Free Things to Do in Rome

Rome, Italy is one of the most amazing cities in the world. It is the capital and largest city of Italy, and has a long and fascinating history. Rome is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe, having been inhabited for over two and a half millennia. Rome is also one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, with millions of visitors each year. It is a city of great beauty, culture, and art, and it has something for everyone. With its many attractions, monuments, archaeological sites, and churches, Rome is a city that is sure to leave a lasting impression on any visitor.

But while Rome may be one of the most popular destinations in the world, it can also be an expensive one. Fortunately, there are still plenty of free things to do in Rome that are sure to provide visitors with a truly unforgettable experience. In this guide, we’ll look at some of the best free things to do in Rome, so you can make the most of your trip without breaking the bank.

Exploring the Streets of Rome

The best way to get to know Rome is to just wander its streets and explore. There are endless attractions in Rome, both famous and lesser-known, and many of them can be enjoyed for free. Whether you’re strolling down the winding cobblestone streets of the historic center, or exploring the bustling piazzas of the city’s modern districts, you’re sure to find something new and exciting.

Rome is a city with a lot of history and heritage, and it’s easy to find yourself immersed in its culture just by taking a walk through its streets. Take a stroll through the Forum Romanum, where ancient ruins tell stories of Rome’s past. Or explore the Pantheon, a temple built by the Roman Emperor Hadrian that has been standing since 126 AD. Or explore one of the many parks and gardens throughout the city, such as the Villa Borghese Gardens. There are endless possibilities for exploration in Rome, and you’re sure to find something new around every corner.

Visit Famous Monuments & Sights

Rome has some of the most iconic monuments and sights in the world. These famous attractions are enjoyed by millions of visitors each year, and many can be visited for free. The Colosseum is by far the most iconic attraction in Rome, and it can be visited for free (though some attractions within it may have an admission fee). This ancient amphitheater was built by the Roman Emperor Vespasian in 70 AD and has been standing ever since. It was used for gladiatorial combat and other public spectacles, and today it stands as a reminder of Rome’s rich history.

The Trevi Fountain is another iconic attraction in Rome that can be visited for free. This beautiful Baroque fountain is located in the heart of Rome and is one of the most visited attractions in the city. It is said that if you throw a coin into the fountain you will be granted a wish, so make sure to bring some coins with you if you plan on visiting!

The Spanish Steps are another popular destination in Rome that can be visited for free. This grand staircase was built in 1725 by architect Francesco de Sanctis, and it connects Piazza di Spagna with Piazza Trinità dei Monti. The steps are lined with beautiful fountains and statues, and are a great spot for people-watching or just taking in the stunning views of Rome.

Visit Churches & Cathedrals

Rome has a long history of religious architecture, and there are many churches and cathedrals throughout the city that can be visited for free. The most famous is St. Peter’s Basilica, which is located in Vatican City and is the largest Catholic Church in the world. It was built by Italian Renaissance artist Michelangelo in 1506 and houses many beautiful works of art and sculptures. St. Peter’s Basilica can be visited for free, though there may be an admission fee for certain attractions within it.

The Pantheon is another iconic church that can be visited for free in Rome. This ancient temple was built by Roman Emperor Hadrian in 126 AD and is still standing today. It houses many ancient artifacts and works of art, and is one of the best preserved Ancient Roman structures in the world.

The Sistine Chapel is another popular church in Rome that can be visited for free (though there may be an admission fee for certain areas). This chapel was built by Pope Sixtus IV in 1483 and is famous for its ceiling painted by Michelangelo. The chapel also houses many other works of art from other renowned Renaissance artists, such as Botticelli, Rossellini, and Perugino.

Explore Parks & Gardens

Rome has many beautiful parks and gardens that can be visited for free, such as Villa Borghese Gardens. This large park is located in central Rome and is home to many sculptures and monuments from different eras. The park also has many pathways perfect for leisurely strolls or jogs, and there are also several cafes and restaurants scattered throughout it where you can enjoy a meal or snack with friends or family.

