| Cover | May 11, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | May 11, 2021 |
| Entity File Number | 000-21660 |
| Entity Registrant Name | Papa John’s International, Inc. |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000901491 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 61-1203323 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 2002 Papa John’s Boulevard |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Louisville |
| Entity Address, State or Province | KY |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 40299-2367 |
| City Area Code | 502 |
| Local Phone Number | 261-7272 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common stock, $0.01 par value |
| Trading Symbol | PZZA |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
