The “Eternal City” will enchant you with ancient Roman ruins, famous artwork, centuries-old religiosity, and great food and wine. That all sounds expensive, but we know it’s possible to thoroughly enjoy Roma (Rome) without going broke. You can stumble upon evidence of nearly 30 centuries of history while walking to a mercato (market) in Rome!
As you prepare to explore our list of 25 cose gratuite en Roma (free things in Rome), think about how you could enrich your trip by learning Italian through Rosetta Stone’s affordable subscription options. Our Dynamic Immersion method helps you become a language-savvy traveler by tapping into your innate ability to learn a new language. You’ll find more bargains, meet molti amici (many friends) locally, and discover unique events not listed in travel books thanks to your new knowledge of the Italian language.
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What to visit in Rome: free places to see the views
Say, “Ciao!” (Hello!) to the small town turned famous city called Roma by taking time to get a lay of the land. Walking through the history captured in the architecture and scenic views is one of the best free things to do in Rome. Start by exploring some of the things to do in Rome for free that we think embody the culture.
1. Take a free guided walking tour of Rome
Sure, you can walk around Rome on your own, but a guided tour can take you to places you didn’t find in your research and provide you with a history lesson at the same time.
There are many free guided walking tours available in Rome—some guided by local volunteers, some led by licensed tour guides, and some audio guides you can use on your phone. Whichever you choose, keep in mind that tours guided by a person require booking in advance, and tips of 10-20 euros are customary.
2. Enjoy the greenery at Villa Doria Pamphilj Park
Entrance to Palazzo Doria Pamphilj (Doria Pamphilj Palace) may be around € 20 (20 euros), but entrance to the park surrounding it is completely free. Enjoy the Baroque style of Casino del Bel Respiro along with its highly manicured, labyrinthian gardens. Walk along the tree-lined path, bring a warm drink, and contemplate the greenery as you relax, read, or write alongside a stream or a 17th-century fountain.
Also spelled as Pamphili, for instance on Google Maps, multiple bus lines running all along Via Leone XII, which cuts straight through the park, will take you there.
The steps were meant to serve as a meeting place for all Rome’s citizens when they were originally built from 1723-1726. At the time, the Spanish Embassy was located at the bottom of the steps, which is where the name comes from. At the top lies the lovely Trinità dei Monti (Trinity of the Mount) church, with some coveted paintings and sculptures inside and a spectacular view of the city from the church’s winding walkway.
3. Take in the best view of Rome at The Promenade of the Janiculum
Rome is also called the “City of Seven Hills,” and there are quite a few places to get a panoramic view of the metropolis. But one of the best places for a great view doesn’t actually belong to one of those seven hills. Janiculum Walk sits just west of the Tiber River and is surrounded by the grounds of several universities and research institutes along with the Botanical Garden of Rome (also free).
You can admire the famous churches and architecture of Rome along with the bell towers and domes, then visit a nearby church, lighthouse, terrace, or fountain. We suggest taking bus 115 or 870, since the climb is grueling, then walking back, if you like.
4. Admire architectural masterpieces at Villa Borghese Park
Rome’s Villa Borghese Park is a “museum park” that’s open day and night. Spanning a large area of the city, the sprawling English-style gardens originally created during the Renaissance are home to Galleria Borghese and other smaller museums, a small lake where it’s possible to rent boats, and Casa del Cinema for watching arthouse films—some of which are free.
For a completely free walk through these gardens atop Pincian Hill, you may want to begin from Viale Trinità dei Monti and then stop at Terrazza Viale del Belvedere or Terrazza del Pincio for an impressive view of the city.
5. Walk along the Tiber River
The Tiber River is among the longest rivers in Italy and snakes its way through all of Rome with a bike and walking path on either side (Lungotevere Farnesia and Lungotevere dei Tebaldi). With room for walking and places to sit, it’s a lovely way to get a feel of everyday life in Rome. We recommend stopping at Ponte Vittorio Emanuele II for a view of Castel Sant’Angelo, or stopping on Ponte Sisto (if you’re heading to Trastevere) for a distant view of St. Peter’s.
Covering the entire length of the city, you reach the path by way of stairs leading down from the bridges that cross over it. Admire the river itself, or you can get beautiful views of the city, its churches, and its ruins. A few murals adorn the walls alongside the river, and the occasional street musician can be heard.
6. Ride a bike on an ancient Roman road: Via Appia Antica
Walk along a 4th-century road, one of the earliest in Europe and a precursor to the modern highway. Known as Via Appia Antica, the Appian Way boasts scenic views in addition to villas, aqueducts, mausoleums, tombs, temples, and catacombs. There’s a reason it’s a candidate for UNESCO’s World Heritage List.
The road starts at the southeastern corner of Rome and continues to the south, nearly parallel to the main road to the airport. With some planning, you can take a bus or taxi there or back, but make sure to agree on the fee for the taxi before you take off. Bike rental is available for a reasonable fee.
What to see in Rome: free attractions and monuments
From the Vatican City to the Colosseum and the piazze (squares), there are many popular attractions drawing you to Rome. These must-see sites should be on your itinerary, but we suggest including a few unique experiences and free things to do in Rome to round out your trip.
