Photo by Marialaura Gionfriddo on Unsplash
“A fool is one who admires other cities without visiting Rome.”
-Francesco Petrarca, Italian Poet
As I arrive in Rome at night on a warm, breezy late May night in 2019 , I am reminded of Mission Impossible III as I take an Uber, and admire the silhouette of the St. Peter’s Basilica from the car window.
Turns out my hostel, Colors, is only about a 10 minute walk from Vatican City. How cool is that?
Though I don’t see the Vatican yet when I arrive - it’s too dark -, I know when the sunlight shines the next day that I’ll be wowed at what I witness whilst taking my first steps across Rome.
What’s up, gentlemen?
Today, we’re going to be delving into visiting Rome on a budget.
As many of you might already know, Rome is the eternal city. In other words, while the empires that have ruled it have long since fallen, the city still remains.
We’ll go into detail about what exactly you can do and see in this iconic municipality without breaking your wallet, and in the meantime, feel free to like and comment on our social media channels, consisting of Facebook, Twitter / X, and Instagram, to get weekly, actionable budget travel hacks that you can immediately implement in your own adventures - or plans thereof.
Without further ado, here are some of the best places to visit in Rome, on a budget, in order to have the adventure of a lifetime. If you trust me at all, I’ve been to these places myself, so I can vouch for them:
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
1. Coin Toss Triumph: Conquering Rome's Trevi Fountain Magic
Me standing in front of the Trevi Fountain in Rome, Italy in May, 2019.
I was lucky enough to have made some friends in Barcelona on my backpacking trip in 2019 so that when we got to Rome, I was able to reconnect with them on WhatsApp and do some fun stuff with them.
One of these entertaining activities included visiting The Trevi Fountain, a famous Roman landmark built in 1732, and located in one of the most ancient areas of the city: The Trevi District.
I can distinctly remember the emerald waters of the fountain pool, as well as the grand, stately, and incredibly intricate architecture and statues.
Though perhaps not a sight that you’ll visit for too long as there’s not all that much to do aside from tossing coins into and admiring as well as taking photos of the fountain - or perhaps sketching it if you’re into art -, it is DEFINITELY a sight you must visit as it is a gorgeous piece of sculpture, design, art, and history.
Also, the Trevi District itself - which dates back to the 1st century A.D. - is 100% worth a visit, since you’ll not only be walking atop of a 1000+ year old aqueduct beneath the pavement; also visiting lots of quaint boutique and coffee shops.
Back to the fountain, though, one thing you’ll notice is that, if you visit during the daytime, as with most touristy attractions, there are going to be LOTS of people there.
That doesn’t mean you don’t want to visit during the afternoon as the fountain is still gorgeous; it does mean that if you do go during the busy times of the day, you’ll have to beware of pickpockets, meaning keeping your valuables in a fanny pack and guarding it with your hand as well as making sure your daypack isn’t being picked through.
If you’re bringing photography gear along with you, be especially careful with those as lenses and camera equipment are obviously expensive; you wouldn’t want them to get stolen.
If you do however want to beat the crowds, which isn’t always entirely possible in cities like Rome, I recommend you arrive early in the morning or late at night.
Not only will you have more space to appreciate the fountain’s grandeur, but you'll also have better photo opportunities, since - without the throngs of tourists - you’ll be able to get up close and take pictures of all the statues.
From the central figure of Oceanus to the allegorical statues representing abundance and fertility, each element tells a story of myth and legend.
Of course, as per tradition, you’ll want to toss a coin over your shoulder into the fountain. According to legend, doing so ensures your return to Rome - which is a good thing.
And more importantly, you’ll want to take a moment to soak in the ambiance of the fountain, including the intricately carved statues, the sound of rushing water, and the warm glow of the surrounding lights. It's a sensory experience like no other, and a surprisingly quiet place to meditate - when it's not crowded.
Speaking of avoiding crowds, as I mentioned earlier, you can do so if you visit at night.
That said, if you visit the fountain at sunset, or in the hours leading up to it, you’ll see one of the most gorgeous sights of your life, since the fountain gets lit up by soft lights - including the surrounding street lamps of the Trevi District -, and the pink, purple, orange, and light blue hues of the sky shimmer onto the fountain stone, including the sculptures, and architecture.
This illumination allows the fountain to take on a whole new level of beauty, as the sun sets and the night comes alive with romance and enchantment.
Remember, the Trevi Fountain isn't just a sight to see – it's an experience to cherish. Take your time, soak it all in, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
2. Gladiator's Glory: Conquering Rome’s Iconic Colosseum
I’ll never forget my trip to the Colosseum.
I woke up early that morning, and decided to walk from my hostel over to the attraction.
