Budget tip: Consider purchasing a Roma Pass for discounted entry to many attractions and free use of public transportation. And be sure to check out our favorite affordable accommodations

25 Free things to do in Rome

Here’s a list of 25 activities that won’t cost one euro cent:

1. Churches

Some of Rome’s finest artwork and architectural design on display can’t only be found in museums. In fact, the creative masterpieces of some of the Bel Paese’s finest, Michelangelo, Bernini, Borromini and many others are actually found inside the churches of Rome and can be visited for free.

Some real treasures can be found in Santa Maria Sopra Minerva, Sant’Ignazio, and Santa Maria del Popolo.

Best times to visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. Remember to dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees) when visiting churches.

2. Fountains

There are an endless supply of fountains in Rome and seeing them will cost you nothing (unless you toss some coins in, of course)! Some favorites are the Fontana di Trevi, the Fontana di Quattro Fiumi (Piazza Navona), Fontana delle Tartarughe (Piazza Mattei), Fontana del Tritone (Piazza Barberini) and Fontana delle Api (Via Veneto).

A special note about the Trevi Fountain: No one comes to Rome without making a stop at the grandiose Fontana di Trevi. Whether it be day or night, it’s hard not to admire the sheer beauty of the fountain that Federico Fellini chose as his backdrop for his masterpiece La Dolce Vita. Tourists flock in herds to the fountain, to throw a coin in as legend has it you’re sure to come back to Rome one day soon. So you’ve been warned: Visit early morning or late evening to avoid the largest crowds. (The fountain is beautifully lit at night!)

3. Piazzas

A favorite Italian pastime is to meet up with your friends in the piazza and shoot the breeze. Some of the more popular piazzas with both tourists and locals alike also happen to be very picturesque. These are at the top of your must-see list: Piazza di Spagna, Piazza Novona, Santa Maria in Trastevere, Piazza Venezia, Piazza del Popolo and Piazza della Repubblica.

Best time for people-watching: Early evening, when locals enjoy their passeggiata (evening stroll).

4. Obelisks

There are a number of Ancient Egyptian and Roman relics scattered in piazzas around the city. The most famous obelisks are those located in Piazza San Giovanni in Lateranno, Piazza Minerva, Piazza del Popolo and Piazza Navona.

5. Ruins

Wander up the Via dei Fori Imperiali and see Trajan’s Market (Mercati di Traiano), Arch of Constantine (Arco di Costantino), Roman Forum (Foro Romano) and the Palatine Hill (Palatino). This is the heart of what is left of Ancient Rome.

Note: While entry to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill requires a ticket, you can still enjoy impressive views from outside for free.
Nearest metro: Colosseo (Line B)

6. Colosseum

The Colosseum is one of the seven wonders of the world and the unofficial mascot of Rome. To get inside this gargantuan monument where some of the bravest gladiators gave their best battle, you’ll have to wait in line and buy a ticket. However, it won’t cost you a dime to wander around it, taking in its immense beauty and snapping a perfect picture.

Best photo spot: From the hill near the Colosseo metro station for a panoramic view.
Opening hours for exterior viewing: 24/7
Nearest metro: Colosseo (Line B)

It’s easy to find a free slice of peace and quiet in Villa Pamphili, Rome’s largest park. Photo: CucombreLibre

7. Parks

Believe it or not, Rome has lots of green space hidden behind its monuments and ruins. Some famous parks are Villa Pamphilli (Monteverde) and Villa Ada (Corso Trieste). Check out our guide to Rome’s best free parks and gardens.

Best for: Picnics, jogging, or escaping the city bustle.

8. Villa Borghese

Dubbed the “Central Park of Rome”, Villa Borghese is one of the few green spaces in the Ancient City where you can truly relax, take a stroll and plan a picnic away from all of the hustle and bustle of the city. Hike up to the spot called the “Pincio” for a bird’s eye view of Piazza del Popolo and the Roman skyline. Paradiso!

Don’t miss: The viewpoint at Pincio for a panoramic view of Piazza del Popolo and the Roman skyline.
Nearest metro: Flaminio (Line A)

9. Villa Torlonia

A beautiful villa and garden that was also the Mussolini family residence, the Villa Torlonia then fell into disrepair and is now being restored. While it does require entrance fees, everyone is welcome for free on the first Sunday of the month, or if you meet any of the other free admission conditions. The garden contains many exotic plants and large trees.

There’s also a nice museum called the Casina delle Civette that’s remarkable for its stained glass windows. Open daily 9 a.m. – 7 p.m., Via Nomentana, 70.

Opening hours: Daily 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Address: Via Nomentana, 70
Nearest bus: 60, 62, 82, 90

10. Appia Antica

All roads lead to Rome, and what better way to enjoy a peaceful stroll than taking the old path to Rome on a Sunday when all cars are banned? The Appian Antica way makes for a lovely walk with (literally) tons of ancient ruins to see along the way. The park has detailed routes with maps for the best walking routes.

How to get there: Take bus 118 from Circus Maximus metro station.

11. Street Markets

Experience first-hand how Romans shop for fresh fruits and vegetables, or how they bargain down the price of that shirt they always wanted. Rome’s street markets are absolutely free to visit, unless you buy something, of course!

The best open-air food markets are: Mercato di Trionfale (Via Andrea Doria), Campo de’ Fiori (Centro Storico) and Piazza San Giovanni di Dio (Monteverde). The best flea markets are Via Sannio Market (San Giovanni) and Porta Portese Market (Trastevere).

Market hours: Generally 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., except Porta Portese which is Sunday 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Related: Tips for exploring Rome’s outdoor markets

12. Gianicolo Hill

For breathtaking views of the city, head up the Gianicolo Hill from Trastevere. At the top of the hill, there is also a lovely 17th-century fountain and a statue of the Italian national military hero Giuseppe Garibaldi. It’s one of our favorite romantic spots in Rome.

Best time to visit: At noon to hear the daily cannon fire, a Roman tradition since 1847.
How to get there: Bus 115 from Piazza Venezia

13. The Teatro di Pulcinella in Rome

Casa di Pulcinnella is home to wonderful open-air puppet shows. The shows are free (although a small donation is appreciated). What’s more, the Gianicolo Hill, home to the theater, provides fantastic views of the city.

Show times: Saturdays and Sundays at 10:30 a.m. (weather permitting)

14. Galleria Nazionale di San Luca

Located near the Trevi Fountain at Piazza dell’Accademia di San Luca #77, the Galleria Nazionale di San Luca is open on select days, but always free. Bernini famously got his start at this academy. Browse works by famous and not so famous artists here (Van Dyck and Raphael to name a few).

Address: Piazza dell’Accademia di San Luca #77
Opening hours: Check their website for current schedule
Nearest metro: Barberini (Line A)

There’s a charming scene around every corner in Trastevere. Photo: Frank Schmidtke

15. Trastevere

Wander the streets and lose yourself in the winding cobble-stoned alleyways that make Trastevere, Rome’s oldest neighborhood, so charming. Don’t miss a chance to meander these streets. Remember, a passeggiata won’t cost you a thing!

Best time to visit: Early evening for a lively atmosphere
Nearest tram: 8

16. Innamorati dell’arte (Valentines Day only)

On Valentine’s Day throughout Italy, couples and friends can get two-for-one tickets at National museums, monuments and archaeological sites. (Includes: National Musuem of Villa Giulia, Galleria Borghese and the National Musuem of Castel S. Angelo. (February 14th only)

17. Piramide (Pyramid)

Believe it or not, Rome has a pyramid. The piramide was originally built as a tomb for for Gaius Cestius in 12 BC, and is located in bustling piazza right near the Piramide Metro stop (Line B). While it’s free to visit, you can only appreciate the outside of the pyramid.

Address: Via Raffaele Persichetti
Nearest metro: Piramide (Line B)
Related: 4 Commonly overlooked treasures in Rome

18. Art Galleries on Via Margutta

The small, tucked away art market on Via Margutta has held a reputation since the 17th century of being a notorious haunt for bohemians and starving artists. In the 1950s, its studios and bars were frequented by the likes of Sophia Loren and Marlon Brando. Why not drop by? It’s free!

Nearest metro: Spagna (Line A)

19. Crypts and Bones

Creepy for some, yet cool for others, the Santa Maria della Immocalata Concezione church, or best known as the “Rome’s Capuchin Crypt” has a tiny crypt underneath it where the skulls and bones of more than 4,000 Capuchin monks have been artfully arranged to decorate the walls of several tiny chapels. It’s located on Via Veneto near Piazza Barberini.

Address: Via Veneto, near Piazza Barberini
Opening hours: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily (last entry 6:30 p.m.)
Nearest metro: Barberini (Line A)

20. Aula Octagona

Considered to be one of Rome’s hidden treasures, the Aula Octagona is a well-kept secret in Piazza della Repubblica that houses ancient Roman sculptures. The room was part of the Baths of Diocletian, and is today the only part of the Roman National Museum that is free to visit.

Address: Piazza della Repubblica
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 7:45 p.m.
Nearest metro: Repubblica (Line A)

21. Pantheon

Along with the Colosseum, the Pantheon is one of Rome’s best preserved ancient buildings. Originally constructed as a pagan temple, the Pantheon was later converted into a church. The immense monument located in Piazza della Rotonda, is a historian’s (and photographer’s) paradise. The piazza also happens to be a favorite hangout for young people and becomes quite lively with its outdoor cafés and street performers.

It costs nothing to visit the piazza, and entrance to the Pantheon is free on the first Sunday of the month.

Free entry: Daily
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 9 a.m. to 7:15 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.
Nearest bus: 40, 64 (Largo di Torre Argentina stop)

22. La Bocca della Verità

If you zip by the outside of this church (Santa Maria in Cosmedin), you might see a long line of tourists and wonder what all the fuss is about. Tourists, it turns out, love taking a kitschy picture with their hand in the Bocca della Verità (mouth of truth). Legend has it, if you’re untruthful, the mouth will bite off your hand!

Location: Church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin
Opening hours: 9:30 a.m. to 5:50 p.m.
Nearest bus: 170, 628, 81

23. The Vatican Museums (last Sunday of the month)

On the last Sunday of every month, the Vatican Museums are open to the public for free. Unsurprisingly, the line is much longer on this day than most, so be prepared to wait or get there super early.

Free entry: on the last Sunday of each month, if it falls on or before the 26th of the month.
Opening hours on free Sundays: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (last entry at 12:30 p.m.)
Nearest metro: Ottaviano (Line A)

Note: Expect long queues on free days. Arrive early!

The ornate interior of St. Peter’s Basilica is free to gaze upon. As long as you follow the dress code. Photo: Ed Brambley

24. St. Peter’s Basilica

There’s nothing quite as remarkable in all of Rome as St. Peter’s Basilica. The road and square leading up to the church are just as magnificent. Though there’s no cost to get inside, there is a dress code that is strictly enforced. No shorts and skirts above the knees and no bare shoulders.

Be sure to check out the Vatican Grottoes underneath the church, where several Popes (including Pope John Paul II) and St. Peter are buried. Don’t forget to snap a picture with one of the Swiss Guards standing outside as well!

Opening hours: April to September 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., October to March 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Dress code: No shorts, miniskirts, or bare shoulders
Nearest metro: Ottaviano (Line A)

25. Papal Audience

Whether or not you’re a practicing Catholic, standing among hundreds of pilgrims and while listening to Pope Francis give his Sunday mass can be a moving experience for anyone. Catch a glimpse of the Pope giving his mass from his window or shown live on the big screen TVs every Sunday in Piazza San Pietro at 10 a.m.

When: Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. (when the Pope is in Rome)
Tickets: Free but required (book in advance through the Prefecture of the Papal Household)
Nearest metro: Ottaviano (Line A)

Best affordable hotels

Searching for ways to save on sleeping in Rome? Check out this list of the best budget-friendly hotels, all of them located in central Rome within an easy walk of the city’s biggest sights. Need fewer choices? Check out this list of our eight favorite budget hotels in Rome.

Cultural Etiquette Tips:

• Dress modestly when visiting religious sites
• Keep voices down in churches
• Ask permission before taking photos of people
• Learn a few basic Italian phrases – it’s appreciated!

Remember, while these attractions are free, consider supporting local businesses by purchasing small items or leaving tips where appropriate. And share your favorite free Roman activities in the comments section below!

The post 25 Free Things to Do in Rome: Budget Travel Guide for 2024 appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Whatever you think, panini make a very affordable lunch. There are several great places around town where you can grab one while walking between the sights.

First, let’s address some basic concerns–how to order?

Which kind of bread?

When ordering a panino, lots of places, especially if they let you create your ownsandwich (these are truly the best and freshest!) will ask you which type of bread you’d like. Italian bars and cafès often serve different types of breads; here are the most common:

Ciabatta: Literally means “slipper,” it’s long and flat.

Rosetta: Puffy on the outside and shaped like a rosebud, it’s mostly hollow and airy on the inside.

Tartaruga: Gets its name from the word “turtle” because of its hard shell-like form.

Pizza bianca: This is essentially plain pizza bread without any sauce or toppings and tastes a bit saltier than the others.

How much?

How much should you expect to pay for a panino? Typically, a sandwich costs between €2.50-€4.00, depending on the neighborhood. Anything more than that is just a rip off.

Here are a couple of my favorite spots to hit up for a tasty panino:

Bar Amore
Via dei Banchi Nuovi, 41
00186 Rome (Piazza Navona)
Cost: €2.50

Bar Amore has been around since the 1940’s and is a hub for many locals, office workers and students in the area. The place gets crowded in the mornings for breakfast and is also a hot spot for a quick lunch. Unfortunately, there are only a few tables, so many people simply grab their sandwiches to go.

Marco, who I call the “panino man,” is quick at taking your order and whipping your sandwich into lunch art. He’s also handy at making suggestions (in charming, if broken, English) on what would work well for your sandwich. He offers goodies like scamorza cheese, tuna, prosciutto crudo, turkey breast, breaded chicken, hamburger patties, salame and all sorts of mixed grilled and boiled veggies.

If you’re nearby on a Tuesday, you must try the famous porchetta (pork) from Ariccia. It’s spettacolare!

La Sanwicheria al Nazareno
Largo Nazareno, 16/17
00187 Rome (Piazza di Spagna)
Cost: €4

This little sandwich shop just off Via del Tritone between Piazza di Spagnaand the Trevi Fountain opened in 2011 and definitely serves some interesting panini! They charge a bit more than the rest, but the quality of their ingredients definitely justify it. Everything is made fresh to order (as opposed to some bars where nobody knows how long things have been sitting there!).

You can put practically anything on your panino, including arugola, fennel, tartufo, prosciutto crudo, mortadella, and lots of other interesting and yummy ingredients.

Making your own panini from the supermarket

Instead of buying apanino from the bar, you can always buy the ingredients from the supermarket and make one yourself! Almost any supermarket will sell you a few slices of prosciutto crudo, turkey (tacchino) or salame. All you have to ask is for “due o tre fette di _____” and specify which meat you want. This typically won’t run you more than a euro, especially since you’re not buying 100 grams of cold cuts.

Most supermarkets have a bakery where you can pick out your bread. Ordering just one rosetta, ciabatta or a tartaruga will probably set you back between €0.30 and €0.60. If you get a piece of pizza bianca, it could cost you about a euro. They will even slice the bread for you, if you ask.

Lastly, you’ll need to grab some mozzarella. A portion of mozzarella will cost you between €1-€1.50 for the cheapest brand. And voilà! You have your own delicious homemadepanino for about €3! (Also read our article about shopping in a grocery store in Rome.)

Also in our guide: Looking for an affordable place to stay in central Rome? In our guide to Rome you’ll find our editors’ reviews of the city’s best affordable hotels, all located in the city center, near Piazza Navona, Termini Station, the Vatican and other central neighborhoods.

The post Rome Panini: How to find and order the best sandwiches appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Traveling about Rome can be an adventure at times. With over 100 bus lines, tram routes and two metro lines, it’s no wonder that maneuvering Rome’s public transit system can leave a visitor utterly confused.

As many visitors are only stopping through Rome for a short while, there’s no real need to “master” the system and learn all the lines. In our hotel guide to Rome we have an article about Rome’s transit system. But this post is a quick-and-friendly guide to how to use the bus and metro system–and where to go!

Buying a bus or metro ticket in Rome

The first thing you’ll need to know is where to buy a bus or metro ticket. A ticket or biglietto can be bought at any tobacco shop (tabacchi) in Rome. Simply look for the big “T” sign. Tickets can also sometimes be purchased at newsstands and in machines at some bus stops and in all metro stations.

Some buses and street trams are also equipped with ticket machines, though this is risky: I wouldn’t wait to get on the bus to figure out whether you’ll be able to buy a ticket. Unlike in other cities, the bus drivers in Rome do not sell bus tickets. Therefore, it’s best to secure a ticket before hopping on a bus.

Penalties: If caught without a ticket, you will be fined by a bus inspector who hops on and off buses at random. If busted, you’ll pay €51 (if you pay on the spot) or €101 (if you pay later). It may seem like they never check tickets, but believe me they do. So don’t get caught without one!

Ticket prices

A single ticket costs €1 and is good for 75 minutes on buses and trams and one trip on the metro line.

If you plan to ride public transportation all day, consider buying a biglietto giornaliero (a day ticket) for €4.

A weekly pass (biglietto or tessera settimanale) costs €16 and is good for unlimited use on the buses, trams and metro lines for one week.

Note: Keep in mind when buying your tickets that a good chunk of the sights you’ll be seeing can be covered on foot as most of them are located in the centro storico (the historic city center).

Important: You must validate your tickets once you are on the bus or tram. Stick your ticket into the little yellow machine on the bus or tram. It will print the expiration time on your ticket, then spit it back out. If you fail to validate your ticket, you can be slapped with that hefty little fine mentioned above.

Major Transportation Hubs

Figuring out which bus or metro to take can be a little tricky, especially if you don’t have easy access to the Internet. Never fret. There are several major transportation hubs (or terminals) throughout Rome where there will be at least one bus or metro line that will get you to where you need to go. These hubs include:

1. Termini train station

Termini train station is the city’s main train station and largest hub. Many buses and trams leave from here. It’s also where both Metro lines (A & B) connect.

Favorite lines from here:

Bus 40 leaves from Termini and will take you into the city center and near some pretty major sights such as: Piazza Venezia, Largo Argentina (near the Pantheon), Chiesa Nuova (near Piazza Navona) and St. Peter’s Square.

Bus 90 will take you near the Italian University- La Sapienza.

Bus H will take you to Trastevere.

Metro A line, dubbed the “linea turistica” (the tourist line), passes through Termini train station and heads to important sights such as: Spagna (Piazza di Spagna and Villa Borghese), Barberini (Piazza Barberini, Palazzo Barberini and the Trevi Fountain), Ottaviano – San Pietro (St. Peter’s Square and the Vatican Museums), Cipro (the Vatican Museums), San Giovanni (the street market on Via Sannio and the San Giovanni in Laterano church) and Flaminio (Piazza del Popolo).

Metro B line will take you to Colosseo (the Colosseum) and Circo Massimo (Circus Maximus).

2. Piazza Venezia

Piazza Venezia also has several buses that will get you where you need to go. These include:

Bus 87 and 571 will take you to the Colosseum and the San Giovanni area.

Bus 44 will take you near the Gianiculum hill and there are several buses that will take you along Via del Corso and Via dei Condotti (two famous shopping streets in Rome) and towards Piazza del Popolo.

ATAC – Rome’s public transportation website

Rome’s public transportation system, ATAC has a pretty decent website. Go to the upper right hand corner to change the site into English. Insert your point of departure (street name) and your point of destination (street name) and it will give you the best route to take, including which buses to take and where to get off. It also gives a friendly little map that you can print off showing you where the bus is supposed to let you off.

Happy travels roaming about Rome!

The post Rome: A practical guide to Rome’s bus and metro system appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

As the saying goes, when it rains it pours and the last place you want to be when traveling is stuck outside in the rain. When it’s raining like mad in Rome, you don’t want to be hanging out in the middle of the Roman forum, as there’s nowhere to take cover.

Never fret. Here’s a few of my favorite things to do when it rains in Rome:

1. Museums

An obvious first choice is to check out one or two of Rome’s famous museums. There’s the MAXXI, MACRO, Capitoline, Ara Pacis and of course, the mother of all museums, the Vatican Museums.

Even in the rain, the Sistine Chapel dazzles. Photo: Jim Forest

It’s probably already on your checklist, anyway. Who comes to Rome and skips over the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel? That would be sinful. What better way to spend a rainy day than losing yourself amidst works by some of the greatest artists in the world, including Michelangelo, Leonardo Da Vinci, Raffaello and Caravaggio.

Vatican Museums
Viale Vaticano
Metro A Ottaviano-San Pietro
Tel.: 06 69884676
Admission: €15
mv.vatican.va

Cheapo Tip# 1:

On the last Sunday of the month, the entrance is free. Beware of the long lines on any given day, especially when it’s free. However, if you don’t feel like waiting in line, you can simply buy the tickets online for €4 more and you can skip straight to the head of the line and into the museums. Simple as that!

Cheapo Tip #2:

On September 27, 2011, World Tourism Day, entrance to the Vatican Museums is free. The only catch is you have to make a reservation online to get the free entrance and pay a €2 per person reservation fee.

2. Pantheon

Not too many monuments can be fully appreciated during the rain. But there’s nothing more fascinating than entering the Pantheon during a downpour.

This temple-turned-Catholic church is something truly special to marvel at from the outside with its colossal dome. During a rainstorm, once inside the Pantheon you’ll witness a cascade of rain entering through the large circular hole at the top of the dome, creating a waterfall onto the resplendent marble floor, before draining away. The best part? It’s free.

3. Church Hopping

You’ll need an umbrella to get from church to church. But once inside, you’ll be nice and dry and you can also take in the beauty of each one at your own pace. Here are a few of my favorite Roman churches:

Saint Peter’s Basilica

Millions of pilgrims flock to Saint Peter’s Basilica, the largest and most important Catholic church in the world, every year. The burial site of its namesake, Saint Peter’s construction involved Italian masterminds Michelangelo, Raphael and Bramante, and took more than a century to complete.

Santa Maria in Aracoeli (Our Lady of the Altar in Heaven)

Nothing is more enchanting than the monumental sweeping staircase leading to the entrance of the Santa Maria in Aracoeli basilica, perched atop the Capitoline Hill. Its 137 steps were designed according to myths that celebrate the passing of the plague, the “Black Death.” Whew. Now that’s a climb! It’s best known for its carved wooden figurine of the Baby Jesus, the “Santo Bambino.”

Santa Maria sopra Minerva

There are very few Gothic-style churches in Rome, but if you had to choose one, Santa Maria sopra Minerva definitely takes the cake! Just around the corner from the Pantheon, this church is best known for its vast collection of art and sublime frescoes designed by Filippino Lippi. The church was built in the 13th century over the Temple of Minerva (the Goddess of wisdom). Also to be admired (with an umbrella in hand) is Bernini’s elephant obelisk in front of the church.

