1. Introduction
Rome is a beautiful city that could take a lifetime to explore. It offers an astonishing number of sights: the Colosseum, the Vatican, the Borghese Gardens, the Pantheon, the Forum, the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, and so much more. Any city that has been around for thousands of years is not going to be seen in one visit! Rome is a chaotic, vibrant place I always love to discover more about.
2. Challenges of Budget Travel in Rome
While traveling to Rome offers up its charms, it’s one of the most expensive cities in Europe. However, many travelers have a hard time visiting the city on a budget. Master budget traveler Matt Kepnes shares valuable tips for visiting Rome without breaking the bank.
3. Rome on a Budget
There are ways to turn this pricey city into an affordable destination that will have you visiting historic sites and enjoying endless pasta in no time! If you are only visiting Rome for a short time, consider helpful itineraries for maximizing your visit. Here are some high-impact ways to save money when you visit Rome:
4. 1. Standing at the Bar
Not every café in Rome has this policy, but many do: you’ll save a few euros per coffee by having your morning espresso while standing at the bar. Sure, sitting outside is nice, but it’s a luxury that you sometimes have to pay more for. So, do like a Roman would and sip your coffee while standing at the bar. After all, watching the baristas pull shots of espresso while Romans enjoy their tiny cups of coffee is pure theater.
5. 2. All-You-Can-Eat Aperitivo
In the last decade or so, the aperitivo culture has hit Rome too. Consider it an Italian version of happy hour: at participating bars in the early evening — usually starting around 7 pm — patrons buy a drink, which opens the door to a buffet of Italian delights: large wheels of cheese, mountains of sliced salami, and bowls of olives. It’s a great way to eat affordably while experiencing local flavor.
6. 3. Drink from the Fountains
For centuries, Rome has had a reputation for its pristine drinking water. Ancient Romans built aqueducts to bring water into the city from nearby mountains, and those fountains you see are safe to use! Bring a reusable bottle and fill up every time you come across one. You’ll save money and reduce plastic waste!
7. 4. Stay in a Hostel
For those wondering where to stay in Rome, the city is loaded with affordable hostels, especially in cool neighborhoods. You can find dorms for as low as 10 Euro a night, plus a social atmosphere and staff that can guide you on budget-friendly activities in the area.
8. 5. Consider Couchsurfing
The golden age of Couchsurfing might be over, but the system is still alive in Rome. This is a great way to secure free accommodation while meeting locals. Even if you don’t use the site for a place to stay, explore it for meetups and social events.
9. 6. Cook Your Own Food
While Rome is known for its culinary delights, cooking your own meals can save you money. Many hostels feature shared kitchens, and most apartments have functional kitchens. Groceries in Italy are relatively affordable, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade lunches and dinners.
10. 7. Take Free Walking Tours
Free walking tours are an excellent way to get acquainted with Rome, particularly for first-time visitors. While the tours are free, it’s customary to tip the guide a few Euros, as they rely on tips for their income.
11. 8. Buy a Roma Pass
A Roma Pass grants you free entry to multiple museums and gives you free public transport, among other benefits. For 32 euros, a 48-hour Roma Pass can provide significant savings if you plan to visit popular attractions.
12. 9. Church Hopping
Unlike other European nations, Italy does not charge a fee for entering churches. Prioritize visiting magnificent churches such as the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore and Saint Peter’s Basilica, which are rich in history and architecture.
13. 10. Eat in Parks and Squares
Rome abounds with inexpensive eateries serving cheese-topped focaccia and pizza by the slice. Savor your food in one of the city’s charming squares or parks, allowing you to enjoy the local ambiance while dining on a budget.
14. 11. Drink the House Wine
If you’re dining at restaurants, opt for local venues outside the city center that cater to average locals. A cost-effective choice for your meal is to order the house wine, available at significantly lower prices than bottled options.
15. 12. Avoid Taxis
Rome is compact enough for walking to be a viable option, although public transportation is available if needed. Avoid taxis, as they can be surprisingly expensive.
16. 13. Free Museum Days
Several museums in Rome occasionally offer free entry. With careful planning, you can take advantage of these opportunities and further your exploration of the city’s rich cultural heritage.
17. 14. Stay Outside the City Center
Accommodation can be costly within central Rome. Staying in neighborhoods like Trastevere allows for more affordable lodging options while enhancing your local experience.
18. 15. Utilize Local Tourism Offices
Local visitor centers can help travelers discover budget-friendly activities and current events, providing valuable insights into authentic local dining and attractions that suit your budget.
19. Conclusion
Rome allows travelers on every budget to enjoy its splendors. There are numerous legendary sites to experience for free, such as churches and public squares. By knowing where to go and what to look for, you can savor la dolce vita without overspending.
