In early May 2025, the world welcomed Pope Leo XIV (Robert Francis Prevost) as the new head of the Catholic Church, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Vatican history.
Just days earlier, and shortly before the passing of Pope Francis, travel experts and trend analysts Elizabeth Kovandzhiyski and Magdalena Petrušić from Vatican Tickets & Tours conducted a survey. They asked travelers one big question: Who is the best pope in history?
More than 22,000 people across 83 countries answered. The timing, just ahead of a historic papal transition and during the Jubilee Year, made this more than a casual poll. It became a moment of reflection on faith, legacy, and leadership.
The results? One pope clearly stood out.
The most beloved modern popes
- According to global travelers, Pope St. John Paul II ranks as the most admired pope in modern history. He won more than half of all votes, with strong support from Europe, North America, and many parts of Asia and Latin America. His long time as pope, his travels around the world, and the way he spoke to people’s hearts left a deep mark — not just on the Church, but on the world.
- In second place came Pope Francis, remembered for his humility, compassion, and progressive voice. As the first South American and Jesuit pope, he resonated deeply with modern travelers. That the survey took place during his final days in office made his strong showing especially meaningful.
- Pope Benedict XVI ranked third, respected for his intellect and steady leadership, particularly in Central Europe. While his papacy was shorter and quieter, his theological depth earned him loyalty from many.
- Pope St. Paul VI, who led the Church through major reforms in the 1960s and 70s, came fourth. Though less known to younger travelers, his legacy lives on in those who value quiet, thoughtful leadership.
More than a poll: a glimpse into global sentiment
This wasn’t a general internet poll. Their answers show which popes left the strongest impression: not only for what they did, but for what they came to represent. For many, the choice reflects a mix of admiration, memory, and personal connection to what the papacy means today. As travel expert Magdalena Petrušić from Vatican Tickets & Tours puts it: “Some travelers see the pope as a spiritual guide, others as a global voice for justice, peace, or unity. What this survey shows is that people still care deeply – not just about who leads the Church, but about what kind of leadership inspires them. The results aren’t just votes. They’re reflections of hope.”
Why do travellers still care?
The Vatican isn’t just a place of marble and masterpieces. It’s a living space where history meets reflection, where art meets faith. In a world that often moves too fast, this survey paused to ask something timeless: Who inspired you most?
The answers speak volumes – and they’ll stay with us as a new chapter begins in St. Peter’s Square.
A historic moment to visit
As the Vatican opens a new chapter under Pope Leo XIV, and as the Jubilee Year brings millions of pilgrims to Rome, one thing is clear: the Vatican remains more than a destination. It’s a symbol of continuity and change, a place where people come not just to see history, but to feel part of it.
In 2025, with a historic papal transition and a Holy Year underway, the call to visit Vatican City is stronger than ever. For many travelers, this is not just the right time to go: it’s a once-in-a-generation moment!
Lynn Martelli is an editor at Readability. She received her MFA in Creative Writing from Antioch University and has worked as an editor for over 10 years. Lynn has edited a wide variety of books, including fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, and more. In her free time, Lynn enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with her family and friends.