Sant’Ignazio

No, your eyes don’t deceive: It’s actually an optical illusion. What appears to be a dome above the church is actually an elaborate painted optical illusion. Sant’Ignazio, built in 1626, was dedicated to Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Jesuit Order.

Santa Maria in Cosmedin

The Santa Maria in Cosmedin

should be on your must-visit list, rain or shine. Tourists line up here, anxiously awaiting their turn to stick their hand inside the Bocca della Verità (“Mouth of Truth”), an drain cover from the Middle Ages located in its portico. Legend has it that the jaws would clamp down on the hands of those who are untruthful! Unfortunately, tourists rarely seem interested in the church’s well-preserved interior and Romanesque bell tower, the tallest medieval belfry in Rome.

4. Gelato

Sure, it doesn’t have to be raining in order to duck into a gelateria to savor some delicious gelato. But since it is raining outside, why not? Here are a few of my favorite gelaterie:

Giolitti
Via degli Uffici del Vicario, 40
Near the Pantheon, Rome

San Crispino
Piazza della Maddalena, 3
Near the Pantheon, Rome

Via della Panetteria, 42
Near the Trevi Fountain, Rome

Il Gelato
Piazza Monte d’Oro, 91/92
Near Piazza Augusto Imperatore, Rome

Fata Morgana
Via Lago di Lesina, 9/11
Near Villa Ada, Rome

Your tips for Rome when it rains?

Have another rainy-day activity for Rome when it rains? Share with us in the comments section!

The post Rome: What to do on rainy days in Rome appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Another activity that is molto trendy for Romans during the summer is to catch a movie outside, al fresco. Through September, there are several outdoor cinemas set up around town where locals and tourists can watch a movie under the stars. How romantic is that?

Here are three outdoor cinemas in Rome that I recommend:

Isola Tiberina
www.isoladelcinema.com
Cost: Free – €8

First up is the famous Isola del Cinema. Every June through September, this event offers movies at Isola Tiberina, near the hospital. Every night, films are projected at 9:30 p.m. and 10 p.m.

This year, the films celebrate the 150th anniversary of the unification of Italy with two film series. One is called “Cantiere Italia” and showcases films made with famous Italian celebrities. The other category, “New Italian Cinema,” features films made by (and with) emerging Italian artists.

There are three locations where you can watch the films: Arena, Cinelab and the Tiberscreen. Depending on the flick, tickets range from free to €8 per person. The great part about catching a flick here is that following the film you can go for a passeggiata (stroll) along the banks of the River. Do a little shopping, dining or grab a cocktail at any one of the numerous stands that make up this fabulously fun outdoor village!

Piazza Vittorio
www.agisanec.lazio.it/notti_cinema.html
Cost: €6

Then there’s Piazza Vittorio, famous for its ethnic diversity. For years this area has churned out good food, music and a market offering fabulous ethnic food and spices. If you know where to go, the vibe here is great. So, of course, it makes perfect sense to hold an outdoor cinema right here in Piazza Vittorio.

The event is officially called “Notti di Cinema a Piazza Vittorio” and runs through September 11, 2011. Hollywood blockbuster movies are shown (dubbed in Italian) as well as a selection of award-winning international films in their original languages. There are two “maxi screens” that usually project a few movies each night. Movies begin between 8:40 p.m.-11:15 p.m.

My favorite part about this outdoor theater is that you can see two films for the price of one! The cost of the ticket enables you to see two films back-to-back on the same screen.

Casa del Cinema
www.casadelcinema.it
Cost: Free (until seats run out)

Last but not least, there’s the Casa del Cinema located in the heart of Villa Borghese. Through September 12, 2011 the Casa del Cinema hosts an outdoor movie theater that projects famous films nightly, including such classics as The Godfather and Italian films made by Federico Fellini and Luchino Visconti. Don’t miss the Casa del Cinema’s “Shakespearean Mondays”; Every Monday until the end of summer films dedicated to Shakespeare will be shown.

Best of all, these movies are absolutely free, so make sure to get there early if you want to grab a seat. Movie times are usually around 9 p.m.

The post Rome Outdoor Movies: Catch a flick “al fresco” appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

But not so fast, Paris! There’s also an endless supply of romantic spots in Rome. The Eternal City inspires romantics from every vista, piazza and fountain. Looking for the perfect spot to profess your love? The hardest part will be narrowing down your options!

Of course, you’ll also need a romantic nest to cuddle up in every night, so reserve one of these romantic hotels in Rome that won’t break the bank and start planning your trip.

Here are five of the most romantic spots in Rome:

Janiculum Hill

There’s simply nothing like going for a late afternoon passeggiata (stroll) from Trastevere up to the top of the Gianicolo (Janiculum Hill). On the hike up, the breathtaking views of the the city’s skyline will make any heart flutter. It’s also an amazing place to watch the sunset.

Giardino degli Aranci

Viale Nino Manfredi

Many tourists overlook this beautiful spot, so popular with locals in love. The magical Giardino degli Aranci (“Garden of Oranges”) is situated near many of Rome’s most enchanting churches. This garden is popular, and if you visit on a weekend you’re likely to run into newlyweds getting their wedding photos taken.

The beautiful orange-scented garden offers a stunning bird’s-eye view of Rome’s most romantic panoramas. Make sure to snag a spot on the little terrace and watch the sun set over St. Peter’s Dome.

Pincio Gardens

Villa Borghese

Whether for a picnic or an afternoon stroll, there are a slew of things to keep lovers busy in Villa Borghese, Rome’s most popular park. Nothing, however, tops stealing a bacio (kiss) or two at Pincio gardens while gazing over the magnificent Piazza del Popolo. The Pincio balcony and gardens are especially popular with love birds.

