The ancient Romans declared Rome as an eternal and ever-standing city. Rome is also one of the most visited cities in Europe. The city is the most desired place for visitors across the world. Besides its cuisine and archaeological landmarks, Rome invites tourists to discover its monuments and lively atmosphere. Since most of the attractions of this city are state-run, so you can enjoy them for free or with a low entrance fee. So, there are free things to do in Rome that can keep you busy for a week or even more.
Though there are many, this article will discuss and focus on 22 free things to do in Rome. If you are a budget traveler, you have reached the right guide for planning your tour to Rome.
Table of Contents
1. The Roman Forum
Indeed, an archaeological wonder, the Roman Forum was a center of religious, political, social, and commercial life in antiquity. The ruins of this Forum make you astonished to imagine the grandeur of the Roman Empire. While exploring the Roman Forum, you’ll experience captivating insight into olden Roman life.
Since you intend to have free things in Rome, ensure your presence on the first Sunday of every month. The Roman Forum and many other historical landmarks offer a ticket-free entry on Months’ first Sunday.
2. Capitoline Museums
Pope Sixtus IV founded the Capitoline Museums in 1471, designed by the legendary Michelangelo. The museums claim a rich history, Renaissance glory, galleries of masterpieces, statues like that of Marcus Aurelius, and a collection of precious Roman art and artifacts.
This landmark is also famous for the mythical sculpture of the she-wolf Capitoline (who nursed the founders of Rome). You can find here the Tabularium, showing a glimpse of the Roman Forum. The visitors can enjoy free entry to the Capitoline Museums. Admission on the first Sunday of every month is charged only. You can plan your visit to enjoy this site free of charge.
3. Find the secret garden at the Basilica of San Clemente
You can discover Roman history in the undergrounds of this church. The Basilica of San Clemente is a marvelous layered architecture offering the visitors a travel through time. Every layer of this masterpiece explains different eras of history.
The present church was constructed in the 12th century atop a church of the 4th century, which was constructed atop a pagan temple of the 2nd century. This layering presents a sight of Rome’s continuous evolution of religious periods. The architecture of the Basilica of San Clemente is a blend of diverse styles.
The site blends various historical eons. The upper basilica has medieval murals and delicate works of mosaics. The lower levels of this cathedral show ancient Roman architecture, as well as a pagan temple and a preserved street of the 1st century. This church’s peaceful courtyard and garden are worth visiting places in Rome.
4. Witness the Pope’s presence at St. Peter’s Square
On Wednesday morning, you can attend the enthralling and historical event of the Papal Audience at St. Peter’s Square, where you can directly witness the spiritual presence of Pope Francis and receive his blessings and teachings. In case of bad weather, the same gathering is held in the Paul VI Audience Hall. The Pope often walks through the gathered people to greet and bless them, so remember the following points to attend this auspicious gathering of the Papal Audience.
- ·The event is among the 22 free things to do in Rome. So, you must plan your trip by ensuring your presence on Wednesday at 10:30 in the morning to be a part of the Papal Audience.
- You are also supposed to reserve your tickets in advance to avoid attending the event for free.
- Though St. Peter’s Square manages thousands of attendees, you should reach early to have a nearer spot.
- Wear a modest dress to respect this religious gathering.
5. Bocca della Verità: The Mouth of Truth
The Mouth of Truth, or Bocca della Verita, is a marble mask and a must-visit place in Rome. This Mouth of Truth is believed to be a drain cover of some ancient building in the city. This is an oval shape with carved facial features and an open mouth. This mysterious mask is located at the Basilica of Santa Maria.
It is believed that this mouth cuts the hand of a liar. If you put your hand inside the mouth and tell a lie, the mouth will snap shut. This adds thrill and mystery to the fun of this mask. You can add the Mouth of Truth to your list of 22 free things to do in Rome and be assured this mask does not bite.
6. Campo de’ Fiori: a beloved place in Rome
Campo de’ Fiori is a popular place where people meet in the evening. This is a beloved place for the locals and keeps a casual and rustic atmosphere. You can visit the statue of Giordano Bruno (Italian Philosopher, killed on the charges of heresy). Since the Middle Ages, this square has been a commerce hub and a spot for social gatherings.
Even in the present times, Campo de’ Fiori serves as a marketplace with plenty of indigenous delicacies, flowers, and fresh products. Regardless of its historical importance, the place also serves the contemporary lifestyle. Being a meeting place, crowds of locals and tourists visit its bars and restaurants.
7. Take a tour of the Pantheon
The Pantheon proves a blended architectural brilliance of olden Greek and Roman architecture with a large and fascinating doom. There is an amazing fact about the structure of the Pantheon: It was constructed without using steel. This doom was made of lightweight volcanic sones, with a central hole to pass the natural light. It is indeed spectacular to see light flickering through this doom.
This royal structure was dedicated to all Roman gods and was originally constructed as a temple almost 2000 years ago. It faced the oddities of time and is still intact today. This landmark welcomes visitors for free, so add this to your list of 22 free things to do in Rome and enjoy this historical glory.
8. The Jewish Ghetto: A Historical Fascination
The Jewish Ghetto is a significant historical fascination in Rome, established in 1555 and remained a home for the Jews. Though for centuries, the Jews were forced and confined to this walled area, they flourished such a vibrant culture as still restricted can be felt in the area.
There are many buildings of medieval and Renaissance eras. During the visit to the narrow streets of this Ghetto, you will find different olden synagogues, including the beautiful Great Synagogue of Rome.The area is also famous for delicious Jewish cuisine, especially for pizza ebraica and fried artichokes, the Jewish-fashioned dishes.
Have a free visit to this Ghetto and examine the historical culture of Jewish people and their contribution to maintaining a coexistence of traditional and present-day life. This experience will enhance the taste of your visiting the city of Rome.
9. Visit to the Complesso del Vittoriano
The Complesso del Vittoriano is a shiny white building in Rome that was constructed between 1885 and 1911. This complex, also known as Altare della Patria or II Vittoriano, pays tribute to Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of united Italy. The building also serves as Italian nationalism and unity.
The architecture of the building is a blend of eclectic and Neoclassic styles. In addition, the monument is decorated with sculptures that depict Italian solidarity and achievements. You can enlist this white marble complex in your list of 22 free things to do in Rome, as the place is free of entry charges. An elevator also serves to reach the top of this complex free of cost.
You can witness its iconic exterior and see the beautiful views of the city from its terraces. The architectural glory of the building’s expansive Piazza Venezia will amaze you. This complex keeps the admirable grandeur and glory of the past.
10. Visiting the Spanish Steps up to the Trinità dei Monti church
An ideal place at the top to view the city is Spanish Steps or Scalinata di Trinità dei Monti. This grand staircase was designed by Francesco de Sanctis and constructed in the early 18th century. The Piazza di Spagna is at the base, and the Trinità dei Monti church is situated at the top of the Spanish steps.
The grand staircase consists of 135 steps and looks amazing, decorated with flowers during the spring. At the base of the Spanish steps, you find Fontana della Barcaccia (a fountain), a gorgeous artwork by renowned Pietro Bernini.
The Spanish steps were named to honor the nearby Spanish Embassy, established in the 17th century. This site has been considered an inspiration, a meeting place, and a center for artists and visitors for centuries. This is one of the free things and most visited places in Rome.
11. Walk the Queen of Roads: Appian Way
The Appian Way, famous as the “Queen of roads,” is an ancient and strategically important road of the Roman Empire, built in 312 BC. This way goes from Rome to the city of Brindisi in the south. The construction of the Appian Way is evidence of Roman architectural ability. The road was important due to its durable construction with the laying of large stone blocks for better military movement, transportation, and trade routes.
The road served as a connection between Rome and the rest of the empire. If you start a journey to explore the Appian Way, start from Porta San Sebastiano, one of the gates of the olden Rome near the city center. As you proceed to the southeast, you will witness some of the notable locations:
- Circus of Maxentius: A chariot racing stadium of the past.
- Tomb of Cecilia Metella: This is a carefully preserved mausoleum, an example of Roman funerary construction.
- Catacombs of San Callisto: An important Roman Christian catacomb of the past.
12. Villa Borghese Park
Villa Borghese Park is a vast and beautiful place in Rome to avoid the city’s turmoil. The Borghese family owned this vineyard; in the 17th century, it was transformed into a garden. At present, this is considered the largest public park in the city, with green landscapes covering over 80 hectares of area. It also keeps a paid Galleria Borghese (an art gallery) full of sculptures and paintings by Bernini, Raphael, and Caravaggio. You can go to the park to visit different museums or to enjoy the natural beauty.
13.Tempietto del Bramante: Roman artistic legacy
This free-to-visit place is situated within the courtyard of San Pietro in Montorio. Donato Bramante designed this Renaissance genius in the early sixteenth century. This small temple is of great historical importance and is believed to be the place where St. Peter was crucified. The temple is a masterpiece of classical design. As soon as you enter the temple, you feel an ambiance of spirituality.
14. Piazza del Campidoglio: Symbol of Rome’s history
Piazza del Campidoglio, located atop the Capitoline Hill, is believed to be the symbol of Rome’s rich history and construction splendor. Michelangelo designed this square in the 16th century as the embodiment of Renaissance ideals. Historically, Capitoline Hill was one of the Seven Hills of Rome, so it served as a political and spiritual hub in antiquity.
