Rome has a reputation for being expensive, and it can be if you don’t plan ahead. But with the right tips, you can enjoy the city’s best spots without draining your bank account. You don’t need to eat in fancy restaurants or stay near the Spanish Steps to enjoy everything Rome has to offer.
There are many ways to save money, some are obvious, and others are things only locals or experienced travelers talk about. Whether it’s free entry days at museums, affordable local eats, or places to walk that offer great views, you can enjoy the city fully on a budget.
In this article, you will learn how to experience Rome in a smart, cost-friendly way.
Take Advantage Of What’s Free
Some of the most famous spots in Rome won’t cost you anything. Seriously. You can walk right up to the Trevi Fountain, toss in a coin, and make a wish. Then stroll over to the Spanish Steps or hang out in Piazza Navona, all without spending a single euro.
Want some serious views? Head to the top of Janiculum Hill (Gianicolo) or Pincian Terrace above Piazza del Popolo. The views stretch across the rooftops of the entire city, and they’re free.
And don’t skip St. Peter’s Basilica. Entrance is free, you will just need to go through security, and the line can get long. Arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to beat the rush.
Plan Ahead For The Big Stuff
Of course, the Colosseum is high on the list, and it’s absolutely worth seeing. But don’t just show up and hope for the best. Buy your Colosseum tickets online ahead of time. It will save you a lot of time and let you skip those long entrance lines. You will get to spend more of your day inside exploring rather than waiting outside.
Here’s a helpful tip. On the first Sunday of each month, many government-run museums and archaeological sites, including the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, offer free admission. You will still need to reserve a ticket online because of limited capacity, so try to plan ahead if you will be in town that day.
There are also city passes like the Roma Pass, which can save you money if you plan on visiting a lot of paid attractions. Just make sure it’s worth it for what you want to see.
Eat Like You Live There
Eating well in Rome doesn’t mean blowing your budget. Skip the places with laminated menus and pictures out front. Walk a few streets away from the big tourist areas and look for smaller trattorias filled with locals. These places often serve simple, tasty dishes at half the price.
You can also eat on the go. Rome has amazing street food supplì (fried rice balls), pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice), and fresh sandwiches from local bakeries. They’re cheap, filling, and delicious.
One tip: don’t waste money on bottled water. Rome has hundreds of public fountains (called “nasoni”) where you can fill up your bottle for free. The water’s cold, clean, and always flowing.
Skip The Taxi
Rome is best explored on foot. The streets are full of history, and every corner seems to reveal a church, a statue, or a café that begs you to stop for a minute.
If you need to go further, public transport is cheap and easy. A single ticket covers buses, trams, and the metro for 100 minutes. You can also grab a daily or multi-day pass if you are planning to move around a lot. Taxis are pricey and can be a headache, especially with traffic. you are better off walking or taking a bus.
Don’t Overpay For A Place To Sleep
Staying in the city center sounds nice until you see the prices. The good news is that you can find great places just outside the center that are still well-connected.
Neighborhoods like Trastevere, San Lorenzo, or Testaccio have plenty of charm, plus cheaper food and lodging. Public transport or a short walk gets you to all the major sights. Check out small guesthouses, hostels, or short-term rentals. Book early to get the best deals, especially in spring and fall when tourism peaks.
Soak Up The Atmosphere
Some of the best things to do in Rome don’t cost a cent. Sit on the steps of Piazza di Spagna and watch the world go by. Wander through the alleys of Trastevere at night when the lights reflect off the cobblestones. Listen to street musicians playing outside Castel Sant’Angelo. Or just find a bench and watch locals go about their day.
Parks like Villa Borghese are perfect for a midday break. You can walk, rent a bike, or just lie on the grass with some gelato. It’s peaceful and often overlooked.
Use Apps To Save On Food And Attractions
There are some great apps that can help you cut costs while traveling in Rome. Apps like Too Good To Go let you grab leftover meals from bakeries, restaurants, or cafés at the end of the day for a much lower price. It’s a smart way to enjoy tasty food while reducing waste.
For sightseeing, apps like Rick Steves Audio Europe offer free walking tours and audio guides for popular spots. You can explore places like the Roman Forum or St. Peter’s Basilica at your own pace without paying for a guide. These tools can help you experience more for less, just make sure your phone’s charged before you head out.
Final Thoughts
Set a budget for each day and try to stick to it. Carry a mix of card and cash—many small shops or cafés still prefer cash. Watch out for common tourist traps. Don’t accept “free” gifts from street vendors. Always check menu prices before sitting down. And don’t be afraid to say no. Rome rewards curiosity. Take your time. Let yourself get a little lost. The small discoveries often become your favorite memories.
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I am a stay-at-home- mom, living in KY with my husband and children. I’m a travel and lifestyle blogger encouraging folks to live their life one adventure at a time while also focusing on beauty, essential oils and health. From time to time I also like to showcase my adorable pets along with my family. Along with Cinnamon Hollow I can be found at The Martin Family Adventure … read more