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Free Tours in Rome: Touch the Ancient and Timeless Beauty

Rome (Italy) is one of the greatest cities in the world. Its history goes back thousands of years. The city amazes with its monumental architecture, fabulous squares, colorful markets, and streets full of interesting people – splendor is just around every corner. If you want to see all the highlights, you might want to book one of the free walking tours in Rome.

Unveil Ancient Wonders: Free Tours of Rome's Historic Sites

Let's find out the most popular attractions you can visit as part of the Rome free walking tour.

The Colosseum is a symbol worth seeing if you booked a free walking tour of Rome. The Colosseum is officially recognized as one of the world's seven wonders. This is the largest Roman monument among those who have survived. Emperor Vespasian built it and opened it under his son Tito. For a long time, it served as a place of battles, bloody spectacles, litigation, and theatrical performances. You can see it in our Rome free tour and get unforgettable memories.

Imperial Forums (Fori Imperiali)

This attraction is located next to the Colosseum. Taking a walk through the forums as part of a walking tour of Rome gives you an idea of what life was like in ancient times. The media were located in the city's main squares, with public buildings and a market. They were built in different years over a century and a half, from 46 BC. Before 113 AD, and have retained their greatness to this day. In addition to the Imperial Forum, you can visit Caesar's Forum and Trajan's markets and forum during the Rome free tour.

Piazza Venezia and Vittoriano Monument 

Piazza Venezia is perhaps the most critical crossroads in Rome. It is easily reached during your Rome walking tour on the road from the Colosseum via Fori Imperiali. Here is the Vittoriano Monument: a majestic memorial dedicated to King Vittorio Emmanuele II, the first king of Italy.

Practical Information: Tour Schedules, Meeting Points, and Booking Details

So you have chosen one of our walking tours in Rome. But what to do next? You should know that our tours last from 1:30 to 2 hours. And the meeting point with the guide is different for each excursion. That is why you should find out all the details in advance and calculate the time you will spend on the Ancient Rome tour. It is also worth noting that our free sightseeing tours are conducted in English.

Book Your Free Tour in Rome Today!

The sights of Rome are shrouded in an aura of mystery. The history of the capital of Italy is almost 2800 years old and contains many events, names, and cultural masterpieces. You will need one of our free walking tours in Rome to see everything. By ordering a tour, you get the following:

- a fascinating history of the ancient buildings of Rome

- a lot of positive emotions and unforgettable impressions.

- the opportunity to see all the places at a leisurely rhythm of Rome free walking tour.

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24 free things to do in Rome

Oct 18, 2023 • 9 min read

Save money in Rome with these free experiences © Westend61 / Getty Images

Rome  is a city where the doors of the art-laden churches are flung open to all, where ancient architectural wonders await around many corners, and it costs nothing to roam (pun intended) the historic streets, piazzas and parks. 

A surprising number of the famous sights in Italy 's magnificent capital city are completely free to visit, and we can show you how.

1. Admire the riches of St Peter's Basilica

And to be reminded where the power lies today, the city’s largest, richest and most spectacular basilica leaves all other churches in its shadow – and is completely free to enter.

There will probably be a line to enter Rome’s showstopping St Peter's Basilica , but after taking 126 years to build, maybe a little wait to see this opus isn’t so bad. St Peter’s Basilica is home to three of Italy’s most celebrated masterpieces: Michelangelo’s Pieta , his soaring dome and Bernini’s 29m-high (95ft) baldachin over the papal altar.

2. Watch the street artists on Piazza Navona

Come in the early morning before the crowds or after dark when the fountains, like Bernini’s iconic Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi , are illuminated to enjoy Piazza Navona  at its most alluring. Or better yet, be there when it’s crowded to watch the street performers and tourists come and go and hang out until dusk.

Long a hub of local life in Rome, Piazza Navona hosted Rome’s main market for nearly 300 years. Now there is a Christmas market during the holiday season and plenty of activity year-round.

Planning tip: Need to quench your thirst? Fill your water bottle at the nasone (big nose) drinking fountain in the north of the piazza.

3. Climb the Spanish Steps to the Convent of Trinità dei Monti

People are no longer allowed to sit on the Spanish Steps , but you can still climb them. At the very top of the city’s most famous staircase perches Chiesa della Trinità dei Monti . Duck inside and take in spectacular works of art, including frescoes, an astrolabe and a duo of anamorphoses – wall paintings that appear to change entirely, depending on where you stand.

4. Toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain

The gorgeous, over-the-top, rococo Trevi Fountain depicts wild horses, mythical figures and cascading rock falls. It’s an unforgettable sight any time of day but particularly spellbinding after dark when it’s all lit up. According to legend, tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain will ensure your return to Rome, making it a tourist rite of passage.

Planning tip: On an average day, about €3000 is chucked over shoulders into the water – but with all that money comes crowds of people, so don't be surprised to be jostling for space. It might be slightly quieter if you visit late in the evening.

5. Soak up the artistic vibes of Via Margutta

Take a stroll down the charming, ivy draped and prettily cobbled  Via Margutta . Picasso worked at gallery No 54, and the Italian Futurists had their first meeting here in 1917. Frederico Fellini even lived here for a while. It was also where Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck rendezvoused in the silver-screen classic Roman Holiday (1953). It's truly picture-perfect.

6. Wander the paths of Villa Borghese

Locals, lovers, tourists, joggers – no one can resist the lure of Rome's most famous park . Villa Borghese  is an oasis of shaded walkways, verdant corners and excellent museums to be explored. The lovingly landscaped Giardino del Lago features a copy of a Roman temple on the lake’s artificial islet.

Planning tip: For panoramic views of St Peter's, walk up Pincio Hill and head for the terrace.

7. Pay tribute in the Jewish Ghetto

The atmospheric Jewish Ghetto is studded with artisans' studios, kosher bakeries and popular trattorias. Dating back to the 2nd century BCE, this is one of the oldest Jewish quarters in Europe. While some Jewish people came as business envoys, most came as enslaved people. 

As you stroll around, look for a series of brass cobblestones. These are memorial plaques commemorating the city’s Holocaust victims: each one names a person and gives the date and destination of their deportation and death. They are placed outside the victims’ homes.

8. Tip generously on a "free" walking tour

New Rome Free Tour runs daily themed walking tours of the historic center. The guides will lead you through the tightly packed tangle of cobbled alleyways, Renaissance palaces, ancient ruins and baroque piazzas, all the while narrating the deep and storied history of Rome. It's a theatrical experience.

Planning tip:  Book your place in advance, and remember that while there's no charge for the tour, tips are expected at the end.

9. Explore the Via Appia Antica

Antiquity's most famous road, Via Appia Antica , has been an exclusive Rome address since 312 BCE. The most pleasant way to explore is on foot , making it perfect for a free experience. It's a beautiful cobbled thoroughfare flanked by grassy fields, Roman structures and towering pine trees. It was here that Spartacus and 6000 of his enslaved rebels were crucified, and it was here that early Christians buried their dead.

Planning tip:  For more information and a map of the area, stop by the Service Center Appia Antica  at the northern end of the road.

10. Find peace in Cimitero Acattolico 

A verdant oasis of peace, Rome’s "non-Catholic" cemetery is imbued with a kind of Grand Tour romance. Up to 4000 people are buried here, including poets John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley. 

As you wander among the gravestones, look for the Angelo del Dolore (Angel of Grief), a much replicated 1894 sculpture that US artist William Wetmore Story created for his wife’s grave.

11. Visit Bernini's masterpiece at Chiesa di Santa Maria della Vittoria

The roadside Chiesa di Santa Maria della Vittoria is the unlikely location of one of Italian baroque's great masterpieces: Bernini's Ecstasy of St Teresa . It's in the fourth chapel on the north side.

Planning tip:  This stunning major artwork is best viewed in the afternoon, when it's bathed in soft natural light filtering through a concealed window.

12. Browse the market at Campo de' Fiori

Colorful and always busy, Campo de' Fiori is a major focus of Roman life: by day, it hosts one of the city's best-known markets, and by night its bars and restaurants do a brisk trade. The piazza's poetic name (Field of Flowers) refers to the open meadow that stood here before the square was laid out in the mid-15th century.

13. Marvel at Renaissance architecture at Tempietto del Bramante

Bramante's tempietto (little temple) is considered the first great building of the High Renaissance. It is a perfect little surprise squeezed into the courtyard of the Chiesa di San Pietro in Montorio, on the spot where St Peter is said to have been crucified. Its classically inspired design and ideal proportions epitomize the Renaissance zeitgeist.

Planning tip:  It's quite a climb up to the church, but it makes an ideal stop on a walking tour of Gianicolo . The tempietto is reached through the Spanish Royal Academy entrance to the north of the church. If you can get access to the academy’s upper level, there are magnificent views of Rome.

14. Find the hidden square through Arco degli Acetari

For one of Rome’s most picturesque scenes, head to this dark archway just off Campo de’ Fiori. The arch itself isn’t especially memorable, but go through it, and you’ll emerge onto a tiny medieval square enclosed by rust-orange houses and cascading plants. Cats and bicycles litter the cobbles while washing hangs off pretty flower-lined balconies overhead.

15. Head up to hilltop Piazza del Campidoglio

This hilltop piazza , designed by Michelangelo in 1538, is one of Rome's most beautiful squares.

Planning tip:  There are several approaches to Piazza del Campidoglio, but the most dramatic is the graceful Cordonata staircase, which leads up from Piazza d'Aracoeli.

16. Learn about legends in Basilica di San Pietro in Vincoli

This 5th-century church was built to house the shackles of St Peter, which are displayed under the altar. But the real star of the show at  Basilica di San Pietro in Vincoli is Michelangelo's muscular Moses , which has its own interesting legend involving a mistranslation and a purposeful "‘mistake."

Planning tip:  The church is accessed via a steep flight of steps leading up from Via Cavour and passing under a low arch. 

17. Peer into Villa del Priorato di Malta

You probably can’t go inside the Villa del Priorato di Malta , but head over to the Sovereign Order of Malta anyway and peek through the keyhole. You'll see one of Rome’s most celebrated views: St Peter's dome, perfectly framed at the end of a hedge-lined avenue.

18. Partake in the passeggiata

The passeggiata (traditional evening stroll) is a quintessential Roman experience. It's particularly colorful on the weekends, when families, friends and lovers take to the streets to strut up and down, slurp on gelato and window-shop.

Planning tip:  To join in, head to Via del Corso around 6pm. Alternatively, watch the theatrics on Piazza di Spagna .

19. Marvel at religious artworks in Chiesa di San Luigi dei Francesi

Chiesa di San Luigi dei Francesi is home to three of Caravaggio’s earliest religious works, collectively known as the St Matthew Cycle. Embodying down-to-earth realism, they feature the stunning  chiaroscuro –  the bold contrast of light and dark – that the painter is known for. 

Planning tip:  Before you leave the church, take a moment to enjoy Domenichino’s faded 17th-century frescoes of St Cecilia in the second chapel on the right.

20. See atmospheric architecture in Quartiere Coppedè

One of Rome’s most extraordinary neighborhoods , Quartiere Coppedè  was conceived and built by the little-known Florentine architect Gino Coppedè between 1913 and 1926. It's a fairy-tale series of palazzos with Tuscan turrets, Liberty sculptures, Moorish arches, Gothic gargoyles, frescoed facades and palm-fringed gardens, centering around the magnificent Piazza Mincio.

21. Visit the landmark Trajan's Column 

The ancient landmark of Trajan's Column towers over the Imperial Forums . If you can make them out, the reliefs depict Trajan's military campaigns.

22. Attend the Pope's weekly address

The Pope holds a weekly audience in the Vatican on Wednesdays when he's in Rome.

Planning tip:  Tickets are free but you need to request them and collect them in advance.

23. Some of Rome's best attractions are free at specific times

Time your visit just right, and you could be taking in some of Rome's very best paid-for sites for absolutely nothing at all. On the first Sunday of the month, the  Colosseum , Palatino  and Roman Forum  are free to visit. The  Vatican Museums  can be visited for free on the last Sunday of the month.

24. Rome's May Day Concert is a free event

The May Day Concert on May 1 is a huge (and free) celebration in the city.

This article was first published August 2019 and updated October 2023

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50 Free Things to Do in Rome

This post lists the best free things to do in Rome, including nighttime and family-friendly activities. Every attraction below is confirmed, as of 2024, to be free or very affordable.

We also include a few things to do that cost a small amount of money, but are worth it!

As local tour guides who live on a budget here in Rome, we enjoy all that is free here we are happy to share our favorite activities below.

• Top Free Things
• Almost Free
• Family-Friendly Activities
• Things to Do at Night
• Other Things to Do in Rome

TOP FREE THINGS TO DO IN ROME

The following section covers activities you can enjoy for free in Rome.

1. Take a Free Walking Tour

First, you can take free, self-guided tours of Rome and see the city at your own pace.

We have tours of the city centre, ancient Rome, Vatican City, Trastevere, the Appian Way, and more. Many come with audio as well.

There are some pretty good pay-what-you-wish walking tours that you can take. These are free to take and you can pay whatever you wish or can afford, at the end of your tour.

Tours listed below are run through us. More guided tours are available here .

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These services usually focus on the city centre and provide a look at some of the more popular and notable locations in the area.

See and learn about sites such as the Pantheon , the Colosseum , the Trevi Fountain , and the Spanish Steps .

2. Enjoy Domenica al Museo

On the first Sunday of every month, several of the most popular museums and historic sites such as the Colosseum and Castel Sant'Angelo open their doors to the public for free.

This is an excellent opportunity to visit locations that cost at least €10 - €15 per ticket.

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Here are a few of the more notable landmarks you can visit:

• The Colosseum
• The Roman Forum
• Palatine Hill
• Castel Sant’Angelo
• Baths of Caracalla
• Borghese Gallery  
• Capitoline Museums
• Palazzo Venezia
• Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella

NOTE: Many of these attractions are included with at least one money-saving tourist attraction pass offered in Rome.

For more details, make sure to read our post about Rome tourist passes .

3. Enter The Vatican Museums on the Last Sunday

This is one of the most popular attractions in Rome, but tickets are usually required for admission.

Thankfully, on the last Sunday of every month, the Vatican Museums open their doors to the public for free.

If you want to see some of the most historic artwork and artifacts in the city (including the Sistine Chapel), this is an excellent opportunity you won’t want to miss. 

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The only problem with going to the Vatican Museums on this day is that it can get very crowded. 

Even if you can’t make it to the Vatican Museums on the last Sunday of the month, you might still want to check out St. Peter’s Basilica .

This historic church is free to visit and there are a lot of notable attractions to see inside.

4. Visit The Pantheon

As of July 2023, the Pantheon is no longer free to the public. It is €5 per person, but that's a pretty reasonable price for this glorious attraction.

Worshippers are still allowed to attend mass for free, but tourists will need to pay for entry.

It's an especially beautiful place to visit when it's raining or snowing as the rain and snow come right through the roof into the building.

For a full list of things to see and do, make sure to read our post about visiting the Pantheon .

5. Sit by the Fountains in Piazza Navona

If you’re going to be in the area of the Pantheon, you may want to consider making a stop at the nearby Piazza Navona as well.

This historic plaza was once the location of the public market in Rome and is now one of the busiest in the city.

There are three beautiful fountains here – two of which were crafted by Bernini.

You can also expect to find street artists in the area providing entertainment to visitors at the plaza.

6. See the Pope

Believe it or not, there are a few different ways to see the Pope for free while visiting Rome.

During special holidays, he will be on hand to celebrate both at the Vatican and in other locations in Rome.

There are also audiences held twice a week on Wednesday and Sunday.

While you will need tickets for the Wednesday Papal Audience, the Sunday Angelus is free for everyone to see in St. Peter’s Square.

Even the tickets themselves won’t cost you anything – all you have to do is request them from the Vatican.

If you want to learn more about both of these opportunities, please read our guide about how to see the Pope .

7. Walk Down Appian Way

Via Appia Antica (otherwise known as the Appian Way) is one of the oldest roads in Rome, and there are a lot of interesting historic sites to see nearby.

To this day, you are free to walk down the Appian Way and enjoy all of the landmarks along the road.

While some of the locations you can visit will require you to pay for admission, others are free to enter and see for yourself.

It’s worth noting that this is where you will find the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella, which is just one of the many sites you can visit for free during Domenica al Museo.

8. Throw a Coin into Trevi Fountain

This is one of the largest baroque fountains in all of Rome and it is also one of the most popular locations to visit. Visiting the Trevi fountain is free to do, there is no fee.

If you throw coins in the foundation, the myth has it that good things will happen.

With one coin, you'll return to Rome. With two coins, you'll fall in love with an attractive Italian. With three coins, that meeting will result in marriage.

The best thing about the Trevi Fountain is that it looks magnificent both day and night.

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If you’re looking for more great reasons to see this beautiful fountain, there are a lot of notable and historically relevant sites nearby which are also free to visit.

For more details, make sure to read our post about going to the Trevi Fountain .

9. Take the Spanish Steps

Whether you’re looking for poetic inspiration or you just want to see one of the most well-known sites in Rome, a trip to the Spanish Steps above Piazza di Spagna is an absolute must.

In addition to serving as a popular meeting location, there are also a lot of interesting things to see and do in the area.

If you visit Rome during the spring, make sure to come and see when they line the Spanish Steps with thousands of Azaleas.

This is a special event that only happens once per year, and it gives the landmark an entirely different appeal.

10.  Visit Campo de’ Fiori

If you’re interested in doing a bit of shopping, this is one of the first places you should look.

Campo de’ Fiori is the main market in Rome, so you can expect to find a lot of different things on sale in the area.

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This is an especially good place to look for fresh fruits and vegetables if you’re looking for something to eat.

There are a lot of interesting things to do in this part of Rome, and we offer a self-guided walking tour of the neighborhood which starts at Campo de’ Fiori. 

11. Take a Tiber River Walk

If you're trying to get somewhere quickly, this isn't the best route. But if you have time for a wandering walk or a bike ride, it doesnt get any better than along the Tiber.

You'll come across landmarks like Tiber Island, Teatro Marcello, S. Maria in Cosmedin, and Palazzo Spada.

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Then there's Palazzo Farnese, Vatican City, Castle Sant Angelo, the Palace of Justice, and several historic bridges.

TIP: We recommend that you do not do this walk at night, even if accompanied.

12. Walk or Drive Via dei Fori Imperiali

This avenue is between the Colosseum and Piazza Venezia and is one of the best ways to see ancient Rome in a short time.

You'll be passing such landmarks at the Forum of Augustus, the Forum of Neva, and the Forum of Trajan in just about 15 minutes.

13. Visit Where Julius Caesar Was Killed

In the center of Rome, next to the Pantheon, lies a square called Largo di Torre Argentina. It lies meters below street level and has to be reached by a stairway

The square is renowned for its four ancient Roman temples, which were uncovered in the 1920s while working on a new structure and date back to the third century BC.

The area is also well known for having been the scene of Julius Caesar's murder in 44 BC; nowadays, a plaque on one of the temple columns designates the place of the alleged murder.

In addition to being a popular tourist destination, Largo di Torre Argentina is also the location of ongoing archaeological research and excavation and the home of a cat sanctuary.

14. Stand (Almost) Beneath the Arch of Constantine

Between the Colosseum and the Palatine Hill, stands the Arch of Constantine, a triumphal arch.

The Arch of Constantine is a major historical and cultural landmark because it is a well-preserved example of Roman monumental architecture.

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To honor Emperor Constantine I's victory at the Battle of Milvian Bridge, it was erected in AD 315.

The arch is famous for its considerable use of spolia, or recycled elements from earlier structures, including sculptures and reliefs from the eras of Trajan, Hadrian, and Marcus Aurelius.

15. Take a Gaze At Trajan's Column

Trajan's Column is a triumphal column that may be found at Trajan's Forum, an ancient public square built by Emporer Trajan.

It was constructed in the second century AD to honor Emperor Trajan's triumph in the Dacian Wars.

The column is carved with a spiral relief that depicts Trajan's military campaigns in Dacia and is 30 meters tall.

As one of the best-preserved specimens of Roman monumental sculpture today, Trajan's Column is a well-liked tourist destination in Rome.

16. Visit An Ancient Shopping Mall

Near Trajan's Column is the old market complex Mercati di Traiano (Trajan's Market).

The emperor Trajan constructed it as a multi-level "shopping mall" and an administrative hub around the beginning of the second century AD.

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The market has been renovated into a museum detailing daily life and trade in ancient Rome.

The market's numerous levels can be explored by visitors, who can also view exhibits on the history of the structure, the commodities sold there, and the individuals who worked and patronized the market.

Read about the many ways to get special tickets that allow you to enter for free including visiting on the first Sunday of each month.

17. Stand Atop Capitoline Hill

One of Rome's seven hills is Capitoline Hill, commonly known as Campidoglio in Italian. It is regarded as one of Rome's most significant sites and is situated in the centre of the city.

The hill has a long and colorful past; in the fourth century BC, it was the site of temples honoring various Roman gods and goddesses.

The great Renaissance architect Michelangelo was hired to rebuild Piazza del Campidoglio and create a new grand stairway.

The piazza is bordered by several remarkable buildings, such as the Palazzo Senatorio which is currently home to the Rome mayor's office.

Several noteworthy structures and museums are there including the Capitoline Museums which are home to a collection of antiquity Roman art and antiquities.

At the foot of Capitoline Hill is the Tabularium, a historic building that served as a record office in ancient Rome. Today it is home to a museum devoted to the history of the Roman Forum.

18. Stroll Through Testaccio

On the western bank of the Tiber River is the medieval district known as Testaccio.

Testaccio has a special charm and character, even though it may not be as aesthetically attractive as some of Rome's old and picturesque neighborhoods.

