Rome — the Eternal City — is famous for its grandeur, history, and culture. But for travelers watching their wallets, it can also seem intimidating. With luxury hotels, pricey restaurants, and high-ticket tours, many assume Rome is best suited for a lavish vacation. The truth? Rome can be incredibly affordable if you know where to look and how to plan. From free attractions to cheap eats and low-cost transport, exploring Rome on a budget is not only doable — it can be a rewarding, authentic experience.

Here’s how to make the most of Rome without overspending, including tips for visiting the Colosseum, one of the city’s most iconic (and surprisingly accessible) landmarks.

Discovering Rome’s Best Attractions for Free

Rome is practically an open-air museum, and many of its most famous sights are absolutely free. Strolling through the city center is like walking through layers of history — from the ruins of ancient temples to Baroque piazzas and Renaissance fountains.

Landmarks like the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain, and Spanish Steps don’t cost a thing to enjoy. Wake up early and you’ll catch these places at their most peaceful, free of selfie sticks and crowds. Don’t forget Campo de’ Fiori or Piazza Venezia, both vibrant spaces full of energy and ideal for people-watching.

Vatican City also offers budget-friendly options. While entry to St. Peter’s Basilica is free, climbing to the dome (for panoramic views over Rome) costs just a few euros. The Vatican Museums (home to the Sistine Chapel) do charge a fee, but they offer free entry on the last Sunday of each month — just arrive early.

Touring the Colosseum on a Budget

The Colosseum is a must-see in Rome — no trip is complete without visiting this awe-inspiring amphitheater. Thankfully, even this major attraction is affordable if you plan ahead.

A standard ticket (around €18) includes entry to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill — giving you access to three sites over a 24-hour period. If you’re under 18 or a citizen of the EU aged 18–25, you may qualify for reduced or even free admission. You can purchase tickets in advance on official sites like Coopculture to avoid inflated reseller prices and long queues.

For budget travelers who prefer to avoid tour groups, a self-guided visit is the most economical choice. With a good app or downloadable audio guide (many cost just a few euros), you can explore the Colosseum at your own pace. You’ll learn about the gladiators, emperors, and architectural marvels that make this one of the world’s greatest historical monuments — without paying for a tour guide.

Pro tip: Visit the Colosseum late in the day or opt for the first available time slot to avoid crowds. You’ll enjoy a quieter experience and better photo opportunities.

Cheap Eats: Where to Eat Like a Local

Rome is known for its food — and luckily, you don’t need to spend a fortune to eat well. Skip the tourist traps around major landmarks and seek out small local spots instead. A slice of pizza al taglio (pizza by the cut) is a quick and satisfying option that costs just a few euros. Look for spots like Pizzarium near the Vatican or Forno Campo de’ Fiori.

For lunch, many locals opt for a panino or a pasta dish at a tavola calda (hot food counter). In the evenings, head to Trastevere, one of Rome’s most charming neighborhoods, for affordable trattorias serving up authentic Roman dishes like carbonara, amatriciana, or cacio e pepe.

Also, take advantage of aperitivo — the Italian tradition of pre-dinner drinks served with free snacks or even a small buffet. In many Roman bars, for the price of a cocktail (€6–€10), you can fill up on olives, bruschetta, pasta, and more.

And don’t forget the water fountains — the ancient nasoni (big noses) around the city provide clean, cold drinking water for free. Bring a refillable bottle and skip buying plastic ones all day.

Getting Around Affordably

Rome is best explored on foot, and walking is free. Most major attractions are within a 30-minute radius of each other. However, if your feet need a break, the Rome metro is efficient and inexpensive — a single ride costs €1.50, and 24-hour and multi-day passes are available for even better value.

Public buses and trams are also included in these tickets, offering access to parts of the city like Testaccio, San Lorenzo, or EUR, where you’ll find fewer tourists and cheaper dining options.

Free Cultural Experiences

Rome has no shortage of cultural events, many of which are free. Check local listings or ask at a tourist info point for church concerts, gallery openings, or outdoor festivals. Some museums also offer free admission on the first Sunday of the month, including the Galleria Borghese, Capitoline Museums, and the National Roman Museum.