10 Fantastic Free Things to Do in Rome Especially for Erasmus+ & Turing Scheme Students

Rome is always a firm-favourite amongst our students and learners going on an Erasmus+ or Turing Scheme study placement abroad.  The capital of Italy, it is bursting with history that dates back to the Roman times.  Right in the heart of the city, there’s a Roman ruin on almost every street – and it’s not just the ruins that attract people to this beautiful capital city.  There’s the Italian food of course, and you can’t have a bad meal in Rome!  There’s also the fashion, after all, Italians are known for their couture, and the people are just so welcoming.  However, Rome is notoriously expensive, and even though the Erasmus+ and Turing Scheme grants cover a large proportion of outgoings, it’s wise to keep an eye on your wallet!  That doesn’t mean a student can’t enjoy themselves in Rome, especially if they read this article which gives information about the best things to do for free.  So read on and make a note to try all of these brilliant ideas! 

1. The Civic Museums 

At certain times, the civic museums in Rome are completely free to visit, so take advantage of the city’s history and art.  On the 21st of April, public access is granted to many of Rome’s museum so you can visit the Napoleon Museum or the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (as well as many others of course). You can also go to the Colosseum, Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum which are open to the public for free on the first Sunday of the month.  The Vatican Museums are also free to enter on the last Sunday of the month. 

2. The Pantheon 

This ancient Roman ruin is open to the public for free and it’s really well preserved, in fact, it’s the only perfectly preserved ancient monument.  Today, it’s still used as a place of worship.  Do go inside and see the fantastically intricate architecture and the huge oculus in the middle (which lets in abundant natural light) that reflects onto the chequered marble floor.  It’s a stunning Roman landmark and a testimony to time.  Open from 9.00am to 6.46pm every day, for free! 

3. St Peter’s Basilica 

Rome is home to so many churches and cathedrals, you must visit St Peter’s Basilica and it’s right next door the Vatican Museums.  Check out its grad dome and huge columns.  At the top of each column there are 13 statues, each one depicting one of Jesus’ apostles and of course, there’s a statue of Jesus too.  Get a ticket to enter but it won’t cost you anything, however, be aware that queues are often extensive so get there early.  You’ll also get an audio guide in your language.  If you want a papal audience, visit on a Wednesday but be warned, these queues are very, very long! 

4. Piazza Navona 

Rome is also full of picturesque squares but probably the finest is the Piazza Navona, busy and atmospheric, you can people watch all day and night if you like!  There’s a stunning fountain right in the middle, the Fountain of the Four Rivers so take time to admire it and soak up the charm of the square which is usually filled with street performers too.  Home to the Church of Sant Agnese, admire the architecture of this building and take some photographs before settling into one of the pavement cafés for a well-earned espresso coffee (not for free, of course!).  

5. The Spanish Steps 

These outdoor steps were built in the 18th century and lead to a small fountain known as the Fontana della Baraccia.  The steps feature ornate lampposts either side and you can find them at the Trinita dei Monti Church.    The steps were named after the Spanish Embassy, which is close by. Take a picture to remind yourself of another slice of Rome’s history and make your way to the Trevi Fountain (to the North), another free monument where you can throw a three pennies over your shoulder into the fountain and wish for something your heart desires!  Let’s talk about the fountain some more. 

6. The Trevi Fountain 

Arguably the most beautiful fountain in the world – and definitely the most famous!  Thish uge fountain measures approximately 50 metres and is ornately decorated with sculptures of Roman gods, horses and tritons.  To the rear of the fountain you’ll see the Palazzo Poli and the whole area is jaw-droppingly beautiful, completely free to admire and not to be missed! 

7. Villa Borghese 

Head to Rome’s largest park for some R&R and escape the busy city.  This park has plenty of walking routes but if you prefer, pick up some Italian antipasti and have a picnic!  Right in the middle of the park, you’ll find the Galleria Borghese, which is worth visiting (and it’s free on the first Sunday of the month) because it features some of the best-known Renaissance art pieces.  

8. Appian Way 

This historic road is the link between Rome and Brindisi, built using mortar and stone.  Much of this road is in good condition today – and it is a tourist attraction that is also the perfect opportunity to enjoy the beautiful countryside.  Favoured by walkers, joggers and cyclists, it also leads to the Parco Regionale Appia Antica.  Along the route, note the scenery which is dotted by ancient ruins, catacombs and stone towers that date back to the 12th century. 

9. Trastevere 

This pretty neighbourhood features old cobblestones. Situated to the west of the Tiber, you’ll get to see generous piazzas which come alive at night.  Cross over the Ponte Sisto bridge and you’ll find smaller piazzas with a backdrop of Aurelian walls.  There are also basilicas and bell towers to admire.  Head to the botanical gardens where you can walk around it during the day gawping at the flora and fauna.  

10. Campo de Fiori 

Who can resist a farmers’ market and this one is spectacular.  While it’s free to roam around, you might be tempted to part with your money.  Located before the Ponte Sisto bridge, not far from the Piazza Novana and in Trastevere, you’ll find this farmers’ market which sells fresh produce, flowers and even some little artisan products – do haggle though, the sellers are used to bargain-hunters! 

Final Words 

If you want to send a group of students or learners to Rome on an Erasmus+ or Turing Scheme work or study placement, then why not get in touch with our team by clicking here?  We also organise these types of trips to almost every European destination imaginable – even further if your students are British!  So don’t delay, talk to us today!