Free Things to Do in Europe

When you think Europe, you begin imagining yourself among the magnificent architecture, vibrant streets, spectacular mountains and soul-stirring art galleries. Then of course there is chocolate, cheese, beer, vodka and a zillion other temptations. Europe might easily be the most 'vacation friendly' continent on Earth but it is also among the most expensive, especially for Indian travellers. Don’t let that deter you though. Here are some incredibly fun things you can do in Europe without spending a penny.  

1. Psst…Some Iconic Attractions Have NO Entry Fee

Europe boasts some of the most jaw dropping architecture and hence millions from across the world flock to these iconic landmarks. Well the good news is that not all of them charge an admission fee. Pantheon in Rome, St. Peter’s Basillica in Vatican City, The Berlin Wall in Germany, Gellért Hill Cave in Budapest, Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, and Charles Bridge in Prague can all be enjoyed for free.

2. Take Advantage of Unrestrained Entry to Some of the Best European Festivals

Europeans love to party and each country celebrates its culture in a unique way. Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland, Siena Horse Race in Italy, Rhine in Flames at Germany, Tomatina in Spain and Wife-Carrying World Championship in Finland are free to attend amongst many other local fests. Most of these fests are organised during summers, so plan your dates accordingly.

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3. Explore the Beautiful Gardens without a Ticket

Gardens in Europe symbolise architectural brilliance and classical virtues of their native era. Some even offer a free entry! The Vigeland Sculpture Park in Oslo features 212 bronze and granite sculptures, all created by Gustav Vigeland. In Austria, drop around to see the Schonbrunn Gardens of Vienna. In Berlin, stroll through the stunning gardens of Charlottenburg Palace, which is the largest in the city and the only Royal Residency. In Paris visit the beautiful 'Jardin du Luxembourg' which was created by Marie de Medici in 1612, and the 'Parc des Buttes-Chaumont', which is the 5^th largest park of the city.

4. Pay Complimentary Visits to the Exquisite Museums

Several museums in Europe offer free admission to art lovers. Madrid offers free entry at Bullfighting Museum and Spain's national museum 'The Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia', which contains 20th century art also offers free entry. Visit the War Museum at Athens in Greece, and stroll across the Seine, Cathedrale Notre Dame de Paris and Eiffel Tower in Paris—all of which require no tickets.

5. Walk Through the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin

Brandenburg is where the Berlin wall first fell in 1989. Therefore any visit to Berlin is incomplete without a trip here. In fact, you can walk through the gate free of cost, and visit the Holocaust Memorial Close to the Brandenburg Gate. Also visit the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe and the Memorial to Homosexuals Persecuted under Nazism. While you are in Berlin, you can take a free walking tour which operates on a donation basis.

6. Don't Miss the Chance to Sample Free Food in Europe

You can sample cheese with wine and chow down some delightful free food at many European restaurants. Most bars across Milan give complimentary finger food when you buy a drink. Le Biciclette and Bar Brera are famous for offering free food bonanzas. Likewise, you get traditional 'Tapas' with your drinks in Spain. Of course, you will have to pay for your drinks, but the tasty tapas are quite filling if you don't want to splurge on a full meal. If you are at a Flamenco bar, you also get to enjoy the enchanting dance performances for free.

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7. Soak up the Sun on the Free-for-All Beaches

You are spoilt for beachfront choices when you are visiting a continent that is bordered by the Arctic Ocean, the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. The summer sun is mild and you can swim and surf all day at some of the world's best beaches for no cost at all.

8. Bars That Offer Free Drinks—Yes, They Are a Thing!

In Dublin, all first-time visitors are invited to have a free drink, and chat with a local as a welcome gesture to the country. As a matter of fact, 'Viniportugal', offers free glasses between 11 a.m to 7 p.m to promote Portuguese wines. In Berlin, you need to check out the 'pay-what-you-want' wine bars. Here's how they do it—grab a glass, refill it as many times as you like, and in the end, pay whatever you think is fair. A great bargain indeed!

9. Draw Your Own Graffiti at The Lennon Wall

In Prague, The Lennon Wall is an interesting panel of public art that originally began as resistance to the communist rule. It’s ever changing with innumerable messages of love and peace. If there's a message you want to spread, this is the best canvas.

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10. Attend a Free Concert

Most operas and concerts require bookings but we have a way to work around that. In Amsterdam, you can watch a free show at the Boekmanzaal Opera House and the Concertgebouw. It’s a great way to catch some classical performances without having to pay a cent. In Berlin, you should attend the Chamber Concert at lunchtime.

Europe on the whole is a continent booming with endless opportunities for travellers. There's always something more, like the 'changing of the guard ceremony' in Warsaw, La Rambla and La Boqueria Market in Barcelona, and the tile tour in Portugal, which is famous for its painted ceramic tiles. None of these cost a dime, yet they are the most incredible freebies you will ever experience.

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