Rome is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, and with good reason. It has a rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant culture. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’re a seasoned traveler, there is plenty to do in Rome that won’t break the bank. From outdoor activities and sightseeing to art and culture, here is a comprehensive list of the best free things to do in Rome.

Introduction to Rome

Rome is the capital of Italy and the country’s largest city, with nearly 3 million inhabitants. It’s the home of the Vatican City and one of the oldest cities in Europe, with a history that dates back to 753 BC. It has been at the center of Western culture for centuries and is considered one of the world’s most beautiful cities.

There are many attractions in Rome that are free or cost very little. From ancient ruins and piazzas to museums and markets, here are some of the best free things to do in Rome.

Explore Rome’s Famous Landmarks

Rome is filled with amazing landmarks, many of which are absolutely free. The Colosseum is one of the most iconic ancient monuments in the world, and it’s free to explore (although there is a fee to access certain areas such as the underground vaults). You can also visit the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain, two of Rome’s most impressive landmarks.

Visit Piazzas and Squares

Rome is full of piazzas and squares, each with its own unique character. Some of the most popular include Piazza Navona, Piazza di Spagna, and Campo de’ Fiori. These are great spots for people-watching, grabbing a bite to eat, or just enjoying the atmosphere.

Visit the Roman Forum

The Roman Forum was once the political and social center of ancient Rome, and it’s now a fascinating archaeological site. You can explore the ruins for free, but if you’d like to learn more about the history you can take a guided tour for a small fee.

Tour Ancient Ruins

Rome has an astonishing number of ancient ruins that are free to explore. The Appian Way is one of the most popular sites, with its cobblestone road and iconic arches. Other sites include the Palatine Hill, the Baths of Caracalla, and the Pyramid of Cestius.

Enjoy Outdoor Activities

Rome is filled with parks and gardens where you can enjoy outdoor activities like biking, running, and walking. The Villa Borghese is one of the most popular parks in Rome, with its lush gardens, fountains, and sculptures. There are also plenty of smaller parks scattered throughout the city that are great for a leisurely stroll.

Visit Churches and Cathedrals

Rome is home to many stunning churches and cathedrals, many of which are free to enter. The Basilica di San Pietro is perhaps the most iconic, with its stunning dome and ornate interior. Other stunning churches include Santa Maria Maggiore, San Luigi dei Francesi, and Santa Maria in Trastevere.

Try Roman Cuisine

Trying local cuisine is one of the best ways to experience a new city, and Rome is no exception. From pizza to pasta to gelato, Rome has plenty of delicious dishes that won’t break the bank. For a truly unique experience, try one of the city’s many street food vendors for an authentic taste of Roman cuisine.

Take a Walking Tour

There are many free walking tours in Rome that will take you around some of the city’s most iconic sights. These tours provide a great overview of the city and its history, plus you get to explore some of the lesser-known areas that you wouldn’t normally see.

Explore Roman Markets
Campo de’ Fiori is one of Rome’s most popular markets, with its colorful stalls selling everything from fresh produce to jewelry and souvenirs. Testaccio Market is another great spot for fresh produce and local delicacies, while Porta Portese is an ideal place to find vintage items and antiques.

Visit Museums
Rome has an impressive number of museums ranging from ancient history to modern art. Many smaller museums are free or charge a nominal fee, while some of the larger ones can be quite expensive. Some notable free museums include Galleria Borghese, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme, and Museo Nazionale Romano.

Tour Castel Sant’Angelo
Castel Sant’Angelo was originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian in AD 135, but today it’s a stunning castle that offers stunning views over Rome. You can take a self-guided tour for free, or pay for a guided tour for more detailed information about its history and architecture.

Discover Ancient Catacombs
The Catacombs of San Callisto are some of Rome’s oldest and most fascinating sights. The underground tunnels were used as burial grounds from the 2nd century AD until the 5th century AD and are now open to visitors for a small fee.

Popular Tours in Rome

Vatican Museums Tour

The Vatican Museums are some of Rome’s most visited attractions, and a guided tour is an excellent way to explore them. This tour will take you through some of the museums’ most iconic works of art, including Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling frescoes and Raphael’s rooms in the Apostolic Palace. You’ll also get to explore St Peter’s Basilica, which holds centuries-old works of art and sculptures. Book a Vatican Museums Tour here.

Ancient Rome Tour

If you’d like to learn more about ancient Rome’s fascinating history then this tour is perfect for you. This guided tour will take you around some of Rome’s most impressive monuments such as the Colosseum and Roman Forum as well as lesser-known sites such as Trajan’s Markets and Circus Maximus. You’ll also get to explore some of Rome’s beautiful piazzas such as Piazza Navona and Campo de’ Fiori. Book an Ancient Rome Tour here.

Taste of Testaccio Food Tour

If you want to experience authentic Roman cuisine then this food tour is perfect for you! You’ll get to sample local delicacies such as fried pizza dough balls (suppli) and artichokes alla Romana as well as traditional dishes such as carbonara pasta and porchetta sandwiches. You’ll also get to explore Testaccio Market and learn about Roman food culture from your expert guide. Book a Taste of Testaccio Food Tour here.

Conclusion
Rome is one of the world’s most incredible cities with an incredible history that spans centuries. It’s filled with fascinating landmarks and attractions that won’t cost you a penny, from ancient ruins and churches to markets and piazzas. There are also plenty of activities you can do for free such as walking tours and outdoor activities in parks and gardens. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’re a seasoned traveler, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city.