Holidays to Rome and Vatican City have seen a surge in popularity in the wake of the recent papal conclave, with both destinations experiencing a significant rise in online interest and travel searches.
The historic meeting of cardinals, fortuitously popularised in last year’s four-time BAFTA-winning film The Conclave, saw Scouse outsider Cardinal Vincent Nichols beaten to the top job in Catholicism by the first American pope Robert Francis Prevost, aka Leo XIV. Nonetheless it has, according to Google Trends, helped to drive searches for ‘Vatican City holidays’ up by 91% in the past week alone (to May 12th, 2025), reflecting a renewed global fascination with the world’s smallest state and its religious significance.
Travel experts at Away Holidays have also reported a +67% increase in traffic YOY to their Rome holiday page, suggesting that the conclave has reignited public interest in the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the historic city.
Further data from the online trvale specialist shows a +400% (YOY) increase in searches for ‘holidays in Vatican City’, while interest in ‘Rome holidays 2026’ has surged by an astonishing +1375% (YOY). This highlights growing demand for travel to the region in the years ahead.
Neela Goyal, product manager at Away Holidays said: “This renewed interest in holidays to Rome and the Vatican City is a clear reflection of how global events can inspire travel,” says Neela. “The conclave has captured the world’s attention, and for many people, it’s sparked a deeper curiosity about the history, spirituality, and culture rooted in the heart of Vatican City.
“We’re seeing a real rise in what’s known as ‘spiritual tourism’, people seeking more meaningful, reflective travel experiences. Visiting Vatican City allows travellers to connect with centuries of religious tradition, witness iconic landmarks like St Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, and experience a unique atmosphere that blends the sacred with the spectacular.
“Rome itself also holds a timeless appeal, and the conclave has served as a reminder of the city’s enduring role on the world stage. Whether people are drawn by faith, art, architecture or simply the chance to witness history in the making, this surge in interest makes perfect sense.”
All data is taken from Google Trends and Keywordtool, correct as of 12/05/2025, and Away Holidays’ own data on visits to its Rome page and YOY comparison.
