an interesting aspect of their holiday, which is an important indicator of interest in religious tourism. British travellers spend on average €2,100 on their summer holidays. Turkey (1.6 million trips), Thailand (1.0 million trips) and India (1 million trips) are the most important developing country destinations for British travellers, who tend to speak only English and no other foreign language.

The United Kingdom is one of the main sources of religious tourism in Uttarakhand, India.

Table 5: Key statistics on the attitude of British travellers towards tourism

France is the world’s fifth-largest outbound tourism market , so it naturally offers good opportunities. Israel is a destination particularly in demand among the French, who are second in the number of visitors to Israel. France has almost 31.5 million Christians, who make up 47% of its population, and are therefore are a great target group for religious travel operators. France also has the largest population of Muslims in Europe at 5.72 million, equivalent to 5% of the total French population.

France has the third-largest population in the EU, with approximately 65 million people. It is also the EU’s third-largest economy and the seventh-largest in the world, with a gross domestic product of €2.5 trillion (2019). Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the French GDP is expected to shrink by 7.2% in 2020, then grow by 4.5% in 2021.

Regardless of the duration, 46% of French travellers favour packages holidays (excluding all-inclusive packages). Most holidays are purchased online in France, via providers such as tour operators and airline companies (33%) or private housing (25%). The French prefer to spend their holidays with friends and relatives (long holidays 27%, short holidays 35%) or in paid accommodation, such as hotel, B&B, cruise or a youth hostel. Friends, colleagues and relatives provide the most important source of information when the French plan for their holidays (57%).

The GDP of Italy is the fourth largest in Europe at almost €2.1 trillion. The COVID-19 pandemic is expected to shrink Italy’s GDP by 9,1% in 2020, but it will then grow again to 4.8% in 2021. Among the 60 million Italians, an overwhelming 85% are Christian . The outbound tourism market of Italy amounts to €30 billion annually. Italian travellers prefer culture over nature and have a relatively high preference for discovering new cultures . According to Europ Assistance, 34% of Italian travellers see it as an interesting activity during holidays, which suggests that Italians are also interested in religious tourism, such as visiting religious sites, churches and other places of worship. Italian travellers do not often plan their trips too far in advance.

Spain itself has some of the most popular religious sites and places, like Santiago de Compostela. Religious tourism is very popular in Spain, but the country also has a great outbound market worth €24 billion. Spain’s population of approximately 47 million makes it a large market to focus on when entering the European market. The country’s GDP per capita is €31 thousand. The COVID-19 pandemic is expected to shrink the Spanish GDP by 8% in 2020, but it will then grow with 4.3% in 2021. Spaniards tend to prefer culture over nature: 56% of the Spanish tourists see discovering new cultures as an important aspect of their holiday, which suggests they may also be interested in religious tourism.

Netherlands

The Netherlands has a population of just 17 million, but it has a relatively large GDP of €870 billion, which results in €50 thousand per capita, the seventh largest in Europe . Dutch workers on payroll receive a mandatory holiday pay of at least 8% of their annual salary , which indicates that Dutch travellers have more disposable income to use for travelling. The COVID-19 pandemic is expected to shrink the Dutch GDP by 7.5% in 2020, then grow by 3% in 2021.

• Stay up to date on the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the countries you want to target. The CBI study on managing the effect of COVID-19 in tourism offers many good country-specific resources.
• Help educate your guests about local customs and cultures, especially the target group of non-believers.

4. Which trends offer opportunities on the European religious tourism market?

Media influence on destinations in southeast asia.

Influenced by mass media, including Hollywood movies, blogs, books, social media, but also by tourism depictions of particular people and places, South East Asia has seen an increase in the number of spiritual tourists. Combined with the positive effects of spiritual practices, these travellers seek activities that involve meditation, yoga, and other spiritual pursuits. They travel to learn about and practice meditation, such as mindfulness, seeking relaxation, self-knowledge and self-growth. Improvements in tourism infrastructure have increased accessibility to religious sites, boosting popularity, but strategic marketing and development of these sites has helped boost visitor numbers.

Media influence example 1: Eat, Pray, Love

In 2010 the popular movie ‘Eat, Pray, Love’ was released. This movie is about a woman searching for what meaning in life. She visits Italy to discover food, India to discover prayer and Bali, to discover love. The movie has stimulated and changed tourism to those destinations , as more tourists travel for the purpose of worship .

Figure 2: A poster of the movie ‘Eat, Pray, Love’

Source: Flickr

• Target spiritual tourism travellers offering new and unique activities. These travellers are often more open new experiences and tours than other religious tourists.
• Read our study on inner wellness tourism , to find more information about this niche market.
• Combine multiple activities into a tour to create a complete spiritual journey. SOTC is an example of a tour operator offering spiritual journeys to India and Bhutan.
• Showcase the immersive spiritual experience to strengthen brand value. Branding creates a perception of a desired destination, also helping travellers to keep your location in mind. Word-of-mouth advertising still is the most successful marketing tool .

Search for authenticity

The search for authenticity is a developing trend among travellers searching for more authentic experiences, such as immersing themselves in the spiritual and cultural traditions associated with specific religions and pilgrimage sites. The immersion often includes participation in or in connection with the local community.

An example of this is a visit to the Dani tribe in Indonesia , combined with other religious sites. Although many Dani are Christians nowadays, they still have many rituals and ceremonies dating from their old animist gods. Note that uniqueness is highly appreciated by European travellers, but it also brings risks. For example, a European tour operator offered tours to the Dani tribe, in which visitors could participate in the religious Dani Pig Feast , including cutting open a pig and eating its raw flesh, which may be too far for European tourists.

Halal tourism on the rise

Islam is the fastest growing religious group globally. Muslims are expected to make up to 25% of the world population by 2030, including a growing and thriving middle class, with increasing buying power. It is important for tourism businesses to meet specific religious requirements, such as preparing food under halal rules, adapting meal times during Ramadan, offering prayer facilities, providing separate swimming pools for males and females and offering entertainment catered to Muslims. Halal tourists often travel with their families and stay for about 17 days .

Looking for the unusual

A growing group of people currently seek more unusual holidays, and more diversification on their travels. Travellers are now not just better informed but overinformed through the internet and social media, so this new group of travellers is seeking something different from the regular tourism destinations the know. What they seek is to see and experience something that they and the rest of the world have not done yet.

In the context of religious tourism, which used to involve a lot of sightseeing, like strolling around Jerusalem or visiting religious archaeological sites, unusual experiences have become far more important. One such example, is a trip to Surinam e to meet people from different religious backgrounds who live together.

• Talk with tour operators, destination managers and clients to learn which services are appreciated and which are not. Offering the unusual is often a balancing act that can work but it can also backfire. Offer your clients sufficient information in advance, so they know what to expect.
• Read our study on community-based tourism to learn more about offering trips to local communities.
• Set up experiences that create added value to a product or service, such as including stories, music, food and other aspects associated with the destination. This trip visiting the Maasai in South Sudan is a good example of an experience that includes local religion, culture, music, and dance. To achieve this kind of product, we recommended that site and destination managers engage a broad range of stakeholders in developing, promoting and managing tourism.
• Invite bloggers or social media influencers free of charge to your destination to reach a larger public. Search for popular bloggers or influencers to see what sorts of trips and tourism products they use, as well as who are their audiences, so you find someone who is highly likely to relate to your destination.
• Keep your own social media channels up to date. Post daily or several days a week on your social media. For more advice, read our study on how to be a successful company online .

This study was carried out on behalf of CBI by   Molgo  and  ETFI .

Please review our market information disclaimer .