The neighborhood bears the imprint of its industrial past, and many structures and streetscapes speak to its working-class origins. The area was well known for its marketplaces, butcheries, and meatpacking facilities.

Today, Testaccio is a vibrant and ethnically diverse area with a booming restaurant and food scene, busy street markets, and a variety of bars.

Additionally, it is the location of museums such as the MACRO (Modern and Contemporary Art Museum). It has which has a sculpture garden that can be viewed for free.

There's also the Centrale Montemartini Museum of Industrial Archaeology.

The Città dell'Altra Economia, a cultural center and exhibition space that holds events, also hosts a farmer's market.

You can find a great view of Rome from atop Monte Testaccio, a hill made of broken terracotta amphorae.

And if you're a lover of literature or the arts, you can find the final resting place of poets Keats and Shelley, and painter Joesph Severn, at Protestant Cemetary.

19. Visit Villa Borghese Gardens

There are a lot of great family-friendly attractions in and around Villa Borghese , but the park itself is also a great place to visit.

It’s free to walk through the park and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

If you have young children, you may also want to consider heading to Cinema dei Piccolo, a theatre in Villa Borghese that offers free admission for kids.

This is also where you will find the Zoo, a puppet theatre, and several notable museums such as Villa Borghese.

You'll also find Villa Torlonia , a museum that is free to enter in some cases. (The gardens are free; read more just below).

If you want to do some sightseeing while you’re in the area, you’ll find the Spanish Steps just south of Villa Borghese.

Other notable landmarks such as the Trevi Fountain are just a short walk from this location.

TIP: Some hop-on-hop-off bus tours provide nearby stops which can make it easier to get here.

20. Relax in the Gardens of Villa Torlonia

Originally constructed in the 18th century, Villa Torlonia was built by the affluent Torlonia family, who owned the land for more than a century, and originally resided in the villa.

The villa served as Mussolini and his family's home during World War II, and it now houses a museum that can be toured for a price.

However, the estate's gardens are renowned for their elegance and variety and can be toured for free.

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The estate's more than 14 hectares are divided into various garden areas, each with a special charm.

In addition to a wide range of flowers, fountains, and other beautiful features, this park is home to numerous rare and exotic trees.

In general, Villa Torlonia's gardens are a lovely place to unwind and appreciate the wonders of nature.

They offer a tranquil respite from the bustle of the city and a window into Rome's rich history and culture.

21. Stand on Pincio Terrace

At the edge of Borshese Gardens is the Pincio Terrace, atop one of Rome's 7 hills that provides panoramic views of the city.

From here you can see such sites as the Spanish Steps and St. Peter's Basilica. It is a great place from which to watch the sunset in Rome.

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This is a popular location for picnics, strolls, and other leisure activities. It is surrounded by rich vegetation and sports 229 monuments, sculptures, and fountains.

The terrace, designed in the early 19th century, can be reached by stairs leading from Piazza del Popolo or from a path leading up from the Spanish Steps.

22. See the Hieroglyphs in Piazza del Popolo

One of the largest squares in Rome, the "People's Square", stands near the old Porta del Popolo gate through which visitors entered the city.

A striking landmark sits in the middle of Piazza del Popolo. This is the ancient hieroglyph-covered Egyptian obelisk named Obelisco Flaminio or Flaminian Obelisk.

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The obelisk was originally erected in Eqypt in the 13th century BCE, then later brought to Rome in the 10th century CE, eventually finding its way to the center of Piazza del Popolo in the 16th century.

The base and the cross on top add up to a height of 36 meters (118 feet), making it one of the tallest landmarks in the city, and it is composed of red granite.

Also on the square are the "twin" churches Santa Maria dei Mirsoli and Santa Maria Monsanto.

23. Visit an Open-Air Art Museum

Muro, the Rome Ubran Art Museum, is an open-air art museum containing more than 200 pieces of art dispersed across the city.

A group of artists and curators founded the museum in 2010 to provide a venue where street art and graffiti might be valued as genuine art forms.

Works created by local and international artists include contemporary street art and graffiti and are being added to or replaced in the collection regularly.

Stencils, murals, installations, and sculptures, among other styles and methods, are all represented in the collection.

Many of the pieces address social and political themes, and some have come to represent the city in indelible ways.

24. Walk Through the Former Jewish Ghetto

Rome's Jewish Ghetto was created in 1555.

Confining its large Jewish population to one part of the city allowed the Jews to be controlled better by the Catholic Church.

The community managed to survive and even thrive in certain respects despite the difficult circumstances they were forced to live under, including crowding and certain legal restrictions.

Numerous notable individuals in the disciplines of science, art, and literature came out of this area, and it developed a distinctive culture and cuisine.

The neighborhood today is picturesque and colorful, and there are plenty of places to try traditional Roman Jewish dishes.

A few things to see during a walk are the Jewish Museum of Rome, the stunning Great Synagogue of Rome, Teatro Marcello (AKA the Jewish Coliseum), Piazza Matteri and its Fountain of the Turtles, and Portico d'Ottavia, a well-preserved ruin dating back to the 2nd century BCE.

25. Attend a Free Concert

The Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia is a renowned music school and performing arts institution.

It is one of the oldest musical institutions in the world, having been founded in 1585, and has a long tradition of supporting the growth of musical talent and promoting classical music.

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It offers several concerts throughout the year for free and some feature some of the finest classical artists in the world.

Visit their website for more information .

26. Take in Some Byzantine Mosaics

At the 8th-century Basicalla Santa Prassede, located in the Esquiline Hill neighborhood, you'll find stunning mosaics.

The church is where Saint Praxedes and her sister Saint Pudentiana lived in the 2nd century. Legend has it that the women gathered the blood of Christian martyrs in the church's underground chambers.

Byzantine artists were commissioned by the Pope to decorate the church, and the mosaics created provided insight into the religious beliefs of the era.

The apse mosaic, which portrays Christ's Second Coming, is the most well-known mosaic in the church.

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Christ is depicted enthroned in the mosaic among several angels and saints, including Saints Praxedes and Pudentiana.

The archangels Michael and Gabriel stand on either side of the image of Christ, encircled by a mandorla, a representation of divine splendor.

The church is also home to the relic known as the Column of Flagellation. It was believed this was part of the pillar where Jesus was flogged before his crucifixion.

27. Visit Filmmaker Fellini's Old Neighborhood

Located near the Spanish Steps is Via Margutta, a picturesque street known for its quaint ambiance, beautiful buildings and courtyards, and creative heritage.

Via Margutta has a long history of being connected to the arts and has housed numerous musicians, writers, and artists.

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Well-known directors, actors, and producers have lived or worked on the street, including Federico Fellini whose house is now a museum dedicated to him.

Stop by 110 Via Margutta to see this plaque dedicated to Felinni and his wife, famed actress Giulietta Masina.

Today, Via Margutta is a well-liked destination for art lovers and shoppers because of its array of galleries, antique stores, and artisan studios.

28. See the Foro Italico

The Foro Italico, originally called Foro Mussolini, is a sports complex that opened in 1932.

The facility was created to highlight Italy's sporting accomplishments, and was meant to symbolize the fascist regime's focus on physical fitness,

Today it is one the largest sports complexes in the country and is home to several statues that were created as part of fascist propaganda.

Each May, it hosts the Italian Open, one of professional tennis's most prestigious tournaments.

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There you'll see 60 marble sculptures of idealized male figures, in a style sometimes called "heroic realism," one meant to show power, strength, and superiority.

In addition to statues of mythological figures, athletes, and soldiers, there is a large bronze statue of Mussolini that still stands at the entrance today.

29. See the Elephant in Piazza della Minerva

In Piazza della Minerva, in front of Santa Maria Sopra Minerva church, there is a sizable marble statue of an elephant.

This whimsical elephant statue was created in the 17th century by Gian Lorenzo Bernini.

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His original creation was deemed too plain by the Dominican friars who commissioned him, so he then inserted an ancient Egyptian obelisk into the elephant's back.

The church on the square is of the rare-in-Rome Gothic Style and dates back to the 13th century. Inside is a sculpture by Michelangelo and a fresco by Lippi.

30. Cross Some Historic Bridges

As the Tiber River runs through Rome, there are 28 bridges connecting neighborhoods on each side.

Many of these bridges have become iconic landmarks, with some dating back thousands of years.

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A few of the most popular bridges include:

• Ponte Vittorio Emanuele II : this 20th-century bridge (pictured above) links the historic center of Rome to Vatican City and has four bronze-winged victory statues
• Ponte Fabricio : dating back to 62 BCE. This is the oldest bridge in the world, in a picturesque location leading to Isola Tiberina
• Ponte Milvio : dating back to 106 CE, known for the Battle of the Milvian Bridge between Emperors Constantine I and Maxentius.
• Ponte Sant'Angelo : dating back to 136 CE and known for its 10 16th-century Bernin-designed angels
• Ponte Sisto : dating back to the 15th century, the cobblestoned bridge has a view of St. Peter's Basilica

31. Wander Quartiere Coppedè

The Quartiere Coppedè is one of Rome's smallest and most unique neighborhoods. You won't find anything quite like it anywhere else in the city.

The architecture is a blend of many styles and influences, including Art Deco, Baroque, Art Nouveau, and medieval, and the words "fairytale-like" are often used to describe it.

There you'll find decorative balconies, ornate fountains, and detailed mosaics and frescoes.

There are many restaurants and cafes to stop in at as you walk its whimsical streets.

32. Stroll Through the Park of the Aqueducts

Parco degli Acquedotti is a public park in the Appio-Latino neighborhood.

It has ancient ruins, including the aqueducts that brought water to Rome until the 6th century CE.

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You can also find part of Via Latina, an ancient Roman road, along with a mausoleum, and a bathhouse.

It's the perfect place to walk, run, or bike scenic paths and catch sight of various flora and fauna.

Tip: bring water during the summer months.

33. Step Into Galleria Sciarra

This little multi-storied shopping arcade, completed in 1888 and near Trevi Fountain, is a feast for the eyes.

It has walls covered in frescoes of ancient mythological scenes painted on the walls. They are said to be some of the finest examples of Art Nouveau in Rome.

Part of the ceiling is made of glass, which floods the gallery with light and shows off its intricate stucco work.

It still functions as a shopping arcade today, so folks can indulge in a bit of spending if they wish.

34. Visit Isola Tiberina

The small Isola Tiberina (Tiber Island) sits in the middle of the Tiber River, between the Jewish Ghetto and Trastevere.

It's believed to have been created back in the 6th century BCE, becoming home to a temple of the god of healing, Aesculapius. The ruins of the temple can still be found there.

Also found there are the ruins of the Ponte Rotto, of which a few arches remain, a medieval tower; an ancient Roman house; the Colonna infame; a church, and a hospital. There are also a few restaurants.

In the summer there is the Estate Romana, an annual cultural festival that runs from June through September and includes music, art, dance, and film screenings.

35. Visit a Hidden Gem

In the church courtyard of San Pietro in Montorio, one will find the circular Bramante's Tempietto.

One of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in Rome, this small temple was created by famed architect Donato Bramante who also created St. Peter's Basilica.

The structure was meant to commemorate the spot where Saint Peter was said to have been crucified.

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It was commissioned by King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella of Spain and erected in 1502.

For several reasons, the Tempietto is a significant piece of Renaissance architecture.

Many other Renaissance architects would later be influenced by this style of architecture, which came to be associated with the era.

Inside are frescoes and sculptures, and a copy of Raphael's Transfiguration (the original was moved to the Vatican Museum).

36. Find a Magic Door

The Porta Alchemica (Alchemy Gate) or Porta Magica (Magic Portal) sits in Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, a park that used to be the gardens of a villa that now lies in ruins.

This small stone door is embellished with complex symbols and inscriptions that some think are connected to alchemy and the hunt for the philosopher's stone, a fictitious substance thought to have the ability to turn base metals into gold and to bestow perpetual life.

The Marquis Massimiliano Palombara, who supported alchemy and aimed to establish a secret laboratory for alchemical experiments, constructed the door in the 17th century.

Giuseppe Francesco Borri, an Italian alchemist who some believed had discovered the philosopher's stone, was said to have used the door.

Rumor has it there are more doors in the area yet to be found.

37. Visit Aula Ottagona

The Aula Ottogona (Octagonal Hall) was first constructed in the 3rd century CE, likely as a meeting place for Roman dignitaries.

It was possibly even a place for ritual cleansing as it sat near the Baths of Diocletian.

After gradually falling into disrepair, the architect Pirro Ligorio was engaged to study and restore it in the 16th century.

He studied the octagonal shapes and columns and discovered colorful geometric mosaics on the floor and frescoes on the walls.

Four marble and bronze statues from as early as the 2nd century grace the hall and several sarcophagi have been discovered over the years.

The site is today part of the National Roman Museum .

CHEAP THINGS TO DO IN ROME

In this section, we list low-cost activities you can enjoy in Rome for almost free.

If you’re looking for additional ideas, don’t forget that you can always take a pay-what-you-wish walking tour . 

38. The Baths of Caracalla

This is one of the most underrated sites in all of Rome.

Many people discover the historic landmark while visiting nearby attractions like the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, as it’s visible from each location.

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In addition to seeing the ruins of the baths, you can also purchase tickets for a new VR experience which gives you an idea of what the structure looked like when it was still in use.

Tickets are reasonably priced at €8 or less per person, so it won’t cost much to add this to your itinerary.

For additional details, make sure to read our post about the Baths of Caracalla .

NOTE: Admission to this attraction is included for free with the Rome Turbo Pass and the Roma Pass . You can also save 20% on tickets with the Rome City Pass . 

39. Stop in at the Pyramid of Cestius

The Pyramid of Cestius is an ancient pyramid-shaped tomb in the lovely Aventine area of Rome.

It was built around 18-12 BC as a final resting place for Gaius Cestius, a magistrate and member of one of Rome's religious orders.

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On the third and fourth Saturdays and Sundays of every month at 11:00, people can tour the inside of the pyramid which has frescoes on its walls.

Tickets cost €5.50 and are conducted in Italian.

Visit the website for more information .

40. Visit the Catacombs of Rome

There are several different locations where you can enter some of the catacombs of Rome.

While some of these sites offer free admission, others require a very reasonably priced ticket. 

At most, you can expect to pay around €8 per person, so it’s a fairly affordable activity.

Here are a few of the more popular locations you may want to visit:

• Capuchin Crypt
• Catacombs of St. Callixtus
• Catacombs of St. Sebastian
• Catacombe Domitilla

NOTE: Many of these historic sites are located alongside Via Appia. If you want to visit the Catacombs of St. Callixtus or St. Sebastian, it might make sense to combine your trip with a walk down Appian Way .

41. See the Villa Farnesina

Agostino Chigi, a wealthy banker, had Villa Farnesina designed for himself in the early 16th century.

Raphael, Sebastiano del Piombo, and Il Sodoma, among other prominent artists of the era, were commissioned to paint murals portraying scenes from ancient mythology, history, and the Bible on the walls of the villa.

These frescoes are regarded as some of the best examples of Italian Renaissance painting in all of Italy.

A particularly interesting painting is the trompe l'oeil masterpiece called Sala delle Prospettive (Room of Perspectives), painted to seem like an open-air terrace with views over Rome.

This museum, which costs €5-10 per person to enter , is located in the Trastevere district.

42. Go to a Flea Market

If you want to feel like a citizen of Rome, you might want to visit one of the city's bustling and vibrant street markets.

They cost nothing to visit, although you might be tempted to purchase a souvenir or two.

Porta Portese Market in Trastevere on Sundays is Rome's most famous flea market with antiques, furniture, and vintage clothing

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Two other fun markets are:

Mercato Monti in Monti on Sat-Sun. It's a favorite featuring jewelry, vintage clothes, and handmade goods.

Borghetto Flaminio in Flaminio is open on Sundays. You can shop for used designer clothes, antiques, and goods from the wealthy of Rome.

Tip: If you do decide that you want to purchase something, it's rumored that vendors expect to get half of the starting price; be sure to haggle down to at least that figure.

43. Visit Basilica di San Clemente

This fascinating and richly decorated church is made up of three levels. It is described as a lasagna of history, with each layer representing a different era in Rome

The first level was originally a Roman house owned by a wealthy nobleman.

The house was converted into a Mithraic Temple, and there is still a shrine to the god Mithras. One can find the ruins of ancient walls, mosaics, and frescoes there.

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The second level was originally a 4th-century church with marble decorations, frescoes, and more.

The third level is a 12th-century church, which includes the tomb of St. Cyril, a bell tower, and a fresco showing the crucifixion.

The church can be found near the Colosseum. Tickets run €5-10 per person .

FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES AND ATTRACTIONS

This section will provide a few ideas for fun things you can do for free with your family in Rome.

Don’t forget that many popular sites are included for free with Roman tourist passes . This is a great opportunity to save money while sightseeing with your family.

44. Circus Maximus

This is one of the most historic sites in Rome, and it’s free to visit.

Circus Maximus was once a famous chariot racing stadium, but over time it has fallen into such disrepair that it is now used as something of a public square.

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During certain holidays, Circus Maximus will often be the site of special events such as fireworks displays and live performances.

The former stadium is also often used as one of the sites included in triathlons or races.

45. Go on an Art Walk

Rome has been home to several notable artists throughout the centuries, so it shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise that a lot of their artwork can be found simply by wandering around Rome.

Not only can you find the work of creators like Bernini, Michelangelo, Raphael, and Caravaggio all over the city, but some of their most famous works are free to enjoy.

Check the following locations for some of the most beautiful and historic artwork in Rome.

Church of San Luigi dei Francesi

• The Martyrdom of St. Matthew by Caravaggio

Church of Santa Maria del Popolo

• The Crucifixion of St. Peter by Caravaggio
• Creation of the World by Raphael
• Feoli and Cicada Chapels by Bernini

Church of Sant’Agostino

• Madonna di Loreto by Caravaggio
• The Prophet Isaiah by Raphael

St. Peter’s Basilica

• Pieta by Michelangelo
• The Dome by Michelangelo
• Saint Longinus by Bernini

Church of Santa Maria sopra Minerva

• Cristo della Minerva by Michelangelo
• Pulcino della Minerva by Bernini

Piazza Navona

• Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi by Bernini
• Fontana del Moro w/ work from Bernini

Ponte Sant'Angelo

• Angel With the Crown of Thorns by Bernini
• Angel With the Superscription by Bernini

46. Visit the Cavalieri di Malta Keyhole

This might not be the first place that people visit when they come to Rome, but it is a great opportunity for one of the most unique views in the ancient city.

At the top of Aventine Hill, you'll find the Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta.

On the gated entrance to the nearby churches, there is an old keyhole that has gained some notoriety over the years for a very special reason.

It just so happens to line up perfectly with the dome of St. Peter's Basilica across the river.

Over the years, the Cavalieri di Malta Keyhole has become a fairly popular tourist destination.

Many people come to see if they can spy on the famous church through this small keyhole, and it's a great activity for both young and old visitors.

47. Stick Your Hand in La Bocca della Verità

The enormous stone mask known as La Bocca della Verità, or "the Mouth of Truth" in English, has a fascinating history.

The mask, which was initially utilized as a drain cover at the Temple of Hercules, is believed to have been made in the first century AD.

Later, in the 17th century, it was relocated to the front of Santa Maria in Cosmedin church, where it still is today.

The Bocca della Verità is said to have the ability to identify whether someone is telling the truth or lying.

Their hand would stay intact if they were telling the truth, but if they were lying, the mask would allegedly bite off their hand.

People put their hands into the mask's mouth throughout the Middle Ages, something folks can do today for just €2 for anyone over 10 years

48. Go to a Free Museum

Aside from all the museums you can visit for free on Domenica al Museo, some museums in Rome are always free for all guests. Here are each of the city-run attractions you can enjoy without paying even one euro!

• Museo delle Mura
• Villa di Massenzio
• Museo Carlo Bilotti
• Museo Napoleonico
• Museo Pietro Canonica
• Museo di Casal de' Pazzi
• Museo di Scultura Antica Giovanni Barracco
• Museo della Repubblica Romana e della memoria garibaldina

FREE THINGS TO DO AT NIGHT

The following section will cover a variety of activities you can enjoy for free after the sun goes down in Rome.

Some of our other sections include ideas that would also be fun after dark, such as visiting the Catacombs or going to Trevi Fountain .

49. Testaccio Market

During the summer and fall, Testaccio Market extends its hours well into the night for an event they call “Open Days.”

These days, there will usually be live musical performances and some of the business owners in the area will offer additional services.

One of the things you can do is purchase fresh meat from the butcher and have it cooked on-site!

50. See Historic Fountains

There are a lot of famous fountains to be seen in Rome, and many of them include lighting to make it easier for visitors to enjoy after dark.

According to some travelers, these magnificent and often artistic pieces are even more beautiful at night.

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We’ve already mentioned a few locations that you can see for free whenever you want, but we’ll include some additional fountains to check out below.

• Trevi Fountain (Piazza di Trevi)
• Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi ( Piazza Navona )
• Fontana del Moro ( Piazza Navona )
• The Fountain of Neptune ( Piazza Navona )
• Triton Fountain (Piazza Barberini)
• Fountain of the Naiads (Piazza della Repubblica)

51. Vittoriano Monument

This is one of the most historic sites in all of Rome, and it's a great place to visit at any time of the day.

That being said, many visitors feel that the experience is even better at night, as they light up the Vittoriano Monument after the sun goes down.

While you can't go inside at this time, it's still quite nice to visit just to experience the beauty of this landmark after dark.

Also known as the Altar of the Fatherland, this structure is located right next to sites such as Piazza Venezia, the Capitoline Museums , and Complesso del Vittoriano.

NOTE: The Capitoline Museums are included with both the Omnia Vatican & Rome Card and the Roma Pass .