7. Visit Rome’s biggest attractions for free on First Sundays
Immerse yourself in Italy’s cultural heritage for free on Domenica al museo (Sundays at the Museum). On the first Sunday of each month, you can attend over 35 museums, galleries, gardens, monuments, and archaeological sites for free: Check out the impressive list of options updated in real time by Ministero Della Cultura. Planning your trip to coincide with the first Sunday of the month is one of our best budget-friendly tips.
Many of these sites require advanced booking, and the deal doesn’t include special ticketed exhibitions. These state-sponsored museums and sites will be crowded, so don’t expect to see everything on your list. Prioritize one or two, try to book early in the day, and be happy if you can fit in more.
8. Behold Basilica Papale di San Pietro, an icon of spiritual structures
One of the most coveted experiences you can book in Rome is stepping inside Basilica Papale di San Pietro (St. Peter’s Basilica). You’ll be struck by the silence as visitors respect the sacred space. Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the sprawling structure that encircles the tomb of Saint Peter, taking in a century’s worth of Renaissance and Baroque styles. From the Dome to the Vatican Grottoes, self-guided tours are open daily.
To get here, take one of seven bus lines or the metro line that puts you within a 10-minute walk of the major basilica. Be mindful of what you wear on this excursion—there is a dress code. All visitors must wear trousers or skirts that hit below the knee or are longer, and everyone has to cover their shoulders.
9. Ascend the Spanish Steps at sunset
Between Villa Borghese and Trevi Fountain at Piazza di Spagna (Spanish Square), the Spanish Steps are a must-see for Rome—even if you can’t tackle the steep climb. You may want to go slowly up the 135 steps or stop halfway to take in the views (and catch your breath).
Wherever you stop, you’ll be among visitors from around the world—all speaking different languages. But be aware that you’re not allowed to sit on the Spanish Steps or eat food there.
10. Admire the work of Michelangelo at San Pietro in Vincoli
Not to be confused with the famous papal basilica near the Vatican, San Pietro in Vincoli (St. Peter in Chains) is a minor basilica just north of the Colosseum that contains a significant hidden treasure: a marble sculpture of Moses by Michelangelo, part of the tomb of Pope Julius II.
The unassuming facade of the basilica is more than compensated for by the awe-inspiring interior colonnade and an early 18th-century ceiling that depicts St. Peter in chains by Giovanni Battista Parodi. Actual chains said to have bound the saint are contained within a reliquary near the altar.
11. Explore the original chariot race oval now known as Piazza Navona
An icon of the Baroque period, Piazza Navona (Navona Square) is shaped like the ancient stadium it was built on with a crowning feature: Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers. The famous fountain features expressive stone figures at its base and a tall obelisk at its center. Another fountain, Fontana del Moro (Fountain of the Moor), features tritons, sea creatures, and a central human figure: It can be found on the south end of the plaza.
Chiesa di Sant Agnese (St. Agnes Church) serves as the backdrop for Bernini’s fountain and honors St. Agnes, an early Christian martyr. Today, this piazza is a great place to walk around, take in the sights, contemplate history, and enjoy street performances.
12. Make a wish at Fontana di Trevi
Admittedly, this activity is not totally free, but if you decide to participate, it can cost you as little as one cent! Designed in the 18th century to harmonize with its Palazzo Poli (Poli Palace) background, Trevi Fountain was built where the Roman aqueducts used to meet. Evoking that history, the fountain features Greek gods and Roman mythological figures, many of them related to water.
Walk right up to the fountain to throw your coin over your left shoulder with your right hand and make a wish.
13. Visit the hallowed graves of England’s most notable poets at Cimitero Acattolico
If you’ve explored the incredible museums in Rome, you already know the Keats-Shelley Museum holds death masks and relics of these two Romantic poets: John Keats and Percy Bysshe-Shelley. Yet, it’s here at the Non-Catholic Cemetery where you can find the graves of these famous Romantics who died in their twenties along with many other European writers, artists, and intellectuals.
Located west of the intersection of four major arteries in the Testaccio district, humanities and political science folks may enjoy finding the gravestone of Antonio Gramsci, and literature fans will relish discovering Beat poet Gregory Corso’s simple grave marker.
As a bonus, check out Piramide di Caio Cestio (Pyramid of Caius Cestius) at the eastern edge of the cemetery. It’s quite a unique landmark!
Free things to do in Rome for families
Unique shows, unexpected animals, and historical sites are all great activities for kids in Rome. Try to plan a mix of active experiences, like walking scenic areas, and those that are more sedentary, like watching a movie, to keep their attention throughout the day.
14. Catch a puppet show at Teatrino di Pulcinella al Gianicolo
The Neapolitan character of Pulcinella, a rather clever fellow, has a long history starting with Italy’s 17th-century commedia dell’arte (art comedy). Today, he’s the star of Teatrino di Pulcinella al Gianicolo (Pulcinella Puppet Theater of Janiculum Hill) where traditional puppets are used for this show destined to please all ages.