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History Travel + Local Experiences

February 1, 2021 By Lyndsay

21 Incredible Religious Places in Europe

• 1.1 1. The Rock of Cashel
• 1.2 2. St. Paul’s Cathedral
• 1.3 3. Stonehenge
• 1.4 4. Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela
• 1.5 5. La Sagrada Familia
• 1.6 6. Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris
• 1.7 7. The Sacré-Coeur
• 1.8 8. Mont Saint Michel
• 1.9 9. Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres
• 1.10 10. Sanctuaires Notre-Dame de Lourdes
• 1.11 11. Milan Cathedral
• 1.12 12. St. Peter’s Basilica
• 1.13 13. Sistine Chapel
• 1.14 14. Basilica di San Francesco d’Assisi
• 1.15 15. Siena Cathedral
• 1.16 16. Jasna Góra Monastery
• 1.17 17. Temple of Athena
• 1.18 18. Our Lady of Međugorje
• 1.19 19. Dohány Street Synagogue
• 1.20 20. St. Elisabeth Cathedral
• 1.21 21. Hagia Sophia and The Blue Mosque

This post may contain affiliate links! I will receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you purchase something recommended here.

From the Greek Oracle at Delphi to the French Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris, Europe has a rich history of faith.

Just about every city has a holy place or church, each one more magnificent than you would imagine.

No matter which of the European countries you’re visiting, make sure you take the time to see some of these historical religious places in Europe.

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Religious Sites in Europe

Take a look at the map below to find all of the holy places in Europe on this list!

1. The Rock of Cashel

• Location: Cashel, Ireland
• Find places to stay in Cashel: Hotels | Airbnb

One of the most iconic historical sites in Europe is the Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary, Ireland.

As the former seat of the High Kings of Munster, this has been an important site in Ireland’s history for centuries.

Chosen in the 4th century as a base for the Eóghanachta clan from Wales who went on to conquer Munster, this famous site has also been associated with Saint Patrick, Ireland’s patron saint, hence the Rock also having the alternative name of Saint Patrick’s Rock. 

In the 10th century, the Rock was converted to Christianity.

The fortress became an Abbey, with many of its 13th to 15th-century buildings still present. The Abbey sits atop a formidable hill and is visible for miles. 

The Rock of Cashel is approximately 2 hours from Dublin, and there are several tour groups offering day trips to one of the best places in Ireland to visit . 

Your visit will last around 1-2 hours as you explore the roofless Abbey, other buildings, and cemetery.

If you arrive by car, parking is available in a pay-and-display car park just below the Abbey. Have some change to get your ticket, and arrive as early as possible if you are not on a tour to avoid the crowds.

If you are planning a trip to Ireland, make sure to add the Rock of Cashel to your itinerary.

Submitted by: Cath Jordan from Travel Around Ireland

2. St. Paul’s Cathedral

• Location: London, England
• Find places to stay in London: Hotels | Airbnb

St. Paul’s Cathedral is one of the important religious places in Europe. Its history dates back to the 7th century B.C.E. when the first Cathedral was built.

Since then, it has been rebuilt four times, with the latest being in 1675 after the Great Fire of London in 1666, completely destroying it.

What stands today is a masterpiece by Christopher Wren that includes an underground Crypt, impressive interiors, and a 111m-high Dome. 

The Cathedral is located in the City of London, close to the River Thames and across the Millennium Bridge.

The nearest underground station is St. Paul’s (Central line), while Mansion House and Blackfriars (Circle and District lines) are only a few more minutes away.

Once you reach the Cathedral, purchase a ticket to get inside and have a close look at the holy places in Europe’s architecture and the collections that it houses.

Vital areas to visit include the High Altar, the Crypt, the Chapel, and of course, the galleries of the Dome.

The highest one is the Golden Gallery, 85 meters or 528 steps from the ground floor of the Cathedral.

Along with the Stone Gallery below it, this gallery offers great views of London and the nearby area. 

Note that St. Paul’s Cathedral is closed on Sundays for sightseeing, and it is only open for worshipers.

Remember to book your tickets in advance as they are cheaper than on-the-door fares, £17 and £20 per adult, respectively.

Besides, the ticket includes an audio-guide to help you understand more about the Cathedral.

Submitted by: Elina from Empnefsys & Travel

3. Stonehenge

• Location: Wiltshire, England
• Find places to stay near Wiltshire: Hotels | Airbnb

Stonehenge in Wiltshire, England, should be top of the list for any tourists in the U.K. The Neolithic monument was built more than five thousand years ago, but the rocks themselves are much older.

The formation is like none other on the continent.

The structure is made of two large stone circles, one within the other, and it’s assumed the outside circle was used to chart the sun’s motions.

The stones’ positioning is extraordinary, considering they designed the system at least 500 years before the invention of instruments to help construct it.

There are also theories that the site was a burial ground or used for worship.

Although there are other circular rock formations in the area, Stonehenge’s scale and mystery make it exceptional.

Despite being used and misused for decades–the grounds were also used for military training–the incredible structure still stands.

In the 20th century, Stonehenge was restored to allow tourists to walk around the stones.

While you’re in the countryside, you should also try to discover the surrounding region.

Less than a two-hour drive outside London, it’s a perfect spot to stroll around and admire the scenery, or even see the town of Salisbury.

There are also so many beautiful landscapes to experience.

4. Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela

• Location: Santiago de Compostela, Spain
• Find places to stay in Santiago de Compostela: Hotels | Airbnb

The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, Spain, is one of the most significant religious places in Europe.

The Cathedral is one of the three churches in the world built over the tomb of an apostle of Jesus.

The Cathedral’s construction started in 1075 after discovering what was believed to be the apostle Saint James’ tomb.

Soon after that, throngs of pilgrims from all over Europe started coming to Santiago de Compostela, following the journey nowadays known as the Camino de Santiago or the Way of St. James . 

The Cathedral is open for visitors every day; the entrance is free.

During daily masses, nobody is allowed to walk around and take photos, but anybody can attend a mass.

On special religious occasions, like Christmas, Easter, etc., masses are celebrated with the Botafumeiro ceremony when eight monks swing a massive metal censer suspended from the ceiling.

Visitors to the Cathedral can see Saint James’ tomb, take part in the mass, do a rooftop tour, or explore the museum.  

The Cathedral is situated on Obradoiro Square in the very center of the city.

There are an international airport, a train and a bus station in Santiago de Compostela. It’s easy to get here from any Spanish city.

Galicia is famous for its delicious seafood and fish dishes. There are a few tapas bars near the Cathedral where you can enjoy a glass of wine with a couple of exquisite tapas.

Submitted by: Alya & Campbell from Stingy Nomads

5. La Sagrada Familia

• Location: Barcelona, Spain
• Find places to stay in Barcelona: Hotels | Airbnb

Barcelona, the second-most populous city in Spain, is the hometown of the famous architect Antoni Gaudi.

Gaudi might even be the most renowned city-architect in the world.

He decorated Barcelona’s streets with his unique style, called Modern Catalan, and a tour in the city is not complete without seeing Gaudi’s fascinating buildings, Park Guell, and La Sagrada Familia.

The Basilica de la Sagrada Familia is probably Gaudi’s most famous work and one of Barcelona’s symbolic landmarks.

The construction started in 1882, and Gaudi took over the project in 1883, changing it to his own style combining with Gothic and Art-Nouveau forms.

The Basilica work is still taking place, and it is expected to complete in 2026, making it the world’s largest unfinished church.

La Sagrada Familia is a UNESCO world heritage site and one of the most important places to visit in Barcelona .

The gothic gray towers you see from the outside are in complete contrast to the bright and clean style of the inside of the church.

A walk inside one of the best churches in Europe reveals more of the unique and modern architecture, and you can also Gaudi’s grave inside.

On a bright and not windy day, you can climb up to one of the towers and get a fantastic view of the city of Barcelona around you. 

The church is in the L’Eixample district, and you can get there with the L2 / L5 subway trains. It is better to arrive early as lines might be long or buy an organized tour for a specific hour.

Submitted by: Moshe Huberman from The Top Ten Traveler

A UNESCO World Heritage Site is a creation or landmark chosen for conservation by the United Nations Organization for Education, Science and Culture (UNESCO) due to its cultural, historical, scientific or natural significance. It must meet a minimum of one of ten selection criteria to be considered for the World Heritage List, and once chosen, it becomes protected for preservation by various international treaties.

6. Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris

• Location: Paris, France
• Find places to stay in Paris: Hotels | Airbnb

If you’re visiting the ‘City of Light,’ you definitely need to take in Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris .

Notre-Dame Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of France’s most-visited monuments, was built to be the centerpiece of Paris and is considered one of the best examples of the French Gothic architecture style. 

Built on an early Merovingian church site, the Cathedral was commissioned by the Bishop of Paris in the 12th century, and the first stone was laid in 1163. While it was completed in 1345, it wasn’t consecrated until 1391. 

The Cathedral is known for its gargoyles, its four-tonne bell named “Emmanuel,” and its famous carillon within its bell tower, composed of 77 bells.

It’s also renowned for its three rose windows, its three massive organs, and its labyrinth. 

Located along the Seine River in the center of the city, the Cathedral’s iconic two towers loom overhead, visible from many points throughout the city.

Not only is it one of the most famous religious places in Europe, but it also offers breathtaking views of the city of Paris and is a featured location on many Catholic pilgrimages. 

The iconic structure went through many modifications and was partly destroyed during the French Revolution of the 1790s.

However, once Victor Hugo’s novel The Hunchback of Notre Dame was published in 1831, the Cathedral experienced renewed interest and underwent an extensive restoration project.

On April 15, 2019, a fire broke out due to the ever-continuing restoration work on the Cathedral, badly damaging the spire and some of the interior.

While the structure itself and a majority of its historic artifacts survived, the building and surrounding area are currently closed to rebuild and continue the restoration. 

7. The Sacré-Coeur

The Sacré-Coeur is one of the most famous landmarks in Paris and Europe.

It’s actually the second most visited monument in Paris after Notre-Dame. This stunning Basilica is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

It was built between 1875 and 1914.

The decision to build it came after France’s defeat in the 1870 Franco-Prussian War as Bishop Fournier considered it a divine punishment for which France had to do penance.

The architecture is an interesting mix of Ancient Roman style and Byzantine style.

The white stones used for its construction contains calcite, which cleans the stones when it rains.

That’s the reason why it’s always bright white!

You will find it at the summit of the butte Montmartre in the 18th arrondissement of Paris.

You can get there by car or by metro, but you will have to walk a bit.

If you want to avoid climbing all the steps to the Sacré-Coeur, just take the funicular! 

You can visit the interior of the Basilica every day for free.

But if you want to enjoy breathtaking views of Paris, you should visit the Dome of the Sacré-Coeur.

You will have to climb around 300 steps to get up there, which costs about 6 euros.

The picturesque neighborhood of Montmartre looks like a village inside Paris, and it’s actually a fantastic place for a stroll.

The area is filled with restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops.

Submitted by: Ophelie from Limitless Secrets

8. Mont Saint Michel

• Location: Le Mont-Saint-Michel, France
• Find places to stay in Le Mont-Saint-Michel: Hotels | Airbnb

The Benedictine abbey of Mont St. Michel is one of the most beautiful landmarks in France.

Nicknamed the wonder of the western world, Mont St. Michel is located in Normandy, in northern France.

It is a listed historical monument of France and a UNESCO World Wonder.

Because this abbey is also a fortress, Mont St. Michel is often listed as one of the most beautiful castles in France . 

The best way to visit Mont St. Michel is on a Normandy road trip, but it is also a popular (even if long) day tour from Paris. 

Mont St. Michel’s location is well known for its high tides. During the high tides, the abbey becomes an island, and it is even more picturesque. 

There’s a religious building in this location since the 8th century that evolved over the centuries.

Therefore, Mont St. Michel is a blend of different gothic styles adapted to the building’s particular geography.

Dedicated to Saint Michel, the saint patron of travelers, Mont Saint-Michel became in the middle ages one of the most popular pilgrimage destinations in the Christian world, and kings and regional lords protected it.

Thanks to its fortifications, Mont St. Michel resisted the English attacks and survived the French Revolution.

Submitted by: Elisa by France Bucket List

9. Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres

• Location: Chartres, France
• Find places to stay in Chartres: Hotels | Airbnb

In the French city of Chartres, an hour and a half southwest of Paris, you’ll find Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres.

Construction on this Cathedral was completed by 1220, and it’s considered another shining example of French Gothic architecture. 

The Cathedral has maintained its importance from a Medieval pilgrimage site to the present day for the Virgin Mary.

It’s home to one of the famous relics Sancta Camisa, a tunic believed to have been worn by Mary at Jesus’s birth. 

The magnificent stained glass windows, sculptures, and gargoyles all help give the building its old-world charm.

This structure has three famous stained glass rose windows, with the most prominent being the large rose window, which illuminates the interior with colorful lights.

The set of 167 Medieval stained glass windows in Chartres Cathedral, mostly created in the 12th and 13th centuries, are considered some of the most complete and best-preserved in the world.

They were removed from this one of the best churches in Europe during both World Wars to save them from any damage.

The church served as the coronation site for King Henry IV of France in 1594 and later was damaged during the French Revolution.

It was also saved from destruction during the 20th century’s World War II when American colonel Welborn Barton Griffith Jr. personally went to confirm that enemy forces were not using the church.

Finally, in the early 21st century, the Cathedral started to receive the restoration it needed. 

10. Sanctuaires Notre-Dame de Lourdes

• Location: Lourdes, France
• Find places to stay in Lourdes: Hotels | Airbnb

You should make a point to visit Our Lady of Lourdes near the city of Lourdes, France. 

As one of the major Catholic pilgrimage sites, many believe that cures of diseases have been attributed to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary here.

On February 11, 1858, Bernadette Soubirous was a 14-year-old girl who was out gathering firewood in a cave in Lourdes.

When she entered the grotto, she heard a noise and saw a beautiful lady–her first of several encounters with the Virgin Mary.

During one of her 18 Marian apparitions, the Virgin Mary asked her to drink water from a muddy spring in the cave, but it became clean.

The water from this stream is the source of many miracles over the past 160 years.  

Today, you can visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, which surrounds the water grotto.

With 22 different worship spaces on its grounds and holy places in Europe to stay for the sick people and their helpers who wish to be healed by the water, it’s large enough to accommodate the millions of pilgrims who visit the site every year. 

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Tip: Most Roman Catholic churches in Italy require women to cover their shoulders and knees before entering, so make sure you keep a light scarf or cover-up in your day bag . 

11. Milan Cathedral

• Location: Milan, Italy
• Find places to stay in Milan: Hotels | Airbnb

When it comes to holy places in Europe to see, Milan is definitely high on the list.

If you find yourself in this beautiful city, there’s no way around the iconic landmark and main attraction: Milan Cathedral .

In fact, visiting the church is the number one reason to visit Milan for many believers.

This one of the best churches in Europe is located in Milan’s heart at the city square, Piazza del Duomo, which includes several other monumental buildings.

The Cathedral, which is called Duomo di Milano in Italian, is one of the world’s largest.

Dating back to 1386, the construction of this magnificent Gothic church took almost 600 years. 

While the inside of Milan Cathedral is majestic, it’s the rooftop with its 135 spires and more than 2,000 adorning marble statues that make it truly special.

When visiting, make sure to get a ticket with access to both the cathedral interior and the rooftops.

You can get up there by lift or by stairs, and it’s definitely worth the extra money.

From the rooftops, you are not only able to get a close-up look at the many impressive sculptures and ornate spires, but you will also get amazing panoramic views over Piazza del Duomo and the city of Milan .

On bright days, it’s even possible to see as far as the Alps!

Lines for tickets to visit this masterpiece can get very long, especially in the peak season, so make sure you buy tickets to skip the line or buy your tickets online in advance.

For the absolute best experience, you should visit the cathedral right when it opens in the morning.

That way, you will beat the crowds and have it to yourself while others are still standing in line.

If you have the time, come back later in the day to enjoy the rooftops in the setting sun, making for even better photos.

