Things To Do In Rome For Free

Rome is one of the most beautiful and historic cities in the world, with a long and illustrious past that stretches back to its founding in 753 BC. From the ancient Colosseum to the stunning Trevi Fountain and the famous Spanish Steps, Rome is full of iconic landmarks, captivating architecture, and delicious cuisine. Every year, millions of tourists flock to the Eternal City to experience its artistic, historical, and cultural attractions. But with so much to see and do, it can be hard to decide where to start. Thankfully, there are plenty of things to do in Rome for free.

A Brief History of Rome

Rome was founded in 753 BC and has been a major political and cultural center ever since. It was, of course, the seat of the Roman Empire and its Colosseum is a testament to the city’s ancient glories. Over the centuries, Rome has been a center of art and culture, as well as home to some of the most important religious sites in Christianity. It was also one of the birthplaces of the Renaissance in the 15th century and throughout its long history, Rome has been associated with some of the greatest minds in history from Julius Caesar to Michelangelo.

Today, Rome is a bustling metropolis with a population of over 3 million people. It is one of the most visited cities in Europe, with tourists drawn to its ancient monuments, art galleries, museums, and churches. There are plenty of things to do in Rome for free and these are just some of the highlights you should consider during your visit.

Visit the Colosseum

No trip to Rome is complete without a visit to the iconic Colosseum. This ancient amphitheater was built by the Roman Emperor Vespasian in 72 AD and completed by his son Titus in 80 AD. It has since become one of the most recognizable landmarks in Italy and has been featured in countless films and television shows over the years. It also houses some of the most important events in history such as gladiator fights, executions, and animal hunts.

Visiting the Colosseum is free and it’s easy to spend hours exploring its many levels and marveling at its architecture and beauty. The Colosseum is still standing today, testament to its original design and construction. It’s easy to lose yourself in its history as you explore its many levels and tunnels.

See The Pantheon

The Pantheon is another must-see destination in Rome. This ancient structure was originally built as a temple to all of the Roman gods but it was later converted into a church. It is one of the best preserved buildings from ancient Rome and has remained virtually unchanged since it was built by Emperor Hadrian around 126 AD.

The Pantheon is an impressive sight, with its huge dome and rectangular portico supported by 16 Corinthian columns. Inside, you can see some stunning frescoes and sculptures. The Pantheon is free to enter and is open from 9am-7pm every day except Sundays when it closes at 1pm.

Explore The Roman Forum

The Roman Forum was once the center of public life in Rome and it still stands today as a reminder of its glorious past. This area consists of several ruins of ancient temples and government buildings as well as arches, columns, and statues. It’s easy to spend hours wandering around this area, exploring its many relics.

The Roman Forum is free to visit but it can get very crowded during peak times so it’s best to go early or late in the day if possible. The Forum is open from 8am-7pm every day but it closes earlier on Sundays at 2pm.

Visit Villa Borghese

Villa Borghese is a large landscaped park situated on Pincio Hill overlooking Rome. This picturesque park features plenty of green spaces for relaxing strolls as well as several attractions such as an art museum and a zoo. It’s also home to some beautiful sculptures and fountains.

Villa Borghese is free to visit but there are certain attractions such as the zoo and art museum that charge an admission fee. The park is open every day from 10am-7pm except on Tuesdays when it closes at 1pm.

Stroll Along The Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps are one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks and they’re well worth a visit during your stay. This grand staircase was built in 1725 and it leads up from Piazza di Spagna to the church of Trinita dei Monti at the top. It’s one of the most popular spots in Rome for tourists and locals alike.

Visiting the Spanish Steps is free and it’s easy to spend hours people-watching or admiring the architecture. The steps are open 24 hours a day but be aware that it can get very crowded during peak times so it’s best to go early or late in the day if possible.

Throw A Coin In The Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is one of Rome’s most famous landmarks and it’s well worth a visit during your stay. This stunning fountain was built in 1762 by Italian architect Nicola Salvi and it depicts Neptune surrounded by sea horses and tritons. It’s one of the most iconic spots in Rome and it’s tradition to throw a coin into the fountain for good luck.

Visiting the Trevi Fountain is free and it’s open 24 hours a day although it can get very crowded during peak times so it’s best to go early or late in the day if possible.

Witness The Changing Of The Guard At The Tomb Of The Unknown Soldier

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is one of Rome’s most moving monuments and it’s well worth witnessing the changing of the guard ceremony which takes place every hour on the hour from 10am-5pm every day except Sundays when it only takes place at noon. The tomb commemorates all of those who have died in battle for Italy throughout its history and it’s an incredibly moving site to behold.

Take A Free Walking Tour

If you want to learn more about Rome’s history, culture, and attractions then taking a free walking tour is a great way to do so. Free walking tours generally last around two hours and they are available every day except Sunday when they are not available at all. These tours start at various points around Rome including Piazza Venezia, Piazza di Spagna, Piazzale Flaminio, Piazza Navona, Campo de Fiori, Piazza del Popolo, and more so you can find one that suits your schedule.

Book an Ancient City Tour

If you want to learn more about Rome’s fascinating history then why not book an Ancient City Tour? This tour takes visitors on an unforgettable journey through some of Rome’s oldest monuments including the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Pantheon, Trajan’s Column, Circus Maximus, Palatine Hill, Capitoline Hill, Aventine Hill, Piazza Navona, Piazza di Spagna, Trevi Fountain, St Peter’s Basilica, Castel Sant’Angelo, Piazza Venezia and more. It’s a great way to learn about Rome’s past while taking in some incredible sights along the way. You can book an Ancient City Tour here.

Book a Food Tour

If you want to experience some authentic Italian cuisine then why not book a food tour? This tour takes visitors on a journey through some of Rome’s best foodie spots including traditional trattorias, pizzerias, gelaterias, bars, and more where you can sample some delicious food including pizza Margherita, spaghetti carbonara, tiramisu, gelato, limoncello, and more. You can book a Food Tour here.

Book a Wine Tasting Tour

If you want to experience some delicious Italian wines then why not book a wine tasting tour? This tour takes visitors on a journey through some of Rome’s best vineyards where you can sample some delicious wines including Prosecco, Chianti Classico DOCG, Soave DOCG, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi DOCG and more. You can book a Wine Tasting Tour here.

Conclusion

Rome is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and there are plenty of things to do in Rome for free including visiting iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, Pantheon, Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain as well as exploring green spaces such as Villa Borghese park or witnessing the changing of the guard at the Tomb of Unknown Soldier. There are also plenty of tours available such as Ancient City Tours, Food Tours or Wine Tasting Tours which are perfect for learning more about Rome’s history while sampling some delicious food or wine along the way. No matter what activities you choose to do during your visit to Rome, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience!