Free things to do in Rome

Rome is synonymous with richness: cultural, gastronomic and historical. The city never ceases to amaze and features among other things many activities and places that you can experience for free. Indeed, perhaps the most curious and interesting activities are precisely those that can be done at no cost, thanks to the Eternal City’s ability to hide wonders everywhere. Let’s find out together, then, what to do in Rome for free, to be able to fully enjoy the timeless charm of a city that jealously preserves the signs of time.

Walking under the colonnade of St. Peter’s

We begin the journey by entering the heart of Rome’s history through St. Peter’s Basilica, that is the main one among the 4 “Major Basilicas,” the burial place of St. Peter. The 23,000-square-meter basilica is the largest Catholic place of worship in the world. Seeing Bernini’s canopy live, for example, is a unique and unforgettable experience. It is among the free programs to do in Rome: only the visit to the Sistine Chapel is charged for.

Getting lost in the Pantheon

Among Rome’s free attractions is the Pantheon, the Roman temple dedicated to all the gods and known among Romans by the nickname “la Ritonna,” or “the Rotunda.” It can be visited free of charge every day. We recommend paying attention to the weather, as rain enters the building through the opening at the top of the dome. The Pantheon was a source of inspiration for the most famous architects of the Renaissance era. Raphael, moreover, chose it as his eternal home.

Admiring Caravaggio

Perhaps not many people know that admiring some of Caravaggio’s works is one of Rome’s free activities. Three paintings, “The Vocation of St. Matthew,” “St. Matthew and the Angel,” and “The Martyrdom of St. Matthew,” are preserved in the Church of St. Louis dei Francesi. The second stop is the basilica of St. Augustine, which houses the “Madonna of the Pilgrims.” Finally, in the basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo are two canvases: the “Conversion of St. Paul” and the “Crucifixion of St. Peter.”

Looking at Rome from the top of the panoramic terraces

Rome from above manages to amaze, thanks in part to the panoramic terraces located in various parts of the city. There are two best-known panoramic terraces: the Pincio terrace, which thrills with its view of Piazza del Popolo, and the Gianicolo terrace, from which the entire historic center of Rome can be seen, from the Trastevere district to the Quirinale, passing by the Pantheon and the basilicas. For those with more time on their hands, the Trinità dei Monti terrace is also not to be missed.

Immerse yourself in the fairy-tale Coppedè

Rome is a city where it is recommended to get lost in the thousands of streets and fascinating neighborhoods. Among them we recommend the Coppedè district, perfect for being amazed by an inimitable and fairy-tale style, full of Art Nouveau and Rococo references. Every corner makes you want to take a photograph, thanks in part to the originality of the decorations that adorn the buildings. It is located in the center of Rome, so it is easily accessible. Because of its centrality, it is also easy to combine with visits to other neighborhoods.

Discovering the soul of Rome in Trastevere

The Trastevere district is known as one of the busiest areas of Roman nightlife, but, to a closer look, its veracity cannot escape. First, it should be known that Trastevere is one of the largest neighborhoods in the Eternal City and, like the Vatican, does not stand on the area of ancient Rome. Our advice is to wander around getting lost in the streets of the ward admiring its churches, houses and streets belonging to a wide variety of historical eras.

Observing the stalls in Campo de’ Fiori

Rome is a city that boasts squares for every style and era. Each visitor can find the one that suits them best as they wander around the city. For reasons of time, we will mention only one, but it is particularly rich in history. This is the charming Piazza Campo de’ Fiori, where Rome’s most famous fruit and vegetable market has been held since 1869. In the center of the square then stands the statue of philosopher Giordano Bruno, who was burned alive right here in 1600.

Relaxation in the Spanish Steps

Obligatory is to stop at the Spanish Steps, in which the Spanish Steps of Trinità dei Monti are also located. The name was chosen because of the presence, at the Holy See, of the Embassy of Spain. The intent was to connect the Trinità dei Monti church with the Spanish Embassy, facilitating access and travel. In the center of the square is one of Bernini’s masterpieces, namely the Fountain of the Barcaccia, made in memory of the 1598 flood caused by the overflow of the Tiber River.

Walking among the fountains

Another free activity is the search for fountains. Numerous are the existing ones, among which we cannot fail to mention the best known: the Trevi Fountain. It represents a masterful example of Baroque art. Started by artist Nicola Salvi in 1732, it was finished by Pietro Bracci. The water in the fountain comes from the oldest Roman aqueduct, namely the Virgin Aqueduct. It may seem obvious to say, but it is fair to point out: although these are common activities among tourists, remember that throwing coins or bathing in the fountain is prohibited.

Unlocking the secret of the Aventine Hill

Now it’s time to tell you a secret: on the Aventine Hill is the entrance to the Priory of the Knights of Malta, which is always closed. But, if you look through the peephole, you get a unique view of St. Peter’s Basilica. A row of trees frames the dome, creating a view to be secretly treasured in memory. The area is very quiet and sparsely frequented, precisely because so few people know about this special place, which can give such unexpected surprises.