Getting to Rome, Italy can be expensive, seeing some of the most popular sites doesn’t have to be. Here is our list of Top Ten Free Things to do while visiting Rome with your family.
People Watch On The Spanish Steps
The Piazza di Spagna derives it’s name from the Spanish embassy to the Holy See, which is located on the expansive piazza. It’s best known for the Spanish Steps, the famous flight of stairs that leads up to the church of Trinità dei Monti which overlooks the picturesque piazza. You can see this site in five minutes, pausing only to snap a picture, or more than half an hour if you are brave enough to take the journey to the top of the steps.
Throw A Coin In The Trevi Fountain
Make a wish and throw some coins into the world’s most famous wishing well, the Trevi Fountain. According to legend, this will ensure your return to Rome. Snap a picture and do some people watching.
Tour St Peter’s Basilica
The largest church in Christendom, and possibly the world’s most famous church, is located in the centre of the Vatican City and open for free tours daily. (some exceptions do apply) Note: If you have bare shoulders or too much leg showing, you will not be allowed in the basilica. Also worthy of note: Don’t miss the Vatican Grottoes located underneath the church, several Popes (including Pope John Paul II) and St. Peter are buried here.
Walk The Roman Forum
Located within walking distance from the Colosseum, these ruins were originally the site a marketplace and such events as important elections, trials and gladiator fights.
Take In The Piazza Navona
(Photo by Giuseppe Moscato)
One of the busiest tourist locations in Rome, the Piazza Navona is quieter in the morning and busier in the evenings. The cafe’s and restaurants in the area often charge a premium for the opportunity to watch the world go by while you enjoy your meal. You can choose to grab a table for a late lunch and drink in the city, or simply meander hand in hand and breathe in the atmosphere. Piazza Navona is five minutes walk to west of the Pantheon.
Tour The Pantheon
The Pantheon was built in 120 AD and to date is the most complete surviving building in Rome. This building has a large hole in the ceiling that allows rain or snow to fall into the space and onto the marble below. If you are in the area when rain or snow falls be sure to run for the Pantheon to take in this beautiful occurrence.
Relax In The Villa Borghese
Central Rome’s largest gardens. Said to be one of the few green spaces in the Ancient City where you can truly relax, unwind, perhaps have a picnic far removed from the noise, the hustle and bustle of the city.
Amble Through Trastevere
With so many neighbourhoods to explore, make sure to take the time to get lost in the narrow and winding streets of Trastevere, the oldest neighbourhood of Rome.
Test The Mouth Of Truth
Photo opp! Located walking distance from Piazza Venezia, in the portico of the church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin. This large marble carving depicts the face of a man with of course, an open mouth. Legend has it if you reach your hand in this carving, and have lied in love, the mouth will close on your hand. Do you dare test the legend?
Visit the Vatican Museum
Rome’s most popular destination is always busy, but it’s not always free, except on the last Sunday of every month! Be prepared for even larger crowds and lines on these days offering free entrance.
Donna L. says
Great tips. Italy can be so expensive.
Debbie White Beattie says
I wish I could go there and all over Europe because it all looks so amazingly beautiful. The architecture alone is worth going. Only in my dreams !
Nadya A. says
I would love to be able to go to Italy. A country full of rich history, culture etc. This list is a useful reference, thanks 🙂
Mary says
Beautiful list. I don’t know if it’s still like this but when I tried to enter the Vatican, the security guard turned me away because my bermuda shorts were too short. Meanwhile, a guy with teeny tiny shorts affording a view of something was allowed entry.
Debbie White Beattie says
I wish I could go there, it looks so beautiful I can’t believe the architecture. Just imagine the history !
Alison Braidwood says
I had my first limone gelato and my first espresso in Rome. Made a lasting impression on me. It’s the small things you remember most.
Julie-Lynne McCann says
a dream come true, to go anywhere in Europe!! simply amazing!!
loucheryl says
I’ve always wanted to visit Rome. Thanks for the list of things to do for free. Rome is very beautiful.
Leeanne C says
Its great to know there are free things to do when your away. It will save you money that you get to keep for something else.
Anne Taylor says
Well, if I ever get to Rome, now I know! Thanks so much!
Mary Anne LaRocque-Ouamar says
My mom’s favorite city but she afraid of flying…I wonder if she would go by boat? Unlikely. Awww
Suzie M says
If I ever get there I will be prepared with your list
Christina A. says
Eek! On my “bucket list” for sure! Thanks for the great tips!
nicky says
These look like fantastic things to do in Rome! Would love to go someday. And eat lots of pizza and gelato!