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Welcome to the first and oldest FREE WALKING TOUR in Rome and Italy

Walking tours & activities in, private, group and free tours in the eternal city, more than 10 tours daily, showing you the eternal city   enjoy authentic local experiences .

Since 2009 NEW ROME FREE TOUR , with over 10 tours (free, private and customized tours in english and other languages) offered daily, the oldest and the most reviewed free tour of the Eternal City and in Italy, with the best local freelance and licensed tour guides, who passionately share the city’s history and culture with their own unique and always-entertaining style.

WALKING TOURS IN ROME

Ancient Rome Free Guided Tour Daily in the morning

Visit with a licensed and professional guide, the archeological areas of the Roman and Imperial Fora, the Colosseum and more, on a 2-hour tour.

Sunset City Centre Free Guided Tour Daily in the afternoon

Explore the Fountains and Squares of Rome as Spanish Steps, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Navona square, idden jems and more, on a 2-hour tour.

Recorrido gratuito en Espanol Diariamente por la tarde

Exploring Vatican City Free Guided Tour Daily

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Monti and Trastevere Free Food Tours Daily

Street Food Free Tours and Cooking Classes in the Eternal City From the first and original free tour, the most affordable food tours in Rome.

Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel Small Group Tours

Be astounded as you discover the masterpieces and secrets that for millennia have been secured within the fortified walls of Vatican City and the Sistine Chapel.

Skip-the-Line Colosseum Small Group Tour & Entry to Roman Forum More

Travel back to the days of the Roman Empire on a 2-hour. Hear stories of the gladiator fights and Roman emperors.

Fun Guided Tours for Families with Kids

We craft engaging tours using guides who know how to open young people’s eyes, ears and hearts so they can fully appreciate Roman history, art and culture

PRIVATE, SCHOOL GROUP AND EDUCATIONAL TOURS

Colosseum Underground

The Colosseum will have no more secrets for you after this tour that includes all the levels from the dungeons to the top.

Colosseum and Rome Underground

Visit the Colosseum and the underground Rome 20 meters below the modern City. This is one of the most spectacular tour.

Private Vatican Tour

Visit wings and collections where usually groups never go. Explore, in a private tour, the Museums, Sistine Chapel and Saint Peter’s.

Secret Rome

Closed doors are opened, locked gates are magically unlocked. With our guides discover the secret beauty of Rome.

Augustus House

This our is an high tailored experience to let you explore the House of Emperor Augustus with its wonderful frescos.

Squares of Rome Small Group Tour With Street Food, Tiramisù and Gelato

Explore the Baroque squares and fountains of Rome on a 2-hour walking tour, with the best pizza, gelato and tiramisu in town.

Monti Street Food & Ancient Rome Small Group Guided Tour

Join a guided 2-hour walking and eating tour in the historical neighborhood renowned for its local scene and travel back to the days of the Roman Empire.

School Groups and Educational Tours

We do not claim to be the market leader specialising in School and Educational Tours. We are the market leader. We also have the most experienced team.

TICKETS & ACTIVITIES

Discover the many faces of rome with a passionate local guide.

If it’s romantic fountains, wide piazzas, shopping, culture and culinary masterpieces you’re after, Rome is the place for you.

You’ll be a Roman in no time no matter which of our tours you choose. Step back in time as you walk in the footsteps of emperors and gladiators. Our guides will bring Ancient Rome’s past to life for you as they share stories and interpretations of this fascinating city. Discover Rome with a “local” you’ll wander along the city’s endlessly charming streets and a wealth of landmarks that have stood for more than a thousand years. Whether it’s history, food or art that draws you to Rome, when you take part to one of our day tours, you can be sure that you will experience the absolute best that the city has to offer.

Best of all, you can discover Rome the way you want to, when you explore it with us. We have two daily free tours and  a choice of customized and  private tours to choose from so that you can ensure your Roman experience will be exactly what you dreamed it would be.

Our guides love their job! They will share their passion and enthusiasm with you! and will help you as well  to orientate yourself   when you want to discover more  of the Eternal city.

A must-do when in Rome

Excellent tours

Things to do for free in Rome

Best Free Attractions and Experiences to do in Rome

Rome is a city filled to the brim with historical sights, cultural events and impressive exhibitions. What makes the Eternal City even more remarkable is that you can experience so much of its great beauty without breaking the bank. Here are some of the top free things to do in Rome .

Admiring Caravaggio’s masterpieces

Taking a peek through the knights of malta keyhole, free museums on the first sunday of the month, enjoy an afternoon of classical music every sunday at one of the largest palaces in the world, go on a free, guided walking tour of rome, visit st. peter’s basilica, vatican museums are free on the last sunday of the month, take a street art walking tour throughout rome neighbourhoods, visiting the italian senate on the first saturday of the month, throw in a coin at the trevi fountain, enjoying a picnic or a bike ride along the parco degli acquedotti and ancient appian way, get a stunning panoramic view from the pincio terrace, exploring the architectural and artistic masterpieces of the hundreds of churches in rome, enjoy a stroll or bike ride along the tiber river, pay tribute to the former jewish ghetto, take in the views from the janiculum hill, visit one of rome’s free museums.

Caravaggio, one of Italy’s greatest painters, lived and worked in Rome in the late 16 th and early 17 th century. He became widely known for his exceptional use of light, and unsettling realism, and also gained a notorious reputation for his tumultuous private life. So tumultuous in fact, that he’s said to have fled Rome after killing a man during a brawl!

Today one can admire many of his masterpieces in churches , with free admission, all across the Eternal City-this is definitely one of the best free things to do in Rome.

One of the must-see churches is the church of San Luigi dei Francesi  near Piazza Navona, featuring his famous  frescoes  of St. Matthew: The Calling of St. Matthew , The Martyrdom of St. Matthew and St. Matthew and the Angel .

Not far from this church, is the church of Sant’Agostino , where you can find his Madonna del Loreto .

His Crucifixion of Saint Peter and the Conversion of St Paul you’ll find inside the Basilica of   Santa Maria del Popolo , in the square of the same name.

Perched on top of the lesser known, but no less impressive, Aventine hill is the keyhole of the Knights of Malta . It’s one of the city’s most enchanting off-the-beaten track sights and can be visited any time of the day, for free . The reason for trudging up a hill and peering though a keyhole might seem obscure to some, but once you’ve glimpsed the view, it makes complete sense. The keyhole is perfectly aligned with trimmed hedges, which then leads the eye to the perfectly framed St. Peter’s Dome. Once there, don’t miss a visit to the enchanting Orange Garden .

One of the best free things to do in Rome is visiting one of the city’s museums on the first Sunday of the month. Running since July 2014, Domenica al museo , or Sunday at the museum, offers free admission every first Sunday of the month (from October to March) to anyone wanting to visit any state-owned museums , galleries, archaeological sites, monumental parks or gardens, in Rome.

These places include, but aren’t limited to, the Pantheon , the Roman Forum, Colosseum , the Borghese Gallery (booking required), the Mausoleum of Augustus , the Capitoline Museums and Caracalla’s baths . It can get incredibly busy on these first Sundays, so head out early to avoid the crowds, and check if the sights you would like to visit have an online reservation system or if it’s ‘first come, first serve’.

For more information, and a full list of which places you can visit for free, head over to the Beni culturali website .

The Palazzo del Quirinale, or Quirinal Palace, hosts a free classical music concert in its Paolina chapel every Sunday at 12pm. Booking is mandatory. You can either book online, or phone their call centre. The only cost is the €2.50 charged for making the reservation, which also covers entry into the palace.

For more information you can visit the Quirinal Palace website .

Without a guide we can sometimes miss a lot of the stories behind the places we visit, but paying for one isn’t always possible, especially if you’re traveling on a tight budget. Luckily there are a few tour companies, like Rome Free Walking Tour , Guru Walk and Free Tour Rome that offers free Rome walking tours.

Some companies ask only that you tip your guide, and others ask that you make a reservation online. For more information head over to their websites.

Visiting the largest church in Christendom is a must-see for anyone visiting Rome. Entering the impressive basilica is free, but the lines to get into St. Peter’s can sometimes be just as impressive as the basilica itself, so make sure you get there early.

The Basilica is open every day from 7am to 7pm. Also make sure that you’re dressed appropriately . Men and women’s shoulders and knees should be covered; otherwise you’ll be turned away at the door, no matter how long you’ve been waiting.

Although visiting the basilica is free, the dome and treasury museum have entrance fees. Click here to buy your tickets for St.Peter’s Dome

Explore one of the most important sites in the world, the Vatican Museums , which feature incredible art collections, including masterpieces of inestimable historical and artistic value: undoubtedly one of the most famous museums in the world. On the last Sunday of each month the Vatican Museums are free of charge, it may be necessary to wait at the entrance during this special opening as it is not possible to book online. The opening hours are from 9am to 2pm, last admission at 12:30 pm: visit the official website of the Vatican Museums for more information.

Street art has become an important phenomenon all over the world, and Rome is no exception. W-alking in almost every district of the city you can admire a series of murals and graffiti created by a series of artists, some even internationally renowned. Discover the thousand identities of the many different neighborhoods of the city: Garbatella , San Basilio , Quadraro , San Lorenzo , Pigneto : a real open-air museum, with no entrance fee!

Read more about Street Art in Rome

The Italian Senate has been housed in the imposing, and tightly guarded, palace called Palazzo Madama , since 1871. The building, which is located within walking distance of Piazza Navona, is usually closed to the public. However, the Senate opens the palace up to the public on the first Saturday of every month, except in August, from 10am to 6pm.

Senate staff members give visitors a free, guided tour of the grounds, which includes the main halls, most significant rooms and other points of interest at the palace. The guided tours are free, but visitors must pick up a pass from the palazzo’s entrance at Piazza Madama on the day it’s open to the public. Booking in advance isn’t possible.

Visit the  Italian Senate’s website for more information about the free guided tours.

The Trevi Fountain is the most famous fountain in the world , attracting over 10 million tourists per year. This extraordinary baroque fountain is an ensemble of mythical figures and wild horses occupying the entire side of the 17th century Palazzo Poli. When visiting the Fontana di Trevi, it’s tradition to toss a coin over your shoulders, ensuring your return to the Eternal City .

Fontana di Trevi is always open and you can visit it any hour of the day. Finding yourself in the piazza while facing the most beautiful fountain in the world will be one of the highlights of your trip to Rome.

Just outside the city center is one of Rome’s most famous parks – the Parco degli Acquedotti . Far away from the hustle and bustle of the city you’ll find a park with pathways filled with streams, pine trees, and ancient aqueducts. The park is a great historical site and an excellent location for  running and cycling. Plus, entry is free! And just a short bike ride from the park you’ll find the Ancient Appian Way – one of the most famous ancient roman roads. Along Via Appia Antica you’ll encounter numerous monuments, milestones, basilicas and tombs. During ancient Roman times, the road was essential in transporting troops down Brindisi’s port in southeast Italy.  

The park is open from sunrise to sunset, where the sun rays lay over the massive aqueducts, framed by pine trees. If instead of visiting the Ancient Appian Way and Parco degli Acquedotti on your own you’d rather visit them with a group or with a guide, we recommend you reserve a guided bike ride tour here or a  golf cart tour on the Appia Antica .

Rome is well-known for its remarkable history and architecture. And the Pincio Terrace in Villa Borghese is the perfect spot to view Rome from the top. From the terrace you can admire the view of beautiful Piazza del Popolo, the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica and much more. The Pincio terrace sits right above Piazza del Popolo, at the end of Via del Corso , and is open to the visitors every day, at all times. The best time to come is at sunset.

Visiting the many churches in Rome is a must for anyone. Did you know that Rome is home to more than 900 churches (including some of the oldest in the world)? So there’s no doubt the Eternal City is the most interesting place on Earth when it comes to visiting basilicas, cathedrals and churches. But it’s not just the religious aspect that draws millions of people to visit churches in Rome – each one is unique and boasts architectural or artistic masterpieces, some are even the burial site of some true greats. Among the most beautiful churches to visit there’s the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere  – the oldest church in Rome dedicated to the Virgin Mary – featuring six golden mosaics by Pietro Cavallini; the glorious church of Sant’Ignazio di Loyola in Campo Marzio with frescoes by Andrea Pozzo; and the Basilica di San Pietro in Vincoli (Saint Peter in Chains) home to the relic of Saint Peter’s chains when he was imprisoned in Jerusalem and Michelangelo’s Moses .

The city of Rome has the Tiber River to thank for making it into the developed area it is today–this vital resource is said to be where the city truly began. Today you can enjoy a peaceful walk or scenic bike ride along the water. The bike trail starts from the Basilica of San Paolo fuori le Mura and extends all the way to the Stadio Olimpico , covering a total distance of nearly 10 km along the banks of the Tiber River. The path traverses some of the city’s most popular areas, yet it remains below street level, away from traffic and intersections.

In 1555 the Catholic Church choose to revoke all rights of Italy’s large Jewish population and have them confined to this area in Rome. This was just one of many mandates that allowed the Church to establish more control over the Jewish population. In this ghetto people were not allowed to carry out any kind of trade or own any land. Despite the circumstances, the population persisted and survived. Today the Synagogue and the Jewish Museum are some of the most popular tourist attractions as it represents the perseverance and fortitude of an oppressed population.

This destination is of course meaningful in a historical and religious sense, but that is not all it has to offer its visitors. The area is considered one of the most beautiful neighborhoods of Rome and offers an excellent culinary experience from the many restaurants throughout the area.

Read more about Rome’s Jewish Ghetto

Taking in the stunning views of the capital is definitely one of the best free things to do in Rome . The Janiculum Hill (or Gianicolo) consists of two large avenues that offer gorgeous scenes of the city of Rome. The two paths are lined with beautiful trees and border Villa Aurelia . They merge into one path in the Piazzale Garibaldi that descends down toward the church of Sant’Onofrio. 

The Janiculum Promenade offers views of historic Rome that you cannot get anywhere else. Walking along this path you will also encounter 84 statues of the notable Garibaldi soldiers , the equestrian statue of Garibaldi , the equestrian monument of Anita Garibaldi , and the Lighthouse donated by a community of Italians in Argentina. If you reach the Belvedere del Gianicolo at 12:00pm you can experience a tradition that has been held since 1904, in which three soldiers will load a blank howitzer and fire the cannon shot. 

For art and history enthusiasts on a budget, there are fantastic opportunities to indulge in culture without spending a dime – the city offers several free museums. In the south of Rome, alongside the Appian Way , lies the  Villa di Massenzio , a spectacular ancient running track built in the 4th century. At the beginning of the Appian Way, you’ll find the  Museum of the Walls  housed in the Porta San Sebastiano building. Just a minute away from the Trevi Fountain is the  Accademia di San Luca , and within Villa Borghese, the Aranciera (Orangery) awaits you, where you can discover the  Carlo Bilotti Museum .

Read more about Rome’s Free Museums

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22 Best FREE Things to Do in Rome!

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A visit to Rome is definitely incredibly rewarding, and you’ll come away with treasured memories of your tour of the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, taking in the views from the dome of Saint Peter’s, and gazing up in awe at the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican Museums.

But a Rome itinerary can definitely dent your pocketbook some, especially if your itinerary includes the top experiences in Rome .

Rome is one of the great centers of art and architecture, so a lot of the sightseeing in Rome is tied to its world-famous monuments and musuems.

With long lines at main sights, you’ll want to book skip-the-line admissions or guided tours to conserve precious time.

But if you are traveling on a budget, take heart! There are so many rewarding FREE things to do in Rome that you can have a very productive visit without breaking the bank.

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And you should visit Rome even if you are not a history or art enthusiast, because the city is a great experience in itself. Vibrant, lively, and always entertaining, Rome will enthrall you, no matter what you seek as a traveler.

In looking back upon our time in Rome, I realize that some of my most treasured memories of the Eternal City are associated with activities that are free.

We did pay for several must-sees, including a guided tour of the Colosseum , tickets to the Borghese Gallery (our favorite museum in Rome), a tour of the Vatican Museums, and the climb up to the top of the dome of St. Peter’s.

But for the most part, we enjoyed many treasures in Rome without having to spend on entrance fees.

And while we enjoyed visiting the iconic Pantheon for free on our first visit to Rome, it’s no longer a free Rome attraction.

Read on to discover the BEST free things to do in Rome!

Free Things to Do in Rome

1. stroll the streets of trastevere.

One of the most charming neighborhoods in Rome, Trastevere is located near the Vatican, across the Tiber River from the historic center of Rome.

With its mellow yellow and faded orange facades, cobblestoned alleys, lovely plazas, and old churches, Trastevere is a joy to wander. Take in the pretty balconies bedecked with flower pots, and admire the gorgeous doors.

You’ll be snapping photos every few steps as you stroll Trastevere!

And if you feel you need to rest for a bit, pick an outside table at one of the many cafes and watch the world go by as you sip your drink. In Trastevere, although you’ll see tourists, you’ll also see locals going about their day, much like in the outer districts of Venice.

In the evenings, the area is much livelier, with visitors piling into Trastevere to dine at the many quality eateries and drink at the many bars. Enjoy the many street performers as you walk here in the evening.

The Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere is the heart of the neighborhood. The fountain here is beautiful! If it’s open when you visit, be sure to step inside the Basilica di Santa Maria, one of Rome’s oldest churches.

Another beautiful church you must visit in Trastevere is the Basilica di Santa Cecilia, also a very old church.

Of course it’s totally free to wander Trastevere, but if you are a foodie, you will want to take a food tour in Trastevere!

2. Admire the BASILICA DI SAN PIETRO IN VATICAN CITY

One of the most visited churches in the world, the Basilica di San Pietro in Vatican City definitely ranks up there as one of the top free attractions in Rome.

The only downside to not visiting as part of a skip-the-line guided tour is that you may have to wait in line to enter (and sometimes for hours).

Arrive early, before opening time, or late in the afternoon, towards closing time for shorter wait times.

But trust us, whether your wait is long or short, you will agree it’s well worth it when you see the fabulous interior.

Look up at the stunning dome from the inside.

Gaze in awe at Bernini’s huge bronze baldacchino . It is close to 92 feet tall and sits above the tomb of St. Peter.

Admire Michelangelo’s P ietà . Michelangelo was only in his early twenties when he created this masterpiece. Isn’t it amazing that at such a young age he was able to make marble come to life so beautifully?

This is the only work Michelangelo ever signed, apparently after learning that visitors were attributing the work to a competitor.

Look for the statue of Saint Peter along the main nave, on the right. Reportedly the work of Arnolfo di Cambio, the bronze statue has a right foot that’s worn out from pilgrims kissing it in devotion.

At the time of writing, the Basilica di San Pietro is open from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. from April through September and 7 a.m. until 6.30 p.m. from October through March.

If the Pope is in town, a papal audience usually occurs on Wednesday mornings, and the Basilica is closed during that time.

Make sure you are appropriately attired, with covered shoulders and knees, or you will be turned away.

And the cupola is not free, so if you want to climb to the top of the dome for the stunning views over Rome, you have to pay a fee or splurge on a guided tour .

3. Enjoy the gardens at the Villa Borghese

At close to 200 acres, the gardens of the Villa Borghese are one of the largest green spaces in the heart of Rome.

We love interspersing intense sightseeing (museums, palaces, and the like) with strolls through gardens, and we loved exploring the Villa Borghese Gardens after our visit to the Borghese Gallery.

While the gallery has an entrance fee, the gardens are absolutely free to stroll.

Spread out on the Pincian Hill, the gardens were established by Cardinal Scipione Borghese in the early 17th century. The gardens were later redesigned in the English park style and opened to the public in the early 20th century.

The park houses several buildings as well as many beautiful fountains and statuary.

The Villa Borghese pond, called the Laghetto di Villa Borghese, features an island on which is built the lovely Temple of Aesculapius.

Be sure to visit the Pincio Terrace for views over the historic Piazza del Popolo and beyond. And don’t miss the Water Clock, designed by Gian Battista Embriaco in the late 1800s.

The gardens are open everyday from dawn until dusk.

4. Do a walking tour of the heart of Rome (by day)

The historic center of Rome is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and you do not even have to enter a single monument or museum to appreciate the centuries of history.

Aside from the many Baroque and Renaissance monuments, the centro storico features lovely facades, fountains, cobblestone alleys, and pretty piazzas.

The route stretches between the Piazza del Popolo and the Colosseum, and you can walk the route in either direction. We like to enjoy the Colosseum as the grand finale of our walk!

Starting at the Piazza del Popolo, highlights along the route include the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, the Column of Marcus Aurelius, Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, and the Vittorio Emmanuel II Monument.

Stroll along the Via dei Fori Imperiali, with the Colonna Trianna and the remnants of the Foro Traiana on one side and the ruins of the Foro Romano on the other, before reaching the Colosseum.

If you want to snap photos and enjoy a modicum of solitude on your walk, do it very early in the day, at around sunrise. It’s an amazing time to enjoy the city.

If you love to feel the throbbing pulse of the city, you can walk the historic core of Rome any time during the day, when throngs of people crowd the piazzas and the streets.

Since you walk some of this route anyway as you go about your sightseeing day, we love to do the dedicated stroll early in the day to enjoy the relative quiet.

5. enjoy the illuminated monuments on an after-dark walk

On our first visit to Rome, one evening my husband and I had an early dinner and then did a leisurely walking tour of all the sights along the stretch from the Spanish Steps to the Colosseum, including the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, the Fori Romano, the Fori Traiano, the Vittorio Emanuele II Monument, and the Colosseum.

The lit-up fountains look beautiful at night, as do the ancient monuments. It’s whole new perspective on what you saw during the day.

From the Piazza Navona, do a short detour. Walk over to the River Tiber at the Ponte Sant’Angelo to view Castel Sant’Angelo, which looks stunning at night.

Then walk across the Ponte Sant’Angelo, stopping to admire Bernini’s beautiful angel statues.