Submitted by: Alex & Victoria from North Abroad

12. St. Peter’s Basilica

• Location: Vatican City, The Vatican
• Find places to stay near Vatican City in Rome: Hotels | Airbnb

The Vatican City is the smallest country in the world, but it is also home to one of the world’s biggest churches.

St. Peter’s Basilica is the largest church in the world and the center of the Roman Catholic Church.

The massive church is built on the grounds where Saint Peter, one of Jesus’s twelve faithful apostles and the first Pope, was crucified in 64 B.C.E. by Roman Emperor Nero and buried. 

The enormous Old St. Peter’s Basilica was built on the grounds that St. Peter was buried about 300 years after his death, with a small shrine to St. Peter’s burial place, until it fell into a state of disrepair in the 1400s. 

The new St. Peter’s Basilica is considered one of the greatest works of Renaissance art and design.

The new church’s cornerstone was laid in 1506, and after undergoing several redesigns with artist architects like Donato Bramante, Raphael, and Michelangelo, the complex wasn’t completed until 1626.

The Basilica’s main features include a large, tall Dome, a long nave with four aisles the same width as the nave. The outside is constructed of travertine stone while the inside has a marble and bronze decoration.

The Piazza in front of one of the holy places in Europe was completed in 1667.

The Egyptian obelisk that stands with prominence in the center of the Piazza today is considered a witness since it was there when Peter was crucified in the Circus of Nero, which is essentially the grounds of modern-day Vatican City. 

Today, St. Peter’s Basilica is on pilgrimage routes for Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Christians. 

This one of the best churches in Europe is free to enter, but be prepared to wait in long lines. Or, you can sign up for a guided tour with skip-the-line entry included.

13. Sistine Chapel

• Location: Vatican City

Housed in the Vatican City within the Apostolic Palace, the Sistine Chapel is one of the most spectacular religious places in Europe.

Named after the Pope who restored the Chapel in the 15th century, Pope Sixtus IV, the Sistine Chapel is noted as one of the world’s most impressive Renaissance artworks.

The first frescos were added to the chapel walls in the late 1400s by a team of artists like Sandro Botticelli, Domenico Ghirlandaio, and Cosimo Rosselli, while Michelangelo came into the fold to paint the famous ceiling frescos in the 1500s. 

The ceiling showcases one of the most renowned frescoes of the Renaissance, Michelangelo’s The Last Judgement , painted on an altar wall, with Christ delivering his final judgment to the world.

The Chapel ceiling is covered with pictures of the prophets, like the famous Creation of Adam, where God is famously depicted reaching down to Adam. 

The Sistine Chapel is also the storied location of the Papal Conclave, the process, and ceremony where the Roman Catholic Church’s cardinals gather to elect a new pope. 

To avoid waiting in long lines the day of, purchase tickets online in advance to take a guided tour of the Vatican Museums , which includes the Sistine Chapel.

The Vatican Museums also offer other tours, like exploring select areas of the Museums, the Vatican Gardens, the Apostolic Palace, or the Gardens of the Pontifical Villas.

14. Basilica di San Francesco d’Assisi

• Location: Assisi, Italy
• Find places to stay in Assisi: Hotels | Airbnb

Every year, millions of pilgrims make the trip to the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi, Italy.

The church is not just a space of worship; it’s also a place of art, history, and architecture.

The Basilica’s lower church was completed in 1230 in the Romanesque and Gothic styles and set the standards for Italian Gothic architecture.

The upper church was started nine years later and completed by 1253.

Inside, the Basilica is not only beautiful, but it is also full of historical significance.

It’s home to several frescos by famous Italian artists like Cimabue, Giotto di Bondone, and Pietro Lorenzetti, and the remains of Saint Francis himself are buried inside the crypt.  

Saint Francis was born in Assisi, Italy, between 1181 and 1182.

As one of the most revered Christian religious leaders, he founded the men’s Order of Friars Minor, the women’s Order of Saint Clare, the Custody of the Holy Land, and the Third Order of Saint Francis.

Renowned for his poverty, devotion to God, and love for animals, he is known as the patron saint of animals, merchants, ecology and shares the title for the Patron Saints of Italy with Saint Catherine of Siena.

You can explore the Basilica on your own, or visit with a guided tour.

15. Siena Cathedral

• Location: Siena, Italy
• Find places to stay in Siena: Hotels | Airbnb

The Medieval Siena Cathedral is one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Italy and is one of the best religious places in Europe, located in Siena, Italy.

Constructed in the 12th and 13th centuries, the Cathedral is notable for featuring a combination of Romanesque and Gothic architecture.

Officially dedicated to the Assumption of Mary, Siena Cathedral is located in the city’s heart and includes its baptistery, a museum, and a cemetery.

Although the Cathedral is impressive from the outside—the façade is covered in beautiful sculptures—the inside is even more outstanding.

The inside houses a dome, ornately decorated with stars.

There are frescos and sculpture work by some of the best Italian artists of the time, like Domenico Beccafumi, Donatello, Nicola Pisano, Bernini, and Michelangelo.

The floor is also a marvel; it’s a 56-panel mosaic laid over the course of five centuries, from the 1300s to the 1800s, by elite Siena artisans.

However, if you visit the Siena Cathedral looking for Saint Catherine of Siena’s relics, you’re looking in the particularly wrong holy places in Europe.

You can find the other Patron Saint of Italy’s head encased in a bronze bust and her thumb in the nearby Basilica of San Domenico, about 10 minutes walk away.

You can take a guided walking tour of Siena that includes a stop at Basilica of San Domenico before skip-the-line entrance into the Cathedral or purchase an Opa Si Pass , which includes a tour and entrance into all the buildings on the complex.

16. Jasna Góra Monastery

• Location: Częstochowa, Poland 
• Find places to stay in Częstochowa: Hotels | Airbnb

There is something incredibly spiritual about walking through the Jasna Góra Monastery in Częstochowa, Poland; it’s not just because of the famous religious icon that dates back centuries it centers around.

The serene, peaceful setting—in the foothills of the Tatra Mountains, less than 150 km from the border of Czechia–has a way of calming the soul. 

Every year since the Middle Ages, Jasna Góra Monastery is visited by thousands of religious persons to see the treasured Black Madonna of Częstochowa.

The true age of this depiction of the Virgin Mary with Child Jesus, also called Our Lady of Częstochowa, is unknown, but it’s believed to have been created in the 13th century as a Balkans icon.

The monastery itself was founded in 1382 when Polish Prince Ladislaus of Opole gave the picture to the care of sixteen Hungarian Pauline monks.

To get to Jasna Góra Monastery and see one of Poland’s official national historic monuments, several trains run to Częstochowa every day from most major cities in Poland.

Once you enter the Baroque church, it’s respectful to stay as quiet as possible and show respect to the icon by kneeling.

They also offer mass multiple times a day and have a museum on site.

17. Temple of Athena

• Location: Delphi, Greece
• Find places to stay in Delphi: Hotels | Airbnb

One of the most important sites of the ancient world, the ancient sanctuary of Delphi , sits high in mainland Greece’s mountains.

Delphi was the home of the ancient Greek God Apollo and his priestess, the Pythia.

She was also called the Oracle of Delphi. Participants came from all over the ancient world to ask the Oracle questions and receive Apollo’s wisdom and guidance before making important decisions.

The Oracle was consulted by everyone from local people to kings and other heads of state. 

When you first arrive at the Temple of Athena at Delphi, you’re greeted by panoramic views of valleys and olive groves, with peeks of the sea in the distance.

The sanctuary sits on the slopes of Mt. Parnassus, and when you’re surrounded by the high mountains and ancient ruins, it’s easy to believe that you’re in the center of the world.

Give yourself time to slowly explore the site from the Temple of Athena at the sanctuary’s entrance to the ancient stadium at the top of the site.

The museum is also worth visiting, with some beautiful examples of ancient art and architecture.

You can visit Delphi independently or go as part of a tour.

