50 free things to do in rome

Rome is a city where the doors of the art-laden churches are flung open to all, where ancient architectural wonders await around many corners, and it costs nothing to roam (pun intended) the historic streets, piazzas and parks.

A surprising number of the famous sights in Italy's magnificent capital city are completely free to visit, and we can show you how.

1.

Places to visit in rome in 1 day

Admire the riches of St Peter's Basilica

And to be reminded where the power lies today, the city’s largest, richest and most spectacular basilica leaves all other churches in its shadow – and is completely free to enter.

There will probably be a line to enter Rome’s showstopping St Peter's Basilica, but after taking 126 years to build, maybe a little wait to see this opus isn’t so bad.

St Peter’s Basilica is home to three of Italy’s most celebrated masterpieces: Michelangelo’s Pieta, his soaring dome and Bernini’s 29m-high (95ft) baldachin over the papal altar.

2. Watch the street artists on Piazza Navona

Come in the early morning before the crowds or after dark when the fountains, like Bernini’s iconic

sites in rome

famous sites in rome