Rome holds a special place in my heart—I’ve visited three times already, and I’m always itching to return! The city is a treasure trove of history, culture, and delicious food. From ancient ruins to modern vibrancy, Rome has something for everyone, including free Rome tourist attractions, unique tourist spots and plenty of day trip and guide tours in Rome Italy.
The best part? You don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy Rome’s offerings. Let’s explore the top free sights, paid attractions, and main sights to see in this remarkable city has in store for you.
Don’t have much time in Rome? Here are the top tours in Rome that we recommend.
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Check this out next: Tips for Hiring a Car and Driving in Italy and
Travel Guide to Visiting Florence, Italy!
Free Sights
St. Peter's Basilica
St. Peter’s Basilica, located in Vatican City, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome. Marvel at its stunning architecture, ornate interiors, and historical significance—all for free.
If you would like a little extra, I would recommend doing the Dome Climb which costs 8 euros tickets can be purchased at St Peters at a Kiosk. While I was there, I also did a tour of St Peter’s Basilica which was sooo good! The exact tour I did.
Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps, a grand staircase located in the heart of Rome, is a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike. Situated between the Piazza di Spagna and the Piazza Trinità dei Monti, it’s the perfect place for people-watching or simply soaking in the atmosphere.
A little tip – You can get fined for sitting on the stairs for too long. Get your pic and move along!
TRAVEL SAFETY MUST HAVE FOR ROME
Safety is so important! Keep peace of mind and enjoy your holiday with these travel safety items!
Trevi Fountain
No visit to Rome is complete without tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain and making a wish. This magnificent Baroque masterpiece, depicting Neptune’s chariot being pulled by sea horses, is a must-see attraction that won’t cost you a dime unless you want to throw a coin in. If you do, make sure to throw it with your right hand over your left shoulder and one coin at a time. They say if you throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain, you will return to Rome.
Aqueduct Park
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and explore the Aqueduct Park, a serene green space dotted with ancient Roman aqueducts. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic amid history and nature. I was so surprised how quiet it felt here! I visited the aqueducts during a tour I did to catacombs.
TIP: If you’re planning on renting a car in Europe, make sure to check out Rentalcars.com. Also, make sure your car is allowed to cross borders if you plan on driving into different countries. Compare car hire here.
If you are looking for more tips about visiting Rome? Make sure to check out my Travel Guide to Visiting Rome, Italy!
Paid Sights
Colosseum - From 18 euros
Step back in time and witness the grandeur of ancient Rome at the Colosseum. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of this iconic amphitheater, where gladiators once battled for glory. Tickets just to enter start from 18 euros and should be pre-purchased prior. However, I would recommend doing a tour or purchasing a Skip The Line ticket.
Roman Forum
While admission to the Roman Forum is included with a ticket to the Colosseum, it’s worth exploring on its own. Wander through the ruins of ancient temples, government buildings, and marketplaces, and imagine life in ancient Rome.
Vatican Museum - From 20 euros
You can’t miss Vatican Museums located in Vatican City. This is home to priceless art collections, historical artifacts, and the breathtaking Sistine Chapel. Tickets start from 20 euros, but I would highly suggest purchasing a fast-track ticket to avoid the long lines. If you choose not to, ensure you pre-purchase your ticket before you arrive in Rome. Look at Fast Track options here.
The Capuchin Crypt - 10 euros
This was a fascinating experience, visit the Capuchin Crypt, also known as the bone chapel. Decorated with the skeletal remains of thousands of Capuchin monks. This was one of the most unique things I’ve seen in Rome. You can do this as part of the Catacombe Tour. This is the exact tour I did.
TIP: Hotels in Rome get more expensive the closer you get to your travel days, and they do get booked up. As soon as you know your travel dates, book your hotel. I use Booking.com for most of my hotel bookings.
Tours to Do in Rome
Cooking Class Rome: Learn How to Make Tiramisu
Immerse yourself in Italy’s culinary heritage with a cooking class in Rome. I loved this class and learned how to make Italy’s famous dessert, tiramisu, from scratch, and delicious pasta. This tour also included free-flowing wine. This is the exact class I did.
Catacombs Tour
We visited the underground world of Rome’s catacombs with a guided tour. Exploring the ancient burial sites, catacombs, and crypts, and learn about the city’s early Christian history and traditions. The tours we did included visiting the Capuchin Bones chapels, driving down the Appian Way, and visiting the Aqueduct. The exact tour I did.
If you are looking for more tips about visiting Italy? Make sure to check out my Tips for Hiring a Car and Driving in Italy and Pretty Small Towns in Italy to Visit!
More Activities in Rome
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