As it’s quite far from both Athens and Thessaloniki, you may prefer to stay in the modern town of Delphi overnight.

That way, you can see the site early in the morning before the tour buses arrive and genuinely appreciate the peace and beauty of this sacred site. 

Submitted by: Roxanne de Bruyn from Faraway Worlds

18. Our Lady of Međugorje

• Location: Međugorje, Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Find places to stay near Međugorje: Hotels | Airbnb

Over several months in 1981, six young peasant children reported seeing apparitions of the Virgin Mary on a hilltop in the small town of Međugorje in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

While the Vatican has still not authenticated the events, in 2019, the site of the visions, now called Apparition Hill, was recognized by the Vatican as an official pilgrimage destination and now attracts millions of modern-day pilgrims each year.

Many tour companies will take you on a day trip to Međugorje from Croatia cities like Split , Trogir , or Dubrovnik. Or, you can go on your own. 

Tip: The climb up to Apparition Hill is difficult–the final hill is rocky and very steep–so make sure you wear sturdy sneakers or hiking shoes.

The routes to arrive at Apparition Hill requires walking up several steep hills. 

While you can drive or be dropped off at the top of one of these hills due to the paved roads, you have to climb a rock-filled, jagged hill to finally arrive at the site.

Once there, you’ll find a massive statue of the Virgin Mary, as well as a crucifix of Jesus, and an incredible view of the surrounding mountains. 

19. Dohány Street Synagogue

• Location: Budapest, Hungary
• Find places to stay in Budapest: Hotels | Airbnb

Located on the south side of the Danube River in Budapest, Dohány Street Synagogue is the largest synagogue in Europe and one of the world’s most beautiful.

It was built in the mid-1800s in the Moorish Revival style, which pulls decoration inspiration from North African Islam and Medieval Spain, like The Alhambra. 

The Synagogue suffered substantial damage during World War II, and it was only after the Communist era ended that restoration work on the Synagogue could begin, in 1991.

The entire complex encompasses the Great Synagogue, the Heroes’ Temple, the graveyard, the Memorial, and the Jewish Museum.

You can buy tickets on their website to go inside Dohány Street Synagogue or take one of their guided tours.

The Central Synagogue in Midtown East, Manhattan, New York City , was designed as an almost exact replica of the Dohány Street Synagogue.

20. St. Elisabeth Cathedral

• Location: Košice, Slovakia
• Find places to stay in Košice: Hotels | Airbnb

One of the biggest attractions of Košice, and Slovakia in general, is the St. Elisabeth Cathedral–the easternmost Gothic cathedral in Europe.

This architectural masterpiece is located in the city’s central part, at Hlavna street, the main pedestrian area of Košice, and it’s impossible to miss–the Cathedral towers above the city. 

The construction started at the end of the 14th century, but the Cathedral was renovated and rebuilt a few times over the years.

Today this is the largest place of worship in Slovakia; it can fit up to 5,000 worshippers.

The building is rich in details, but the quirkiest one is the sculptor’s ugly wife turned into one of the gargoyles – you can notice it on the right side above the entrance. 

St. Elisabeth Cathedral’s interior is impressive too – be sure to see the gothic double spiral staircase – there are only five of this kind in Europe!

Don’t miss the Cathedral’s north tower too–also known as Sigismund’s tower–it’s 60 meters high, and from the top, you can admire the beautiful panorama of Kosice and its surroundings.

Next to the Cathedral, and part of its complex, you can find another beautiful Gothic building–the 14th century St. Michael’s Chapel.

It used to be a cemetery chapel, but these days it is one of a popular wedding holy places in Europe. Visiting these two landmarks is one of the best things to do in Košice !

Submitted by: Kamila from Kami and the Rest of the World

21. Hagia Sophia and The Blue Mosque

• Location: Istanbul, Turkey
• Find places to stay in Istanbul: Hotels | Airbnb

Some of the most ancient historical landmarks in Europe can be found scattered all across Istanbul.

However, two of the most significant ones you can visit during your Istanbul layover are Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosques . 

Formerly a church, a mosque, a museum, and now a mosque again, Hagia Sofia was constructed in 537 as the patriarchal Cathedral of Constantinopole – that time imperial capital.

Back then, it was the largest interior space globally and one of the first cathedrals to use a full pendentive dome.

Because of its layout, Hagia Sophia is considered to be the representation of Byzantine architecture. 

It perfectly portrays Orthodox Christianity and Islam’s traces under one roof adorned with marble pillars, mosaics, and coverings of magnificent artistic value. 

One of the best examples of an Ottoman-era mosque is the grand Sultan Ahmed Mosque, best known as the Blue Mosque, located a few minute’s walk from Hagia Sophia. 

This 17th-century mosque is adorned with about 20,000 hand-painted blue ceramic tules in 60 different tulip patterns and incorporates many Byzantine elements of Hagia Sophia and traditional Islamic architecture.

The light in the mosque comes from 200 stained glass windows. 

Considered as the last prominent mosque of the classical period, the Sultan Ahmed Mosque features five main and eight secondary domes and six minarets that dominate Istanbul’s skyline . 

Both of them are located in the Fatih district of Istanbul, and visiting both is possible when there are no prayers held.

Submitted by: Baia from Red Fedora Diary

Spanning centuries of religions and spiritual history, there are so many cities with incredible religious places in Europe. Which of these sanctuaries, sites, and temples do you want to visit?

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10 Top Religious Sites in Europe

Affinity Travel , Magazine Features

By Cady Price

Europe has no shortage of extraordinary religious sites to visit. Whether you’re visiting for the beautiful architecture, the rich history or to attend a service, these sites won’t disappoint. Religious sites are some of the most visited places in the world, most of them drawing in millions of travelers a year.

Some popular religious sites in Europe:

Cathedral de Notre Dame

Sistine chapel, st. paul’s cathedral.

Most recently built in the late 1600s and early 1700s, St. Paul’s Cathedral is located on Ludgate Hill in London, England. The building serves as an Anglican Cathedral, but many people visit for its stunning architecture and rich history. The dome sits at 365 feet in the sky, nearly 36 stories,  and can be seen from all around the city.

Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela

Located in Galicia, Spain, the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is believed to be built over the tomb of Saint James, an apostle of Jesus. It marks the end of the pilgrimage route Way of St. James. The structure was built with Roman and Gothic architecture styles.

The cathedral is free and open to everyone, including during mass. Visitors can also opt for a roof top tour to get a view of the city below and enjoy the museum. On special holidays, like Christmas or Easter, attendees can witness a Botafumeiro ceremony, where monks swing an incense burner that is suspended from the ceiling.

La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain

La Sagrada Familila

La Sagrada Familia was designed by world famous architect, Antoni Gaudi. Much of his work can be seen in Barcelona, Spain, where La Sagrada Familia is also located. The building is actually unfinished, construction is expected to be finished in 2026, but the building is still open for tours. The church is a UNESCO world heritage and one of the most visited places in Barcelona.

The architecture is breath-taking, with both gothic and modern attributes. In good weather, visitors are able to ascend one of the towers for a beautiful view of the city. The building had eleven complete spires but seven more are planned in construction. There are several facades, each facing a different direction and depicting different stories. The facades are intricately carved and full of stunning detail.

One of France’s most visited sites, Notre Dame is a medieval Catholic cathedral.  Famous for its French Gothic architecture, many people like to see its rose windows, pipe organs and church bells. Located along the Seine River in Paris, France, the epic cathedral offers beautiful sights both of the architecture and the city.

In 2019 a fire broke out, collapsing the spire and damaging several other areas of the structure. The building is currently closed due to repairs, and is expected to reopen in December of 2024.

Milan Cathedral

Milan Cathedral, or Duomo of Milan, is located in Italy and an iconic landmark in the city. The marble interior and carved statues bring in many travelers. Elegant stained glass windows depicting stories from the Bible line the walls. Also on display are skeletons of Saints dressed in their finest garb. The roof has an astounding 135 spires creating a stunning visual from the outside. Its collection of thousands statues and gargoyles is another attribute that makes Milan Cathedral a special visit.