The view of the lit up dome of St. Peter’s from this bridge is quintessential Rome: it’s a memory that I will carry with me forever.

As my husband said after our night stroll, our day walk was to discover, learn, and appreciate with the mind, but the night tour was pure bliss for the heart and soul.

Tip: It takes longer than you think to do the whole tour so allow for two to three hours and carry water and a little snack. We felt perfectly safe walking around these sights at night: there were still lots of people everywhere.

6. Pose for a photo on the Spanish Steps

Located in the heart of the historic center of Rome, the Spanish Steps are a hugely popular photo spot and meeting place.

You may recall them from the famous scene in Roman Holiday !

Built between 1723 and 1725, the picturesque steps connect the Piazza di Spagna at the bottom with the Piazza Trinità dei Monti at the top. There are 135 steps.

At the top of the steps is the regal church of the Santissima Trinità dei Monti with its famous twin towers. Step inside to view the impressive murals.

At the bottom, in the Piazza di Spagna, is the Fontana della Barcaccia, a historic fountain created in the Early Baroque style. It is said to have been made by Pietro Bernini, father of the famous Baroque sculptor and architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini.

Once a year, on Rome’s anniversary, the steps are decorated with colorful azaleas.

The Spanish Steps are extremely crowded during the day and into the evening, especially in season. To appreciate their beauty in relative quiet, visit late at night or very early in the morning.

Of course you can also visit during the day to enjoy the lively ambience!

Good to know: Sitting on the Spanish Steps, or eating and drinking here, is no longer allowed. The fine is hefty if you are caught!

7. Admire the impressive Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is the most impressive monumental fountain in Rome, and one its most recognizable landmarks.

Indeed, it is one of the most famous fountains in the world.

Located at the intersection of three roads in Rome’s historic center, the Baroque Fontana de Trevi was designed by Nicola Salvi and completed in 1762.

It is largely made of travertine, quarried in nearby Tivoli. The water comes from Acqua Vergine, one of the aqueducts that used to provide water to the city.

The Trevi Fountain features the shell-shaped chariot of Oceanus, pulled by winged horses that are guided by Tritons. Flanking Oceanus are two other statues: Abundance and Health.

The fountain is free to visit, but if you want to return to the Eternal City, you may want to face away from it, and, using your right hand, toss a coin over your left shoulder into the fountain!

As with other landmarks in Rome, the Trevi Fountain can be elbow-room only during the day in season.

Visit very early in the day to appreciate its scale and beauty in relative solitude!

8. Enjoy the street performers on Via del Corso

Our rental apartment in Rome was just off the Via del Corso near the Piazza del Popolo.

The only time we saw this street almost deserted was at 5 a.m., on the morning we left Rome!

Many major sights are right off this main drag. It’s also a favorite street for locals to take their  passeggiata . And finally, it’s a major shopping destination as well.

So it’s always abuzz (and that is an understatement!) with throngs and throngs of people.

To add to the merriment, there are street performers, sidewalk artists, and walking vendors all trying to ply their craft or trade on this street.

Walking up and down Via del Corso was a daily source of immense entertainment for us on our first visit to Rome.

If we were not constrained by time, I would have happily sat at an outside table at a cafe along this street all day, watching Rome happen all around me.

Tip: If you want to make your stroll even more enjoyable, pop in for some  gelato artigianale  at  Fatamorgana , just off Via del Corso between the Piazza del Popoli and the Spanish Steps. It’s some of the best gelato you’ll find in Rome!

9. Enjoy people watching at Piazza Navona…

Piazza Navona is one of the coolest places to hang out in Rome’s historic center.

It is a large plaza, built where the Stadium of Domitian once stood, and is home to many gawkworthy fountains and monuments.

Once the scene of medieval races and games, and then the home of Rome’s main market, the plaza was eventually redesigned as a jewel of Baroque architecture.

In the center of the plaza stands the magnificent Fountain of the Four Rivers, designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini.

To the north is the Fountain of Neptune, and to the south, La Fontana del Moro.

The church of Sant’Agnese in Agone, which overlooks the square. was designed by Francesco Borromini.

Today, Piazza Navona, which has featured in many movies, offers a lively ambience and is fun for both locals and visitors.

On the periphery are many cafes and restaurants, if you want to have a drink as you people watch and enjoy all the happenings in the plaza, from street performers to vendors. Don’t eat here, though, as many of the restaurants here are tourist traps.

Enjoy the plaza both during the day and after dark, when the fountains and buildings are illuminated.

The plaza hosts fairs through the year, and the Christmas Market held each December, to sell cribs and toys for the Feast of Epiphany, is especially popular.

10. See Moses at the BASILICA DI SAN PIETRO IN VINCOLI

On our first visit to Rome, we stepped inside the Basilica di San Pietro in Vincoli for Michelangelo’s Moses and the stunning ceiling.

Moses is sculpted with horns!

Every detail is perfection: the beard, the folds of the robe, the fire in the eyes, and the right arm clutching the tablet.

The statue was sculpted in 1515 for the tomb of Pope Julius II.

The Basilica di San Pietro in Vincoli was built to house the chains that bound Saint Peter when he was imprisoned, first in Jerusalem and then in Rome.

The coffered ceiling is gorgeous, with a central fresco that depicts the Miracle of the Chains .

There are other works of art to admire in the church as well.

11. Admire the ARCIBASILICA DI SAN GIOVANNI IN LATERANO

The Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano wowed me with its beautiful interior, huge organ, and dazzling ceiling.

This basilica is the church-cathedral of Rome and the official seat of the Bishop of Rome, the Pope.

It is also the oldest church structure in Rome, having originally been built in the year 313. Not much is left of the original building, though.

The Pope used to reside here until the 14th century, when the papal residence was moved to Avignon and then to the Vatican.

The current Baroque design is by Borromini, one of Rome’s famous architects.

One of the most significant things to see here is the cedar table that was reportedly the one used for Christ’s Last Supper. You will find it in the Altar of the Holy Sacrament.

The ceiling and the papal altar are both stunning.

The square in front of the church has a large obelisk, said to be one of the oldest obelisks in Rome.

We walked to the Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano, but you can also arrive here by metro. It’s a little ways out of the core of the historic center.

The Basilica is free to enter, but there is a small fee for the cloister.

12. Find Caravaggio’s art in churches

Caravaggio was one of the top Italian artists of the 17th century. He is known for his use of chiaroscuro , the Renaissance Italian oil painting technique known for its contrast between light and dark.

If you enjoy the art of Caravaggio, you’ll be excited to know that you can view some of his works for free in Rome’s churches.

You’ll also of course want to visit the Borghese Gallery and the Capitoline Museums to see several of Caravaggio’s well-known works.

To see his striking masterpieces featuring St. Matthew, head to the Church of S. Luigi dei Francesi in the historic center.

The trio of works, painted between 1599 and 1602, are The Calling of St. Matthew , The Martyrdom of St. Matthew , and St. Matthew and the Angel .

To see two more Caravaggio masterpieces, step inside the Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo in the Piazza del Popolo.

The two paintings, the Crucifixion of St. Peter and the Conversion of St. Paul , can be seen for free.

And at the Basilica di Sant Agostino near the Piazza Navona, be sure to take in the beauty of Caravaggio’s Pilgrim’s Madonna (also known as the Madonna di Loreto ).

13. Visit the morning market at Campo de’ Fiori

Start your day in Rome right with a visit to the Campo de’ Fiori morning market next to the Piazza Navona.

Campo de’ Fiori translates to “Field of Flowers,” from an earlier time when the area was a meadow. But it’s an apt name for a square that hosts a fresh market.

You’ll find a statue of the philosopher Giordano Bruno in the square. He was burned at the stake here in 1600 for heresy.

At the open-air market, you’ll find fresh flowers, vegetables, fruit, cheeses, pasta, truffles, and olive oils and balsamic vinegar.

If you plan to stay in an apartment and cook some of your meals, this market is a great place to pick up produce, pasta and more.

We had freshly squeezed fruit juice, which was simply delicious, before picking up some cheese, fresh and dried fruit, and nuts for our stay.

The market is held every morning except on Sundays.

After the market packs up (usually in the early afternoon), the cafes and restaurants that line the square start setting up for the evening.

If you plan to do a food tour while you are in Rome, Campo de’ Fiori may be the meeting point, or one of the stops on your tour.

14. Relax at the Piazza del Popolo

The People’s Square, Piazza del Popolo, is a great place to relax and people watch.

The large oval square has several beautiful churches along its periphery.

While not exact copies, two of the churches look quite similar, their domes making for a great photo op. They are located on either side of the Via del Corso, which leads out from the square.

On the other side of the square is the Basilica Santa Maria del Popolo, home to two Caravaggio masterpieces, and a gorgeous chapel with mosaics, designed by Raphael.

On the periphery of the square you’ll also find the impressive city gate. There are fountains embedded into two walls of the square.

In the center is the gorgeous Egyptian obelisk, which was brought here from the Sun Temple in Heliopolis.

Steps lead up from the square to the Pincio Terrace, from where you can look down into the square!

Stroll the square to admire the architecture and the monuments, enjoy the lively ambience and the street musicians, and take in the view from the terrace at sunset.

15. Check out a Bernini masterpiece at the Church of Santa Maria della Vittoria

In the Comaro Chapel of the Church of Santa Maria della Vittoria, you can view one of Bernini’s masterpieces for free!

If there’s only one piece of free art in Rome’s churches you have the time to see, make it this one.

The Ecstasy of Santa Teresa is considered one of the top works of the High Roman Baroque era.

Created from white marble, the sculpture shows Santa Teresa lying on a cloud in a state of rapture as an angel stands over her, about to pierce her with a golden spear.

Bernini also designed the chapel, the setting for his work. Colored marble surrounds the pristine white sculpture, making for a dramatic sight.

The sculpture is ingeniously illuminated by natural light that streams in through a hidden window in the afternoon. That’s the ideal time to visit!

16. Stroll the Piazza del Campidoglio

One of the many squares in the historic heart of Rome well worth visiting, the Piazza del Campidoglio is located at the top of Capitoline Hill.

Around the square, also called the Capitoline Square, you’ll find Rome’s City Hall and the two palaces that house the Capitoline Museums.

If you enjoy museums, the Capitoline Museums is where you’ll find the statue of the she-wolf suckling the babes that would be the founders of Rome, Romulus and Remus.

The Capitoline Museums do have a fee to enter (or you can opt for a guided tour ), but the square is free and worth visiting in its own right.

The current Capitoline Square was designed by Michelangelo, the master Renaissance artist and architect.

The plaza is oval in shape and boasts an intricate spiral pavement with a twelve-point star in the center.

Michelangelo also designed new facades for the three buildings overlooking the square. He died before the square was complete.

The equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius that graces the square is a copy: the original is in the Capitoline Museums.

17. Walk the Appian Way

The Appian Way is one of the important roads of ancient Rome, and you can still walk or bike it!

Exploring the Appian Way is definitely one of the coolest free things to do in Rome.

Used as a military supply artery in ancient times, the Via Appia Antica is quite well preserved.

The road extended from Rome to Brindisi in Puglia, a distance of over 300 miles, and its construction in 312 B.C. is considered an impressive undertaking.

The cobbled road has a rich history. Christians buried their dead along this route, and Spartacus was crucified here.

The first ten miles of the Appian Way are now a regional park. On Sundays, the street is closed to traffic and it’s the ideal day to hike the road or bike it.

To get here, take the metro to the Circo Massimo stop, then catch the number 118 bus, which runs about every 40 minutes.

Note that although the Appian Way is free to explore, the catacombs at the Appian Way have an entrance fee.

18. Gawk at the Quartiere Coppede

For a look at a surprising architectural complex, visit the Quartiere Coppedè!

A somewhat hidden gem not too far from the historic center of Rome, this residential neighborhood makes for fabulous photos.

From Art Nouveau to Baroque, Ancient Greek, and many other styles, the complex of buildings was the brainchild of Gino Coppedè, a Florentine architect and sculptor.

The complex was built between 1913 and 1927. There are about 40 structures you can admire here, so allow for enough time!

The entrance features a stunning arch with a large chandelier.

Don’t miss the Fountain of the Frogs, which also features a bee in honor of Bernini’s Fountain of the Bees.

The Palazzina del Ragno has an enormous spider on its facade, and the Villino delle Fate features the signature symbols of Florence, Venice, and Rome.

We loved our stroll through this lovely quarter. If you have the time, don’t miss walking through the Quartiere Coppedè!

To visit, take bus number 86 or 92 and alight at the Piazza Buenos Aires. You’ll find the entrance to Quartiere Coppedè at the corner of Via Arno and Via Tagliamento.

19. Enjoy sunset at the Gianicolo Terrace

Janiculum Hill is one of the best viewpoints in Rome and offers a panoramic view of the Eternal City.

A wonderful spot at both sunrise and sunset, the Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi  at the top of the hill can be reached on foot or by bus number 115.

We visited at sunset and loved seeing the rays of the setting sun paint the facades and rooftops of Rome in warm oranges, reds, and pinks.

Look for the Pantheon, the dome of Saint Peter’s Basilica, the Altare alla Patria, and other prominent Rome landmarks.

Admire the monument to Garibaldi in the center of the plaza.

With live music and food trucks, the piazza makes for a fun visit. A cannon is shot at noon.

20. And stop at Bramante’s Tempietto

Even if you took the bus up to the top of Janiculum Hill, you’ll want to walk down, to take in the sights along the way.

Possibly the most famous sight is Bramante’s Tempietto, a small temple that stands in the plaza of the Church of San Pietro in Montorio.

The Reniasance temple is exquisite, featuring a single chamber, a beautiful dome, and an elegant ring of columns around the body.

The Church of San Pietro is also worth visiting. It is said to be built on the spot where Saint Peter was crucified.

The 15th century church boasts lovely frescoes and a chapel designed by Bernini.

Also along the route, do not miss the Fontana dell’Acqua Paola, a Baroque monumental fountain located near the church.

21. Peek through the Aventine Keyhole

The view through the Aventine Keyhole is one of the most popular views in Rome, so expect lots of other people trying to get the perfect photo here.

But it’s a free attraction that’s not to be missed if you enjoy taking unique photos!

Put your eye to the keyhole and you’ll have the most unique view of the dome of Saint Peter’s, framed by the keyhole and the hedges of a formal garden.

The Aventine Keyhole is located at the top of the Aventine Hill, one of the seven hills on which Rome was built.

The keyhole is in a door on the property of the Knights of Malta. The address is Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta 3, 00153 Rome.

Take a metro to the Circo Massimo station and then walk up the hill to the piazza.

22. Admire the Column of Marcus Aurelius

Located in the Piazza Colonna, right in the heart of the historic center of Rome, the Column of Marcus Aurelius is an awe-inspiring sight.

The Doric column was built to honor the Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius, and soars about 128 feet into the sky, even with some of the base submerged.

Made of multiple blocks of hollowed out Carrara marble, the column was constructed with a stairway inside, and tiny slits for illumination.

The column is decorated with an intricate spiral relief that depicts the Danubian wars waged against the Quadi by the emperor from the year 166 until his death.

You can’t access the staircase within the column, but you must stop to admire the intricacy of the relief on the column.

This column is said to have been inspired by Trajan’s Column, which you can see in Trajan’s Forum.

Did you find this article informative? Pin it for later reference!

Dhara's travel interests are eclectic, spanning everything from natural wonders to history, culture, art and architecture. She has visited 22 countries, many more than once, plus almost all 50 states of the USA, and has amassed a hoard of cherished travel moments.

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8 thoughts on “22 best free things to do in rome”.

Oh you hit all my favorite churches! I love exploring the wonderful art in the eternal city and your list of the fabulous and free is terrific – the thing I didn’t manage to do was visit Campo di Fiori on market day although we saw it in the evening when we had dinner there. I’ve thrown a coin in the Trevi Fountain so I know I’ll be back! Great photos Dhara!

Thanks much Rebecca! The churches of Rome are definitely stunning, and these in particular are gems. Rome has so much to see and do that multiple visits are totally in order. We loved browsing the market and sampling the goodies…you will love it when you visit.

I love these suggestions! I’m currently planning a trip to Italy and would love some more tips!

Thanks much, Katie! You will love Italy. There are so many beautiful places to see!

Rome is one of my favorite cities in the world. It’s like going back in time and relive history. I also love Rome because it’s such a vibrant city. It’s been a while since I have been there and I should go visit it again asap. Thank you for the advice. I can’t wait to see Rome by night…

Thanks,Sarah! You will love Rome by night…the fountains and monuments look amazing all lit up.

Such lovely pictures and such an informative post, Dhara! I’ve always imagined Italy will be an expensive country, glad to bookmark these free spots!

Thank you, Sharanya. The free activities were a lot of fun!!!

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12 Free Things to Do in Rome

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

Yes, you can enjoy Rome on the cheap, and yes, that goes beyond walking the streets. There are plenty of great attractions in Rome that won't cost you a thing, especially if you know the right time to go. Some are iconic tourist stops , some are grand museums , others are just for fun, but all are worth your while when visiting Rome. 

Stroll The Villa Borghese Gardens

Villa Borghese  is the largest public park in Rome and access to the gardens is free of charge. There are several ways to access the gardens, but most visitors prefer the approach from the Spanish Steps. If you want to rent a bike to tour the grounds, they are available for a fee in several locations in the park. You'll also find places to grab a bite, from restaurants to ice cream vendors. The gardens are open from dawn to dusk.

The Villa Borghese Gallery is worth a visit also, but you'll have to pay for entry. Since they limit the number of people who visit the art gallery per hour, it is necessary to buy a ticket online ahead of time. You should plan to stroll around the gardens either before or after your visit to the Villa Borghese Gallery.

Walk The Ancient Appian Way

The Appian Way  ( Via Appia Antica ) was Europe's first highway. Built in 312 B.C., the Appian Way connected Rome with Capua running in a straight line for much of the way. Part of the old road close to Rome, it is part of a nature and archaeological park, the Parco Regionale dell'Appia Antica .

Walk on the old road out of Rome on Sunday, when no cars are allowed. There are lots of ancient things to see on the peaceful walk, and the park has detailed routes and maps of the best walking and biking routes. While you are there see the ruins of Roman monuments, two major Christian catacombs, and the Domine Quo Vadis Church. In the nave look for the footprints reputed to be those of Jesus.

Place Your Hand in The Mouth of Truth

The Piazza Bocca della Verita (Square of the Mouth of Truth) is a square between Via Luigi Petroselli and Via ​della Greca. Outside of the Church of Santa Maria, you'll find the famous Mouth of Truth disk. Place your hand in the mouth and legend has it that your hand will be bitten off if you've lied. In the square, there is much more to see, including two Roman temples , the Tempio di Potuno and the Tempio di Ercole Vincitore.

Toss Three Coins into the Trevi Fountain

No trip to Rome is complete without a visit to the beautiful Fontana di Trevi.   Have a look at Nicola Salvi's late Baroque waterworks influenced by an earlier attempt by the artist Bernini, then follow the Roman tradition of throwing a coin into the fountain to guarantee a return to the Eternal City.

The fountain dates back to ancient Roman times in 19 B.C. when the Roman aqueduct was constructed. The aqueduct brought water to the Roman baths and the fountains of central Rome. The fountain was built at the end of the aqueduct, at the junction of three roads. The three streets ( tre vie ) give the Trevi Fountain its name, the Three Street Fountain.

Scale the Spanish Steps

The Scalinata di Spagna , steps extending from Piazza di Spagna to Trinita dei Monti, were originally named after the adjacent Spanish Embassy. From the top of the steps, you can get good views of Rome. The steps had a major restoration in 2016, and the once-popular art of lunching on the steps is frowned upon, so fines may be levied. At the foot of the steps, you can see the Keats-Shelley Memorial House , which memorializes the famous English poets, and the area around the steps offers designer shops, restaurants, and bars.

Visit the Vatican Museums

While the Vatican Museums usually charge, you can visit free on the last Sunday of the month from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Also free, is an interesting visit under the Vatican to see the excavations and the Wednesday audience with the Pope if you can manage to get in. The  Vatican Museums  contain a vast store of artworks that range from the ancient to the contemporary, including the world-famous  Sistine Chapel . You can expect long lines and big crowds.

Partake of the Pantheon

Originally a pagan temple converted into a church in 608AD, the Pantheon is one of the important sites to visit in Rome. You'll find it in Piazza della Rotonda, a favorite hang-out for young folks in the evening. It's the best-preserved monument of imperial Rome, entirely rebuilt by the emperor Hadrian around A.D. 120 on the site of an earlier pantheon erected in 27 B.C. by Augustus's general Agrippa.

Peruse the Piazzas

Piazza Navona and Piazza Campo dei Fiori are the two most famous piazze  (public squares) in Rome. Piazza Navona, which follows the plan of an ancient circus (public event venue) and contains two famous fountains by Bernini, comes alive in the evenings. Piazza Navona is a wonderful pedestrian square where many locals take their evening stroll.

The Campo dei Fiori (the field of flowers) is best experienced during the daytime market hours. Numerous cafés, restaurants, and bars circle the Campo. You can also eat for much cheaper around the Campo dei Fiori, where there are take-out stands and delis everywhere.

Walk the Neighborhoods

In Trastevere —the actual "Italian Quarter" of Rome—the streets are narrow and sometimes winding, although more often than not they will eventually lead back to the Piazza Santa Maria, home to one of the oldest churches in Rome. This piazza is the undisputed heart of Trastevere, full of every kind of person imaginable. The church is famous for a Byzantine mosaic behind the altar, so drop a few coins in the lightbox (it will illuminate the mosaic for 60 seconds) and spend a few minutes there. It is well worth it.

Testaccio is an old neighborhood built around a hill of amphora (clay vessels) fragments discarded by Roman-era merchants who docked nearby at the ancient Tiber port. Car repair shops and trendy clubs and restaurants have been carved out of the base of this hill. Testaccio is rapidly becoming popular with a younger crowd.