Via della Conciliazione & Borgo Pio

Citta del Vaticano

There’s nothing quite like walking up Via della Concilliazione, the street that leads you to St. Peter’s Square, at night when the Basilica is lit up. Regardless of whether or not you’re a pilgrim, you’ll find yourself inspired by the scene. Once you’ve reached the square, turn back around to the Borgo Pio (the mostly pedestrian neighborhood) that surrounds Vatican City and duck into one of the restaurants for a candlelit dinner.

Villa d’Este

Tivoli

The Villa d’Este is one my favorite spots, and one that I always recommend for those looking for an easy day trip from Rome. Villa d’Este is a villa located in Tivoli, a town just outside of Rome, that boasts perfect examples of Renaissance architecture and splendid gardens.

The villa itself is filled with marvelous frescoes and an extravagant array of artwork. Perhaps the most beautiful part of the villa is it’s exterior: a maze of lush gardens with some 500 fountains running all at once. During the summer, the villa is also open at night and believe me, it’s equally gorgeous lit up at night. It’s a perfect place to propose!

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Most locals consider Trastevere, which literally means “across the Tiber,” to be the most authentic and charming part of Rome. This despite the neighborhood’s gentrification, due to its increasing popularity with American and international students and tourists.

It’s no wonder that everyone wants a piece of this picturesque part of the city. You’ll find yourself charmed by its winding alleyways and cobblestone streets, many of which are pedestrian only. And you’ll be delighted by its traditional mom-and-pop trattorias and the abundant array of restaurants and cafés from which to choose.

Here’s my guide to spending the perfect day in Trastevere. Get started early!

9 a.m. Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere

Start off your day at the Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere by having a cappuccino and cornetto (croissant) at any one of the cafés that surround the square. If you start off early, before the commuter crowd gets off to school and work, you may just have the piazza to yourself.

It’s not hard to guess what makes this piazza so wonderful. By day, you’ll witness locals and tourists alike gazing up at the golden mosaics of the Santa Maria in Trastevere church glimmering in the sun. The Basilica, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, is also one of the oldest churches in Rome.

By night, this piazza is a totally different scene. The piazza livens up with its street performers, vendors, diners and a whole lot of people watching!

10:00 a.m. Piazza San Calisto

Next, head on down to Piazza San Callisto where you can witness locals shopping for fresh fruits and vegetables at the mercato. It’d be a good idea to pick up some fruit for yourself here to take with you on your tour.

10:30 a.m. Shopping or church

If it’s a Sunday, you’ll definitely want to hit up Rome’s largest mercato delle pulci (“flea market”) at Porta Portese (Via di Porta Portese). There’s nothing like spending a few hours scouring this street market for deals. Bat those pretty eyelashes of yours and ask the vendor for a “piccolo sconto” (a small discount) and you’re bound to get him to slash his prices by a euro or two. The street market feels miles long, with stalls and stalls of second-hand clothes, accessories, antiques, paintings and furniture. Just be mindful of your wallet and purse, as the later it gets, the more popular it becomes with pick-pockets.

If it’s not Sunday, you’ll want to head over to the Santa Cecilia in Trastevere Church (Piazza Santa Cecilia in Trastevere, 22) for some great frescoes. In particular, pay close attention to the Last Judgment fresco painted by Pietro Cavallini. Another striking thing to marvel is the sculpture of Saint Cecilia, after whom the church is named. The white marble statue shows the saint with her head half-severed and lies just below the main altar.

Noon. Lunch at Da Enzo

Da Enzo (Via dei Vascellari, 29) is a hole-in-the-wall restaurant with only about 10 tables or so. But that’s what makes it so good. A definite must-try for appetizers are the carciofi alla giudia (Jewish-style fried artichokes). For pasta, try one of their classics: arrabbiata (spicy tomato), amatriciana (tomato, onion and pancetta) or carbonara (egg and pancetta). Throw in a bottle of their house wine and some tiramisù, and you’ll come out paying roughly €25 per person. Not bad for such a great meal!

3 p.m. Museum of Rome in Trastevere

After lunch, whip back around to the other side of Viale Trastevere to visit the Museum of Rome in Trastevere (Piazza Sant’Egidio). The museum dates back to 1601 and is located in a historic building that was once a convent. In 1970, the building became a place for preserving and showcasing Roman folklore, poetry, dialect and traditions. Later it underwent a facelift and reopened in 2000 as the Musuem of Rome in Trastevere, which today hosts exhibitions (many dedicated to photography), shows and conferences.

6 p.m. Window shopping

Spend an hour strolling and gazing at the boutiques around the Santa Maria in Trastevere area.

7 p.m. Aperitivo

When 7 p.m. rolls around, Romans head for the bars that offer “aperitivo.” Aperitivo is sort of like an American “happy hour” without the 2-for-1 drink specials. Instead, with the purchase of a drink (usually around €7-10), there’s a buffet of finger food for you to feast your appetite on.

My pick for Aperitivo, Freni e Frizioni (“Shocks and Brakes”), located at Via del Politeama, 4, is a mechanic shop-turned trendy aperitivo hangout. Just around the corner is another good spot, Friends (Piazza Trilussa) where hipsters tend to hang out at night in the piazza.

9 p.m. Dinner

My pick for dinner is Dar Poeta, located at Vicolo del Bologna, 45. Some of the best wood-oven pizza can be found here. The amatriciana and fior di zucca pizzas are a must try!

Have extra time?

In case you have more time in the neighborhood, some other places to check out are: Villa Farnesina, Gianicolo Hill, the Church of San Pietro in Montorio and the Church of San Francesco a Ripa.

Your favorite spots in Trastevere?

What did we miss? Have a favorite place to visit in Trastevere? Tell us about it in the comments section.

The post Rome: How to spend the day in Trastevere appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Even though Rome is fast becoming one of the most expensive cities in Europe, there are still plenty of memorable things to do that won’t put a big strain on your budget. Here are my top ten Roman activities that cost less than €10.