Temple of Athena in Athens, Greece

St. Peter’s Basilica

Vatican City is home to many famous religious sites including St. Peter’s Basilica. It is the largest church in the world and also the heart of the Roman Catholic Church. Built on the burial site of Saint Peter, the church is one of the most famous holy buildings. Constructed in Renaissance style architecture, the building showcases a remarkable dome. The internal walls feature impressive carvings and mosaics, making it the perfect destination for art lovers.

It is free to enter but there are typically long lines. Guided tours are also available if you want to skip the lines.

Also located in Vatican City is the Sistine Chapel, the formal residence of the Pope. The ceiling was famously painted by Michelangelo depicting breath-taking, emotional scenes from the Bible. The architecture and artwork are both remarkable examples of Renaissance style. The artwork, painted by world-famous artists, makes the Sistine Chapel a must-see for act lovers.

Visitors can wait in line and explore themselves, or take a tour with Vatican Museums which includes Sistine Chapel.

Temple of Athena

The Temple of Athena in Delphi, Greece is a grouping of limestone structures. It is an ancient temple dedicated to the Goddess Athena and is equally stunning as it is historical. Sitting on higher ground, the temple offers panoramic views of beautiful landscape. First created in the 7 th century BC, the temple has been damaged and restored several times over the years, but keeps its original serenity. Visitors can go to the temple on their own or in guided tours.

Stonehenge in Salisbury Plain, England

Dohany Street Synagogue

The Dohany Street Synagogue, located in Budapest, Hungary, is the largest synagogue in Europe. The interior is covered in ornate gold detailing and geometric artwork. The decorative inspirations include North African Islam and Medieval Spain, creating one of the most beautiful synagogues and an attraction for art lovers. On-site is also a museum covering a lot of Jewish history.

Travelers can take a guided tour to escape the long lines or explore the grounds on their own.

Wiltshire, England is home to the pre-historic stone monument known as Stonehenge. Each stone stands at about 13 feet and are placed in a circle. No one knows for sure how or why the stones were placed there, but the history and fascination make it worth a trip. The circle was erected around five-thousand years ago, but the stones are much older. Some believe the stones were used to track movements of the sun, which would have been incredible for that time, or that it was used as a burial ground. Regardless, the site and the surrounding landscape are interesting to see.

Other Notable Religious Sites

There are many more religious sites in Europe that are worth visiting. Here is a list of 5 more popular options.

• Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque- Istanbul, Turkey
• The Sanctuary of Fatima- Fatima, Portugal
• The Basilica of San Francesco- Assisi, Italy
• Elisabeth Cathedral- Kosice, Slovakia
• The Rock of Cashel- Cashel, Ireland

For more information on Religious and Historical Sites in Europe visit Top 30 Pilgrimage Sites in Europe  and Subscribe to Leisure Group Travel magazine for FREE .

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Tour Operator for faith based tours in Greece, Italy, France and all Europe

Tour operator for faith based tours in europe.

Visiting a sacred and religious site is not yet a conventional visit for travellers. It has more to do with the emotional and spiritual pursuit than the pursuit of knowledge and cognition. In this particular journey of faith and belief, Travelway your t our operator for faith based tours in Europe, has created complete faith-based tours that show the necessary reverence for the various religious sites around the world, creating a travel experience that honours religion as a common cultural element that unites people.The company’s uniquely designed faith-based tours include travel tours characterized by humility and contemplation, creating indescribable feelings of faith and reverence through visiting holy places such as the imposing Basilica of St. Peter and the sacred rocks of the monasteries in Meteora. The company has created specially integrated faith-based tours around the country of Greece, where the principle of the faith and orthodoxy dominate with beautiful and imposing temples throughout the country, such as the monument of St.Paul in Veria and the picturesque monastery of St.John in Patmos. After all, faith is found in every human being and can be translated into the need for travel and exploration.

A faith-based tour is a form of tourism of special interest that is motivated, in part or exclusively, by religious motives and specifically by the desire of the members of a travel group to move from their place of permanent residence in order to visit a site they consider “sacred” (e.g. a temple, a monastery, etc.), often choosing a specific time that coincides with various religious events and seeking the satisfaction of religious needs. These movements are not exclusively of a pilgrimage nature, as they may concern people who wish to tour a place in order to admire monuments of the rich architecture of high historical and artistic value. Throughout this tour, the travel group members are guided by specialized travel guides carefully assigned by a travel agent, who have all the necessary certified knowledge and skills to offer the best possible services.

In order for a travel group to be able to experience all those emotions of a complete spiritual and travel experience through a faith-based tour, a necessary precondition is the planning of this trip by an experienced tour operator company. When planning such a trip, which will include multiple destinations in places, monuments and religious buildings, all this planning should be undertaken by professionals who are able to deal with all the tourist activities related to the conduct of the trip.A tour operator undertakes the necessary escort of travellers during their travels to the holy places with the use of specially trained tourist escorts. It also efficiently manages knowledge and information related to religious destinations, conducting necessary market research and selecting the appropriate spiritual / pilgrimage destinations, always considering the specific needs and motivations of religious tourists. It also enriches religious tours with other thematic forms of tourism and simplifies the process of the excursion program by undertaking the planning of travel and accommodation. In short, a tour operator like Travelway undertakes all those actions so that people can enjoy all this unique religious experience that “speaks” to our most inner and vital needs of self-realization.

DISCOVER OUR FAITH BASED TOURS

• Competitive and economical offers
• Time-saving schedules and activities
• Value for money services
• Special access to archaeological / religious sites
• Financial guarantees
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• Unique opportunities to experience natural and historical destinations

Travelway has carefully designed tours related to the culture of different countries and regions, allowing travellers to gather new information and experiences to meet their cultural and spiritual needs.The company is able to support these religious and pilgrimage tours of travellers, both at the stage of their design and organization, as well as at the stage of their implementation, so that they themselves can visit the places where the soul meets the mind and body, elevating human hope to unimaginable heights because faith is in our every journey.

Vasilica of St Francis- Assisi, Italy

St. Paul's monument - Berea (Veria), Greece

Santa Maria de Montserrat - Catalonia, Spain

Sanctuary of St. Pio - San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy

Sanctuary of San Michele Arcangelo - Monte San Angelo, Italy

Sanctuary of our Lady - Fatima, Portugal

San Callisto Catacombs - Rome, Italy

Pilgrimage site - Medjugorge, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Philippi site - Kavala, Greece

Passion Play decorated painted house - Oberammergau, Germany

Papal Audience - St Peter's square, Vatican City

Palermo Cathedral - Sicily, Italy

Monastery of St John - Patmos island, Greece

Meteora monasteries - Kalambaka, Greece

Inside St Peter's Basilica

Hosios Loukas Monastery - Greece

Holy Staircase in Holiest of Holy Chapel - Rome, Italy

Turin Duomo, Italy

Cathedral - Santiago de Compostela, Spain

Black Madonna of the Sanctuary - Loreto, Italy

Basilica of St Paul Outside the Walls - Rome, Italy

Basilica of Santa Teresa de Jesus - Alba de Tormes, Spain

Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary - Lourdes, France

Areopagus (Mars Hill) - Athens, Greece

Mamertine Prison - Ancient Forum in Rome, Italy

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Places of religious significance in Europe

Europe has many culturally significant cities to visit if you would like to encourage or deepen your Christian faith, including Rome, Lourdes, Assisi and Fatima. There are many large cathedrals, breath-taking basilicas, ancient monasteries and pilgrimage sites, including churches where miraculous healings have been noted to take place, to discover, making Europe a wonderful destination for a cultural or religious tour.

Here is our guide to some of the most popular pilgrimage sites in Europe for Christians, including must-see sites and churches.