At the northeast corner of the Testaccio district, which it shares with the Aventine Hill, you'll see the Porta San Paolo Gatehouse, the Pyramid of Caius Cestius, and the Museo della Via Ostiense, and the Basilica of St. Paul.

Admire Art at Galleria Nazionale Di San Luca

Located at the Piazza dell'Accademia di San Luca , this art gallery is open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and the last Sunday of the month from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Accademia di San Luc a was founded in 1577 as an association of artists in Rome, to elevate the work of artists in the eyes of the community. At the museum, you can enjoy selected works of Raffael, Canova, and Van Dyck among other famous names. 

Discover a Hidden Treasure of Rome

The Aula Ottagona is located at Via Romita (Piazza della Repubblica) and is open Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. One of Rome's hidden treasures, it houses ancient Roman sculptures in the "Octagonal Hall of the Baths of Diocletian," more commonly known as The Planetarium. This Roman Octagonal Hall was used as a planetarium and when opened in 1928, was dubbed the largest Planetarium in Europe. 

Take Advantage of Last Sunday Free Days

On the last Sunday of the month, you can visit many popular Roman museums for free. Free admission participants include the Borghese Gallery, the Roman Forum, Terme di Caracalla (Caracalla baths), and the National Gallery of Contemporary Art (Galleria Nazionale Arte Moderna ). Among the many sites that are free to visit on the last Sunday of the month, you'll find some of Rome's most popular attractions like the Colosseum and Palazzo Venezia, among more obscure museums like the Museum of Musical Instruments and the Museum of the Folk Arts and Traditions.

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7 Absolutely Free Things To Do in Rome

Sean Finelli Last Updated: November 18, 2022

Heading to Rome but looking for some free or cheap things to do between tours and museum visits? This guide will detail some really cool cheap or free things to do in Rome to keep your travel costs down!

Pro Tip:  Planning what to do on your trip to Rome? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you’re in the city. See our  guide to Rome  for more planning resources, our  top-rated Rome tours  for a memorable trip, and  how to see Rome in a day .

Absolutely Free Things To Do in Rome

Experiencing the best of Rome can be hard on the wallet, but it doesn’t have to be. With these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy some of the Eternal City’s great spots for free or cheaply. Here are seven great free things to do in Rome. Looking for more inspiration? Explore the menu below for more ways to spend your time.

7. Visit View Points

As you may already know, Rome was built on seven hills. Today, the city has expanded beyond its original boundaries and you’ll find many opportunities to see the skyline from above.

My favorite viewpoint, il Pincio , is part of Villa Borghese and featured in the photo above. Here are some of the city’s best viewpoints:

• Belvedere Gianicolo
• Giardino degli Arance
• Villa Borghese
• Villa Doria Pamphili
• Park of the Aqueducts

6. The Vatican Museums

The Vatican Museums are not free every day, but on the last Sunday of each month, they are free to the public. That said, I’d rather go inside any other day and pay the admission price. 

Expect crowds inside the Vatican museums due to their popularity and historical importance. For this reason, we recommend a pre-opening Vatican tour , which gets you in before the general public. For more info on tickets, hours, artworks, and facts read our Vatican Guide with lots of other articles. Also, check out the best Vatican tours to take and why .

Address:  The Vatican City Museums Entrance

Popular Rome Tours

Best-Selling Tour

Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum and Vatican Museums

Our “in a day” tour is best way to get your bearings all in one day. Visit the Sistine Chapel, Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and more with a licensed, fun English-speaking tour guide. They’ll add tons of insights and make the entire experience so much more memorable. Also, you’ll get a feel for the city, so it’s a great option on one of your first days in Rome. Bring your walking shoes and water bottle!

Best Price!

Skip the Line Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel

One of our most popular Vatican tours since it is such an amazing value. Skip the line to get inside with a super-knowledgeable, English-speaking guide who will bring the museum to life with stories of the artists, popes, conspiracy, love, and even tragedy! This tour has start times throughout the day so you can choose when to visit based on your schedule!

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a Vatican tour is worth it .

5. Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona is a very unique piazza and a must-visit site. It’s completely pedestrian and lined with restaurants and cafés. You can stroll through on foot to admire its three fountains. Be sure to take a moment to admire its famed central  Four River Fountain by Gian Lorenzo Bernini.

The Four River Fountain by Bernini is located directly in front of the church of Saint Agnes in Agony by rival sculptor Borromini and a father and son Rainaldi duo. The rivalry between Bernini and Borromini has given birth to some interesting wives’ tales.

The rivalry, which reads more like jealousy from Borromini’s side, started when Bernini received the Palazzo Barberini commission over a young Borromini. You can read more about this rivalry in our article on top things to do in Piazza Navona .

The shorter version is that Bernini’s statue representing the Nile river holds its hand out towards the church as if bracing for its fall due to architectural incompetence. It is very unlikely that this was the hidden meaning since the fountain was built years before the church was even begun.

You’ll visit Piazza Navona and get the full story and interesting symbology of the exquisite Four River Fountains statue on our Rome in a Day guided tour , along with many other Roman wonders. It’s also one of the stops on our DIY Rome walking tour if you’d like to explore on your own. And last but not least, check out the best restaurants near Piazza Navona for when you get hungry.

Address:  Piazza Navona

4. The Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps and Piazza di Spagna should be pictured next to the definition of high-end shopping. Italy’s most famous shopping street, via Condotti, is directly opposite the Spanish Steps in Piazza di Spagna.

The Italian name for these steps is  La Scalanita di Trinita di Monti  which means the Steps of Three Tiers—a very straightforward name that describes their architectural form. Simply but beautifully: three tiers of steps.

How did they come to be known as the Spanish Steps? The Spanish Embassy is located about a hundred meters south of the steps in Piazza di Spagna or The Square of Spain. There’s a lot to do and see in this area. Be sure to check out the top things to see near the Spanish Steps and read about the facts and history for some interesting historical context.

Address:  Piazza di Spagna

3. The Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is an outdoor fountain connected to Palazzo Poli, a museum that houses engravings and other important artifacts. The fountain was meant to be constructed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in the 17th century. The plans were never enacted and, over a hundred years, later Nicola Salvi got the job by losing a competition for the best drawing—he lost to Florentine Alessandro Galli.

Romans were not happy about a Florentine getting the commission and revolted. Eventually, Salvi was handed the job. Construction began in 1732 and was completed in 1762, eleven years after Salvi’s death. The job went to architect Giuseppe Pannini who worked with multiple sculptors to finish the project.

The fountain’s facade tells a gripping story of its history. Read more about why Trevi Fountain is so famous and the best restaurants near Trevi Fountain .

Address:  Piazza di Trevi

2. The Pantheon

The Pantheon was one of Rome’s greatest structures and is undoubtedly the best-preserved structure from antiquity. It’s currently used as a church, Basilica di Santa Maria ad Martyres, but was originally built as a pagan temple. The name is believed to mean “Of All The Gods”.

The building was built at the beginning of the 2nd century under the rule of Emperor Hadrian. The facade reads, “Marcus Agrippa, Son of Lucius, Built This in His 3rd Time Console.” Marcus Agrippa did, in fact, build the original structure, but this would be like comparing a barn to the Eiffel Tower.

The original structure burnt down twice as it was built out of wood. Hadrian commissioned the current structure out of stone. While it is unknown who the architect was, it is commonly believed that the only architect talented enough to construct the interior dome would have been Apollodorus of Damascus.

A great way to explore the history of the Pantheon and other important sights is to join our Rome in a Day tour . Be sure to check out all the othe r top things to see and do around the Pantheon , plus the best places to eat nearby .

Address: Piazza della Rotonda

Top Colosseum Tours

Best Seller

Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

This is our most popular Colosseum tour due to the incredible access to non-public areas like the underground chambers. All admissions are included and it is lead by an English speaking licensed guided and Colosseum expert.

Customer Favorite

Special Access Colosseum Arena Floor Tour Through the Gladiator’s Gate

You’ll enter the Colosseum through the back door entrance avoiding lines and crowds, which is ideal! You’ll step through the gladiator’s gate and your English-speaking Colosseum guide will bring the stories to life. Next, on to the Roman Forum. All admissions are included.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  best Rome tours to take and why .

1. The St Peter’s Basilica and All of Rome’s Churches

You read correctly—every church in Rome is free to enter. There’s also a ton of extremely famous artwork you can see for no cost in these churches. From Michelangelo to Raphael and Bernini all without a steep admission cost.

You can even see  La Pieta  by Michelangelo in St. Peter’s Basilica for no cost at all. Amazing right? In the center of Christiandom, they can’t charge admission to visit holy places. 

This is great for your wallet but consider a few coins for maintenance. The local churches in Rome do a lot for the homeless community and donations will go to preserving these churches for future generations.

Address: Piazza San Pietro

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Free Tour Rome, walking tour/s Rome.

Experience Rome's rich history and stunning beauty with our guided tours. Discover the Eternal City with FreeTourRome!

Make the most of your holidays in Rome.

Get a great local guide in just 3 simple steps

1. Book a Tour of your choice.

Our tours operate on a pay-as-you-like model, where guests are welcome to tip their guides based on the value of the tour to them.

In order to provide the best possible experience for our guests and support our guides, we do ask for a small booking fee to be paid in advance. This fee helps us keep our groups small and intimate, allowing for a more personalized and comfortable tour experience. It also helps us cover the costs of running our tour operator business, including office expenses, website maintenance, and other necessary overhead costs.

Despite this booking fee, we still refer to our tours as 'free walking tours' because the final amount you pay is ultimately up to you and based on your own evaluation of the tour. We believe this system is fair and transparent, allowing our guests to fully enjoy their tour without any hidden costs or obligations.

2. Explore with a Guide

On the day of your tour, your dedicated and knowledgeable guide will greet you at the pre-arranged meeting point, which will be clearly communicated immediately to you via email after you made your booking. Your guide will introduce themselves and lead you on an engaging and informative walking tour of Rome, sharing their in-depth knowledge of the city and its history. Whether you have specific questions or just want to learn more about the city's landmarks and culture, your guide will be happy to assist and provide insights.

All our Tour guides are carefully selected for their passion and expertise in Rome. They are all dedicated to providing the best possible experience for our guests and truly love what they do.

3. Tip the Tour guide.

At the end of our free tours, you have the opportunity to show your appreciation for your guide's hard work and knowledge by tipping them an amount that reflects the value of the tour to you. This pay-as-you-like model allows you to fairly compensate your guide based on your own budget and the level of service you received. We believe that this system is more transparent and fair to our guests, as it allows you to pay for the value you received rather than being locked into a set price. We are proud to offer these ethical and customer-focused free walking tours in Rome.

Conclusion:

As a company with over a decade of experience, FreetourRome is confident in our ability to provide a top-notch tour experience. Our free tour concept is a mutually beneficial arrangement that allows travellers like you to discover new destinations while also supporting our knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides.

Book your tour and join us, come see for yourself why FreetourRome has been a trusted name in the industry for over 10 years.

-- Full overview of tours offered --

City tour, Rome

Recommended by 92% of travellers

Starting times: 9:30 - 12:30 - 15:00

Inside Pantheon tour

with Gelato tasting.

Starting times: 10:00 or 10:30 - 15:00 or 17:30

More info & Book

Ghost tour Rome.

with Capuchin Crypt Ticket.

Starting time: 17:00 - 5 PM

Jewish ghetto & Trastevere tour

Recommended by 94% of travellers

Starting times: 10:30 - 15:30 - 17:30

Ostia Antica tour

Small groups.

Starting time: 08:30 AM

Colosseum, Roman forum by night

Starting time: 18:00 - 6 PM

Colosseum, Roman forum, Palatine Tour

Yes , It will be also inside the Colosseum

Starting times: different time slots

Evening tour, Rome

Including Trevi fountain

Starting times: 17:00 or 18:00

Vatican & Sistine chapel Tour

Including skip the line ticket.

Starting times: different time slots.

Vatican night tour

Including Spanish steps

Starting times: 19:15 or 20:15

Capuchin Crypt & Pantheon tour

Yes , It will be also inside the Pantheon

Starting time: 17:00 - 5PM

City & Pantheon tour

Including entry ticket Pantheon.

Starting times: 10:30 or 11:00 16:00 or 17:00

Our expert guides are passionate about sharing their knowledge of Rome with you. They'll take you on a journey through the city's most iconic sights, providing you with fascinating insights into Rome's rich history and culture. And because we know that there's so much to see and do in Rome, we'll also give you all the essential tips and tricks you need to make the most of your stay.

Please note that a small booking fee will be charged per person for our free tours, and prices are subject to change based on demand. To ensure you secure your place and get the best price, we recommend booking early as our free tours tend to sell out quickly during the high season.

Travel with confidence! Book now and enjoy the freedom to cancel or modify your plans for free with FreeTourRome.

While our tours are available on multiple platforms, we guarantee that the price listed on our website is always the lowest. So if you're looking for the best value for your money, be sure to book directly through our website. Join us for the ultimate Rome experience and book your tour with Free Tour Rome today!

Wide range of "Free tours" everyday (if you liked the tour, you just tip the guide as much as you want).

Tours inside the: Ghost tour, Colosseum , Roman forum and Palentine hill, Vatican museums and Sistine chapel, inside Pantheon . Etc...

Tour outside of Rome; Ostia antica .

- Starting time; 9:30 - 12:30 - 15:00 - Recommended by 92% of travellers

Are you ready to discover the beauty and history of Rome on a budget? Look no further! you'll leave with a newfound appreciation for the beauty and history of Rome. This city walking tour will be provided with lots of important information about the historical and religious sites in Rome.

We know if you visit Rome it can be quite overwhelming and a hassle to find your way around, so joining one or more of our Free walking tours is a great way to discover the city. Our experienced and passionate guides will lead you on an unforgettable journey through some of the most iconic landmarks in the city. You will be amazed at what there is to discover, make your booking today and come see it for yourself.

Duration of the tour

± 1.5 - 2 hours

Accessibility

Suitable for people with reduced mobility.

Suitable for people of all age

Suitable for families with children and teenagers

This tour includes: Piazza Barberini - Trevi fountain - Pantheon - Temple of Hadrian - Sant' Ignazio church - Piazza Navona - and more...

Important! We work on a reservation-only basis to avoid groups getting too big.

Click on the button below and follow the steps to complete your booking.

Jewish ghetto - Trastevere, Rome

- Starting time; 10:30 - 15:30 - 17:30 - Recommended by 94% of travellers

This tour is one of our most popular free walking tour offered, which will bring you from the Campidoglio, Theater of Marcello and into the Jewish ghetto where you can find the biggest synagogue of Rome. From there it's only a short walk over to the famous lovely square "Campo di'Fiori" where are everyday markets going on. From there we will hop over the oldest bridge in Rome on to the Tiber Island, and up to the Trastevere district where the tour will end on the square Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere.

Walking passed all different venues you will get a professional explanation from our tour guide, you more then welcome to join and see it for yourself, make your booking today.

This tour includes: Piazza Venezia - Jewish Ghetto - Teatro di Marcello - Piazza Farnese - Campo di'Fiori - Trastevere - and more...

Colosseum and Roman forum by night

- Starting time; 18.00 - Recommended by 96% of travellers

Discover Rome's Iconic Historic Sites on Our Free Classical Tour

Looking for a unique and cultural experience in Rome? Look no further! Join our free classical tour to explore the city's most iconic and historic sites, including the Roman Forum and the Colosseum (exterior).

Start your tour at the impressive Vittorio Emanuele II Monument in Piazza di San Marco and be amazed by its grandeur.

We'll then ascend the Capitoline hill to the historic Campidoglio, a square designed by Michelangelo. Explore the Campidoglio and learn about Rome's rich history and its significant role in shaping the ancient world. Continue to the Roman Forum, the heart of ancient Rome, where you'll encounter ancient temples like the Temple of Saturn and the Temple of Vesta. Don't miss the remarkable Arch of Constantine, a testament to the Roman Empire's military triumphs.

Conclude your tour at the renowned Colosseum, one of Rome's most famous landmarks. This ancient amphitheatre once hosted gladiator games and public events, now representing Rome's captivating history. Join us on this free classical tour and uncover the city's iconic and historic sites. Don't miss this unique opportunity to delve into Rome's history and experience its timeless beauty.

This tour includes: Piazza Venezia - Capitoline hill - Campidoglio - Trajan's forum - Forum Romanum - Colosseum (outside)- and more...

- Starting time; 17:00 PM or 18:00 PM -

If the sunsets and the street lights are turned on that's when you will see Rome in a total different way. We did make a mix of our City and Classical tours, the so-called "Evening tour". Our professional and experienced tour guides work based on tips only. If you like the tour you can tip the guide afterwards appropriately.

This free tour will take about two hours of scrolling through history in one of the biggest open air museums in the world called Rome. You won't want to miss this unique opportunity to explore some of the city's most iconic and historic sites and experience the magic of Rome under the stars. This tour is available every evening all year around. Join us on our free evening tour and discover the beauty of Rome at night, make your booking today.

This tour includes: Piazza Republicca - Quirinale palace - Trevi fountain - Quattro Fontane - Church San Carlino - Piazza di Spagna - and more...

Important note!

We work on a reservation-only basis to avoid groups getting too big.

From the 1st of November till 1st of April this tour will be starting at 17:00 (5 PM)

From the 1st of April till 1st of November this tour will be starting at 18:00 (6 PM)

- Starting time; 19:15 PM or 20:15 PM -

In for a walk after dinner? Then this free tours is for you see some of the most significant places in Rome by night. Experience the magic of Rome at night on our Vatican Night Tour. These historic sites offer a unique perspective on the history of Rome and provide a beautiful backdrop for evening photos.

Starting from the Spanish steps to the Mausoleum of the Roman Emperor Augustus, the Ara Pacis an altar in Rome dating back to the year 13 BC, hop over the Angels bridge to see the Castel Sant'Angelo, is a beautiful castle that was once used as a papal fortress and offers breathtaking views of the city.

Finally, we will end our tour in the Saint Peter's square in Vatican city one of the smallest countries in the world. It is home to Saint Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel, (please note: inside will NOT be included in the tour). The Vatican museum and the Sistine chapel are closed in the evening.

Join us on our Vatican Night Tour and discover the magic of Rome at night. You won't want to miss this unique opportunity to explore some of the city's most iconic and historic sites and experience the beauty of Rome under the stars and all of which are must-see attractions in Rome.

NOT Suitable for people with reduced mobility.

This tour includes: Spanish steps - Mausoleum of Augustus - Ara Pacis - Castel Sant Angelo - Saint Peters square - Vatican - and more...

From the 1st of November till 1st of April this tour will be starting at 19:15 (7:15 PM)

From the 1st of April till 1st of November this tour will be starting at 20:15 (8:15 PM)

Vatican museum and Sistine chapel tour

- Tours are available at varying times every day except on Sundays and public holidays. -

Let us give you some of the many good reasons to book a tour with us for a complete, professional experience of the Vatican. Our knowledgeable guides will take you through the Vatican museums, including the highlights , and end the tour at the Sistine Chapel. You'll have the opportunity to stay in the museums until closing time to explore further on your own.

Millions of people from all over the world visit the Vatican museums and the Sistine chapel every year. This will give waiting lines to get into the Vatican museums and they can be huge, last thing you want is wasting valuable vacation time just to see the breathtaking artwork and historical treasures at the Vatican Museums.

With our Vatican museums tour, you'll bypass the crowds with our tour guide and head straight in, saving you waiting time and energy.

± 2.5 hours

This tour includes: Vatican museum - Sistine chapel - Skip all lines - Entrance Fee - stay in till closing time - and more...

Children between 5-18 years old are for reduced price.

Children under 5 years old can join in for free

Tours are available at varying times every day except on Sundays and public holidays.

Prices are including all fees + entrance ticket, No extra or hidden cost.

Important: There is a limited availability of tickets and time slots for booking. We highly recommend securing your booking in advance to ensure your preferred date and time slot.

Inside the Colosseum Tour

- Tours are available at varying times every day except on public holidays. -

Experience the Colosseum (inside), Roman forum, and Palatine hill with our comprehensive tour. Skip the waiting lines and book with us for a seamless, professional experience. Our experienced guide will take you inside the Colosseum, the largest amphitheater in the Roman Empire, and bring the history of this 2000-year-old structure to life.

You'll also visit the Roman forum and Palatine hill, where the stones tell many stories. Don't miss out on this chance to fully immerse yourself in the rich history of ancient Rome. Don’t waste your precious holiday time in long waiting lines, book and reserve your spot on the Colosseum tour today!

This includes: Inside of the Colosseum - Roman forum - Palatine Hill - Skip waiting all lines! - Including entrance fee - Guided tour

Children between 6-18 years old are for reduced children price.

Children under 6 years old can join in for only an booking fee of € 3.00 (Just bring them along with a valid age-proof)

Ghost tour Rome

- Starting time; 17:00 - 5 PM

Embark on an intimate journey through the haunted alleys of Rome with our Ghost Tour . To preserve the eerie atmosphere, we limit group sizes to a maximum of 18 persons (or less). We delve into the chilling mysteries of the Capuchin Crypt , where bone-chilling displays await. Next, we wander past the ethereal glow of Trevi Fountain, haunted by its legends. As night falls, we uncover the ghostly whispers within the ancient walls of the Pantheon and navigate the spectral presence at Piazza Navona. Join us for an unforgettable encounter with Rome's spectral past in a small, exclusive group setting.

Reserve your spot today and prepare to be enthralled by the ghostly secrets of Rome.

± 2 - 2.5 hours

Included: All entrance and reservation fees

NOT suitable for children under 12 yrs old

This tour includes: Piazza Barberini - Capuchin Crypt - Trevi Fountain - Pantheon (not inside) - Piazza Navona - Campo de’ Fiori - Farnese Palace

Important! We work on a reservation-only basis to keep control.

