12 Remarkable Catholic Pilgrimage Sites Visited By Pope Francis: What You Need to Know

For many Filipino Catholics, a pilgrimage is more than just a trip—it is a deeply spiritual experience. Whether you dream of visiting sacred churches, walking in the footsteps of saints, or standing where miracles are believed to have occurred, these renowned Catholic sites are the perfect starting point for your faith-filled journey.

Pope Francis | Steinsplitter via Wikimedia Commons

While he was still alive, Pope Francis journeyed to many of these sacred sites as a pilgrim, honouring significant events, praying for peace, and showing solidarity with the faithful. His travels reflected his profound devotion to unity, compassion, and unwavering faith.

Also read: 7 Breathtaking Churches in the Philippines You Need to Visit

Let’s take a look at these meaningful Catholic pilgrimage sites that have touched the heart of the Pope—and continue to inspire millions of believers.

1. Vatican City, Italy

St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican | Leonid Andronov via Canva Pro

No list of Catholic pilgrimage destinations would be complete without the Vatican. As the seat of the Catholic Church and home to St. Peter’s Basilica, it is the spiritual centre for Catholics worldwide. Pope Francis has lived and served here since his papal election in 2013, regularly addressing pilgrims from all corners of the globe.

2. Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires Metropolitan Cathedral | Dennis G. Jarvis via Wikimedia Commons

Before becoming Pope Francis, Jorge Mario Bergoglio was the Archbishop of Buenos Aires. This vibrant city is home to the Buenos Aires Metropolitan Cathedral, where he led Mass for years. For those tracing his early ministry, this city is a beautiful and personal stop.

3. Jerusalem, Israel

Church of the Holy Sepulchre | DianaAmster via Canva Pro

In 2014, Pope Francis visited the Holy Land, making stops in Jerusalem, Bethlehem, and beyond. Jerusalem remains one of the most sacred cities for Catholics, housing the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, believed to be the site of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection. It’s a moving experience for any Catholic traveller.

4. Assisi, Italy

Assisi, Italy | Freeartist via Canva Pro

Assisi, the hometown of St. Francis of Assisi—the saint whom Pope Francis was named after—is a place of peace and prayer. Pope Francis has visited Assisi multiple times, honouring the legacy of humility and compassion that defines his namesake. Pilgrims often walk through its medieval streets in quiet reflection.

5. Fátima, Portugal

Fatima Basilica, Portugal | Otavio Clemente via Canva Pro

This beloved Marian apparition site is where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to three shepherd children in 1917. On the 100th anniversary of the apparitions in 2017, Pope Francis made a pilgrimage to Fátima and canonised two of the young visionaries, solidifying the site’s global spiritual importance.

6. Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Mexico

Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe | Matt Gush via Canva Pro

Considered the most visited Catholic church in the world, the Basilica in Mexico City draws millions of pilgrims yearly. In 2016, Pope Francis visited the site, where he spent time in silent prayer before the miraculous image of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a powerful symbol of faith across Latin America—and the Philippines, too.

7. Bethlehem, West Bank

Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem | Leonid Andronov via Canva Pro

Another key stop in Pope Francis’ 2014 pilgrimage was Bethlehem—the birthplace of Jesus Christ. Visiting the Church of the Nativity, where the faithful can kneel at the exact spot said to mark Christ’s birth, is an unforgettable experience for Catholic travellers.

8. Ur, Iraq

Ur, Iraq | The Everett Collection via Canva Pro

In 2021, Pope Francis made history as the first pontiff to visit Iraq, including the ancient city of Ur—traditionally believed to be the birthplace of Abraham. His groundbreaking visit carried a powerful message of unity and interfaith peace. With its deep biblical roots, Ur remains a meaningful and compelling destination for spiritual pilgrims.

9. Manila, Philippines

Papal Visit in Luneta Park | Exec8 via Wikimedia Commons

Yes, our very own capital city is also a special stop in the Pope’s journey. In January 2015, Pope Francis visited Manila during the World Meeting of Families, where he held a record-breaking Mass attended by more than six million people in Luneta Park. For Filipino Catholics, this visit remains one of the most emotional and proud moments in recent memory.

10. Nagasaki and Hiroshima, Japan

Urakami Cathedral, Nagasaki | 663highland via Wikimedia Commons

During his 2019 visit to Japan, Pope Francis delivered powerful messages of peace and nuclear disarmament in Nagasaki and Hiroshima. These cities, forever marked by tragedy, are now symbols of hope and reconciliation. Pilgrims often visit the local Catholic churches here, such as Urakami Cathedral, which was destroyed and rebuilt after the bombing.

11. Bogotá, Colombia

Cathedral of Bogotá | Bernard Gagnon via Wikimedia Commons

Pope Francis’ 2017 visit to Colombia was a powerful call for healing and peace after years of armed conflict. In Bogotá, one of the spiritual highlights of his journey was his visit to the Cathedral of Bogotá, where he prayed before the revered image of Our Lady of Chiquinquirá—the beloved patroness of Colombia. For many Filipinos who hold a deep love for the Blessed Mother, this moment is a touching reminder of faith, hope, and the unifying power of prayer.

12. Kraków, Poland

Sanctuary of Divine Mercy | Krakow Wiki Official Website

This city is closely associated with Pope John Paul II, but it also welcomed Pope Francis during World Youth Day 2016. The Sanctuary of Divine Mercy, just outside the city centre, is a major pilgrimage site, especially for those devoted to the Divine Mercy Chaplet—a prayer beloved in many Filipino households.

Also read: 10 Stunning Churches in the Philippines Every Pinoy Must Visit

Final thoughts

Whether you are planning your next faith-filled trip or simply dreaming of walking in the same places Pope Francis has blessed with his presence, these pilgrimage sites are more than just Catholic tourist spots—they are living, breathing sanctuaries of faith, healing, and hope.

As Filipino Catholics, we often find comfort in our devotion and traditions. Exploring the famous Catholic churches and holy sites around the world is not just a way to honour that faith, but also to feel connected to something much bigger.