You can understand the performance just from the gestures and context, but your Rosetta Stone lessons will pay off here because the shows are only presented in Italian. Afterward, the view from Piazzale Anita Garibaldi (Anita Garibaldi Square) can’t be beat. Learn more from the Sito Turistico Ufficiale Roma (Official Tourist Site of Rome) because the theater doesn’t have one.
15. Find all the fairy houses at the Quartiere Coppedè
Imposing sculpted heads, whimsical frog fountains, and multistory fairy houses with turrets are just a few of the architectural curiosities to be discovered in the Quartiere Coppedè (Coppedè Quarter), where part of House of Gucci was filmed.
A photographer’s delight, the neighborhood is named after its creator, Gino Coppedè, who built most of it during the 1920s before he died. With a multitude of influences and styles, the buildings adorned with everything from clamshells to sundials to paintings of clipper ships almost serve as a survey course of architectural history. Though Liberty (Italian Art Nouveau) predominates, nearly every period from classical through the 1920s is represented.
Details like painted arches evocative of a Muslim past or intricate tilework are particularly captivating, so walk slowly, and look all around.
16. Head to Piazza San Pietro at the Vatican for the pope’s weekly address
For Catholics or those interested in watching the charisma of a world leader, you can see the pope for free on Wednesday mornings at Piazza San Pietro (St. Peter’s Square). But you must have tickets obtained using this Vatican ticket request.
We suggest sending your form 6-12 months in advance, especially if you opt to send the form via snail mail. If you do it this way, the cool thing is you’ll get an official letter from the Vatican in response. Once they respond, you’ll still need to pick up your tickets at the Bronze Door of St. Peter’s.
It’s also possible to request tickets for one of the liturgical ceremonies (masses) given infrequently by the pope. Check the official website of the Holy See for more details.
17. Count the local cats at Torre Argentina
Contrary to the common belief that Julius Caesar was killed at the forum, the dictatorial Roman emperor was probably murdered in the area known today as Area Sacra di Largo Argentina (Sacred Area of Largo Argentina), also referred to as Area Sacra Largo di Torre Argentina. Only the skeletal remains of four Roman temples, renovated in 2023, persist.
In contrast to the sparse ruins of a formerly thriving civilization, hundreds of feral cats, who are often sick or disabled, roam the area. Like the ruins, the cats are not entirely abandoned: A group of people care for the cats, making sure they receive food and medical attention. You can take in a bit of history at Torre Argentina (Roman Cat Sanctuary) as you watch the kitties who have made this place their home.
18. Attend an all-day concert on Primo Maggio, May 1
Primo Maggio (May 1) is Workers Day in Italy. It’s a day when nearly all stores, except for some convenience stores, will be closed. So, plan ahead if you happen to be in Rome or specifically plan to come for the free Concerto del Primo Maggio (May Day Concert) usually held at Piazza San Giovanni. In 2024, the concert will be held at Circus Maximus due to renovations. The lineup is announced in early April, but no matter who’s playing, this is sure to be a fun-packed day.
Take note that public transportation will probably operate on a reduced schedule. We recommend leaving extra time for getting to and from the concert.
19. See films for free at the Cinema in Piazza festival
When the Romans say Cinema in Piazza (Movies at the Plaza), they mean it. Occurring mid-summer at three locations, here’s where you can watch vintage movies outdoors in a beautiful urban setting: San Cosimato, Cervelletta, and Monte Ciocci.
Films are not dubbed, so the subtitles will be in Italian. If you haven’t quite got all your Italian down yet, there are plenty of movies in English. These are popular Il Cinema in Piazza events that start at 9:15 p.m., so make sure to go early.
How to stick to your budget in Rome
Keeping travel costs down in any major city can be challenging, but that challenge can be fun as you discover sights to see off the beaten path alongside the best things to do in Rome. Check out our best tips for making a trip to Rome easier on your bank account.
- Travel off-season: You’ll miss the crowds, though hotel prices may still be high. We recommend visiting from September through March, with the caveat that Christmas and the start of a new year will be very busy.
- Buy at local outdoor markets: If you’re cooking instead of dining out, you can get fresh produce and prepared street food at outdoor markets for reasonable prices. Check prices at the supermarket first, then you’ll have good information to help you negotiate the more flexible prices of the market.
- Invest in a Roma Pass: If you decide to visit some paid attractions, getting one of these cards can save you money. The pass includes admission to at least one attraction, free public transportation, discounts for other attractions, and free access to toilet services.
Get to know Italy even better with Rosetta Stone
A vacation in Rome can be rich and pleasurable without visiting every attraction on standard top-ten lists or pulling out your credit card every five minutes. The nature of a vacation should be about relaxing, and this list of cose gratuite (free things) emphasizes creating a unique, personalized agenda.
Learning a new language can also be relaxing and help enhance your Roman holiday. And the free activities we listed provide ample opportunities for meeting new people. When you use Rosetta Stone’s TruAccent speech recognition engine, your words are compared with those of a native speaker to help you pronounce them like a pro (a proficient speaker, that is). So, you’ll feel confident pronouncing all the sites you visit and conversing with those who live near them.
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