The centerpiece of Piazza del Campidoglio is Palazzo Senatorio, the seat of city government. It is flanked by two symmetrical constructions, the Palazzo dei Conservatori and the Palazzo Nuovo. The facades of the flanked buildings consist of carved statues, Corinthian columns, and a majestic staircase. The famous bronze statue of Marcus Aurelius stands downstairs. The place also offers views of the Roman Forum and the laying city. Consider Piazza del Campidoglio one of the 22 free things to do in Rome.
15. Scenic neighborhood of Trastevere
The neighboring district of Trastevere, just across the Tiber River, is full of the historic world of Rome. This area offers a blend of medieval architecture, bohemian ambiance, and picturesque streets, added with blooming ivy, offering an escape from bustling city life. Trastevere is famous for its artisan outlets, boutiques, lively bars, and restaurants.
While exploring the areas, you can encounter iconic landmarks like the Villa Franesina and the Basilica of Sant Maria.This area is also famous for its exciting nightlife and sparkling events. Trastevere beckons locals and visitors to its lively wine bars, evening music, laughter, and pleasant company.
16. The Church of Santa Maria del Popolo
This free-for-visit church is situated near the northern entrance of Rome, which is famous for its connection with the artwork by Caravaggio and Raphael. The history of the Renaissance-styled church of Santa Maria del Popolo starts back to the 13th century. Originally, the church was rebuilt in the 15th century on the very site of Emperor Nero’s burial.
Renowned artists and architects like Bramante, Bernini, and Raphael contributed to building this church. Though the exterior of Santa Maria del Popolo is modest, the inside displays magnificent artwork relating to the Baroque and Renaissance.
17. Trevi Fountain
Among the largest fountains in the city, Trevi Fountain is very famous. This may also be included in free things to do in Rome. Both locals and visitors visit the fountain. There is a myth about throwing coins in the Trevi fountain and having good things happen in return.
If you throw one coin, you will visit Rome again; throwing two coins ensures you fall in love with an Italian, and three coins anticipate turning your love into marriage. The Trevi fountain can be visited during the day and night as well.
18. The place of Julius Caesar’s killing
Largo di Torre Argentina square is in central Rome, next to the Pantheon. This place is meters below the street level, and a stairway is used to reach it. This square is iconic for having four antiquity Roman Temples of the third century BC, which were discovered in 1920 during construction work.
This area is also famous for having the scene of Julius Caesar’s murder in 44 BC; you can see a plaque on a temple column designating the place of the murder. This place is famous for ongoing archaeological research and having a cat sanctuary.
19.Cimitero Acattolico
The Cimitero Acattolico has been a non-Catholic cemetery since the 18th century and is the sole place to visit for free. This place also saves you from the hustle of Rome. The place offers lush greenery and diverse architectural styles, from magnificent mausoleums to plain tombstones. This is also the burial place of towering poets like John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley. Include this place in your list of 22 free things to do in Rome.
20. The Vatican Museums
Established in the 16th century within the Vatican City, serves as a treasure of culture, art, and history. You can find a huge collection of 16th century paintings, Roman and Greek sculptures, and unique artefacts at the Vatican Museums. The ceiling murals of the Sistine Chapel painted by Michelangelo are breathtaking.
The Vatican Museums blend Baroque and Renaissance styles and truly depict the grandeur and magnificence specific to the Vatican City. The visitors can find amazing halls and majestic courtyards with intricate details here. However, the treasures of Vatican Museums can be visited for free only on the last Sunday of every month. So, schedule your visit accordingly.
21. Walk along the Tiber River
The Tiber River is a beloved place for the local Romans, and they hold different events along its banks, like leisurely walks or cycling along the river’s paths. If you visit the river during summer, you’ll find ‘Chioschi’ or temporary bars and restaurants on the riversides to relax and enjoy the local cuisine. The river is third among the longest rivers in Italy, about 405 km. Besides serving as the main trade route, it has witnessed many historic upheavals and battles in Rome.
22. The Trajan’s Column
Constructed in the second century AD to honor the triumph of Emperor Trajan in the Dacian wars. The column can be found at Trajan’s Forum, an ancient public square built by the same emperor. This 30-meter-tall column, carved with a spiral relief, is a well-preserved monument of Trajan’s military expeditions in Dacia. This is a free-of-charge destination and a popular spot in Rome.
Conclusion
Rome is an iconic land of art, culture, traditions, and spirituality, boasting several archeological and historic sites. You can find the grandeur and majesty of ancient times in this eternal and ever-standing city of grand civilizations stretching over more than 2000 years. The city also serves as a picturesque document of the magnificent artifacts and constructions by the minds and hands of renowned and unforgettable men like Michelangelo, Gian Lorenzo Bernini, Raphael, Bramante, Caravaggio, and many more.
In addition, Rome is also the land of the Pope and Vatican City. Though this ultimate guide presents only a list of 22 free things to do in Rome, there are many worth seeing sites and places that are only partially free. The city is among the most desired places for visitors across the world and is worth repeatedly visiting.
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