1. Galleria Borghese: €8.50
Piazzale del Museo Borghese, 5
Tel.: +39 06 32 810
Web site
Open: Tuesdays- Sundays 9 a.m.-7 p.m.

Located inside Rome’s “Central Park,” the Villa Borghese is a lovely museum that holds a vast collection of 17th and 18th-century artwork. Feast on masterpieces by Bernini, Caravaggio and Raphael. The villa was built for Cardinal Sciopione Borghese and is itself quite a beauty. When you’ve had enough art you can go for a passeggiata in the park. (That’s always free.)

2. Castel Sant’Angelo: €5.50
Lungotevere Castello, 50
Tel.: +39 06.6819111
Web site
Open: Tuesdays-Sundays 9 a.m.-7:30 p.m.

At first glance, the overbearing structure that looms over the Tiber River near the Vatican seems to be just another enormous castle. However, the history of Castel Sant’Angelo is more complicated than that. It was built by the emperor Hadrian as a mausoleum for himself in 135 AD. The monument was later transformed into a fortress that guarded the Vatican and became a Papal refuge for nearly 1,000 years. Inside the castle you’ll find a spectacular showcase of battlefield weaponry, including cannons, cannon balls and dungeons, too. Not a bad deal for just €5.50!

3. Dome of St. Peter’s Basilica: €5-€7
Piazza San Pietro
Tel.: +39 06.0608
Web site
Hours: October 1 – March 31: daily, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.; April 1 – September 30: daily, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Sure, a bird’s-eye view of the Eternal City can be found from any number of rooftop terraces around town. But there’s something extra special about taking in the view from the tip-top of St. Peter’s dome. There are two ways to get up there: your feet or an elevator. For €5 you can huff and puff your way up 500 steps to the top. Or you can ride the elevator up for €7.

4. Fountain-hopping frenzy: Free

Did someone say free? One of the most amazing things about Rome for budget travelers is the amount of art, architecture and sculptures that can be admired for niente. When it comes to marvelous fountains, Rome has plenty to go around. They’re just as breathtaking by day as they are by night. Here are some of my personal favorites:

Fontana del Tritone (Triton Fountain): Located at the center of the bustling Piazza Barberini where traffic flows in and out of the Centro Storico. The fountain was designed by Bernini in 1642. Also worth checking out is the Fontana delle Api (Fountain of the Bees) nearby on Via Veneto.

Fontana delle Naiadi (Fountain of the Naiads): My goodness what a piazza (della Repubblica)! Albeit, seeing it by day doesn’t do it justice, as the the fountain only becomes more beautiful when illuminated at night.

Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi (Fountain of the Four Rivers): What makes Piazza Navona so beautiful (apart from its picturesque cafes) are the three beautiful fountains that dominate the square. My favorite is the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, the central and largest of the three. Designed by the great Bernini, the fountain represents the rivers of the four continents known at that time: the Nile (symbol of Africa), the Ganges (symbol of Asia), the Danube (representing Europe) and the Rio de la Plata (representing America).

Fontana di Trevi (Trevi Fountain): The mother of all fountains, it’s also world-famous for wish-makers. Legend has it that if you toss a coin into the fountain, a return to Rome is guaranteed! It also made famous appearances for movies like Three Coins in a Fountain and Fellini’s La Dolce Vita.

5. Ostia Antica: €6.50 + two €1 bus tickets
Viale dei Romagnoli, 717
Tel.: +39 06 5635 8099
Web site
Hours: November-February, Tues-Sun 8:30 a.m-6 p.m.; March, Tues-Sun 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; April-October, Tues-Sun 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m.

Located just outside Rome, the Ancient town of Ostia Antica often gets overlooked. Ostia Antica is an archeological site that served as a port city for ancient Rome and is located near the modern town of Ostia. Although its founding was thought to have been in the seventh century BC, archaeological remnants “only” date it back to fourth century BC. Wander about the impressive ruins, including an amphitheater, many temples and villas.

Getting there is a simple combination of a Metro and train ride (45 minutes total). Take Metro B line to the “Piramide” stop (direction: “Laurentina”). The Piramide Metro stop is located next to the Roma Porta San Paolo train station. Make sure to follow the signs that say “Lido.” Trains leave every 15 minutes.

6. Roaming the streets of Trastevere: Free

One of the favorite Italian past times is going for a passeggiata (“easy stroll”), and what better neighborhood to stroll through than picturesque Trastevere. Get lost in the winding cobblestone alleys. Happen upon local trattorias, street cafès and wonderful churches, such as Santa Maria in Trastevere.

7. Attend a Papal Mass: Free
Web site

There’s our favorite word again! On Sundays at noon, the Pope gives a prayer (the “Angelus”) and blesses the crowd of pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square. Tickets are not required to attend this event, so if you want a good spot, be sure to arrive early. On Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. the Pope leads a blessing before a general audience; tickets are required but can be easily obtained (see Web site for details).

8. Hop on the ArcheoBus: €10
Web site

Sometimes, it’s nice to have someone do all the planning for you. For example, the ArcheoBus will drive you around town and let you hop on and hop off at major sights, including the Colosseum, the Baths of Caracalla, the Appia Antica Park, the Catacombs of San Callisto and San Sebastiano, among others. The entire loop lasts about an hour and a half and includes an audio guide in eight languages, including English. You can catch the green open-air bus from Termini train station.

9. Go for gelato: €2-€3

After going to see the Pantheon (another must-see freebie), you must indulge in one of life’s tastiest pleasures: a gelato from Giolitti (Uffici del Vicario, 40). It’s one of Rome’s oldest gelaterie and, according to me at least, it’s one of the city’s best. Nocciola (“hazelnut”) and pistacchio are my favorites. The place is always packed with tourists, but once you’ve tried their gelato, you’ll understand why. (It’s a far cry from Häagen-Dazs.)

