Free Time In Rome

Vacationing as the Romans do is expensive.
That’s something I’ve learned during my two trips to the city.
The last time, we had just one day to see as much of the city as possible, so we organized a semi-private tour. The shared experience allowed us to keep costs manageable while exploring the city. You can read about that experience here.
If you have more than a day in Rome, the good news is that many of the “must see” sites on your list are free. Others are free outside, but you’ll pay to walk inside.
Here are my top ten suggestions.

• Free Walking Tour — Just like in many other large cities, there are free walking tours offered in Rome. This tour is one possibility. Tours are offered daily at 9:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The meeting place is easy to find. It’s right next to the Spanish Steps. If you hope to add this free walking tour to your vacation, you need to register and dress appropriately. You also MUST have a printed copy of your confirmation, The tour starts at the Spanish Steps and ends at the Trevi Fountain. This tour does not include the Colosseum or the Vatican.

• Pantheon — This temple to all gods has called Rome home for nearly two thousand years. The key to the unique building is the open oculus at its top. The free-standing dome would collapse without the opening. Want to learn more about the Pantheon? Angel Tours offers a free 30 minute tour every night at 7 p.m.

• Spanish Steps — Ready for a workout? Climb these 135 steps. This landmark has been featured in movies such as Roman Holiday, and To Rome With Love, The name comes from the Spanish embassy that used to stand at the bottom.

• St. Peter’s Square and Basilica — The Basilica is one of the largest churches in the world. And It’s free to enter, as is the square. You’ll be allowed to roam the Basilica, but there are a few places inside that you’ll have to pay to explore. The cupola is one of those locations, however, if it’s a clear day, the view is fantastic! Check out the official site for more information. Remember, there is a dress code!

• Vatican Museums — You can enjoy free admission to the Vatican — including the Sistine Chapel — on the last Sunday of the month. You’ll want to make sure you’re in line early, because it’s going to be long. If your trip does not include the final Sunday of the month, check out the Vatican’s official website. There are all kinds of discount or free tickets for which you may qualify.

• Trevi Fountain — Make your way to the Trevi Fountain and toss in your coins. Legend has it that if you toss your coins from your right hand over your left shoulder, you will return to Rome someday. A second coin ensures a new love and a third coin, your marriage. Crews collect the coins every day, so they aren’t stolen. The money is used to help feed the poor in the city.

• The Colosseum — You’re obviously going to be able to see this landmark from outside of the gates. You will have to pay to walk inside. However, your ticket also includes the Forum and Palatine Hill areas. Make sure you explore those locations too, if you buy a ticket. If you are in Rome on the first Sunday of the month, the Colosseum IS FREE! (As are other museums and historical sites in the city and across the country of Italy.)

• Circus Maximus — This site is hundreds of years older than the Colosseum. It’s also the home of chariot races and centuries of history. The site is near the Colosseum and is now a park. It’s also a great place to relax after a long tour of the Colosseum.

• Roman Forum — Take a step right into the center of Rome’s ancient life at the Roman Forum. There used to be a market here. This is where trials and speeches were held. This is where people worshiped and lived. It’s free to roam the site.

• Free Audio Tours — Download one of several free audio tours, found here, to listen to as you roam around Rome. You’ll learn about why some of the things you see are still so important to the city.

Bonus tip! Check out the Roma Pass to see if it’s worth your time and money. Depending on your plans, it may be a deal for you!