These religious festivals attract visitors from around the globe to come together for the most anticipated celebrations of the year.
Faith Based Travel
Journeys That Nourish the Soul and Build Community
Planning a religious journey requires a delicate balance of logistics and spiritual intent. At Leisure Group Travel, we understand that a pilgrimage isn’t just a trip—it’s a milestone in a believer’s life.
This curated hub is designed to help group organizers, clergy, and travel planners navigate the complex world of faith-based tourism. From the historic trails of the Holy Land to the modern-day fellowship of domestic retreats, we provide the itinerary inspiration, planning checklists, and expert insights you need to create a meaningful experience. Whether your group is seeking deep historical roots, community service opportunities, or a quiet space for reflection, you will find the industry’s most comprehensive coverage right here.
Journeys That Matter: Featured Stories & Guides
Best Practices for Organizing Religious Tours
Jordan for Christian Tour Groups: Why It Belongs in Holy Land Itineraries
Top Religious Tour Operators in the U.S. (2026 Guide for Group Planners)
7 Famous Temples and Sacred Sites in India
10 Top Catholic Shrines in the U.S.
Recent Religious Travel Resources
8 Top Religious Sites and Churches in Germany
Medieval architecture, striking cathedrals & historic abbeys can be found at these top religious sites and churches in Germany.
Top 8 Renowned Religious Sites in Japan
Take a journey through Japan’s most visited religious sites, from shrines in the country’s historic capital, to spiritual locations along the coast and everything in between. Tokyo Temples and Shrines Meiji Shrine, Tokyo Dedicated to the 122nd emperor of Japan, Meiji...
30 Top Sites for Pilgrimages in Europe
Whether seeking solace, enlightenment or a transformative journey, these sites for pilgrimages in Europe top the list for group travelers.
The Bible Comes Alive at Top Religious Theaters
Artfully combining music and biblical themes, these theaters are redefining the live religious entertainment experience Top-of-the-line religious theaters all over the country are taking ministry to the next level. Combining musical numbers, original scripts and, in...
8 Religious Sites and Churches in France
From the City of Lights to the River Dordogne, travelers will be enlightened by these eight spiritual sites and churches in France.
Top 10 Pilgrimage Sites in the Middle East
“The Lord said: go the land which I will show you.” When embarking on a religious journey, travelers may ask themselves: what exactly is a pilgrimage? The answer: it can be whatever you want it to be. There is no such thing as a “typical pilgrim,” nor is there a...
11 Overlooked Religious Sites of Europe
Many of us are always on the lookout for those unheralded places, offbeat spots without the crowds. We seek out less obvious shrines, churches or passion plays, especially if we’ve already experienced the more famous ones. Here are 11 places worthy of consideration, all with religious significance and their own story to tell.
Best Faith Travel Sites
These churches, shrines and museums provide insight into the history and culture of a destination—and sometimes spotlight great art and architecture—while offering a place to reflect.
How to Innovate in Faith-based Tourism
Innovation is a word most often associated with the technology industry. It is a word less often used in relation to the travel and hospitality marketplace, apart from hi-tech products and services.
Lithuania’s Hill of Crosses: Faith, Resistance and Pilgrimage
Just north of Šiauliai stands one of Lithuania’s most powerful religious sites: the Hill of Crosses. Covered with crosses, rosaries and other devotional objects, it is both a Catholic pilgrimage destination and a national symbol of endurance. Lithuania Travel...
10 Top Catholic Shrines in New England
Religious Travel Planning Guide brings you the 10 Top Catholic Shrines in New England for Religious Travel Groups. Catholic shrines in the New England states serve different purposes for everyone, whether a religious pilgrimage, gift shop visit, or a tour of Christmas...
Frequently Asked Questions by Faith Travel Planners
What are the most popular destinations for faith-based group travel in 2026?
While the Holy Land (Israel and Jordan) remains the top choice for biblical history, we are seeing a significant rise in “Heritage Shrines” in Italy and Spain, as well as the Camino de Santiago for walking pilgrimages. Domestically, the Ark Encounter in Kentucky and the Museum of the Bible in D.C. continue to be high-growth destinations for North American church groups seeking shorter, budget-friendly trips.
Is it safe to take a group to the Holy Land right now?
Safety is the primary concern for faith-based planners. Reputable tour operators work closely with local authorities and the U.S. State Department to monitor real-time conditions. Most operators utilize “On-the-Ground” coordinators who can adjust itineraries instantly if needed. We recommend only partnering with suppliers who offer comprehensive travel insurance with “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) clauses.
How can our youth group or small church fundraise for a mission trip?
Successful faith-based groups often use a “Community Investment” model rather than simple bake sales. This includes “Sponsoring a Mile” campaigns, church-wide silent auctions, and digital crowdfunding platforms specifically designed for religious non-profits. Our hub features several articles on Creative Fundraising for Faith Travel to help you bridge the budget gap.
Where do I begin planning a faith journey?
Start by defining your “Spiritual Goal.” Is this an educational history tour, a mission-based service trip, or a traditional pilgrimage? Your goal will dictate the pace and destination.
How far in advance should I book?
For major international religious sites (like the Vatican or the Holy Land), we recommend starting 12 to 18 months out to secure preferred lodging and specialized guides.
How can I ensure the trip stays within budget?
Look for “shoulder season” dates and consider domestic options. Many US-based shrines and heritage sites offer world-class spiritual experiences at a fraction of the cost of international travel.
What should I look for in a faith-based tour operator?
Beyond price, look for “niche expertise.” An operator should understand the specific liturgical or dietary needs of your denomination and have deep connections with local religious authorities.