Top 5: Free Rome Attractions

In a city with an eternal history, it can be hard to decide where to start on a tour of the ancient world. Rome is ripe with free sights, which certainly aids in the planning process but figuring out where to begin can be tricky. Here are a few ticket-free and cost-free sights that make facing the crowds worth the wait. 

St. Peter’s Basilica

While the queue encircling St. Peter’s Square may seem intimidating, the quickly moving line moves faster than it may seem. Inside one of the world’s largest churches is a towering four-point altar, works by Michelangelo (including the famous Pietà and the massive dome) and ceiling mosaics that rival the Sistine Chapel. On your way out, see if you can catch the changing of the Swiss guards, which happens on the hour.

Trevi Fountain

Tossing a coin into the waters of the artistically impressive fountain ensures you will return to Rome one day, so technically this attraction may cost you a cent or so.

Pantheon

This historically free monument is only free until the end of the year. Visit the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome before they start charging an entry fee likely to be no greater than $4.

Villa Borghese

Escape the crowds at this hilltop park that features heaps of green space, bike paths, cafes and breathtaking views of Rome from above.

Forum

Although there is a fee to walk the grounds of the ancient ruins, you also can identify each of the centuries-old structures from the pedestrianized street that overlooks the heart of ancient Rome.