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.

Hotels, restaurants and gondola rides can quickly and adversely affect your budget.

So we decided to list 10 favorite activities that Venice offers for under €15. Who says Venice has to be expensive?

Venice travel tips
• The Best cheap hotels in Venice: 7 picks from our guide
• Italy 10-Day Itinerary: Rome, Florence and Venice
• 5 Budget hotels with canal views

10 Cheap things to do in Venice

Let’s start with some activities for art lovers:

1. Visit the Gallerie Dell’Accademia

The Accademia is the world’s greatest museum for Venetian Renaissance art. It hosts an amazingly rich collection of Venetian paintings from the Byzantine and Gothic 14th century. Feast your eyes on works by Bellini, Carpaccio, Giorgione, Veronese, Tintoretto, and Tiziano, not to mention Tiepolo and Canaletto, Guardi, Bellotto and Longhi.

Admission: €15; €2 for reduced admission or €10 for early morning arrivals before 9 am
Free entry: 1^st Sunday of the month (no online tickets) and for visitors under 18.
Hours: Mon 8:15 am – 2 pm, Tues to Sun 8:15 am – 7:15 pm (ticket office closes one hour earlier)
Entrance: Near the Vaporetto Stop: Accademia – Line 1 and 2

Website

2. Tour the Museo Arte Orientale Ca’ Pesaro

The Museo Arte Orientale Ca’ Pesaro offers one of the most important collections of Japanese art from the Edo period in Europe. The collection was acquired by Prince Henry II of Bourbon during his travels to Asia, between 1887 and 1889. You can admire more than 30,000 artifacts, like swords and daggers, Japanese armors and precious porcelains, with wide sections dedicated to Indonesian and Chinese art.

Admission: €14, reduced €11.50
Hours: Nov to March: Tues to Sun, 10 am – 5 pm, April to October: Tues to Sun, 10 am – 6 pm
Entrance: Near the Vaporetto Stop: San Stae, line 1

Website

Now for some religious activities:

Basilica San Marco is a must-see on a Venice vacation. Photo: Ivan

3. Visit the Basilica San Marco

Boasting an incredibly rich ensemble of domes, columns, statues and mosaic-covered interiors, the Basilica San Marco (“St. Mark’s Church”) is the true heart of Venice and the final resting place of Saint Mark. There are always long queues outside, but you can follow our guide on how to avoid crowds.

Admission: Church only €6, Church and St. Mark’s Museum €15, Church and Pala d’Oro €12, Church and Loggia Dei Cavalli €10, Bell Towers €12
Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9:30 am – 5:15 pm; Sunday, 9:30 am – 5:15 for Museum and Loggia Dei Cavalli, 2 p.m. – 5:15 pm for the church
Entrance: Near the Vaporetto Stop San Zaccaria – Lines 2, 51 and 41

Website

4. Take a tour of the Jewish Museum and synagogues

This is the world’s first ghetto and it hasn’t changed since it was created back in the Middle Ages. The Jewish Museum of Venice was opened in 1953 and displays valuable artifacts, sacred furnishings and the nuptial contract of the Jewish community that for centuries has lived in this neighborhood. The tour also includes a visit to the five synagogues of the city, all founded during the 16th century.

Admission: €14, reduced €12, guided tours €15 or €2 in advance
Hours: Sunday to Thursday, 10 am – 5:30 pm; Friday, 9 am – 3 pm
Entrance: Near the Vaporetto stop Ponte delle Guglie, Line 41, 42, 51, 52 or S. Marcuola, Line 1 or 2

Website

5. Visit the Chiesa dei Frari

Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari in Venice, a religious treasure situated in the middle of the Venice, makes up one of the largest groups of buildings in the city. The massive church, commonly called “Frari,” dominates the area of San Polo with its Gothic forms and creative use of bricks. Inside, gaze at amazing masterpieces by Titian, Donatello, and many more local artists.

Admission: €5, €2 reduced
Hours:  Monday to Friday 9 am – 7:30 pm; Saturday 9 am – 6 pm; Sunday 1 pm – 6 pm
Entrance: Near the Vaporetto stop San Toma, Line 1

Website

Take a vaporetto ride for a low-cost tour of the Venetian canals. Photo: Mark

How about some outdoor activities, with perfect spots for panoramic photos of Venice?