Inside the Pantheon (with gelato tasting) Tour

Experience the magic of Rome with our Pantheon tour and gelato tasting adventure! Step into the timeless beauty of the Pantheon, marveling at its architectural grandeur and rich history. Our expert guides will unveil fascinating tales as you explore this ancient wonder. Then, indulge in a delightful gelato tasting, savoring authentic Italian flavors.

It's the perfect blend of culture and culinary delight, offering an unforgettable experience in the heart of Rome. Skip the lines and book your spot today for a memorable journey through history and gelato!

± 60 minutes

Important dressing-rule!

Not allowed: Shorts, Short Skirts or Sleeveless shirts

This includes: Small groups only! - Pantheon (inside and outside) - Including entrance fee - Gelato tasting

From the 1st of October till 30th of April this tour will be starting at 10:00 (10 AM) and 15:00 (3 PM)

From the 1st of May till 30th of September this tour will be starting at 10:30 (10:30 AM) and 17:30 (5.30 PM)

Capuchin crypt and inside the Pantheon Tour

- Starting time: 17:00 - 5 PM -

Embark on a captivating journey through Rome's rich history with our exclusive tour of the Capuchin Crypt and inside the Pantheon. Delve into the eerie yet mesmerizing world of the Capuchin Crypt, where skeletal remains are artfully arranged, telling tales of centuries past.

Then, step into the majestic Pantheon, where ancient architecture and divine beauty converge. Expert guides illuminate the secrets behind these iconic landmarks, offering a truly unforgettable experience in the heart of Rome.

± 2.5 Hours

This includes: Small groups only! - Entry tickets to the Capuchin Museum - Pantheon (inside and outside) - Including entrance fee

Ostia Antica: A Journey Through Ancient Rome's Harbor City.

- Starting time; 08:30 - 8:30 AM

Unveiling Ostia Antica: Exploring the Secrets of Ancient Rome's Harbor City

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the captivating story of Ostia Antica, an archaeological gem just a stone's throw away from Rome. Join us on a thrilling journey as we uncover the hidden treasures and rich history of this ancient port city.

Embark on a guided tour through Ostia Antica's well-preserved ruins, where every stone speaks volumes about the bustling life of a once-thriving commercial hub. Marvel at the intricately designed mosaics, walk along the ancient streets lined with shops and taverns, and imagine the echoes of traders haggling over goods from distant lands.

As you wander through the remnants of grandiose buildings like the amphitheater, thermal baths, and the forum, our knowledgeable guides will paint a vivid picture of daily life in this vibrant city. Learn about its significance as the gateway to Rome and its crucial role in shaping the cultural and economic landscape of the ancient world.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, an archaeology buff, or simply curious about the past, our Ostia Antica tour promises an unforgettable experience filled with fascinating insights and awe-inspiring sights. Book your adventure today and embark on a journey through time unlike any other!"

± 3.5 - 4 Hours

Small group guaranteed

This includes: Train Ticket (Round trip) - Skip-the-Line Ticket to Ostia Archaeological park - Live tour guide

Please note: The tour will take place only in the morning starting at 8:30 and takes about 3.5 - 4 hours.

City tour including Pantheon inside.

Embark on a mesmerizing city tour through Rome's most enchanting treasures, where every step unveils centuries of history and culture. Begin your adventure at the majestic Piazza Venezia, a bustling square steeped in grandeur and historical significance.

Next, throw a coin into the iconic Trevi Fountain, igniting hopes for a return to the Eternal City. Feel the magic of this Baroque masterpiece before continuing your journey to the exquisite Church of San Ignazio. Admire its stunning frescoes and intricate architecture, a testament to Rome's artistic legacy.

But the journey doesn't end there. Experience the awe-inspiring Pantheon , (inside included) stepping through its ancient entrance into a world of architectural marvels and spiritual significance.

Guided by our expert storytellers, each stop on this tour promises a deeper understanding of Rome's rich heritage and cultural tapestry. Join us for an unforgettable exploration of the Eternal City's most beloved landmarks, where history comes to life at every turn.

± 90 minutes

This includes: Piazza Venezia - Trevi fountain - San Ignazio church - Pantheon (inside included!)

From the 1st of October till 30th of April this tour will be starting at 11:00 (11 AM) and 16:00 (4 PM)

From the 1st of May till 30th of September this tour will be starting at 10:30 (10:30 AM) and 17:00 (5 PM)

Reviews & TRUST

It is not us who saying this, but we asked our former customers. We received over 3800 reviews , of which 98% were either 4 or 5 stars overall.

Tour gratis en Español

Kostenlose Touren auf Deutsch

Tours gratuits en Français

Passeios gratuitos em Português

Colosseum tours (inside)

Vatican museum tours

You might also be interested in, other tours offered in Italy

Useful info

Visit our blog which offers information and useful tips about Rome and the Vatican, so you can organize and plan your city trip.

Facts & Questions

For your convenience, find out the answers to the most common questions on our F&Q page without having to send us an email.

What other people say

Authentic reviews for FreeTourRome on TripAdvisor

Vatican city tips

Useful things to know

To prepare your visit to the Vatican museums, Sistine chapel and the Saint Peter's Basilica we did describe the most important things to know.

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Free Things To Do in Rome

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St. Peter's Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro) St. Peter's Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro) free

The epicenter of Roman Catholicism, St. Peter's Basilica is centered in Vatican City and is renowned for its stunning architecture. What's more, it's open daily for free. (Though it's closed on Wednesday mornings for pope appearances.) Many visitors enjoy trekking to the top of the dome. For a fee of 8 euros (about $8.65), you can climb the 551 steps to the summit; for a fee of 10 euros (about $10.80), you can take an elevator to a terrace where you'll climb just 320. Regardless, you'll take in a panorama of Rome's spectacular landscape. If you've come hoping to catch a glimpse of the pope, you should consider attending the Wednesday General Audience, when he addresses the crowd in St. Peter's Square with prayers and songs. It's free to attend, but tickets are required ; you should request them well in advance of your visit. You'll also want to make sure he is in residence; check the Vatican website to view the schedule. No ticket is required to see the pope on Sundays, when he usually address the crowd in St. Peter's Square at noon.

Keep in mind that this is an active church with daily Mass services. Likewise, a stringent dress code is enforced: No short skirts, low-cut tops, hats or bare shoulders, and be sure to cover any tattoos. Because St. Peter's Basilica is one of the area's major attractions, there is almost always a long queue – though it tends to go fast. Recent travelers recommend you spring for a tour guide ; the depth of insight they bring to the basilica really makes the experience. For more information on tours, read our tips for visiting the Vatican and its attractions.

Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi) Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi) free

A must-see on many travelers' itineraries, the Trevi Fountain is situated amongst a high concentration of hotels , shopping and nightlife in the Trevi district. Finished in the mid-1700s, the Trevi is a powerful example of a baroque design with a distinctly mythological character. The god of the sea, Oceanus, emerges from the pool, flanked by his trusty Tritons. 

According to Roman lore, throwing one, two or three coins into the Trevi, with your right hand over your left shoulder ensures you'll return to Rome; you'll fall in love with an attractive Roman; and you'll marry that same Roman. An added bonus? The city collets the money tossed into the fountain and donates it to a local charity.

Piazza Navona Piazza Navona free

U.S. News Insider Tip: To enjoy a coffee or Aperol spritz on the piazza, grab a table at Camillo, but if you want to eat, it's best to avoid the tourist trap restaurants on the piazza and explore the side streets instead. – Laura Itzkowitz

The centuries-old Piazza Navona is perhaps one of the best-known public squares in Rome. People sipping coffees while watching street performers and artists fill the square. Cafes abound, and there are a number of shops, too, although recent visitors said both tend to be expensive. You'll also find a number of impressive monuments, including one by Gian Lorenzo Bernini ( Fountain of the Four Rivers ) and another by Francesco Borromini (Sant'Agnese in Agone). 

Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi free

Much like Piazza del Popolo , Piazza Navona 's centerpiece features an obelisk. However, in this case, the obelisk is surrounded by one of Bernini's masterpieces: Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi. The four figures at each corner of the statue are a personification of the four rivers best known to Europe in the 1600s. The rivers are the Ganges (Asia), the Danube (Europe), the Nile (Africa) and Río de la Plata (Americas). Animals, plants and other iconography help to further differentiate the four nudes.

Travelers invariably have high praise for the fountain's artistry, saying that it is a must-see.

Spanish Steps (Piazza di Spagna) Spanish Steps (Piazza di Spagna) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: During the era of the Grand Tour, the area around the Spanish Steps earned the nickname of the English Ghetto. Immerse yourself in the area's English past with a visit to the Keats-Shelley House or afternoon tea at Babington's. – Laura Itzkowitz

Found at the Piazza di Spagna, the Spanish Steps (which get their name from the nearby Embassy of Spain among the Holy See) are another must-do for many travelers. Here, visitors can tread the same stairs that writers and artists have climbed for centuries. The steps are especially alluring come spring when they're flanked by blooming azaleas.

Piazza del Popolo Piazza del Popolo free

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you want to do some people-watching on the piazza, skip the expensive and overrated Rosati and go to Canova across the piazza instead. It was frequented by famed filmmaker Federico Fellini, whose drawings decorate the halls inside. – Laura Itzkowitz

Piazza del Popolo is yet another Roman square where you can take in phenomenal architecture and magnificent sculpture. The square dates back to the mid-1500s and is the historic center of Rome. In fact, three major roads intersect here: Via di Ripetta, Via del Corso and Via del Babuino.

Campo de' Fiori Campo de' Fiori free

The Campo de' Fiori is worth visiting twice in a trip – once during the day for its bustling market, and again as the sun sets for its convivial nightlife. According to historians, the Campo de' Fiori looks much the same as it did in the early 1800s, except for the numerous pizzerias, cafes and gelaterias that line the periphery.

Recent travelers raved about the people-watching throughout the day; the fresh veggies and fruits at the market and the hopping bar scene at night. Some warned that the market is overrun with tourists and not the most authentic market experience in Rome. Even if you don't plan on eating or buying anything within the area, the architecture alone may be enough of a draw, as it was for some.

Church of St. Louis of the French Church of St. Louis of the French free

If you're a fan of Caravaggio, you'll want to visit the San Luigi dei Francesi, or the Church of St. Louis of the French. Inside this church near  Piazza Navona are three of the baroque artist's works, including the "The Calling of St. Matthew" (one of his most famous paintings), "Saint Matthew and the Angel" and "The Martyrdom of Saint Matthew."

Recent visitors recommend stopping in the church, especially if want to get a glimpse of some of Caravaggio's most famous works. Several reviewers recommended reading up on the works before visiting as there is no information within the church. However, you can access a prerecorded audio tour by downloading it to your smartphone from a QR code available on-site.

Trastevere Trastevere free

If you want a look at the real Rome, experts and travelers strongly recommend you visit Trastevere. Located southeast of Vatican City, this neighborhood is home to the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere, as well as numerous restaurants and neighborhood shops (it's often compared to New York City 's Greenwich Village or Paris 's Left Bank thanks to its charming cobblestone streets and narrow roads). 

Although a little farther from the city center, Trastevere is a hit with visitors who appreciated the distance, noting that after so many days weaving through crowds and getting stuck in tourist traps, it's nice to explore a quieter neighborhood (with cheaper, more authentic food). Travelers also said they felt like they experienced a genuine look into life as a Roman after having visited Trastevere.

Santa Maria della Vittoria Santa Maria della Vittoria free

This featured chapel from Dan Brown's "Angels & Demons" is now heavily trafficked by Robert Langdon wannabes. But baroque art fans might want to brave the crowds for a look at Gian Lorenzo Bernini's Cornaro Chapel, which features the Ecstasy of St. Teresa statue.

Recent visitors can't stop gushing about Santa Maria della Vittoria. Many said the church is nothing short of stunning, noting that the detail of Bernini's Ecstasy of Saint Teresa is truly incredible. However, travelers also noted that the church is relatively small compared to some of the city's other masterpieces, so prepare for a tight space during peak tourist season (summer). Others warn of odd opening times.

Basilica di San Clemente Basilica di San Clemente free

Archaeology buffs might find the Basilica di San Clemente interesting as it's a veritable nesting doll of churches. It's a second century pagan temple, underneath a fourth-century church, which is underneath a 12th-century church. Enter the 12th-century church from the street level, take stairs down to the fourth-century one and finally end up at a shrine for Mithras, the god whom was known to gain popularity in the second and third centuries. The oldest structure is believed to have been an ancient mint.

Travelers are fascinated by the story of the church and recommend visiting for the history lesson that it provides. Past travelers also said you should ignore the panhandlers who linger around the church, as some pretend to be affiliated with the church and tell visitors they can't enter unless they give a donation. The church is free to enter, but there is a fee to go down to the lower levels, which people say is worth the cost. To visit the lower levels, you'll pay 10 euros (about $11) for adults and 5 euros (about $5) for students up to age 26. Children younger than 16 explore for free.

Ancient Appian Way Ancient Appian Way free

The Ancient Appian Way (Via Appia Antica) has a history that dates back to 312 B.C. and includes the site of Spartacus' execution (in 71 B.C.), the tomb of Caecilia Metella, and many a Roman military march. These days, it stretches for 38.5 miles, though several monuments and historic sites are centered around an approximately 2-mile stretch along Parco dell'Appia Antica. The park sits roughly 2 miles south of the Colosseum . 

Recent visitors said the Appian Way is worth the long trek. Some even recommend hiring a tour guide to tag along with you, as even the smallest details along the walk provide a lot of insight into days past. Many agreed that visitors should come prepared with good walking shoes and water. Other advised visiting during the day as some areas can be seedy at night. 

Colle del Gianicolo Colle del Gianicolo free

To the west of the Tiber River (near another top attraction,  Trastevere ), Colle del Gianicolo, or the Janiculum Hill, is just waiting to be climbed. Although a hike, the site provides unobstructed, panoramic views of the Eternal City. Once at the top, visitors will be able to spot some of Rome's most famous buildings, including  St. Peter's Basilica  and the Altare della Patria. Interestingly, since it sits outside the ancient city, it's not considered one of the seven hills of Rome. Along with the spectacular views, you'll also spot a few monuments, including the Fontana dell'Acqua Paola, or Il Fontanone, which was originally built in the early 1600s.

Travelers report being impressed by the views of Janiculum Hill, with many recommending a visit at sunrise or sunset for a truly breathtaking experience. Though many don't consider it a "must-see," especially for first-time visitors, reviewers did concede that a trek here offers a nice respite from the city's crowded tourist spots.

Jewish Ghetto Jewish Ghetto free

Sandwiched between the Tiber River and Campo de' Fiori is a neighborhood that was historically home to Rome's Jewish population, the oldest Jewish community in Europe. A papal edict in 1555 created the ghetto, which was walled off from the rest of the city until 1888. It also established laws about what professions Jews could and couldn't hold. To learn more about the neighborhood, you should visit the Jewish Museum of Rome attached to the Great Synagogue, which displays religious artifacts and explains the area's history in a series of panels. A guided tour of the Great Synagogue is included in the museum's admission price and is the only way to see the ornately decorated synagogue without attending religious services.

Recent visitors praised the beautiful synagogue and said the neighborhood is a "hidden gem" in Rome. Travelers say the neighborhood is worth a few hours of your time.

Mercato di Testaccio Mercato di Testaccio free

For a less touristy alternative to the market at Campo de' Fiori , venture beyond the historic center to the Mercato di Testaccio. The large covered market is filled with stalls selling fresh fruit, vegetables, fish and meat, where Romans do their daily shopping. It's also home to a handful of stalls where you can purchase prepared food, like sandwiches and pizza. Take a number and wait your turn for delicious pizza al taglio at Casa Manco. Ask for a few small slices so you can try more than one topping.

For sandwiches, the place to go is Mordi e Vai, a hole-in-the-wall stall serving sandwiches made with the offcuts that form the backbone of Roman cuisine. Indeed, the quinto quarto tradition of Roman cooking was born in right here in Testaccio. The neighborhood was once home to the city's slaughterhouse and the working-class families who lived here created recipes using the less prized cuts of meat, including the organs, that were cheaper. Many restaurants in the neighborhood are known for this type of cooking, with signature dishes like trippa alla romana (Roman-style tripe with tomato sauce, pecorino and mint) and coda alla vaccinara (oxtail stew). If you're not into that kind of stuff, Mordi e Vai always has a vegetarian option available.

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20 of the Best Free Things to do in Rome

Written By: Ricky Marshall

Updated On: January 23, 2024

Looking for the best free things to do in Rome plus all the cheap attractions in Rome for budget travelers? Well, look no further, because this guide has it all.

The great thing about Rome is that many of the attractions are completely free. And if they are not free, they are at least state-run and have a low-cost entrance fee. Rome can be a surprisingly affordable place for a capital city and as there are so many free things to do in Rome, you could be busy for a week and still not see everything.

Table of Contents

Free Rome Attractions and Cheap Things to Do

Are you exploring Rome on a budget or want to keep your euros for fine Italian food? We’ve put together a list of 20 of the best free things to do in Rome to add to your itinerary.

You don’t have to break the bank to explore the ancient city. In fact, some of the best things to do in Rome are absolutely free! So, sit back and take notes, we’re about to explore all the cheap and free Rome attractions to make the most of our stay.

1. Trastevere

Stroll the streest of the Trastevere neighborhood one of Rome’s most traditional neighborhoods. Located to the west and just over the bridge from the city center, it’s a place where you can wander the narrow streets, listen to live performers, and generally take in the vibrant yet tranquil atmosphere of this unique part of the city.

Relax in a corner café, get lost amongst the streets and colored buildings, or arrive on an evening for a lively nightlife scene. Also, don’t miss the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere. It is a must-see! Trastevere is an attraction in itself and won’t cost you a penny!

2. Appia Antica Regional Park

Often overlooked and unknown to many, Appia Antica Regional Park is an ancient collection of cobblestone streets, monuments and a sprawling nature park, only a 20-minute drive south of the city center.

One of the best things to do is to rent a bike for only €3 per hour and spend your afternoon touring the key attractions, stopping off for a picnic along the way. You’ll pass one of the most famous and oldest roads in the world, Appia Antica Way, which was built in 312 B.C., and the Catacombs of St. Callixtus.

3. The Best of Rome for Free

The state government has an initiative in which all of the state-run sights in Rome are free to visit on the first Sunday of every month! If you time your trip to Italy right and you could save over a hundred euros during your visit.

On the first Sunday of every month, sights like the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, Castel Sant’Angelo, Borghese Gallery, and many more galleries, museums, and outdoor monument complexes.

4. The Vatican For Free

Visit one of Rome’s most iconic attractions for free! Contrary to the state-run attractions that are free in Rome on the first Sunday of every month a visit to the Vatican on the last Sunday of every month is completely free to enter before 13:30!

On the last Sunday of every month, you’ll have free-roam access to the Vatican museums, Sistine Chapel, and St Peter’s Basilica and can save almost €30 per person. Arrive early though; it’s a popular day to visit!

The Vatican is a must-see location that’s home to the Pope and an ancient collection of art, architecture, monuments, and gifts to the Catholic church from the population of the past centuries.

5. St Peter’s Basilica

One of the best free things to do is to venture into the most prominent Catholic church in the world. Many people don’t realize that entry to St Peter’s Basicila is free if you’re not doing a guided tour. I t is in fact the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel that you have to pay for.

Simply queue up near St Peter’s Square to gain entry, although arrive early as queues can get long fast! Once inside, you’ll encounter a beautiful 15th-century church with ornate gold furnishings, renaissance paintings, and beautiful decoration throughout.

Walk underneath the basilica dome and lookup for the best view! The is also one of the best pictures in Rome! For a relatively small fee of €7, you can also climb to the top of the dome to find some of the best views of Rome and St Peter’s Square.

6. Villa Borghese Park

With the famous Villa Borghese gallery at its center, this park is a much-needed escape from the busy streets and tourist sites of the city center. It’s only a short walk from the Spanish Steps and provides some of the best panoramic views you’ll encounter!

Go for a stroll amongst the gardens, rent a bike, and tour the whole perimeter or sit back on a park bench by the lake and enjoy the fresh air with a view.

7. Join a Free walking tour

Being such a historic location, you’ll probably wander up famous streets and iconic sites that you have no idea about. A free walking tour is a great way to get a detailed background on the history of the city from a knowledgeable local.

This is always our choice for free things to do in a city. Walking tours highlight the best of Rome and help you get acquainted with the geography of the city. Tours are available for many of the free city center sights.

8. Climb the Spanish Steps

Sitting beneath Trinità dei Monti church and in front of Piazza di Spagna sits one of the most talked-about sights in Rome. The ‘butterfly-shaped’ 18th-century Spanish Steps are a congregation point for local employees on their lunch break and tourists taking in the breathtaking square scenery.

Snap pictures from behind the fountain and then climb to the top of the steps and turn around for an excellent view of St Peter’s Basilica dome in the distance. Only have a short time in Rome? Make sure to check out our Ultimate One Day in Rome Itinerary: How To Maximize Your Visit .

9. Eat in Rome’s Jewish Ghetto

The Jewish Ghetto of Rome sits to the west of the city center and is a great place to base yourself. Established in the 1500s, this trendy yet historic area of the city has a distinctly different feel to the rest of Rome.

Walking through the streets you can envision what the area was like hundreds of years ago, and today it’s an eclectic melting pot of artists, tourists, and locals that have lived there for decades. Wander around an art studio, sample the delicious sweet treats from a Jewish bakery, or shop at a vintage market.

10. The City Center Backstreets

Part of the fun in visiting Rome is simply wandering around and marveling at impressive buildings, colorful alleyways, and monuments on every corner. Put away your map, take out your camera, and get lost exploring on foot. You never know what you’ll bump into!

