During the summer vacation period, Pope Francis will not hold any public, private, or special audiences at the Vatican, including the Wednesday general audience. This break, which typically occurs in July and during the week of the Pope's spiritual retreat, will last until August 7, as announced by the Holy See's press office.

Instead of residing at the papal residence in Castel Gandolfo, which has traditionally served as a summer retreat for popes, Pope Francis will enjoy a period of extended rest, which includes not presiding over any public Masses from July 8 to September 1. Despite not staying at Castel Gandolfo for long stretches as past popes have done, this year's break will allow him more leisure time than usual.

During this period, Pope Francis will continue to lead the Angelus prayers on Sundays from the window of the Apostolic Palace in the Vatican. Looking ahead, after his rest, Pope Francis has scheduled travels to Asia, Oceania, Belgium, and Luxembourg in September, followed by the second session of the Synod of Synodality in Rome in October.

Castel Gandolfo, located 25 kilometers southeast of Rome overlooking Lake Albano, remains notable as the traditional summer residence of Pope since the 17th century. Despite recent popes not spending extended periods there during summer, the Apostolic Palace and its serene gardens symbolize the historical connection between the papacy and the Roman countryside.