6. Take a ride to San Giorgio Island

This important Benedictine monastery was built on the small island of the same name by Andrea Palladio. It is designed around the church and two cloisters. Since 1951, it has been run by the Giorgio Cini Foundation. Take the short vaporetto ride to the island and enjoy the view.

Admission: Free for church, €6 for Bell Towers
Hours: April to October 9 am – 7 pm, November to March 8:30 am – 6 pm, Sundays closed for mass from 10:40 am – 12 pm
Getting there: Vaporetti Line 2, Isola di San Giorgio stop

Website

7. Walk the beaches of Lido

Take a boat out to the sandy beaches of Lido, where the city’s aristocrats used to stroll during the summer. If you head over during the Venice Film Festival, you might chance upon some movie stars. The beach is free and there are some very nice restaurants in the area.

Getting there: Lido Line 1, Lido stop

8. Park it

Immerse yourself in one of the few green spots in Venice: the Giardini, created by Napoleon (after knocking down many old churches and convents) when he conquered the city in 1807. The rubble was used to create a small hill, which now hosts the Padiglione della Biennale.

And last, but not least, two of my own favorites:

9. See how gondolas are built at Squero San Trovaso

This boatyard is located along the Rio San Trovaso and dates back to the 17th century. This squero (“boatyard”) is one of the few still operating in Venice and you can watch for free from the outside.

Also, note the unique boathouse, the building shaped like a mountain house. The reason for its sloping shape is twofold: Both the carpenters and the timber came from Cadore (a mountain area of the Dolomites); and secondly, the slope was useful in case of rain, and serves as storage for tools.

If you want to take a tour and see gondolas being built and repaired, you need a group of at least 25 people. The tour usually lasts 30 minutes. Email ahead to info@squerosantrovaso.com for more information.

Website

10. Take a Cheapo Vaporetto tour

Take Vaporetto Line 51, relax and take in the view of the lagoon. The vaporetto circles around the city and connects the Lido to Fondamenta Nove, on the northern lagoon side of Venice’s historic center. From there, it continues through the Cannaregio Canal to the train station and Piazzale Roma before heading up the Giudecca Canal with stops at San Zaccaria, Giardini, and S. Elena on its way back to the Lido. The tour only costs the price of a normal Vaporetto ticket (€9.50, valid for 75 minutes), and offers some of the most breathtaking views of the city!

Website

Your favorite cheap activities in Venice

Have anything to add to our list of great things to do in Venice on the cheap? Tell us about it in the comments section.

The post 10 Things to do in Venice on the cheap appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

As things stay relatively cool, we think a walk in one of the city’s many parks makes for a perfect, cost-free way to spend time between visits to the Acropolis and the Agora.

National Garden of Athens

Metro: Exit at Syntagma (line 2 or 3)

Located in central Athens right behind the Greek Parliament Building, the National Garden of Athens makes a scenic place for a stroll. The garden is filled with plenty of gems to discover, including a smattering of ancient runes, a duck pond and a small zoo. For a fix of greenery in the city (and a nice spot to eat your Cheapo-friendly souvlaki), we can’t think of a better place.

Pedion tou Areos

Metro: Exit at Victoria (line 1)

The Pedion tou Areos Park is marked by a large statue of King Constantine I on a horse and a memorial to soldiers who fought in the Battle of Greece. Like the National Garden, the Pedio tou Areos Park offers plenty of greenery and no shortage of peaceful paths to explore.

One of the largest parks in the city, it also boasts a popular playground. Stop by before or after visiting the nearby National Archaeological Museum, but don’t linger past sunset; we’ve heard the scene gets slightly sketchy after hours.

Kifissias Park

Metro: Exit at Kifissia (line 1)

Kifissia is an attractive, affluent suburb on the northern side of Athens. In addition to some shopping and eating options, the neighborhood offers a lush botanical garden. If you’re itching for a taste of local life, take the metro out here and explore the expansive greenery. (Bonus tip: If you’re in town during April or May, you can catch the annual Kifissia Flower Show, which brings a colorful variety of flora to the neighborhood.)

Where else to walk?

