Top Ten Free Things to Do in Rome

Holidays are much more satisfying when you don’t end up spending too much money. All the more when you’re holidaying abroad. So how about a Roman holiday without breaking the bank? Sounds like a dream? Not really. Despite Rome’s majestic spectacles, splendid wonders and lavish tastes, many of its sights and experiences are open to all. Here is a list of the top free things to do in Rome, for a wonderful experience of this Eternal City. Read on and start planning!

Take a Free Walking Tour

The best way to start and get a feel of this magnificent capital city, take a free walking tour from the innumerable options available. In addition to introductory tours featuring the broad highlights of Rome, there are specific museums, churches or history tours as well. So take your pick, reach the meeting point on time and hop along!

Marvel at the Architectural Splendour

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Not all things beautiful cost a bomb. Rome is dotted with innumerable ancient sites and outstanding architectural marvels, many of which are free. Explore the many art-laden and sculptural wonders of St. Peter’s Basilica, gaze up at the iconic concrete dome of the Pantheon, decipher the fantastic reliefs depicted on Trajan’s towering column, experience the impressive façade of the Teatro di Marcello, and visit the Palazzo della Civilta Italiana modern masterpiece. Rome makes for an ideal destination for lovers of art and architecture, history buffs, and photography enthusiasts.

Enjoy Panoramic Views of Rome

Popular among both tourists and locals, Gianicolo on Janiculum Hill is a great spot to relax and enjoy a stunning panorama view of Rome. Do take your camera along for those perfect postcard shots. The massive marble monolith of II Vittoriano also offers a number of free viewing spots, along with a spectacular 360-degree view of the city from the roof at a small fee.

Admire Artistic Fountains

Get awed by the magnificent fountains at many a street, corner or square, sculpted at different times through the long and splendid history of Rome. Of these the world-famous Trevi Fountain, the largest Baroque fountain in Rome, makes for an iconic sight with its marvelous lifelike sculptures. Visit this popular tourist attraction early in the day or late in the evening to avoid the crowds, and follow the coin tossing tradition, ensuring your return to the city!

Experience Charming Neighborhoods

Aside from Rome’s well-known tourist spots and popular landmarks, discover charming neighborhoods such as the Quartiere Coppedè. With its turreted villas, arches, frescoed facades, painted patterns, and mix of several artistic styles, this unique neighborhood is straight out of a fairytale. The colorful neighbourhood of Garbatella is also a must-see for its vibrant street art, community gardens, quaint trattorias and beautiful courtyards.

Go Back in Time to WWII

Housing the German headquarters during WWII, where members of the Roman Resistance were imprisoned, questioned and tortured, the Museo Storico della Liberazione is now preserved to give a bone chilling experience of those times.

Head to this small building for an account of the German occupation of Rome through original photographs, exhibits, and haunting messages scrawled on the walls by prisoners.

Explore Beautiful Churches

One of the top sights in Rome, its awe-inspiring beautiful churches are open to all. And owing to their overwhelming number, one is always spoilt for choice. Start with the must-see St. Peter’s Basilica, the Basilica of St. Mary Major, St. Paul Outside-the-Walls, St. Ignatius, St. John Lateran etc, and go on to discover other less-known but equally fascinating churches that you stumble upon throughout the city. With their distinct interiors, ornate ceilings, paintings and artistic spectacles, churches in Rome are truly a treat for the eyes.

Hang Out at the Bustling Piazzas

Forming the core of the city, Rome’s piazzas or squares are an ideal picture of its vibrant daily life. Sit back and enjoy as street artists and performers take the stage amidst the baroque fountains of the Piazza Navona. Join the locals watching the world go by, or throngs of tourists taking a breather, at the neoclassical Piazza del Popolo. The beautiful Piazza di Spagna and the grand Spanish Steps leading up from it, have long been a popular spot to just sit down and take in the views of the city. Designed by Michalangelo, the Piazza del Campidoglio, one of the most beautiful public squares in Rome, is a must see.

Catch a Free Concert

Rome’s long summer event, the Estate Romana, stages a number of music concerts and outdoor performances, of which many are free of charge. The huge annual concert on May 1, May Day, at the Piazza San Giovanni is also free and open to all. 

Tour Caesar’s Rome

Explore various sights and places associated with Julius Caesar, the most famous and controversial figures in Roman history, taking you back to his time in the past. Walk the ancient road Via Appia Antica that was restored by Caesar, get a taste of the picturesque and medieval Trastevere where his villa once stood, see the Teatro di Marcello built by Caesar to overshadow the Pompey Theater, and witness his place of murder at the Largo di Torre Argentina.

Book your Rome Holiday Now!