Are you visiting the Italian capital and do not want to splurge too much on sightseeing? We know that paid popular attractions can be quite costly, that’s why we came up with a list of the best free things to do in Rome, Italy.
Rome is hailed as the “Eternal City” for a reason — it has seen and experienced more than any other city. From its beginnings as a small trading village to its rise as an empire, Rome is literally steeped in history.
Seeing some of the city’s most well-known landmarks is the best way to get a feel for its rich history firsthand. You can visit at any time of year and find something special because each season has its own gifts to offer. It’s no surprise that Rome stands among Italy’s most sought-after destinations.
However, just like any big city in Europe, the Italian capital can be crazy expensive. Fret not, though, because there are ways to save money when exploring Rome.
16 Best Free Things To Do in Rome, Italy
Listed below are some of the many things you can do for free during your stay in the Eternal City.
1. Visit the St. Peter’s Basilica
St. Peter’s Basilica is the largest Christian church in the world, and it includes several famous statues and works of art. Visiting this famous church is one of the best free things to do in Rome – and it’s open daily.
St. Peter’s Basilica is hands down one of the most famous churches in the world. And as you might expect, that also means it’s swarming with visitors all year round. So, bear in mind that although admission is free, huge lines of up to two hours are to be expected – unless you get there super early.
A guided tour is the most convenient method to experience the basilica. Check out deals here.
2. Hop from one free museum to another
Among the many best things to do in Rome is hopping from one museum to another. You have to pay museums for admission, but don’t worry because some of these museums let you travel back in time with their art pieces for free on some special occasions.
Here are our top picks:
• Museo della Mura —
The Museo della Mura recounts the development of Rome’s historic defenses. It is located inside the Porta San Sebastiano, an ancient gate that dates back to the 3rd century AD and is now part of the Aurelian Walls. Here, tourists can learn about the history of the Aurelian Walls, which have withstood several conflicts and sieges.
• Orto Botanico di Roma —
Those with an interest in botany and gardening, as well as those in the academic and scientific community who focus on the study of flora, fauna, and ecological systems, regularly visit Orto Botanico di Roma. The cultural and historical significance of the plants on display here is explained to visitors through workshops and guided tours offered by the museum.
• Vatican Museums —
If you haven’t seen Michelangelo’s Pietà and the Sistine Chapel’s ceiling paintings, this is your chance. Every last Sunday of the month, visitors to the Vatican Museums get to enter free of charge from 9 am to 2 pm — except for Easter Sunday, June 29 (St. Peter and Paul Day), Christmas Day, and St. Stephen’s Day.
Not enough? Check out our post on the best free museums in Rome to learn more!
3. Photo op in the Pantheon
A photo op in the Pantheon is definitely one of the best things you must do in Rome – for free!
One of the coolest things left from ancient Rome, it was built around 126-128 A.D., but is still in amazing shape. This Roman temple was initially dedicated to the gods of all the pantheons, including Zeus and Apollo. It was converted into a church in 609 CE that became known in Latin as Sancta Maria ad Martyres, or St. Mary and the Martyrs.
The Pantheon then became the final resting place for some big names from the Renaissance era, including Raphael, Baldassare Peruzzi, and Arcangelo Corelli. The first king of Italy is also buried there.
Today, the Pantheon attracts many tourists from all over the globe while still a working church. Catholic masses are regularly held there.
The Pantheon Dome is impressive; it covers almost half of this building’s total area! You can climb onto it for great views across Rome from above — but be careful not to fall off!
4. Take in the beauty of Piazza Navona
It’s easy to see why Piazza Navona is synonymous with the essence of Rome.
A large square in the heart of Rome, it houses several world-famous works of art by artists like Bernini and Borromini, two great geniuses of the Baroque era. Also make sure you take in the beauty of three of Rome’s famous fountains: Fontana del Moro, Fontana del Nettuno, and Bernini’s Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi.
You will recognize the place in some great movies you’ve seen because this is one of the most famous movie locations in Rome. Piazza Navona is definitely a must-visit spot if you’re ever in the Eternal City!
5. Explore Villa Borghese Gardens
Situated on the Pincian Hill, Villa Borghese is among the most stunning green spaces in Europe. It is regarded as the “green lung” of Rome and its most popular park. Villa Borghese Gardens serve as a refreshing escape from the bustling city.
