Although participating in a passeggiata (Traditional evening stroll) is definitely part of the Italian experience, it might get boring if that’s the extent of your free activities. Now, Rome is a heavily tourist populated destination and so free activities are scarce. However, I have scouted and tested out a couple of places with free entry that offer a bit more than just ‘getting lost’ in the cobbled streets.
Torre Argentina Cat sanctuary (free entry)
Snuggling rescued kitties amongst the fascinating ruins of Rome, what more could you ask for? One of our favourite stops was Torre Argentina Cat Sanctuary. From above you may believe you can only witness the ruins of where Caesar was said to die. However, in the far corner there is a mental set of stairs that will lead you to the sanctuary where you can pet and meet some of their beautiful cats. You can also spot them hopping through the rubble of the buildings outside.
With their cat’s best interests, they ask you not to take pictures inside the shelter. Here are some from outside.
Extra
You can pay for entrance and a tour to these ruins but you can see the majority of it from above and still take great pictures.
Vatican city
As you may know when you visit the Vatican, you are actually entering a separate country that is not Italy. You can marvel at the 140 saints statues above you and amble around St Peters square for free. You can also get free tickets to listen to the Pope’s address on Wednesdays.
EXTRA
If you travel to The Vatican City by foot then you will pass the castle and get awesome views from across the river.
Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
Lots of the cool buildings with artistry now have admission fees but you can visit this Basilica for free. It has multiple sections and fine details painted across the ceilings and walls.
Opening times: 7am-7pm
Free entry to The Roman Forum
If you have flexibility on your travel dates, you can see the big three- The colosseum, the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill- for free on the first Sunday of each Month. Alternatively, if you are lucky enough to be part of the EU you can enter all three for £2.
Villa Borghese
This vast park is perfect for sun kissed strolls or romantic dates. Head up to Pincio Terrace for a viewpoint of the city or check out the Roman sculptures. There are plenty of benches to catch the sun and enjoy the nature. We played some cards and ventured around the lake.
Opening hours: 9am-7pm
Extra
If you want to spend, you can rent tandem bikes to get around the 80 hectares or pedalos on the lake.
Free entry to II Tempio di Adriano
We stumbled across this one by accident. I thought the building looked interesting, as it was very square compared to others in Rome, but with familiar gigantic columns. You can see the age within the brick and appreciate its architecture. You can also take a seat and watch a short history documentary.
Opening hours:
11am-7pm
Shanni’s Top Tips
- You can see a large amount of the Roman forum if you walk opposite Foro di Augusto
- If you’re on a tight budget it is possible for 2 people to eat with a drink each for £20. Venture further away from the main attractions for better deals.
- Expect areas to be super busy at all times of the year. Both times I travelled in the winter and looked at attractions before and as the sun rose.
Having experienced Rome twice now, my views did not waver from the first visit. I see Italy’s capital as a romantic destination where you are surrounded by warm orange and tan brick work. With each new structure I learn about, I am in awe with not only the magnitude but the precision and details that goes into every inch of both the interior and exterior. If you’re looking to discover the history of Romans or just sip wine with a view, Rome is a monumental city break destination.
