The election of Pope Leo XIV, the first head of the Roman Catholic Church with American-Peruvian roots, has sparked a new wave of anticipation in Rome—especially among tourism professionals and city officials. His biography could significantly influence the influx of visitors, particularly from the Americas.

Rising Expectations and a New Chapter for Rome

Rome has long been a popular destination for visitors from the United States, who made up half of all tourists in 2024. Now, with the new pope hailing from Chicago and of Latin American descent, projections indicate that the number of American and South American visitors could rise even further. City officials and local businesses see this shift as a potential catalyst for a fresh tourism boom.

Shopkeepers and Restaurateurs See Opportunity

In authentic neighborhoods like Trastevere, restaurant and shop owners are already preparing for heightened interest. Their hopes rest on the belief that a pope from Chicago will inspire many North and South Americans to visit the city. In the first two months of 2025 alone, Rome welcomed over 300,000 American tourists—a significant share of total arrivals. Planned pilgrimage tours from U.S. dioceses, already scheduled for 2026, further boost this optimism.

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Consumer Power of American and Latino Tourists

According to studies, American tourists are willing to spend over €200 per day, placing them among the most desirable visitors. Their interests typically focus on high-value attractions and unique experiences. While their spending has stabilized somewhat, it remains above average. At the same time, thanks to the pope’s Peruvian heritage, increased interest from Latin American tourists is also expected. These visitors bring not only economic benefits but also greater cultural diversity.

Economic Impact and Spiritual Significance

Tourism plays a major role in Italy’s national economy, contributing significantly to the GDP, both directly and through related sectors like gastronomy and the arts. Rome, as the seat of the Vatican and the most important religious center of the Catholic world, is likely to see a rise in visits to the Vatican Museums and other holy sites. This growth may also help offset the financial deficit the Vatican recorded in the previous year.

Tourist Pressure and the Need for Reform

However, an increased number of tourists may exacerbate existing problems tied to overtourism. Rising accommodation costs, infrastructure strain, and dissatisfaction among local residents are already recognized as issues requiring urgent solutions. The city is considering measures such as charging entrance fees to key locations and limiting short-term apartment rentals, all aimed at preserving authenticity and residents’ quality of life.

Seizing the Moment with a Sustainable Approach

This historic shift in the Church’s leadership is an opportunity for Rome to further cement its status as a global destination, while also imposing the responsibility of responsible tourism policies. Innovative marketing campaigns promoting cultural, spiritual, and culinary offerings can help attract a diverse visitor base. The key to success will be finding the right balance between growth and preservation—between economic prosperity and protecting Rome’s cultural and urban identity.

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