It can be a therapeutic activity and a great way of seeing places off the main tourist trail. We have gotten quite lost in the back streets of Rome and it was quite an adventure.

11. Janiculum Terrace

For the Best Views of Rome go to Janiculum Terrace if you fancy escaping the busy tourist center in favor of peaceful parks and stunning cityscapes.

Cross the river to the west and hike up to the top of Janiculum Terrace. Parco del Gianicolo is a nice place to relax on a park bench with a picnic, before ascending to the terrace and taking pictures of the Rome skyline.

12. Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill

Even though our list is called ‘Free and Cheap’ things to do in Rome, we thought the €12 entry fee for the ‘do not miss’ attractions in the city was an extremely good value for what you’ll see.

The attraction combination ticket permits you entry to the inside of the Colosseum , ancient Roman sites of the Roman Forum, and the majestic gardens and remnants of the Roman Emperor’s palace at Palatine Hill.

You’ll spend at least 3 hours here exploring one of our favorite locations in ancient Rome. But remember, the first Sunday of every month allows you to enter them for free!

13. Best Pizza in the City

Visiting Rome doesn’t have to be all about the sights! The food on offer is some of the best Italy has to offer and it doesn’t have to cost the earth. You’ll find cheap pizza-by-the-slice takeaway counters and delis on every street and they’re the lunch place of choice for the locals.

Our favorite of those is Pizza E Mozzarella, an unassuming hole-in-the-wall pizza joint where you pick a slice for only a few euros and accompany it with a freshly baked Cannoli. Stop by on your way to the Pantheon.

14. Tour the 2000-year-old Pantheon

The Pantheon should be on the top of your list of things to see and many people find it even more impressive than the Colosseum! This grand façade of a building was built as a temple in 125 AD and stands today as one of the eternal city’s most in-tact ancient sites.

Take pictures outside and enter for free, where you’ll discover a spectacular interior with a huge 27m diameter dome ceiling. This is our pick for one of the best free things to do in Rome. Who would have thought that you could enter this ancient landmark without a fee?

15. Santa Maria del Popolo Church

You don’t have to tour the Vatican to experience impressive Renaissance architecture and art; there’s a church on almost every corner in Rome and each of them is decorated beautifully. They’re completely free to enter and walk around when a service isn’t taking place.

One of the prettiest churches to see and a firm rival to the décor of the Vatican is Santa Maria del Popolo, a small and unassuming building with a majestic interior of decorated chapels, ornate paintings, and gold furnishings.

You’ll likely encounter much fewer crowds than the Vatican too so can appreciate the works of art in peace and quiet.

16. Castel Sant’Angelo

Castel Sant-Angelo is a 135 AD castle to visit on your way to or from Vatican City. This old Roman fortress sits at the base of St Angelo Bridge just above the river, promising a brilliant photo opportunity whilst walking across the bridge from the city center.

Whilst the highlight of the attraction is the grand exterior, you can also choose to venture inside. For an entrance fee of only €5, if arriving between 9 am and 11 am, you can tour the castle rooms, see the old weaponry and climb to the wall barracks for a nice view of the river. Arrive after 11 am and you’ll pay the full price of €14.

17. Shopping at Testaccio Market

City markets are always a treat to visit, especially when they contain food! Mercado Testaccio has over 100 fresh food and gift stalls that offer fine ingredients for great prices. It is one of the best markets in Rome. So get lost and wander. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s worth visiting.

Pick up some supplies to make food back at your apartment, sample cheap snacks on the go or simply wander around and take in the atmosphere. It’s colorful, bustling, and has a very ‘local’ vibe.

18. Take a break in a Piazza

Rome’s main squares are plentiful and each of them has its own distinct appearance. They’ve been congregation points of the local people for centuries, and today they’re an eclectic mix of Romans and tourists from across the globe.

Explore the wonderful architecture of the main Piazza and take the opportunity to people-watch in a corner café. It’s a welcome rest break after walking around all day.

Here are some of the main Roman Piazzas to check out. You’ll stumble upon many of them whilst visiting some of the key sights.

• Piazza Navona
• Piazza Santa Maria
• Piazza Campo De’ Fiori
• Piazza Del Popolo
• Piazza Di Venezia
• Piazza Di Spagna

19. Aventine Hill and Orange Garden

It may be a relaxing place to unwind just outside of the city center, but the key attraction to Aventine Hill is the magnificent views of Rome and the Vatican’s St Peter’s Basilica.

Take a photo of dome through the famous ‘keyhole’ photo spot or go for a romantic stroll in the orange garden. It’s a beautiful place to visit on a morning as the sun comes up, or at sunset.

20. The Trevi Fountain

One of the best sights in Rome is in fact free. The craftsmanship and Baroque design of the Trevi Fountain make it one of the most famous recognized on Earth.

Marvel at the sculptured backdrop and turquoise water of the monument at both night-time and daytime for completely different perspectives. Throwing a coin into the Trevi Fountain is said to guarantee your return to Rome. So why not give that a try too!

It can get very crowded so arrive early in the morning for a better experience. We visited once at midnight and had it completely to ourselves. It was magical.

We hope we’ve inspired you to explore some of the best attractions in Rome whilst spending very little! The city is covered in impressive buildings on every corner, scenic viewpoints and historic streets that you can wander down with paying a penny.

Use these best free things to do in Rome ideas to supplement the top paid-for attractions and enjoy a budget-friendly trip.

More Information for your trip to Rome

• 3 Days in Rome: The Ultimate Rome Itinerary
• 22 of The Best Things to do in Rome
• Where to Stay in Rome: The Best Neighborhoods and Areas
• Places to Visit Near Rome: 10 Off the Beaten Path Destinations
• Gladiator School in Rome
• Ancient Rome in Photos

Read all of our articles on France in our France Travel Guide

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Disclosure: There are some affiliate links in the post above, but these are all products we highly recommend. We won’t put anything on this page that we haven’t verified and/or personally used.

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Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

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Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

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Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About Ricky Marshall

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13 thoughts on “20 of the Best Free Things to do in Rome”

Hello, We intend to be in Rome on New Year’s Eve celebrations. We would love your recommendation for New Year’s Eve dinner, restaurants located not far from the entertainment centers We will prefer European and local food (up to 150 euros per person). Thank you in advance

I wanted you to know that i had a great time in Rome .since it a full month trip we almost visited attractive places.First we had a ride through Appia Antica regional park,it was cool.anyway we had some good memory all over. so now i can recommend anyone who are planning to visit Europe that this is the right one.

It’s really interesting and very useful to know about these 20 free attractions in Rome. Thank you for sharing.

Well written content and good list of blogs for commenting. thanks for share with your hard working and save lots of people time too.

Thank you very much for letting us to know about the 20 free attractions in rome. it is so useful to visit those places while we visit rome.

I’m hoping to visit Rome later this year and I know how expensive Italy can be so these tips are so useful!

It is indeed interesting to see that there are interesting places where we can visit for free. Some cities or countries should also take this example. There are even countries that increase the rate of tourists. Yes, we travel, but not everyone brings huge amounts of money on their trip and can afford those places. Anyway, it is a very nice article.

Lovely Post! Really enjoyed the read! Thank you so much for sharing this!

I never knew there was even a “Jewish ghetto.” That’s something new, despie the fact that I was born and raised in “Flatbush Brooklyn,” living around many Jewish.

nice post. I did not know that St Peter’s Basicila, and Vatican museum, we can visit free. Thanks for providing such good info about these place.

There are many reasons to visit Roma, starting from its most diversified culture. I am planning a family tour for Rome in next few weeks. I came on your blog while browsing. Great information indeed.

I worked on a cruise ship for almost a year and was able to travel to Rome on several occasions. Beautiful city! I hope to go back someday to go into the Vatican and maybe also visit the Jewish ghetto you wrote about!

let me guess… You possibly travel to Rome for free because you receive a potential partnership through an online advertiser? Please fill free to share the good details with me 🙂

Free Walking Sightseeing Tours in Rome, Italy

Guided free walking tours.

Book free guided walking tours in Rome.

Guided Sightseeing Tours

Book guided sightseeing tours and activities in Rome.

Explore Rome in Italy with one of our free walking tours . Click on a marker on the map to get started and view details about the tour. Below is an overview of the sightseeing tours. A total of 20 tours are available in Rome, Italy.

Self-guided Tour #1

• Chiesa San Tommaso Moro
• Sepolcro di Largo Talamo
• Chiesa di Santa Bibiana
• Ninfeo di Alessandro Severo
• Porta Magica
• Sant'Eusebio all'Esquilino
• Santi Vito e Modesto
• Oratorio di Santa Maria Immacolata della Concezione
• Chiesa di Sant'Alfonso dei Liguori
• Basilica di San Martino ai Monti
• Basilica di Santa Prassede
• Obelisco Esquilino
• Basilica of Saint Mary Major
• Fontana di piazza Santa Maria Maggiore
• Chiesa di Sant'Antonio Abate all'Esquilino
• Mura Serviane

Self-guided Tour #2

• Museo storico delle comunicazioni
• Museo delle Civiltà
• Marconi Obelisk
• Palazzo dei Congressi
• Museum of Roman Civilization
• Chiesa di Santa Maria in Scala Coeli
• Chiesa dei Santi Vincenzo e Anastasio
• Chiesa di San Paolo alle Tre Fontane

Self-guided Tour #3

• Basilica dei Ss. Quattro Coronati
• Basilica di Sant'Antonio da Padova all'Esquilino
• Chiesa di Sant'Anna al Laterano
• Chiesa di Santa Maria ai Monti
• Column of Phoca
• Chiesa di Santa Maria Annunziata
• Santa Maria in Portico in Campitelli
• Sant’Angelo in Pescheria
• Santa Maria della Consolazione al Foro Romano
• Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista Decollato
• Temples of the Sacred Area of S. Omobono
• The Mouth of Truth
• Cloaca Máxima
• Sant'Andrea dei Vascellari
• Basilica di Santa Cecilia in Trastevere
• San Giovanni Battista dei Genovesi
• Santi Quaranta e San Pasquale Baylon
• Chiesa di San Francesco a Ripa

Self-guided Tour #4

• Basilica of Santa Aurea
• Castello di Giulio II
• Antiquarium di Ostia Antica
• House of Cupid and Psyche
• Terme dei Sette Sapienti

Self-guided Tour #5

• San Camillo de Lellis
• San Nicola da Tolentino
• San Basilio agli Orti Sallustiani
• San Carlo alle Quattro Fontane
• Chiesa di Trinità dei Monti
• Chiesa dei Santi Giorgio e Martiri inglesi
• Chiesa di San Girolamo dei Croati
• Sacro Cuore del Suffragio
• Basilica of Saint Augustine in Campo Marzio
• Church of Saint Louis the French
• Sant’Eustachio in Campo Marzio
• Basilica di Sant'Andrea della Valle
• Gesù Nazareno all’Argentina
• Santi Biagio e Carlo ai Catinari
• San Giacomo alla Lungara
• San Giuseppe alla Lungara

Self-guided Tour #6

• Piazzale delle Corporazioni
• Terme del Foro
• Tomb of C. Cartilius Poplicola

Self-guided Tour #7

• Basilica di San Pancrazio
• Church of San Pietro in Montorio
• Real Academia de España
• Santa Maria dei Sette Dolori
• Santa Croce alla Lungara
• Santa Dorotea
• San Giovanni della Malva in Trastevere
• Sant’Egidio a Trastevere
• Sante Rufina e Seconda
• San Crisogono
• Chiesa dei Santi Maria e Gallicano
• Santi Giovanni Evangelista e Petronio dei Bolognesi
• Chiesa di San Paolo alla Regola
• Santa Maria del Pianto ai Catinari
• Chiesa di Santa Lucia in Selci

Self-guided Tour #8

• Chiesa di Santo Spirito in Sassia
• Chiesa dei Santi Michele e Magno
• Vatican Obelisk
• St. Pellegrino Gate
• Saints Martin and Sebastian of the Swiss
• Pauline Chapel
• Stanze di Raffaello
• Saint Peter's Basilica
• Vatican City
• Paul VI Audience Hall
• Saint Stephen of the Ethiopians
• St Mary's Church
• Santa Maria delle Grazie al Trionfale
• Chiesa di San Giuseppe Cottolengo
• Chiesa di Santa Maria Immacolata di Lourdes

Self-guided Tour #9

• Basilica dei Santi Bonifacio ed Alessio all’Aventino
• Chiesa di Santa Prisca
• Oratorio di Santa Silvia
• Oratorio di Sant'Andrea
• Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo
• San Tommaso in Formis all’Arco di Dolabella
• Fontana della Navicella
• Basilica Hilariana
• Domus Aurea
• Teatro Brancaccio
• Caligula's Nymphaeum (Horti Lamiani)
• Chiesa di Santa Maria Immacolata all'Esquilino
• Battistero Lateranense
• Museo storico dei granatieri di Sardegna
• Carceres del Circo Variano

Self-guided Tour #10

• Our Lady of the Rosary and Saint Peter Chanel
• Basilica di Sant' Andrea delle Fratte
• Basilica di Santa Pudenziana al Viminale
• Chiesa del Bambin Gesù a via Urbana
• Santi Sergio e Bacco in Suburra
• Santi Vincenzo e Anastasio a Fontana di Trevi
• San Marcello al Corso
• Santa Maria in Via Lata
• Chiesa del Gesù
• San Salvatore alle Coppelle
• Basilica di Sant’Apollinare alle Terme
• San Nicola dei Lorenesi
• San Lorenzo in Damaso
• San Girolamo della Carità

Self-guided Tour #11

• Chiesa di Sant'Angela Merici
• Chiesa di San Francesca Cabrini
• Casa Museo di Luigi Pirandello, archivio e biblioteca
• Casino Nobile
• Parrocchia San Giuseppe a Via Nomentana
• Quartiere Coppedè
• Chiesa di Santa Maria della Mercede e Sant’Adriano Martire
• Ipogeo di via Livenza
• Sepolcro del Giovinetto Quinto Sulpicio Massimo
• Porta Praetoriana
• Museo Storico dei Bersaglieri
• Chiesa del Sacro Cuore di Gesù
• Basilica di Santa Teresa d'Avila
• Cappella Corpus Christi della Curia generalizia dei Cappucci
• Chiesa di San Patrizio a Villa Ludovisi
• Monumento a Goethe
• Chiesa di Santa Maria Immacolata a Villa Borghese
• Villa Medici

Self-guided Tour #12

• Chiesa di Santa Maria Goretti
• Sedia del Diavolo
• Basilica di Sant'Agnese fuori le mura
• Catacombe di Sant'Agnese
• Mausoleo di Costanza
• Parco Virgiliano
• Chiesa di San Saturnino

Self-guided Tour #13

• Chiesa di Gesù Divino Lavoratore
• Teatro India
• Chiesa di Santa Maria Liberatrice
• Teatro Petrolini
• Fontana delle Anfore
• Monte Testaccio
• Protestant Cemetery
• Pyramid of Cestius
• Porta San Paolo
• Monumento equestre di Giorgio Castriota
• Basilica di San Saba
• Basilica di Santa Balbina

Self-guided Tour #14

• Tombs of Via Latina
• Sepolcro dei Corneli o Barberini
• Basilica di Santo Stefano
• Colombario Costantiniano
• Villa of Maxentius
• Basilica di San Sebastiano fuori le mura
• Catacombe di San Sebastiano
• Mausoleum of Romulus
• Rovine Chiesa di San Nicola a Capo di Bove
• Capo di Bove

Self-guided Tour #15

• Mausoleum of Helena
• Catacombe dei Santi Marcellino e Pietro
• Chiesa dei Santi Marcellino e Pietro ad Duas Lauros
• Chiesa San Giuseppe Cafasso
• Chiesa di Santa Giulia Billiart
• Acqua Marcia
• Acquedotto Felice
• Basilica di Santa Maria Ausiliatrice
• San Giovanni Battista de Rossi
• Hypogeum of via Dino Compagni
• Ipogeo di Trebio Giusto
• Chiesa del Santissimo Nome di Maria
• Sepolcro di Annia Regilla
• The Church of Domine Quo Vadis
• Sepolcro di Geta
• Chiesa di San Francesco Saverio alla Garbatella
• Teatro Palladium
• Catacombe di Commodilla
• Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls
• Abbey of Saint Paul Outside the Walls

Self-guided Tour #16

• Sant’Antonio Maria Zaccaria
• Chiesa di San Callisto
• Chiesa del Sacro Cuore di Gesù a Villa Lante
• Santissima Trinità dei Pellegrini ai Catinari
• Santa Maria in Aracoeli
• Santi Bartolomeo e Alessandro a Piazza Colonna
• Chiesa di San Silvestro al Quirinale
• St. Paul's Within the Walls
• Chiesa dei Santi Gioacchino e Anna ai Monti

Self-guided Tour #17

• Basilica di San Giuseppe al Trionfale
• Chiesa di San Gioacchino in Prati
• Museo Hendrik Christian Andersen
• Basilica di Sant'Eugenio
• Casa di Goethe
• Santa Maria in Montesanto
• All Saints' Anglican Church
• Idrocronometro
• Museo Pietro Canonica
• Chiesa di San Roberto Bellarmino
• Chiesa di Santa Teresa del Bambin Gesù in Panfilo
• Catacombe di Santa Felicita
• Catacomb of Priscilla
• Villa Chigi
• Chiesa di Santa Emerenziana
• San Giuda Taddeo

Self-guided Tour #18

• Amphitheatre Castrense
• Chiesa di Santa Maria Immacolata e San Giuseppe Benedetto Labre
• Chiesa dei Santi Fabiano e Venanzio
• Parco di Villa Fiorelli
• Teatro Duse
• Colombari di via Taranto
• Chiesa dei Santi Antonio di Padova e Annibale Maria
• Chiesa di San Barnaba
• Chiesa di San Luca Evangelista
• Santa Maria Madre della Misericordia
• Chiesa del Santissimo Sacramento a Tor de' Schiavi
• Basilica Constaninana
• Chiesa di Santa Maria Addolorata
• Chiesa di Sant'Ireneo

Self-guided Tour #19

• Chiesa di San Gerardo Maiella
• Chiesa di San Felice da Cantalice

Self-guided Tour #20

• Basilica di San Lorenzo in Lucina
• Chiesa di Sant'Antonio in Campo Marzio
• Chiesa di Santa Lucia della Tinta
• San Gregorio dei Muratori
• Saint Anne of the Pontifical Grooms
• Chiesa di Santa Caterina Martire
• Chiesa di Santa Maria Mediatrice
• Chiesa di Santa Maria del Riposo
• Chiesa di Sant'Ambrogio

Why Visit Sights? Self-guided sightseeing tours are a free and safe alternative to bus tours. You can explore Rome at your own pace, any time! Do something good for your health by walking.

Free walking tour near Rome

Others cities to visit after rome, find other guruwalks in rome, where are you traveling to.

12 Fabulous Free Things to Do in Rome

By: Author Vagrants of the World Travel Writer

Posted on Last updated: June 27, 2023

Home >> Destinations >> 12 Fabulous Free Things to Do in Rome

Rome is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe and the world. The Eternal City is home to so many incredible attractions, including the independent state of Vatican City.

There is so much to do and see on any Rome itinerary , but tickets to major sites such as the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums start to add up quickly. Thankfully, there are plenty of free things to do in Rome to balance out both your budget and experience of Italy’s magnificent capital.

You Might Also Like : Rome is a great base for some fantastic day trips – see our pick for the Best Day Trips from Rome and the Best Places to Stay in Rome . The capital s also a fantastic starting or finishing point for some incredible road trip itineraries. See our best Italian Road Trip Itineraries for a few days to a few weeks.

The architecture in Rome is nothing short of breathtaking, so a stroll through the streets is one of the best ways to enjoy the city. Along with an endless array of magnificent historic buildings, statues, and monuments, there are also plenty of quiet parks and quaint squares where you can soak up the local lifestyle.

Daring to go a bit off the beaten tourist track can reward you with free entry to some less famous sites that may not be the big tourist drawcards but are no less impressive.

Table of Contents

Things to do in Rome for Free

You don’t have to spend a small fortune to experience the Italian capital. Spare some time in your Rome itinerary and reward yourself and your budget with some of Rome’s best free attractions. You might even glean a different view of the Eternal City.

Whether you’re on a tight budget or want to splurge on other things, these fabulous free Rome attractions will set you on the right track.

Wander Through Trastevere

Trastevere, the colourful and vibrant neighbourhood across the river Tiber, is perhaps Rome’s loveliest and most picturesque neighbourhood.

If you’re a fan of cobbled, narrow alleys lined with quintessential Roman restaurants and bars, then you’ll fall in love with Trastevere. Unlike similar neighbourhoods in other major cities that attract tourists, Trastevere has never really lost its traditional atmosphere or charm. That’s why even locals love to spend an evening strolling through Rome’s prettiest neighbourhood.

Trastevere is a great neighbourhood to have dinner for the atmosphere and try some good traditional Italian food . Even if you’re  visiting Rome as a vegan , you won’t feel left out. Although there are no strictly vegan restaurants in Trastevere, you will find plenty of vegan options.

On Sunday mornings, you can browse the flea market at Porta Portese at the edge of the Trastevere neighbourhood.

Join a Free Walking Tour

Free walking tours are a great way to get your bearings in any new city. They usually last around 2-3 hours taking you to the main sites for an overview of the city and what there is to see and do.

Tour guides on free walking tours are also a wealth of knowledge about the best locals tips on what to do, how to get around, where to eat etc. And of course, the best free and discounted stuff in Rome.

After the tour, you’ll have a better understanding of the city, its layout and an idea of which sites are worth spending money on and which to skip.