Well, these are our Athens park picks, Cheapos. But we’re no Socrates: If you’ve seen better spots for strolling in the city, set us straight by leaving a comment!

And if you’re interested in reading more tips for Athens and Greece, have a look here.

The post Athens: Parks and gardens for some good, green fun appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

But it’s not that we get tired of London’s countless entertainments and diversions—it’s just that sometimes our wallet does.

When that budget starts to bite, it’s worth remembering that the many things that London offers for free, can be every bit as inspiring as all of the paid stuff. In fact, when you start to account for all of the free things that visitors can take advantage of, maybe London isn’t so expensive as we always make it out to be. Here are ten ideas for starters.

The incredible view from the Royal Observatory in Greenwich. Photo: Frances Ambler

1. Fantastic views

This higgledy-piggledy, centuries old city can produce some great views. And you don’t need to pay to go up the Shard to experience the best of them. Primrose Hill (Chalk Farm tube) is a favorite spot for Londoners to gather for picnics, New Year’s and whenever you just fancy a picturesque view of this sprawling city. In south London, meanwhile, the view from up near the Royal Observatory is superb. But, if there’s one thing that’s bound to make even the most hardened Londoner a little misty eyed, it’s crossing over the Thames at night: with the London Eye, Westminster and the South Bank illuminated. It’s enough to make us believe we are actually living in a Richard Curtis movie, and that Hugh Grant is waiting just around the corner.

Related: Best views in London for free

2. The museums and art galleries

Being able to spend quality time with some of the world’s best artworks is an undeniable perk of London: all our national museums have free admission. But, as well as the headline grabber galleries such as the British Museum or the National Gallery, London has a whole host of smaller museums that are also free and great for exploring on one of London’s wet afternoons. Try the Sir John Soane’s Museum, the Wellcome Collection or the Wallace Gallery just for starters.

Borough Market is filled with fresh foods of all types. Keep an eye out for free samples! Photo: Craig Nelson

3. The markets

London’s markets have something to cater to all tastes, and offer brilliant people watching opportunities, even if you can’t be tempted by any of the wares on offer. Borough Market is a foodie’s delight (don’t forget to stock up on those free samples), while Portobello is a must for antiques lovers. We’ve sung the praises of Columbia Road flower market just recently, while both Spitalfields and Greenwich market are great places to check out independent makers.

Changing of the Guard is a must-see tradition. Photo: eGuide

4. The Changing of the Guard

While many of London’s traditions seem to come with a price tag attached, not so the ceremony of The Changing of the Guard which has been taking place since the nineteenth century, when Buckingham Palace became an official residence for Queen Victoria. It’s the ceremonial handover from one red-tunic and bearskin wearing, guardsman to the next and takes place at 11.30am each day from May to July and on alternate days during the rest of the year. More information here: get there early for a good view. And who knows if you’ll be lucky enough to see a dancing guardsman?

Brick Lane is a colorful slice of London. Photo: Gary Knight

5. Brick Lane

The Changing of the Guard is traditional Britain at its best, but a stroll down Brick Lane, highlights how London today is as much about its multiculturalism as its monarchy. Brick Lane is a great place to spot street art as it’s become a showground for some of the world’s greatest street artists. But it’s not just the artists that are hoping to be spotted, as you can’t miss the outrageous fashions sure to appear on a street style blog near you soon. Pop-up shops and events mean there is always something interesting to explore, and be sure to check out the free gigs from up-and-coming bands put on by the famous independent record store Rough Trade.

Related: 5 hotels in central London under £100 per night

6. Book store browsing

London’s book shops are made for browsing. Hatchard’s, on Piccadilly, is the oldest bookshop in the UK, founded in 1797. There’s also a massive branch of Waterstone’s just down the road. Bibliophiles are sure to enjoy the huge new Foyles bookshop, recently opened on Charing Cross Road, a traditional area for bookshops. Look out for Cecil Court nearby: it’s a gorgeous Victorian street full of specialist book stores selling rare and antiquarian books, maps and prints. Finally, before you leave London, pop into Daunt’s on Marylebone High Street. The store is not only beautiful, but they’ve got an amazing array of travel titles that are sure to inspire some (more) wanderlust.