While entry to the Borghese Gallery isn’t free, you can still relax and enjoy the sunshine in the gardens – free of charge.
There are many restaurants and cafés to dine at, or you can have a picnic in the park.
6. Throw a coin at Trevi Fountain
Legend has it that if you toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, it guarantees your return to Rome. If you’re seeking love, cast another coin; it promises a romantic encounter! And if you’re looking for the ultimate commitment, it is said that the third coin tossed into the fountain guarantees marriage. This coin-tossing ritual is a must in any visit to the Trevi Fountain.
The Trevi Fountain is one of Rome’s most beautiful landmarks, and it is even more stunning when lit up at night. After the ritual of throwing coins into the fountain, take time to admire its magnificence and the way the lights reflect on the moving water.
7. Watch the world move around you at Piazza di Spagna
Sit on the famous Spanish Steps in Piazza di Spagna and take in the bustling scene. The view from here is spectacular: you can see down onto Piazza Venezia (the main square) and all around you in every direction. It’s one of Rome’s most famous views!
8. Enjoy street performances
It’s not uncommon to see musicians and artists performing in the streets and piazzas of Rome. If you take a stroll through Piazza Navona, you may be lucky enough to catch one of the captivating performances that give these areas their lively atmosphere.
9. Explore Rome’s street markets
Rome is home to many different types of street markets where you can shop for anything from food and souvenirs to clothing and books – if you want to spend! However, these street markets are free if you’re simply exploring.
Porta Portese Market is one of the most popular street markets in Rome, located in the funky neighborhood of Trastevere.
10. Take a stroll through Trastevere
Trastevere is a colorful, bohemian neighborhood just south of the Vatican City, on the other side of the Tiber from the Vatican. The Latin word Tiberium, meaning “beyond the Tiber,” is where the name Trastevere comes from.
There are many restaurants, trattorias, and pizzerias in this old working-class neighborhood, which is especially lively at night due to the many tourists who flock here. Take a stroll through this charming Rome neighborhood and unwind on one of the many café terraces.
11. Enjoy panoramic views from a hill
Visit Janiculum Hill, located on the outskirts of the city, for stunning vistas of Rome. It’s an excellent vantage point for taking pictures of the setting sun. As a bonus, you also get a fantastic view of St. Peter’s dome.
12. Attend Papal Audience
If you’re a devoted Catholic, you can participate in the Papal Audience at St. Peter’s Square. It’s every Wednesday whenever the Pope is in Rome. Tickets are free, but you need to request them in advance.
Need help seeing the Pope? Then check out this guide to the Papal Audience!
13. Spend a first Sunday in the Roman Forum and the Colosseum
The Roman Forum and the Colosseum are two of the most famous attractions in Rome. However, you can no longer visit them for free every day. Admission to these historical sites is free only once a month, every first Sunday.
Free tickets are available on a first come, first served basis.
14. Attend cultural events
The Eternal City is rich in history. While in Rome, keep an eye out for the city’s many free cultural events. Events like these can be anything from art shows to music festivals.
For up-to-date information on what’s on offer, check event listings or contact the nearest tourist center.
15. Peek through the Aventine Keyhole
The Aventine Hill is home to the Aventine Keyhole. The keyhole at the Knights of Malta’s headquarters provides a picture-perfect viewpoint of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Peeking through the Aventine Keyhole won’t cost you a dime, and all it takes is a minute or two of your time. Or you might end up lingering a little longer, just trying to capture that perfect shot!
16. Bike the Appian Way
One of Rome’s most well-known parks, the Parco degli Acquedotti, is located just beyond the city walls. It is part of the Appian Way. Pathways through the park’s streams, pine trees, and ancient aqueducts provide a peaceful escape from the city’s bustle. The park is not only a fantastic historical site but also a wonderful place to go for a walk or ride a bike.
The ancient Appian Way (Via Appia Antica), one of the most well-known Roman roads, is a short bike ride from the park. There are many memorials, landmarks, basilicas, and tombs along the Via Appia Antica. The road was crucial for moving Roman legions down to the port of Brindisi in southeast Italy.