When you think of a Christian vacation in Europe one of the first cities that likely comes to mind is the mighty city of Rome , which has long been a place of pilgrimage for Christians. Just west of the heart of Rome you will find Vatican City, which is an independent state in Rome run by the Pope. It is the “headquarters” of the Roman Catholic Church and is home to the Vatican Museums, which include a great number of artistic masterpieces and rare artefacts. The magnificent St Peter’s Basilica, which was built on the burial site of St Peter, can also be found in Vatican City.

Every Wednesday, pilgrims and visitors have the chance to see Pope Francis at the Papal Audience event and we also highly recommend a guided tour of St Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. Other important basilicas to enjoy in Rome are Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, St John Lateran Basilica and St Paul’s Basilica. Another important day trip for Christians is a tour of Rome’s catacombs and crypts , where features churches and monasteries of historical significance to Christianity.

If you would like to enjoy a Rome tour designed specifically for Christians, we recommend this tour from Bellarome Italian Holidays , which features the most important religious landmarks. If you’re on a budget, then consider a Christian bus tour of Rome, which is available from just $30.

Assisi is an old and picturesque town, the history of which is dominated by the unpretentious figure of St Francis (San Francesco), who was born in the town in 1182. St Francis dedicated his life to preaching the message of peace and forgiveness around the globe and he had a profound impact on Christian belief. His legacy is evident in every corner of Assisi, where you’ll find many churches, monasteries and shrines, including the Basilica of San Francesco d’Assisi, the Franciscan monastery, il Sacro Convento, Santa Maria Maggiore, the Cathedral of San Rufino and the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli.

If you have time, we highly recommend enjoying an Assisi and St Francis package (both 5 night and 7 night packages are available), which allow you to seek out the most important and religiously significant sites in and around Assisi, including the Holy Valley and Rieti. These packages also include a “Pilgrim’s Passport”, which is stamped at the sanctuaries as a memory of your journey.

Lourdes sits in the foothills of the Pyrnees in France and is well known for the apparitions of the Heavenly Mother that occurred in 1858. It is the largest pilgrimage site in France and is a site of numerous miraculous healings, with the Roman Catholic Church officially recognizing 69 healings. The best time to visit is between March and October, when many pilgrims visit the city.

Important places to visit on your pilgrimage to Lourdes are the Sanctuary of Lourdes (the spring water from the grotto inside the sanctuary is thought to have healing properties) and the five-domed St Mary’s Ukrainian Catholic Church, which was designed by Myroslav Nimciv.

Fátimain Portugal is well known as one of the most religiously significant cities in Europe and is home to the Chapel of the Apparitions, which is built on the site of a Marian apparition that appeared before three children in May and October 1917. The city is a wonderful place to visit on the anniversaries of the apparitions, which have been officially recognized by the Catholic Church, as part of a European pilgrimage.

The religious architecture in Fátima is particularly intriguing and there are plenty of chapels to enjoy, such as the Chapel of Casal Forte and the Chapel of Lombo de Égua. Important churches to visit include the Church of the Santíssima Trindade, as well as the nearby Basilica of the Santíssima Trinidade, where the tombs of the three witnesses to the aforementioned apparitions can be found. We recommend also visiting the Sanctuary of Fátima, which is a principal focus of pilgrims, and the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Ortiga.

Camino de Santiago

The Camino de Santiago , which is also known by several other English names, including the Way of St James, is in Northern Spain and it is one of the oldest pilgrimage routes in the world. The route is dedicated to the apostle of St James the Great, a shrine to whom can be found at the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela as it is widely believed that the saint’s remains are buried in the cathedral.

Taking this route is considered as a way to form your spiritual path or to experience spiritual growth and it is a versatile pilgrimage as there are around 12 different routes to Santiago de Compostela. However, the oldest route is referred to as the Original Way and begins in Oviedo, meaning that pilgrims on this route can walk for weeks or even months.

Accommodation along the route is minimal but hostels and monasteries offer a place to stay for pilgrims in return for a modest donation. Please note, however, that a Credencial or pilgrim’s passport is required to stay at these locations and this should be arranged in advance of travel – it grants you access to inexpensive (and sometimes free) overnight accommodation in the refugios along the trail. It also provides pilgrims with a record of where they ate or slept, which serves as proof to the Pilgrim’s Office in Santiago that the journey was accomplished according to an official route, allowing you to receive a compostela , which is a certificate of completion of the pilgrimage.

Altötting in Bavaria (Germany) has been an important place of worship for more than 500 years and more than a million pilgrims visit the Chapel of Grace each year, which houses a statue of the Black Madonna, where the miraculous healing of child was noted to have taken place. Thanks to its importance, it was also visited by Pope John Paul II in 1980.

Here you’ll also find the Collegiate Church, the Neo-Baroque St Anna’s Basilica and Chapel Square, where Pope Benedikt XVI celebrated Mass in 2006.

Częstochowa

Częstochowa is a city in South Poland that has been made famous due to the Jasna Góra Monastery and its painting of the Black Madonna , which is a well-known shrine to the Virgin Mary. The monastery attracts millions of pilgrims each year, who visit from all over the world and the city can be easily incorporated into a multi-center Christian tour of Europe.

Many people consider Częstochowa  to be the spiritual capital of Poland and the monastery is considered to symbolize the determination of the Polish nation to preserve their Christian heritage. It is very much worth the trip and if you are considering a pilgrimage to Częstochowa you may like to investigate the Wrocław Walking Pilgrimage, which takes place annually in August and takes you on a 9-day spiritual journey from Wrocław to Jasna Góra. If you would like to find out more about joining this walking pilgrimage, please click here to send an online inquiry.

There are many cities in Northern Ireland that have religious significance but we feel Armagh is one of the most important. Although the town’s roots are in Celtic paganism, Christianity spread throughout the region in 400 AD and there are several celebrated religious points of interest, such as St Patrick’s cathedrals (there are both Roman Catholic and Anglican cathedrals in the town) and St Patrick’s Trian, which displays some of the writings by St Patrick. It is the ecclesiastical capital of Ireland and also the seat of the Archbishops of Armagh.

As an enjoyable day tour, we recommend taking St Patrick’s Way , which is a pilgrim’s walk through Armagh. It begins at the Navan Centre and ends at St Patrick’s final resting place and is a signed walking trail that connects key sites relating to the saint and the Christian heritage of Northern Ireland. A pilgrim’s passport can be obtained from the Navan Centre to symbolize your journey, which you can stamp as required at the specified locations. A complete passport allows you to claim a Certificate of Achievement, which makes a wonderful souvenir.

For more information on our Christian tours, please contact a member of our friendly team on  +44 1223 637328 or click here to send an online inquiry.

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UN Tourism | Bringing the world closer

• 10 Dec 2014

Tourism can protect and promote religious heritage

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PR No. : PR 14083

Sustainable development of tourism at religious heritage sites was in focus at the International Conference on Religious Heritage and Tourism: Types, trends and challenges , jointly organized by UNWTO, the Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism of Spain and the City Hall of Elche (27-28 November 2014, Elche, Spain).

With this backdrop, the International Conference on Religious Heritage and Tourism explored the main challenges and best practices for sustainable tourism development at religious sites in the city of Elche, Spain, home to the Mystery Play of Elx, the last living testimony of European religious theatre of the Middle Ages and declared a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

“Among the many motivations for travelling, visiting cultural or religious sites ranks high on travelers’ wish lists. Leveraging the growing interest for religious tourism worldwide is not only beneficial for the tourism sector, but crucial in building cultural dialogue and peace”, said UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai, opening the Conference. “Religious tourism can also be a powerful instrument for raising awareness regarding the importance of safeguarding one´s heritage and that of humanity, and help preserve these important sites for future generations”, he added. 

The Secretary of State for Tourism of Spain, Isabel Borrego, highlighted the fruitful cooperation between UNWTO and Spain in further spreading awareness of the value of historical, cultural and artistic heritage, and stressed the importance of this particular tourism segment for Spain. "There is not a single town or city in Spain where you won’t find traditions, festivals religious celebrations, pilgrimages, monasteries, cathedrals or pilgrimages. Religious tourism boosts economic activity and helps safeguard our rich historic heritage, and will play an essential role in the future of the tourism sector."