Speaker’s Corner in Hyde Park every Sunday afternoon provides free endless entertainment. Photo: Craig Nelson

7. Speaker’s Corner

Speaker’s Corner—found in the corner of Hyde Park, nearest to Marble Arch—is considered to be the home of free speech. It’s been a focus for debate since 1866 and, every Sunday, speakers gather to have their opinions heard on what they consider to be the burning issues of the day. Historic speakers have included George Orwell and Karl Marx.

Regent’s Park is a nice place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a few hours. Photo: Craig Nelson

8. All the parks

And while we’re in Hyde Park, let’s celebrate the free wonder that is London’s parks. London has more green space than any other European city, and each space has its own style. Hyde Park, Green Park, Regent’s Park and Kensington Gardens make for a central London oasis, Hampstead Heath is a surprisingly wild space relatively close to central London. Victoria Park has a wonderful community feel, Richmond Park even has deer. Whether summer picnic or winter snowball fight, London life is all about its park life.

Related: 10 money saying tips for first-time visitors to London

9. St Martins in the Fields concerts

Once you’ve had your picture taken in Trafalgar Square and hung out at the National Gallery, there’s another treat to be discovered. St Martins in the Fields offers free lunchtime concerts in its beautiful Georgian interior. Feeling peckish? Head down to the crypt for a not free, but still very reasonable hearty lunch in the church’s cafe. For more free classical music in London, check out our guide here.

Walking along South Bank a great way to experience London on a weekend afternoon. Donald Judge

10. South Bank

And, finally, my personal favorite. A stroll along the South Bank will not only bring you great views of the river, it’s the chance to immerse yourself in a fantastic array of cultural opportunities. A stroll from Waterloo to Tate Modern (and it really will be a stroll, it gets far too try and rush it) passes delights such as the free lunchtime music on at the Royal Festival Hall, the secondhand booksellers outside the British FiIm Institute or the amazing Mediatheque archive within it, where you can watch over 2,500 highlights from the archive’s collection. There’s the OXO tower, full of independent designers and the Globe Theatre. Just when you think you’ve seen it all, there’s always something going on round here to make you fall back in love with London again.

The post 10 free things that will make you fall in love with London appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

But scattered in between and just beyond the city’s major parks are a number of other “secret gardens” that tend be shorter on people and long on charm and tranquility.

For those moments when you need to rest your feet, take a breath or just want to feel “in the know,” here are six secret gardens of New York.

1. The Garden at St. Luke in the Fields

487 Hudson Street
West Village

It seems a surprise awaits around every corner on the crisscrossing streets of the West Village, and this secret garden is one of the greatest. From the street, St. Luke in the Fields looks like any of the countless religious houses scattered throughout New York City, but behind its brick walls and wrought-iron gates is a sanctuary sure to put you into a meditative state, whatever your religious inclinations. At once meticulously tended and a teensy bit wild, this tiny green spot overflows with magnolias, petunias, daffodils and a whole host of other wonders that are as delightful to speak of as they are to see and smell.

Elevated Acre is a hard-to-find Downtown oasis. Photo: Garrett Ziegler

2. Elevated Acre

55 Water Street
Financial District

Long before there was the High Line, there was Elevated Acre, but the older, lesser-known park is far less likely to become overrun with crowds than the newcomer hotspot-in-the-sky. Originally built in the 1970s, the Financial District public space was remodeled in 2005—into an oasis with a lawn for lounging, wooden boardwalk for strolling and sweeping East River views for the ogling. An LED-lit tower makes it magical in the evenings, and come summer, it is the site of free events like music and movie screenings.

Related: Affordable hotels near Wall Street

3. Greenacre Park

51st Street between 2nd and 3rd Avenues
Midtown

Clocking in at just 6,000 square feet, this small-but-mighty “vest pocket park” is essentially the perfect urban space. Manhattan’s skyscrapers tower above a tiered park while a delicate light filters through the greenery and a rushing waterfall muffles the sounds of bustling Midtown. There is also an affordable café on premises, and even heat lamps for enjoying the park in cooler climes.