There are also themed tours that deal with specific topics that might particularly interest you. These could be street art tours, history tours related to a particular period, or less-known topics that many tourists might miss. You can do as many free walking tours as you like. The first time we did a free walking tour was in Venice – we did three, all with different themes. We still recommend them as the best way to see Venice and start your time in Rome.

We advise taking a free tour when you first arrive in Rome. It’s a great way to dive into the atmosphere of this fantastic city and get all those valuable local tips before setting off on your own.

It’s customary to leave a tip at the end of a free walking tour depending on how satisfied you are, but it’s not mandatory.

Visit the Pantheon

Many visitors to Rome are surprised to learn, one of Rome’s main sights is entirely free. The Pantheon, now officially called Basilica di Santa Maria ad Martyres was turned into a church after almost 500 years serving as a Roman temple. Dating back to 125 AD, the building has been in constant use since it was built, accounting for its superb condition.

One of the most interesting aspects of the Pantheon is the hole in the centre of the domed ceiling. The unique design feature not only creates a fantastic atmosphere when the sun shines through, but it also makes a visit in the rain or snow exceptional.

Because the Pantheon is a functioning church, please be respectful and quiet when you visit, as many people may be there to worship.

The square in front of the Pantheon is called the Piazza della Rotonda. It’s easy to find the Pantheon because there is signage throughout the Old Town, which isn’t the case for all the sights in the city.

Look at Fascist Architecture in the EUR Neighborhood

The residential EUR neighbourhood is not on many tourists’ radar, but if you’re interested in modern Italian history, it’s well worth a visit. Mussolini chose the area in the 30s as the 1942 World Fair site to celebrate 20 years of Fascism .

The EUR was inspired by Fascist ideology drawing on classic Roman urban planning with Italian Rationalist art deco elements. The results – an open layout with streets wide enough to parade an army and imposing buildings in white marble – a nod to the classic monuments of Imperial Rome.

Interestingly, one of the finest examples of Mussolini’s favoured Rationalist style outside Rome is on the Dodecanese Island of Leros in Greece .

A stark contrast to the ancient monuments that are Rome’s most famous attractions, which makes the EUR area even more fascinating.

Head to the Trevi Fountain

Without a doubt, one of Rome’s most famous free attractions, we recommend an early start for the magnificent Trevi Fountain – or, even late at night. The beautiful baroque fountain gets inundated with tourists during the day, right through to the evening.

A visit to the Trevi Fountain isn’t necessarily entirely free if you follow the custom of throwing a coin in the fountain. Tossing a coin with your right hand over your left shoulder into the Trevi Fountain is supposed to ensure you return back to the city one day. Throw in a second coin if you want to fall in love with an attractive Roman and a third one if you want to marry them. Be careful what you wish for.

A must-see attraction in Rome and well worth battling the crowds for if you’re not an early bird.

Galleria Sciarra – The Secret Art Nouveu Courtyard

Not far from the Trevi Fountain and the Via del Corso is a largely unknown hidden courtyard and a magnificent display of Art Nouveau – the beautiful Galleria Sciarra. It was built in the late 19th century for the wealthy Sciarra family and adorned with brilliantly coloured frescoes by Giuseppe Cellini. The beautiful works depict a celebration of women in the various phases of life.

The palatial courtyard was intended as a shopping mall, which, had it come to fruition, would have been the most beautiful in Rome.

Go to Piazza Navona

In Piazza Navona, you can find several magnificent fountains, much less busy than the Trevi Fountain but by no means any less worth seeing. While they don’t have the power to bring you back to Rome, they make great photo opportunities.

Piazza Navona is a lovely place for a stroll because it’s a pedestrian-only zone and is home to some of the most beautiful buildings in the old town of Rome. For the best photos, head out early when the streets are quiet and you can have the fountains to yourself.

Visit the Free Churches

Most churches in Rome are free to visit despite the incredible works of art you can find in them. Sometimes you may have to pay a fee or make a donation if you want to take photos or visit additional parts of the church, but entry is free.

As a staunchly Catholic city, there are, of course, numerous churches you could choose to visit in Rome. Some of the best are Santa Maria Maggiore, Santa Maria in Trastevere, Sant’Ignazio di Loyola, Santa Maria del Popolo, and San Giovanni in Laterano.

You’ll be surprised at the priceless works of art you will find in some of the most unsuspecting churches in Rome.

Marvel at the Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps are one of the most famous and loved sights in Rome. Located by the Piazza di Spagna, they have set the scene for so many classic films – seeing them for yourself is a must when visiting Rome.

They are named the Spanish Steps because they connected the Spanish Embassy to the Holy See. Likewise, the Piazza di Spagna is so named because the area used to belong to Spain. 

Visit St. Peter’s Basilica

Although many of the churches in Rome are free to visit, St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican City deserves its own spot on this list of free things to do in Rome. After all, it is the most famous and largest church in the world. You can read more about visiting the Vatican here .

Entrance to the basilica is entirely free of charge, but you need to prepare your visit well to make the most of it. While you don’t have to pay to enter the church, the line outside can be incredibly long, especially on certain holy days and Papal audience days. It is advised to check the Vatican website before planning your visit to miss the most crowded days – unless, of course, you wish to see the Pope.

There are very stringent security checks on entry to St Peter’s Square, which can also slow the entry process. You can purchase skip the line tickets with Sistine Chapel entry for around €21, in which case the visit is obviously no longer free.

The best way to make sure you don’t pay and don’t wait in line for hours is to head to St. Peter’s Basilica early, if possible, as soon as it opens at 7 am. 

Take a Stroll Through the Jewish Neighborhood

Another lovely neighbourhood to wander around in is the former Jewish Ghetto.

You can reach the Jewish neighbourhood from Trastevere by crossing the Garibaldi Bridge. The area is much smaller than Trastevere but is also home to plenty of lovely cafés and restaurants, many of which focus on Jewish cuisine.

As picturesque as the neighbourhood is today, its history is much less charming. For around 300 years, all Jews in Rome were mandated by papal law to live in the area. A wall the Jews had to pay for, was built around the neighbourhood to prevent people from leaving or entering the area after dark.

The area was constantly in danger of floods from the river, and because of the many restrictions placed on the Jewish population, it was an extremely poor neighbourhood with appalling living conditions.

Watch the Sunset From Gianicolo Hill

From Trastevere you can also make your way up Gianicolo Hill, also called the Janiculum. It offers some of the best views of Rome, especially at sunset. Due to its location between Trastevere and Vatican City, you also get really lovely views of St. Peter’s Basilica from here.

Gianicolo Hill is actually the second-tallest hill in Rome which explains the excellent views, but it’s not considered one of the traditional “seven hills” on which Rome was built. As it sits west of the Tiber, it fell outside the boundaries of the ancient city and so was not originally part of Rome.

To reach the top of the hill, walk north on Via Garibaldi until you reach the Passeggiata di Gianicolo. You will reach Garibaldi Square which is home to a Garibaldi monument. Because the area is not extremely busy with tourists, you will have some great photo opportunities from the hill. On New Year’s Eve, this is also a nice spot to see the fireworks over the entire city of Rome.

Aside from the view and photo opportunities, Gianicolo Hill is also an excellent place for a leisurely stroll away from the hustle of the city. There are also some interesting monuments such as the Fontana dell’Acqua Paola, the Manfredi Lighthouse, the Church of San Pietro in Montorio where St Peter was crucified, and the Garibaldi Monument.

Budget Friendly Rome

As you can see there are plenty of things to do in Rome for free including some of Rome’s most famous attractions. From churches and picturesque squares to famous fountains and parks, as well as exploring the different neighbourhoods. There is a lot to see in Rome that doesn’t require high entrance fees.

About the Author

Nina Ahmedow

Nina is a travel content creator who has travelled to more than 20 countries on three continents. Born and raised in Germany but currently living in Greece, she loves exploring the world through vegan food. She is the voice behind  Lemons and Luggage , a travel blog dedicated to vegan and responsible travel.

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Best Free Museums in Rome

By Elyssa Bernard

September 18, 2023

Wondering if we have any free museums in Rome?

The answer is yes!

Free Museums in Rome - A complete list

On my YouTube channel, I made a video about my top 5 favorite free museums in Rome , but we have many more than just five.

From ancient art to modern times, Roman ruins and landmarks, artists' homes and war memorials, there are plenty of places you can visit for free!

On this page, you'll find information about Rome's free museums in these categories:

• Art museums and galleries
• Ancient Roman sites

Military and war memorabilia museums

• House museums - places artists and collectors once lived, in their original state

An amazing Natural History Museum in Rome

Rome's free art museums.

These are some of the best museums in Rome that you can visit for free with a focus on art and sculpture:

Museo di Scultura Antica Giovanni Barracco

A unique and quite stunning collection of ancient sculptures, the Giovanni Barracco Museum of Ancient Sculpture collection was first put together in the late 19th century.

Containing some remarkable examples of Egyptian sculpture (most notably the sphinx of Hatshepsut) as well as Greek, Cypriot, Etruscan, and Roman art, today it is considered among the most important collections in the world of ancient art.

Barracco personally choose the artifacts and in 1902 gifted his spectacular collection to the city of Rome.

A must-see for lovers of art and sculpture, this museum is one of my favorites in Rome, plus the building itself is also stunning, and it is never busy .

It's almost unbelievable that it is free entry to this amazing collection!

Location and hours:

Corso Vittorio Emanuele 166/A

October to May : Tuesday-Sunday: 10:00am-4:00pm

June to September : Tuesday-Sunday: 1:00pm-7:00pm

Accademia Nazionale di San Luca

The National Academy of San Luca dates back to the 16th century and has, through all these years, acted as a cultural center for the arts.

With a changing routine of temporary exhibitions, the Academy is populated by lovers of the arts who can also use the extensive library.

The building is located in the heart of Rome's historic center , literally next to the Trevi Fountain .

One of my favorite things about this free admission museum is Borromini's helicoidal ramp.

Piazza dell’Accademia di San Luca 77

Tuesday to Saturday: guided tours start at 10:00am, 11:30am, 1:00pm, 2:30pm and 4:00pm

Reservations required , email [email protected] to book your place

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Museum of Contemporary Art of Rome (MACRO)

The Museum of Contemporary Art , usually abbreviated to MACRO , is housed in two separate buildings.

With a permanent collection of modern art from the 1960's onwards and rotating exhibitions that feature current artists in both visual and audio form, it presents a fascinating selection of artworks that detail the development of the arts scene in Italy from the mid-20th century.

For lovers of modern art, this one of Rome's museums is not to be missed.

Via Nizza 138 and Via Reggio Emilia 54

Tuesday-Friday: 12:00pm-7:00pm

Saturday-Sunday: 10:00am-7:00pm

Last admission 30 minutes before closing

Museo Boncompagni Ludovisi per le Arti Decorative, il Costume e la Moda

This unique and fascinating museum occupies a delightful villa in the elegant Via Veneto - Ludovisi neighborhood.

Furnished as an upper-class villa of the early 20th century, the museum offers an excellent view of how the modern owners lived in the Eternal City.

For those who appreciate fashion, interior design, and history, this museum is a unique experience.

Via Boncompagni, 18

Tuesday-Sunday: 9:00am-7:00pm

Museo Carlo Bilotti 

The impressive collection of 20th century modern art at the Museo Carlo Bilotti is made up of 23 works gifted to the city of Rome by the entrepreneur after whom the museum is named.

Among the major attractions of this beautiful museum are the portraits of Lisa and Tine Bilotti, painted by the world-famous Andy Warhol in 1981.

Featuring works from celebrated artists from the mid to late 20th century, this is a collection that lovers of modern art will appreciate, presented in a beautiful location.

Via Fiorello La Guardia 6 and Viale dell’Aranciera 4

October to May : Tuesday-Friday 10:00am-4:00pm, Saturday-Sunday 10:00am-7:00pm

June to Septembe r: Tuesday-Friday 1:00pm-7:00pm, Saturday-Sunday 10:00am-7:00pm

Museo Pietro Canonica a Villa Borghese

This permanent exhibition of works by the talented and famous Italian sculptor, painter, and composer Pietro Canonica is a testament to the talent of this multi-faceted 20th century artist.

Working in the Realist style, and following World War II dedicated to more religious output, the Pietro Canonica museum displays marble and bronze sculptures and sketches by the great man.

Perhaps most famous for his Marble bust of King Edward VII, which resides in Buckingham Palace in London, the works on display in this dedicated museum (originally the artist's display rooms) are among some of the most important 20th century sculptures.

Viale Pietro Canonica (Piazza di Siena) 2

Free ancient Roman sites in Rome

Museo delle mura.

Museo delle Mura  or the 'Museum of the Walls' offers a fascinating insight into the ancient walls of Rome.

It's another of my favorite museums in Rome, free or not!

I love that you can really appreciate Ancient Roman architecture without the crushing crowds at the Colosseum .

Among the most interesting of the free museums in Rome, this incredible exhibit allows visitors to walk inside the best-preserved section of the ancient ruins of the Aurelian Wall.

Dedicated to informing visitors about the city walls, their construction methods, and their purpose, this archaeological museum is a historical wonder that takes you back to the day of ancient Rome.

The various rooms offer information on many aspects of the Roman history of the city, including one about the Appian Way , the ancient Roman road whose beginning can be seen from the windows of the museum.

Via di Porta San Sebastiano 18

Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00am-2:00pm

Watch my video to learn more about my top choice of all the free museums in Rome:

Villa di Massenzio - Villa of Maxentius

The Villa di Massenzio is an important archaeological site in Rome

It features the remains of three buildings from the Roman era.

These are part of a villa and an extended complex belonging to Emperor Maxentius, once co-emperor with Constantine, who defeated Maxentius at the Milvian Bridge in 312 CE.

Yes that is the same Maxentius whose name is attached to the huge basilica in the Roman Forum !

The buildings are made up of a palace, a mausoleum, and an enormous circus, which is still fairly intact.

The location of the Villa di Massenzio on the Appian Way makes it a perfect stop when you're visiting the other sites here, such as the catacombs , the Villa dei Quintilli, or just the Appia Antica itself.

At the time of writing, the circus and mausoleum are free to enter and open to the public, with work continuing on the remainder of the complex.

Via Appia Antica 153

Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00am-4:00pm

Explore other sites from Ancient Rome

Museo Storico dei Granatieri di Sardegna - Historical Museum of the Granatieri

This fascinating collection of artifacts and photographs celebrates the great tradition of the Granatieri di Sardegna : the Grenadiers of Sardinia.

This famous fighting force holds a special place in the history of warfare in Italy, and a museum dedicated to these brave soldiers is undoubtedly deserved.

No fewer than 15 rooms in the magnificent building include exhibits such as weapons, a collection of photographs relating to the Great War, and items and artifacts donated by Grenadiers and their families.

Piazza S. Croce in Gerusalemme 7

Monday to Friday: 9:00am-12:00pm

Ready to plan your trip?

Museo Storico della Liberazione - Historical Museum of the Liberation

Among Rome's most profound and memorable museums is the Historical Museum of the Liberation .

Documenting the period of the German occupation of Rome, September 1943 through June 1944, and the subsequent liberation of the city by Allied forces, the museum showcases many poignant exhibits that leave a lasting memory.

The building that the museum occupies was used by the German SS in 1944 and was a place where many captured Italian Resistance members were tortured.

Exhibits relating to the SS are in place, as are many that remind visitors of the persecution of Jews in Rome during this terrible period.

It's a very difficult museum to visit, at least for me, but well worth it if you have an interest in WWII history and Italy's place in it.

Not a pleasant museum in any way, but an important reminder of the horrors of war and a must-see for anyone interested in military history and WWII.

Via Tasso 145

Open daily: 9:00am-7:00pm

Museo dello Shoah

Museo dello Shoah is a haunting exhibition of artifacts and pictorial memories relating to the Holocaust and the persecution of Jews in Rome during World War II.

This tiny, yet inspiring and fascinating, exhibition recounts (memorably and often in a horrifying way) an important and terrible period of Rome's history.

Free to enter and shocking in many ways, I recommend you visit museums such as this one to get a complete picture of the recent history of the Jewish people living in Rome.

Like the museum above, I have a very hard time visiting this location but it's very well done and worth visiting.

Via del Portico d’Ottavia 29

Sunday-Thursday 10:00am-7:00pm, Fridays 10:00am-1:00pm, closed on Saturdays

Mausoleum of the Fosse Ardeatine

One of the most horrific events during the German occupation of Rome from 1943 to mid-1944 was the Ardeatine Massacre.

The mass murder of 335 Italian prisoners took place in response to a partisan attack on a German police battalion on 24th March 1944.

The prisoners were taken to the Ardeatine caves to the south of the city and shot in groups of five.

Today the caves are home to the bodies of the dead, and beneath the Mausoleum is an informative museum that outlines the historical events leading to the massacre.

A moving and sombre place, the Mausoleum is of great historical importance.

Each year the event is remembered in an official ceremony at the site where the 335 names are read aloud.

Via Ardeatina 174

Monday-Friday 08:15am-3:15pm, Saturday and Sunday 08:15am-4:15pm

Museo della Repubblica Romana e della Memoria Garibaldina

Remembering the days of the Republic of Italy and the great Giuseppe Garibaldi, this excellent museum uses multi-media and traditional museum exhibits to explain the rich and fascinating history of Rome and Italy in the unification period.

Mainly focused on the uprising of 1848 and the attacks by the French in the following year, this important museum traces those difficult times and is informative and evocative.

This is a must-see museum for any visitors to Rome interested in history, particularly military history.

Largo di Porta San Pancrazio

Tuesday to Friday 10:00am-2:00pm, Saturday and Sunday 10:00am-6:00pm

The History of Italy

Italy as a country has only officially existed since 1861 but its history stretches back far, far longer!

To understand more about how Italy came to exist and how it fared after unification, try reading this insightful book .

Disclosure : If you make a purchase through a link on this page, I may receive a small commission - at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my site!

House museums - Places artists and collectors once lived, in their original state

Among the most interesting museums in Rome are several 'House Museums' celebrating the lives and times of famous and prominent persons.

These notable museums in Rome are all focused on specific people from history, providing a fascinating insight into the many people who have lived in Rome through the city's long history.

Museo Napoleonico (Napoleon Museum)

With a collection of artifacts donated to the city by a descendant of Napoleon Bonaparte, the Napoleonic Museum is a wonderful insight into the history of one of the world's great leaders.

The collection is split into three ages, starting with the Napoleonic era and ending with the rise of the Second Empire.

This important and interesting museum not only shows pictures and busts from the time, but also recreates the decor, fascinating for people who enjoy period interior design!

This is a great museum dedicated to the lives of a family with a very interesting history.

Piazza di Ponte Umberto I 1

Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00am-6:00pm

Studio di Luigi Pirandello

Awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1934, the great Italian writer and playwright Luigi Pirandello lived here and his studio has been turned into a museum and research center  dedicated to his life and works.

Pirandello is famous for his novels, hundreds of short stories, and around 40 plays which are still put on today.

The original interiors and furnishings are intact, and many manuscripts and other items relating to this literary great are on display.

Booking in advance is essential , and a guide accompanies visitors.

Via Antonio Bosio 13 B

Monday-Thursday 9:00am-3:30pm, Fridays 11:00am-7:00pm

Museo Hendrik Christian Andersen 

An American-Norwegian artist and sculptor, the house in which Hendrik Christian Andersen lived is now an excellent museum celebrating the life and times of a hugely interesting man .

Villa Helene, a building designed by the great man himself, is not something you'd associate with Rome, but this is a lovely free entry museum.

Andersen was famously dedicated to creating a 'World City', an almost utopian vision of a world of wonderful art.

This resulted in his famous 'World Centre of Communication', a hefty tome outlining the importance of art in society.

This house has a greatly informative and interesting collection that must be seen.

Via Pasquale Stanislao Mancini 20

Tuesday-Sunday: 9:30am-7:30pm

The perfect 3-day itinerary in Rome

Trying to figure out how to organize your visit to Rome? I've got the perfect 3-day itinerary for first-time visitors (or those who have not been here in a while.) It works for a 2.5 day visit as well.

In my 3-day itinerary, you'll see all the major must-see Rome attractions like the Vatican , Colosseum , Trevi Fountain , Pantheon , Piazza Navona , Spanish Steps , Castel Sant'Angelo , and much more.

And if you have more time, or want suggestions for extra/other things to do, you'll find that there too.

Visit my page with the best 3-day itinerary in Rome for first-timers .

Museo di Casal de ‘Pazzi

The extraordinary Museo di Casal de 'Pazzi is all about archaeological and geological history.

Consisting of a 1200 square meter patch of remarkably well-preserved Pleistocene deposits, it is a unique experience and a chance to view geological deposits from 200,000 years ago !

The museum features exhibits and interactive displays outlining how life would have looked during the Pleistocene era and gives an important insight into how life has evolved across millennia.

Nothing else is like this superb museum in Rome (or elsewhere), so if you are a natural history buff, be sure to check it out!

Reservations are required .

Via Egidio Galbani 6

Tuesday-Friday 9:00am-2:00pm, Saturday-Sunday 10:00am-2:00pm

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Free entry on the first Sunday of the month

On the first Sunday of the month , you can also visit many state and city-run sites like the Colosseum , Roman Forum , Castel Sant'Angelo , Capitoline Museums, and many more for free.

Also, on the last Sunday of most months, the Vatican Museums , usually closed on Sundays, are open and free .

The hours are limited and you can expect huge lines, but if it's the only day you have, just try getting there super early!

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Top attractions and tours

• Colosseum - Don't miss visiting Rome's most iconic monument
• Vatican Museums - This is where the Sistine Chapel is
• Pantheon - Book ahead and skip the line
• Galleria Borghese - You'll need to book ahead for one of Rome's best museums
• Castel Sant'Angelo - See Rome's history through its architecture
• Rome City Pass - A great way to make your Rome visits easier

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