The Mayor of Elche, Mercedes Alonso García, said: “Tourists are not only seeking to experience nature but also the most deeply rooted creations of the human spirit. In this sense, and as this conference has shown, a quality tourism offer consists of tangible cultural and religious heritage, as well as the intangible realities and cultural events fostered by them."

During the Conference, participants highlighted the role of religious heritage sites and religious traditions in educating future generations and creating a sense of belonging in host communities, the need to preserve the integrity and authenticity of these sites and having local communities benefiting from tourism development.

Participants also highlighted that tourism has become one of the forces driving preservation in many religious sites due to the growing secularization of society, and that for tourists interacting with other religions is a unique experience that can only happen within the full respect for host communities. 

Useful links:

International Conference on Religious Heritage and Tourism: Types, Trends and Challenges

UNWTO Regional Programme for Europe

UNWTO Senior Media Officer: Marcelo Risi

Tel: (+34) 91 567 81 60 

UNWTO Communications & Publications Programme

Tel: (+34) 91 567 8100 / Fax: +34 91 567 8218 

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Where are all the pilgrims? The current state of religious tourism in the Holy Land

By Marinella Bandini

Jerusalem, Jun 4, 2024 / 07:00 am

During the month of April in Jerusalem, the major holidays of the three major religions — Christian Easter, Jewish Passover, and the month of Ramadan — passed with an almost total absence of pilgrims from abroad.

The holy sites and the streets of the Old City are usually crowded with tourists and pilgrims at this time of year, but they have been empty for the past eight months due to the Israel-Hamas war.

Muslims orderly make their way to the entrances of the Al-Aqsa mosque compound for noon prayer, but otherwise, the Via Dolorosa is completely empty. There are no pilgrims ascending to the Holy Sepulcher. The Sanctuary of the Flagellation, maintained by the Franciscans at the starting point of the Via Crucis path, is always open — but that is empty, too.

Things aren’t any better at Gethsemane. 

“Before the war, we had more than a hundred groups a day. Today, we welcome two or three groups on a good day,” Brother Siniša Srebrenović, the guardian of the Franciscan Convent of the Agony (Gethsemane), told CNA. “They mostly come from Asia or South America. Some come from Eastern Europe, mainly Orthodox Christians.”

The absence of pilgrims also means the absence of income.

“We friars sustain ourselves with the offerings of the pilgrims. The charity of the pilgrims also helps cover the maintenance expenses of the sanctuary and some development projects,” Srebrenović explained. “Today, everything is at a standstill. Workers from the Palestinian Territories do not have permission to come, and the financial resources are only enough for the ordinary. Despite this, the custody continues to financially support its workers and has not laid off any of them.”

At the Holy Sepulcher, the waiting time to enter the edicule (where Jesus’ tomb is kept) is just a few minutes, compared with up to two hours last year. The daily procession of the Franciscan friars inside the basilica is attended by only a handful of faithful — mostly residents of Jerusalem.

Even Bethlehem is empty 

“Tourism in Palestine is effectively zeroed out. Every day we lose $2.5 million,” lamented Majed Ishaq, director general of the marketing department of the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities of Palestine.

He described to CNA a dramatic situation: “Tourist facilities are closed; people working in the sector — including many Christians — have had no income for months. People are trying to sell houses, cars, furniture, to survive.”

“International tourism passes through Israel; they control our borders. We are under a kind of siege,” Ishaq continued. “Reaching Bethlehem is still possible, but cities in the north, like Nablus or Jenin, and also Hebron further south, are almost unreachable. Even local tourism and internal travel are severely affected due to attacks by settlers.”

Some groups arrive, especially via Jordan. The hope is that something will move at least by the end of the year, especially for the Christmas holidays.

According to data from the Israeli Ministry of Tourism, just over 80,000 people (tourists and pilgrims combined) entered the country in April — a decrease of 77% compared with April 2023 and 80% compared with April 2019, the peak year before the pandemic.

Cumulatively, from January through April, about 285,000 tourist arrivals were recorded, a decrease of about 78% in relation to the corresponding period in 2023.

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“The decline is attributed to the impact of the ‘Iron Swords’ war [the name Israel has given to the campaign against Hamas in the Gaza Strip following the events of Oct. 7, 2023] although in the months that have passed since the outbreak of the war, there has been a certain increase in the number of tourist arrivals to Israel, but it is not yet possible to identify any trend.”

Dr. Yaron Ergas, director of research, statistics, and information management at the Israeli Ministry of Tourism, told CNA that “the Ministry of Tourism conducts a survey among incoming tourists, where they are asked several questions including the main purpose of their visit. Tourists choosing ‘pilgrimage/faith based tour’ are considered religious tourists. That percentage, in 2019, was 16.6%” out of about 5 million entries.

At the outbreak of the war, in October 2023, “we stopped the surveys,” Ergas explained, so there is no useful data on religious tourism since then.

“Recovery is not expected until late 2025,” he added.

Other statistics, focused on Christian pilgrims, were provided to CNA by the Christian Information Centre (CIC), sponsored by the Custody of the Holy Land. CIC has been providing information about Christianity and on the Holy Land, including shrines, holy places, and liturgies, for more than 50 years. Additionally, it is the only official channel for booking Masses in the holy sites.

From October to December 2023, approximately 2,800 groups (107,000 individuals) had booked at least one celebration through the CIC, and they all canceled as soon as the war broke out. Of these, 95% were Catholics and 4% were Protestants. Ninety percent were groups from abroad. From January to April of this year, the groups registered by the CIC ranged from 100 to 200 per month (averaging 5,000 to 6,000 individuals per month).

(Story continues below)

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The lack of Christian pilgrims in the Holy Land is especially due to the fact that many companies are unwilling to issue insurance policies for those heading to a territory considered dangerous and risky.

Arrivals from Southeast Asia and South America continue, however (while the United States remains the top country for entries, the second group surprisingly comprises Indonesians). This is largely due — as the pilgrims themselves admit — to the fact that agencies do not refund prepaid trips, which many have invested their life savings in. This compels people to travel despite everything.

“We want to encourage Jews and Christians leaders to push their believers to come on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. We assume, and I think it is correct, that there’s a desire to come and visit,” Pini Shani, deputy director general and head of marketing administration of the Israel Ministry of Tourism, shared with CNA.

Hopes for the 2025 Jubilee

In 2025 there will be two interesting events for religious tourism in the Holy Land.

“A special exhibition of the Isahia scrolls will be held in 2025 at the Israel Museum to commemorate its 60th anniversary. We are confident that many people will show interest. We will try to engage people who come on pilgrimage to the Holy Land to visit this special exhibition,” Shani said.

Furthermore, in 2025, Catholics will celebrate a jubilee year.

“We were very encouraged by the pope’s call for the jubilee,” Shani said. “The churches of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem, the Annunciation in Nazareth, and the Nativity in Bethlehem will be jubilee places; people will be encouraged to visit them, and we’re sure it will help to recover tourism.”

The main Christian religious leaders in the Holy Land have never stopped issuing appeals to pilgrims to return to the holy places. “Do not be afraid, return to Jerusalem and to the Holy Land! Your presence is always a presence of peace, and we sincerely need peace today; may you come and bring us your peace,” said the Latin patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, at the end of the Palm Sunday procession.

An echo of those words is found in the message released by the Dicastery for Evangelization on May 28, on the occasion of the 45th World Tourism Day, to be held on Sept. 27 on the theme “Tourism and Peace.” 

“The interest that moves millions of tourists can easily be linked with the commitment to brotherhood, so as to constitute a network of ‘messengers of peace’ who speak to the entire world to invoke the end of all war and the reopening of territories full of history, culture, and faith. ... Being peace-builders is not only possible; it is required of those who embark on a journey,” the dicastery’s message said.  

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