A waterfall in Midtown? Welcome to Greenacre Park. Photo: Randy Levine

4. Conservatory Garden

Fifth Avenue & E. 105th Street
East Harlem

Situated on the northeast end of Central Park, these six serene acres tend to have a whole different feel than the popular attraction that surrounds them. That is in part due to the fact that they make up the only formal garden in the park, in part due to the location up at 105th street, and in part because runners and cyclists are not allowed here. This combination creates a secluded feel, with shaded benches and hidden nooks perfect for settling in with a book. Be sure to wander through the whole thing to take in the different French, English, and Italian landscapes.

Related: Cheap hotels near Central Park

5. The Greenbelt

Staten Island

About three times the size of Central Park, Staten Island’s sprawling green wonder is two free adventures in one. First, there is the journey you’ll take to reach it. The free Staten Island Ferry offers fabulous views of the Manhattan skyline, plus an up-close-and-personal pass in front of Lady Liberty herself. Once on the island, bus S62 takes you directly to the Greenbelt and all its hiking trails, shaded nooks, and lookout points. Try climbing up Todt Hill, the highest natural point in all five boroughs (and a film location for the 1972 The Godfather).

Teardrop Park in Battery Park City. Photo: Jason Reibold

6. Teardrop Park

Hidden in Battery Park City, away from the busy bike lanes along the Hudson and shrouded by a handful of skyscrapers, resides a tiny stretch of wilderness. At least that’s what it feels like when you finally find Teardrop Park, which sort of has the feel of an unoccupied patch of ancient wild. Here, boulders, canopied trees and shaded paths reign, and even the slides built into rock walls and sprouting water fountains feel like they’ve always just “been there.”

The post New York: 6 under-the-radar (and free) parks to explore appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

So why not consider one of the city’s great outdoor pools or even swimming ponds? It’s where you’ll find the locals cooling down and soaking up the sun.

Park Road Leisure Centre

Park Road, Hornsey N8 8JN
Getting there: Finsbury Park Underground Station to the W7 bus which stops right outside.
Website

While this north London pool does get busy, at 50 metres it’s big enough to ensure you can still claim your patch of grass for the afternoon. To avoid the crowds head down early in the morning when the water is cooler and those who dare to brave it reap the rewards (my mother is a regular 8 AM swimmer!). The whole leisure center has been undergoing refurbishment this year, meaning the outdoor pool is not yet open for the summer, but it is due to open its doors in late July with a spangly new cafe, kiosk and changing rooms. Prices will be kept around the same as last year at £5.60 a swim.

Brockwell Lido makes a fine place to take a dip amid Art Deco architecture. Photo: stevecadman

Brockwell Lido

Dulwich Road, SE24 0AP
Tube: Herne Hill Overground Station
Website

Located within Brockwell Park, this Olympic sized lido is surrounded by Grade II listed Art Deco buildings and a real favorite with South Londoners. As has been the fate of many London lidos, it was closed in 1990, but heavy campaigning from locals led to it being reopened in 1994, and it is now a regular fixture on the summertime agenda and is often referred to as Brixton Beach. The pool is open from 6:30 AM until 8 PM for lane swimming or a general splash about. Entry prices are £3.10 for a pre-10am swim, £5.90 between 10 AM and 5 PM and £3.30 after 5 PM.

Related: Best views in London…for free!

Hampstead Ponds

Hampstead Heath, NW5 1QR
Tube: Hampstead Heath Overground Station
Website

Hampstead Heath offers some of London’s loveliest outdoor swimming and a truly unique experience. Nestled amongst the trees, you can choose from a women’s, men’s or mixed swimming pond, which you’ll be sharing with the ducks. All the pools are life guarded and open to the public every single day—the icy Christmas Day swim is a bit of an institution, but we’d recommend starting with a summertime dip. The pools aren’t heated, so even in summer it can be chilly, but the beautiful setting makes this a London day out to remember. What’s more, entry costs just £2 a person!

Serpentine Lido

Hyde Park, W2 2UH
Tube: Hyde Park Corner Underground Station
Website

For a truly central London swim that will likely fit in nicely with your sightseeing plans, head to Hyde Park and the Serpentine Lido. The pool forms part of the main Hyde Park lake and is open daily from 1 June to 12 September. It’s a good option for families too as, away from the unheated Lido, there is also a chlorinated paddling pool and play area for children. Entry is priced at £4.50 for adults and £1.50 for children.