10. Visit Ara Pacis: €7.50
Lungotevere in Augusta
Tel.: +39 06.0608
Open: Tuesday-Sunday 9 a.m.-7 p.m.
Web site

One of Rome’s newest landmarks, the funky glass-and-travertine structure where the Ara Pacis (“Alter of Peace”) is held was designed by the American architect Richard Meier. Some find the structure gaudy, while others find it breathtaking. Regardless, it caused quite a stir in Rome when it opened in 2006.

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But never fear, here’s a quick primer in what to look for in a Roman street sign–and where to look!

Where to look for your sign

In Rome’s center you’ll often find addresses posted on marble-like plaques on the sides of buildings. When looking for “Via dei Banchi Vecchi,” for example, you’ll need to look high up on the side of the building, where you’ll see the little plaque. Don’t get frustrated if you can’t find it right away; sometimes you have to walk a few blocks on the same street before spotting one.

Street signs come in all shapes and sizes. When not posted directly onto the buildings, you’ll find regular white street signs with black lettering. You may even see a black square sign with addresses posted directly above an advertisement, for example, for a movie or an art exhibition.

Regular street signs. Photo: N. Arriaga

Where to find your number

So you’ve found the street–now let’s find the street number! This, too, is sometimes easier said than done.

Often, odd numbers will be on one side of the street and even numbers on the other. Don’t assume that sequential numbers will be across the street from each other. “46” for example, might be several blocks away from “45” and “47.” Or the numbers could run in sequence (as pictured above).

This even-odd inconsistency tends to drive tourists mad, but after a while, you’ll get used to it. (And relax. Remember that you’ll probably make some of your best “discoveries” while wandering around a bit lost!)

Other confusing street signs

Although most of the signs posted around Rome are intended for automobiles, a few are important for pedestrians to understand. These include:

“Area Pedonale”

The “Area Pedonale” sign shows a man walking, signifying that you’re entering a pedestrian-only area. In other words, no cars allowed.

Pedestrians only! Photo: N. Arriaga

“Parcheggio Cani”

You’ll know you’re in Italy when you see this one. The sign says “Dog Parking.” While Italy is pretty dog-friendly, some businesses don’t allow you to bring Fido inside. To make nice, certain shops have set up a sort of “dog parking” station, where owners can literally tie up and “park” their dogs.

Parcometro

Believe it or not, tourists often confuse these parking meters with telephone booths. Maybe the “P” painted on it causes them to think of a “phone”? Perhaps it’s all those buttons? I’ve seen people struggling, without any luck, to find the phone receiver. No folks, these are parking meters.

If you’re looking for a phone, they’re silver and orange. Unfortunately, they’re growing scarce, but seem to still be placed around busy (and noisy) intersections.

The post Rome: Understanding the city’s street signs appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Seeing a film abroad can be a fun and educational experience (not to mention Cheapo-friendly). Even in Rome, finding a movie in English isn’t totally hopeless. Some movie theaters, after all, show movies in their original language. You just have to do some digging.

However, before heading to the theater, here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. English-language films have delayed release dates

Because of all the work and time it takes to dub and subtitle films here, imported films come out later in Italy than in their original countries. Chances are the films that were showing back home when you booked your trip to Italy still haven’t come out yet. In fact, it sometimes takes up to a year for an American movie to be released in Italy.

There are exceptions, of course. Big blockbuster films such as the “Harry Potter” and “Twilight” series, “Avatar” and “Sex & the City” all came out simultaneously around the world (including in Italy).

2. Theaters have assigned seating

Unlike in America, you are assigned a seat when you purchase your movie ticket. That’s right, assigned seating. At first I thought this was annoying. But now I actually like knowing that I can arrive comfortably at the start of the movie rather than a half hour before to reserve my spot, as I know my seat has been spoken for.

Note: I’ve found that Italians are very particular about sitting in the seat that was given to them. Therefore, it’s probably not a good idea to try and sneak into a “better” seat. If someone finds you in their place, they will most likely call for an employee to kick you out of it.

3. Some movie theaters have intermission

As with plays and musicals in “legit theater,” many movies in Italy stop for an intermission. While many might find this to be annoying, Italians seem to like the break. In fact, it seems that it gives them a chance to compare notes with their friends and family. In some theaters, a vendor comes around selling popcorn, ice cream and beverages during the break.

Searching for a movie in English

When searching for a movie in English, there are several useful Web sites that offer information on which movies are playing in English.

The most comprehensive site on movies in Rome is www.trovacinema.repubblica.it. When searching this site, you’ll have to keep an eye out for the movies with the letters “V.O.” listed directly beneath the film’s name. This stands for “versione originale,” and designates that the films haven’t been dubbed.

Another great Web site for tourists and expats is www.inromenow.com. This site offers updated movie listings every Thursday and is written entirely in English (making for a more user-friendly experience for non-Italian speakers).

When in doubt (or without access to the internet), pay a visit to any of these movie theaters for showings in English:

Nuovo Olimpia
Via in Lucina 16 (Off via del Corso)
Tel: 06 686 1068
Tickets: €7.50 (€5.50 for early shows Monday-Friday and all day Wednesday. Two screens.)
Web site

Greenwich
Via Bodoni 59 (Testaccio)
Tel: 06 5745825
€7, reduced €5. Three screens.
Web site

Nuovo Sacher
Largo Ascianghi 1 (Trastevere)
Tel: 06 581 8116
Web site

Alternatively, there’s the Casa del Cinema…

Located in the heart of the Villa Borghese Park (the “Central Park of Rome”) the La Casa del Cinema often hosts free screenings of movies in their original languages. Many of these are English-language independent films, but from time to time, blockbuster hits are also shown. Also inside you’ll find a bookstore, café, personal DVD stations, and a library stocked with hundreds of movies.

Casa del Cinema
Largo Marcello Mastroianni
tel 06 423601.
Web site

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