OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES & PLACES TO GO FOR FREE IN ROME

Ensure to check specific attractions’ official websites for the most up-to-date information on opening hours, special events, and any changes to transportation routes.

Roman Forum and Palatine Hill:

  • Overview: The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill offer a fascinating journey into ancient Rome. Walk through the ruins of temples, arches, and governmental buildings, experiencing the heart of Roman civilization.
  • Address: Via della Salara Vecchia, 5/6, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
  • Public Transportation: Bus 64 from Termini Station to Piazza Venezia.
  • Highlights: Temple of Saturn, Arch of Titus, scenic views.
  • Free Entry: The Roman Forum and portions of Palatine Hill are free on the first Sunday of each month.

Parco Regionale dell’Appia Antica:

  • Overview: The Appian Way Regional Park, encompassing Parco Regionale dell’Appia Antica, is a historic and natural treasure. Explore the ancient Roman road, surrounded by tombs, ruins, and peaceful landscapes.
  • Address: Various entry points along the Appian Way
  • Public Transportation: Bus 118 from Termini Station to various stops along the Appian Way.
  • Highlights: Appian Way, Catacombs of San Callisto, Villa of the Quintilii.
  • Free Entry: The park and the Appian Way are generally free to access.

Piazza Navona:

  • Overview: Piazza Navona is a vibrant square surrounded by Baroque architecture, three stunning fountains, and lively cafes. Enjoy street performances, local artists, and the iconic Fountain of the Four Rivers.
  • Address: Piazza Navona, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
  • Public Transportation: Bus 40 from Termini Station to Zanardelli.
  • Highlights: Fountain of the Four Rivers, Sant’Agnese in Agone.
  • Free Entry: The square is always free to enter.

Tiber River Promenade:

  • Overview: The Tiber River Promenade provides a scenic walk along the riverbanks, offering picturesque views of Rome. Stroll across the bridges, enjoy street art, or relax in the open spaces along the Tiber.
  • Address: Various entry points along the Tiber River
  • Public Transportation: Various buses to locations near the Tiber (e.g., 23, 280, 781).
  • Highlights: Castel Sant’Angelo views, street performances.
  • Free Entry: The promenade is always free to access.

Janiculum Hill (Gianicolo):

  • Overview: Janiculum Hill offers panoramic views of Rome, providing a peaceful setting for a leisurely walk. Reach the top for breathtaking vistas and the iconic Fontanone dell’Acqua Paola.
  • Address: Piazzale Giuseppe Garibaldi, 00165 Roma RM, Italy
  • Public Transportation: Bus 115 from Termini Station to Garibaldi/Moro.
  • Highlights: Fontanone dell’Acqua Paola, panoramic views.
  • Free Entry: The hill is always free to access.

Circus Maximus:

  • Overview: Circus Maximus, an ancient Roman chariot racing stadium, now serves as a public park. Enjoy a relaxing walk in this vast open space, surrounded by the remains of the historic arena.
  • Address: Via del Circo Massimo, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
  • Public Transportation: Metro Line B to Circo Massimo station.
  • Highlights: Ancient ruins, expansive green area.
  • Free Entry: The park is always free to access.

Villa Borghese Gardens:

  • Overview: Villa Borghese Gardens offer a vast green space in the heart of Rome, providing a serene escape from the urban bustle. The park features walking paths, picturesque lakes, and notable attractions like the Borghese Gallery.
  • Address: Viale del Museo Borghese, 00197 Roma RM, Italy
  • Public Transportation: Metro Line A to Flaminio station or various buses (e.g., 52, 53, 217) to Pinciana/Museo Borghese.
  • Highlights: Borghese Gallery, Temple of Aesculapius, Pincio Terrace.
  • Free Entry: The park itself is free to enter. However, the Borghese Gallery may require a reservation and has an entrance fee.

Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci):

  • Overview: The Orange Garden on Aventine Hill offers a peaceful retreat with citrus trees and stunning views of Rome. Visit the nearby Keyhole of Rome for a unique perspective of St. Peter’s Basilica.
  • Address: Via di Santa Sabina, 00153 Roma RM, Italy
  • Public Transportation: Bus 125 from Termini Station to Druso/Aventino.
  • Highlights: St. Peter’s Basilica view, Keyhole of Rome.
  • Free Entry: The garden is always free to access.

Aventine Keyhole (Il Buco della Serratura):

  • Overview: Located on Aventine Hill, this keyhole offers a captivating view of St. Peter’s Basilica through a garden keyhole. Experience this hidden gem for a unique and memorable perspective.
  • Address: Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta, 00153 Roma RM, Italy
  • Public Transportation: Bus 125 from Termini Station to Druso/Aventino.
  • Highlights: St. Peter’s Basilica view through the keyhole.
  • Free Entry: The keyhole is always free to access.

Vatican City – St. Peter’s Square:

  • Overview: St. Peter’s Square, located in Vatican City, is a magnificent open space surrounded by Bernini’s colonnade. Visit the square for its grandeur, the central obelisk, and a view of St. Peter’s Basilica.
  • Address: Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Vatican City
  • Public Transportation: Metro Line A to Ottaviano – San Pietro – Musei Vaticani station.
  • Highlights: Bernini’s colonnade, St. Peter’s Basilica view.
  • Free Entry: The square is always free to enter. Access to St. Peter’s Basilica may have specific visiting hours.