Related: Five central hotels for under £100 per night in London

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Next time you need a break from the crowds, head to one of the city’s parks for a picnic or afternoon of reading and lying in the sun. Not only are they peaceful, but they’re some of the prettiest parks and gardens in the world. Best of all? They’re free!

Villa Borghese

Location: On Viale del Muro Torto and Via Pinciana
Getting there: Take the metro to Spagna or Barberini. Or take the FC3 tram to Flaminio.

Villa Borghese is Rome’s version of Central Park. Originally the grounds of the Borghese family’s villa in the 17^th century, today the park is open to the public and has an area for everyone. There’s a merry go round for kids, a small zoo, a dog park, and plenty of tree lined paths for jogging, elaborate fountains for cooling off, and large hills and sunny spots for reading and naps. The park is big, but it’s worth walking to the Pincian hill for the view of Rome over Piazza del Popolo. If you’re not in relaxation mode, visit one of the villas for a look into the lives of nobility, or stop at the Galleria Borghese, one of the city’s most impressive museums full of incredible frescoes and Bernini statues.

Related: Cheap hotels near Villa Borghese in Rome

Villa Pamphili

Location: Via Aurelia Antica
Getting there: Take the 881 bus, the N20, or the N5. The closest metro is Baldi Degli Ubaldi, and from there it’s about a 10 minute walk.

This is one of the prettiest parks in Rome mainly because of the Villa Doria Pamphili, a large mansion with a sunny yellow tint, and it’s surrounding gardens. You could probably spend hours just gazing at the villa itself, but the nearby pond full of swans is also worth a look. Villa Pamphili is located in the Monteverde area of Rome, just west of Trastevere, and is also the largest park in the city, so you’re sure to find a free patch of grass. It’s the perfect park for a picnic with friends.

Villa Ada

Location: Via dei Ponte Salario
Getting there: Take the FC3 tram to Campi Sportivi.

Villa Ada is great if you’re looking for some outdoor activity in the midst of all that pasta and wine. You can rent canoes or bicycles and also go horseback riding. Pack your bathing suit for a dip in the large public swimming pool, or spend hours strolling through the lush green paths. To combine exercise and history, visit Monte Antenne, an old Roman village that is now an archeological site at the highest point of the park, or head to the Catacombs of Priscilla. With a park this large, (450 acres!), you won’t be bored.

Related: Beating the heat in Rome: 4 beaches easily accessible by train for €10 or less

The Orange Garden

Location: Via di Santa Sabina
Getting there: Take the metro to Circo Massimo, and it’s about a 10 minute walk up the hill.

A small garden on the Aventine hill bursting with orange trees, this garden is small, but one of the most charming. Head up the hill to the Giardino degli Aranci with a group of friends and a bottle of white wine to soak in the panoramas of the city from the top. The view of St. Peter’s is fantastic, and the scent of oranges and shade from the trees is a splendid respite from the city. The famous keyhole view of St. Peter’s is just a few steps away in the Piazza dei Cavalieri.

The Gianicolo

Location: Via del Gianicolo
Getting there: Take the 34, 46, 46B, 64, 98 or 881 buses.

The Gianicolo hill is full of lovers, and it’s easy to see why. The view from the top is like an aphrodisiac. Go at the golden hour to see the sun bathe the terracotta rooftops in a warm glow and glisten on the domes of the Pantheon and St. Peter’s, while the Vittorio Emanule II monument sparkles against the backdrop of the Appenine Mountains. The entire city takes on a pinkish hue from up here, and you can’t help but gaze in awe and succumb to its spell.

Related : The 5 most romantic spots in Rome

The post Rome’s best free parks and gardens appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

It does cost €2 to enter (€1 for children), but it’s well worth it to help support this important urban gem for future generations. Plus, since dogs and bikes are not allowed inside the gates, the fee lets you enjoy a little extra peace and quiet than in other city parks.

