Free Things to Do in Italy

Italy is a beautiful country with so much to offer. There are many things to do in Italy that can be done for free or on the cheap. So why not have a look at the best options for sightseeing and other activities that you can enjoy while exploring Italy without breaking your budget?

Cross the Rialto Bridge in Venice

One of the most famous landmarks of Venice, the Rialto Bridge is a must-see when visiting this amazing city. This location is among the best places to snap an Instagram-worthy photo on your tour around Venice, or simply enjoy sitting and watching people go by.  And the best part is that you can explore the oldest of the bridges arching over the Grand Canal absolutely free of charge!

Explore the Pantheon in Rome

You’ve definitely heard and have probably seen thousands of pictures of the magnificent Pantheon in Rome. Dominating Piazza della Rotonda, the building was completed in 27 BC as a temple to all of the gods of Ancient Rome. But time is ruthless and nothing stays the same, so the Pantheon has been Christianized over time (another good reason for Christians to visit!). The building quickly became one of the most important sites in Imperial Rome and today is still one of the most beloved attractions of the Eternal City. And you don’t have to pay a cent to enter this must-see. It’s a church, would be a blasphemy to take money for visiting it.

The same is true for Vatican’s treasure, St. Peter’s Basilica, you are welcome to explore it free of charge, although be prepared to spend quite a long time in line.

Visit A Museum for Free

Stunning Italy is home to some of the best museums in the world. It will never be short of visitors and it seems like there is little point in allowing a free entrance to the crème de la crème of Italy’s sights. And yet, let us introduce you to Domenica al Museo or free museums Sunday in Italy!

A few days every year (every first Sunday of the month from October to March) are dedicated to culture and education in the form of some amazing free museums! The list of the venues that participate differs annually, so it’s better to check what’s on the table before your trip, but even the museums that don’t offer a free entrance usually reduce the ticket fee significantly.

Walk Around San Lorenzo Market in Florence

Technically, walking around the market is totally free, but resisting the urge to bring a souvenir or two is rather challenging at San Lorenzo Market. There are over 70 shops and vendors in the market, selling pretty much everything: from clothing, handbags to fresh local food from the nearby farms.

And make sure to visit a very interesting shop offering amazing artisanal jewelers. A lot of the work on display is made out of recycled materials from previous projects, and what’s a better way to show your love for sustainability than a handmade necklace or earrings? Of course, we are keeping to the free things, but browsing costs nothing, right?

Admire the Statues at Monumental Cemetery in Milan

Every travel enthusiast knows that ancient cemeteries make great sights to explore. And although Milan’s Monumental Cemetery is not usually part of the pre-assembled private tours to Italy, it’s an attraction that is worth a few hours of your time.

Crowded with monuments from centuries past, this oasis of calm has been declared a national monument for its artistic value. The tombs are decorated with statues that depict allegorical scenes or real-life events intended to celebrate noblemen’s lives or commemorate their death. You can easily lose a few hours, admiring the exquisite artworks!

One more interesting thing about it: it’s possible to book a free guided tour around this beautiful place, but make sure to do it in advance.

As you can see, not all amazing things in Italy cost greatly. Actually, if you are planning smart and do lots of research, are ok with stays in 4-star hotels, and can settle for traveling by train instead of a plane (you can find all you need to know about the Italian railway on rail.ninja) – your vacation won’t cost you a small fortune. But if you don’t have much time or desire to organize everything yourself, it’s better to ask a travel specialist to help you build a holiday of your dreams.

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