The Villa Doria Pamphili is another popular park in Rome that can be visited for free. This large park was built by Pope Innocent X in 1644 and is home to many sculptures, monuments, fountains, and other works of art from different eras. It also has many pathways perfect for leisurely strolls or jogs, as well as several cafes and restaurants scattered throughout it where you can enjoy a meal or snack with friends or family.

The Janiculum Park is another park located within Rome that can be visited for free. This park has stunning views of Rome from its hilltop location, as well as many sculptures and monuments from different eras scattered throughout it. The park also has many pathways perfect for leisurely strolls or jogs, as well as several cafes and restaurants scattered throughout it where you can enjoy a meal or snack with friends or family.

Take a Free Walking Tour

If you’re looking to get to know Rome even better without spending a penny then taking a free walking tour is one of the best ways to do so. There are many walking tours available throughout the city that will take you on a journey through its history and culture. There are tours that focus on different themes such as Ancient Roman history or Renaissance art; whatever you’re looking for there’s sure to be a tour that fits your needs!

The best way to find free walking tours in Rome is to search online or ask your hotel or hostel for recommendations. Many tours are offered by local organisations or universities that provide an informative look at Rome’s history and culture without any cost to tourists.

Visit Museums & Galleries

Rome has many wonderful museums that can be visited for free on certain days or at certain times, so make sure to check ahead before visiting! The Galleria Borghese is one of the city’s most famous art galleries, with works from renowned artists such as Caravaggio, Raphael, Bernini, Titian, Rubens, Cranach, and more. The gallery is open every day except Mondays from 10:00am-7:00pm (6:00pm on Sundays). Admission is free on Wednesdays from 4:00pm-7:00pm.

The Museo Nazionale Romano (National Roman Museum) has three branches throughout Rome: Palazzo Massimo alle Terme near Termini train station; Palazzo Altemps near Piazza Navona; and Crypta Balbi near Largo Argentina. The museum has many archaeological artifacts from Ancient Roman times as well as works from Renaissance artists such as Caravaggio and Raphael. Admission to all three branches is free every first Sunday of every month from 9:00am-2:00pm (last entrance 1:30pm).

The Galleria Spada (Spada Gallery) houses many works from Caravaggio as well as other renowned Renaissance artists such as Bernini and Raphael. The gallery is open every day except Mondays from 10:00am-6:00pm (5:00pm on Sundays). Admission is free on Wednesdays from 4:00pm-6:00pm (last entrance 5:30pm).

Sample Local Cuisine

Rome is known for its delicious cuisine, so why not sample some local dishes without spending any money? You can find many small restaurants throughout the city that offer samples of their dishes or tastings for free! Many restaurants offer tastings during lunchtime or dinner hours where they serve small portions of their dishes so you can try them out before deciding if you want to buy a full meal. So why not try something new without spending any money?

Enjoy Free Entertainment

Rome also offers plenty of free entertainment throughout the year! Many local bars and clubs offer live music or DJs on certain nights; some even offer free shows! You can also find many street performers throughout the city performing various acts such as juggling or acrobatics; just look out for them when you’re wandering around!

Popular Tours Related To Rome

Colosseum Underground Tour

Experience the mysterious underground chambers of the Colosseum on this unique tour! You will explore parts of the Colosseum that were only accessible to Gladiators before now! You will learn about how they prepared for their fights while also exploring ancient ruins that were recently discovered deep within the Colosseum walls! The tour includes access to all areas including gladiator preparation rooms and underground tunnels that were used by beasts to enter their arena! Book your Colosseum Underground Tour here.

Rome at Night Tour

Experience Rome like never before on this amazing night tour! You will explore some of Rome’s most famous monuments illuminated by night lights! From St Peter’s Square to Trevi Fountain you will have an unforgettable experience! Enjoy guided commentary while admiring Rome’s most stunning sights! Book your Rome at Night Tour here.

Vatican City Tour

Explore one of the most important places on Earth on this amazing Vatican City Tour! You will explore some of its spectacular sights such as St Peter’s Basilica, Sistine Chapel, Vatican Museums and more! You will learn about its history from your knowledgeable guide while getting up close to its famous works of art! Book your Vatican City Tour here.