Unique architecture in Britzer Garten along the lake in April. Oleksandr Dantsiger

History and background

Britzer Garten was created in 1985 for Germany’s yearly national garden show event and has only gotten prettier with time. There are numerous landscapes and various garden groupings with something for everyone—trained roses, fountains, a central (man-made) lake, plenty of play areas for children, a small zoo of domesticated animals and even an overlook to climb! On weekends, the park is popular with families, and attractions such as mini-golf or the park’s own small-gauge railway are overfilled.

The lush rose garden. Photo: manu

Three peak seasons

Three times per year, the park shines with an inordinate number of blooms: in early spring, the fields and hillsides are covered with different kinds of daffodils, and about a month later the park explodes in special plantings of tulips; early summer finds the rhododendrons at their peak, followed then by roses; and in late fall, the leaves around the park have turned a beautiful range of shades and the special planting areas are instead filled with dahlias, some as large as dinner plates! While it can’t beat, say, the Netherlands’ Keukenhof for the spring, the garden is nevertheless a highlight any time of year.

A classic springtime scene in Britzer Garten. Photo: visitBerlin

Small entry Fee

The small admission fee (€2 /€3 during bloom events) guarantees that the park is safe, quiet and well-maintained. There are a number of small cafes spread throughout the park, offering everything from freezer ice cream to a full dinner menu. During the week, the number of visitors is refreshingly low, making it an excellent excursion to recharge overwhelmed tourist batteries.

The post The €2 urban oasis: Enjoy blooms year-round in Berlin’s Britzer Garten appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Dartmoor delights

Dartmoor is England’s most extensive area of upland landscape south of the Pennines. It rises to no great heights, yet the moor communicates a remarkable sense of wilderness — especially on dark nights and foggy days. Arthur Conan Doyle clearly appreciated the haunting power of the moor;  he set one of his most celebrated Sherlock Holmes books on Dartmoor. Be assured, though, that you’ll not run into the Hound of the Baskervilles as you wander across Dartmoor.

Dartmoor is a great granite boss, the details of which have been shaped by millions of years of erosion and weathering. The summits (locally called “tors”) are fantastic jumbles of bare rock, shaped by wind and water. Settlements hunker down in the lee of the hills or take refuge in the valleys.

Exmoor landscapes

Dartmoor belongs wholly to Devon. The county’s other national park, Exmoor, which abuts the Bristol Channel on the north coast, is shared with neighboring Somerset. Here the igneous rocks of Dartmoor are replaced by soft sedimentary rock, giving very different landscapes. There are sandstones and limestones, shales and gritstones. Acidic soils support little by way of agriculture at higher levels.

Towards the north coast, the streams and rivers draining the moor have cut deep valleys that drop down steeply towards the sea. These valleys offer some of Devon’s most distinctive landscapes. The stretch of north Devon coast around Lynton styles itself Little Switzerland (trumping its Alpine cousin in being able to boast a coastline).

Britain’s natural heritage

Dartmoor and Exmoor are two of England’s ten national parks. Devon is one of only four English counties that have, within their territory, all or part of more than one national park. Next year, Exmoor will mark 50 years of national park status. It was designated in 1954. Dartmoor secured the coveted designation slightly earlier. That was in 1951, the year in which the United Kingdom kicked off its national parks program by naming its first four parks.

Looking at those early parks from the 1950s, one has a sense of a program that was designed by men and women who had a fine sense of the relationship between rocks and relief. That ensemble of early parks offers a feast of geomorphology, a symphony of fine landscapes. Like other national parks, Devon’s two examples present fine hiking country. In both parks, open expanses of wild moorland offer every opportunity for reviving city spirits.

Travel writers Susanne Kries and Nicky Gardner have penned warm words about Devon three times this month here on EuroCheapo. See their comments on a visit to Exeter cathedral (20 November), and ways to explore Devon by bus, train and boat (27 November).

The post Rocking Out in Devon’s National Parks: Dartmoor and Exmoor appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Sure, New York is home to many a great art museum (some even free on certain days of the week), but when summer comes nothing beats enjoying free out-of-doors art in bustling parks. Here is the best of the bunch. And, because everyone loves a good art hotel, I’ve thrown in a few picks where you can sleep near interesting art for less.

Union Square

See: Jaehyo Lee’s naturally elegant works currently grace the southeast triangle of Union Square Park. The artist highlights “beauty in what is seen but not noticed.” Quite apropos for this oft-frenetic Manhattan hub, full of locals pushing through to the subways and teenagers rolling by on skateboards.

Tip: Head over on a Farmer’s Market afternoon (Saturday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday) to pick up a cheap and yummy lunch and enjoy it, and the art, in the park.

Sleep: Not far from Union Square’s bustle is one of our most interesting hotel picks. Ye Olde Carlton Arms Hotel is part hostel, part hotel and all art. What it lacks in amenities (no TV or air conditioning here), it makes up for in flair (each room is decorated floor to ceiling by a different artist). Rooms are available with or without private baths.

The High Line

See: The popular elevated park features a number of interesting art works, including Busted, a series of figurative sculptures by various artists. Based on sculptures found in the streets of ancient Rome, the series examines the nature of heroes, democracy, the self and more.

Sleep with art at the quirky Ye Olde Carlton Arms.

Additionally, Carol Bove’s Caterpillar highlights the magical quality of the Rail Yards, the park’s final section, still untouched wilderness for one more year.

Tip: The High Line is populated with a number of street vendors. Pick up a snack and take a stroll. Also, since the Rail Yards are closed to the public, reserve ahead to get on a free public walk, offered Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. (Reservations are sold out until August 3. Tickets for August 3-September 28 will become available on June 18.)

Sleep: It’s the art of the Silver Screen that graces the walls of the Chelsea Pines Inn,  located a block east of the southern entrance to the High Line. Each of the inn’s rooms is devoted to a different Old Hollywood star, but this is far from your elitist Hollywood scene. In fact, it may just be the friendliest hotel in Manhattan.

Madison Square Park

See: Orly Genger’s undulating “Red, Yellow and Blue” weaves its way through the park, much as its nautical-knot composition gives the work itself a woven look. The work is monumental. It’s made from 1.4 million feet of rope (that’s nearly 20 times the length of Manhattan) collected along the Eastern Seaboard. Weighing in at 100,000 pounds, it changes the landscape of the park, creating nooks, crevices and open spaces like an urban version of the corn maze.

Tip: Wait in the long line for the Shake Shack, then find one of those private “chambers” to sit and enjoy burgers and Concretes.

Sleep: Situated two blocks north of the park, the Gershwin Hotel is bright, funky and artistic, so much so that it’s got its own “style guide,” a local artist associated with Warhol’s Factory. Rooms range from dorms to apartment-style, and all are decked out with quirky art pieces.

Riverside Park South

See: Meanwhile, on the Upper West Side… The Art Students League of New York brings back its “Model to Monument” program, showcasing seven sculptures by student artists, all addressing (in myriad ways) the theme of flux.

Now you can take a passeggiata on the High Line. Photo: Timothy Schenck, Courtesy of Friends of the High Line

Sleep: While it’s not exactly an art hotel, there is no shortage of pretty at the Harlem Flophouse, a truly special B&B about a 10-minute walk from Riverside Park. Each of the four guest rooms is named for a different Harlem personality, and décor is a grab bag of beautiful finds from all around the world.

Where else to get your art fix

Art abounds in many more New York parks, and there are even a number of not-so-cheapo hotels where you can view amazing art gratis. Here, a small sampling…

1. Take a stroll along the Park Avenue Malls to enjoy No Limits, Alexandre Arrechea’s series of sculptures representing iconic New York buildings from the Chrysler Building to the US Courthouse.

2. Wander through The James Hotel, a swanky Soho spot where the rooms are pricey but the art (in the entry, lobby, sky lobby and even elevator) is free to enjoy.

3. Take a trip out to the Rockaway Beach Boardwalk, where Heartwalk, commemorates both the devastation wrought by Hurricane Sandy (it’s constructed from the boardwalk the storm destroyed) and that fabulous New York resilience and love witnessed in the aftermath.

4. After taking in some museums on Museum Mile, take a peek in The Surrey Hotel, a schmancy spot with original modern art sprinkled throughout its public spaces. 5. Contemplate the confluence of humans and nature with Tomorrow, Akihiro Ito’s sculpture of a baby (the future) made from laminated wood (nature) in Brooklyn’s Fort Greene Park.

The post New York: Our favorite free outdoor art and budget art hotels appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.