Upon passing the Roman Forum - which we’ll get to next -, which is located right in front of the Colosseum, and seeing the latter, I knew I was in for a treat.
Me passing by the Roman Forum on my way to the Colosseum.
My first views of the Colosseum.
Thankfully I booked tickets in advance, so I didn’t have to wait in line for more than a few minutes. By the way, you can save money by booking a ticket for the Colosseum and Roman Forum in one, which you might as well do since they’re literally located a one minute walk from one another - so you can just visit one right after the other, which is what I did.
Anyways, getting to the Colosseum early is another way to bypass lines, since even if you book tickets in advance, you’re still susceptible to long wait times if the crowds are large.
Speaking of large crowds, the Colosseum is DEFINITELY a place where you want to be very careful with your valuables, as pickpockets abound here.
Aside from that, you should have a great time here, as you’ll be visiting the world’s largest and oldest amphitheater, built between 72-80 AD.
You can visit on your own, like I did, or take a guided tour, many of which allow you to skype lineups. The Colosseum website even has an option for a video guided tour, and / or a tour with an archaeologist.
The cool thing about taking one of the guided tours is that they give you more insight into the history and significance of the Colosseum, things like facts and stories about the gladiatorial games, the architecture, and the people who once filled these ancient walls.
Still, if like me you choose to save a bit of money and instead go on your own, there are tons of plaques with history / explanations on them throughout the Colosseum, so you’ll still be able to get your money’s worth of history lessons.
As you can imagine, the impressiveness of the Colosseum comes from its size, grandeur, and ancient appearance. You’ll likely stand in awe as you gaze upon the massive stone arches and towering walls of this place, imagine the roar of the crowds and the clash of gladiatorial swords as you explore the arena where combatants once battled it out for glory - as seen in Ridley’s Scott’s Gladiator (2000).
While I can only speak for visiting the above ground arena / floors of the Colosseum, since I bought a non-guided ticket, you can apparently opt for a guided tour that includes access to the underground chambers beneath the Colosseum.
These tours allow you to descend into the subterranean passageways where gladiators once prepared for combat. You can then climb to the upper tiers for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
You can also check out the exhibit and displays within the Colosseum, which showcase artifacts and reconstructions that offer insights into ancient Roman life and culture. From weapons and armor to reconstructions of gladiatorial combat, these exhibits bring the history of the Colosseum and Rome to life.
As you might imagine, there are tons of incredible photo and drawing opportunities here, as you capture the breathtaking views of the Colosseum from the outside.
Whether you're taking photos from the nearby Roman Forum or the Palatine Hill atop the Roman Forum, you'll want to capture the iconic silhouette of this ancient amphitheater against the backdrop of modern Rome.
Finally, take a moment to reflect on the significance of the Colosseum as you stand in its shadow. From its role as a symbol of Roman power and engineering prowess to its enduring legacy as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Colosseum stands as a testament to the ingenuity and ambition of Ancient Rome.
And don’t freak out if - when you’re visiting the arena - you see a bunch of small lizards popping up out of the sand. I saw them as well; they’re normal. Just don’t step on any of them.
Tiny gecko beneath my feet at the Colosseum.
Views of the Colosseum from the Roman Forum.
Now onto the Colosseum’s counterpart…
3. Echoes of Empire: Conquer the Majesty of the Roman Forum
Following my visit to the Colosseum, I use my Colosseum / Roman Forum tour ticket to enter the latter. And boy am I astounded - in a GREAT way.
Gentlemen, you know that feeling of disappointment that comes from setting your expectations so high for an experience, that by the time it actually comes to fruition, nothing can live up to it?
Well that feeling does not exist when you visit the Roman Forum.
Much like with Pompeii, walking through the Roman Forum is not unlike stepping into a time machine. You literally feel like you’ve been transported into Ancient Roman times, with the gargantuan remnants of the public square and buildings surrounding you - and sometimes towering over you - at every turn.
If you’ve ever seen the Roman Forum depicted in movies, it’s not much less epic in real life. It really is that cool.
Now before diving into the ruins, you’ll want to take a moment to orient yourself at one of the overlooks - so you can see the whole museum from above. From up here, you can get a bird's-eye view of the sprawling site and plan your exploration route, since it’s really up to you what direction you’ll want to take when visiting the square’s ruins - unless you take a guided tour.
Speaking of guided tours, it’s not a bad idea to consider joining one led by an expert archaeologist or historian, as they provide invaluable insights into the history and significance of the Forum, allowing you to appreciate the ruins in a deeper context.
While I myself did not take a guided tour and still had a great time, it’s up to you whether or not you feel like it’s worth the investment. If you really like history and love learning about it, then a guide might be worth the price of admission for you.
Now, as you wander through the ancient streets and squares of the Forum, taking in iconic landmarks such as the Temple of Saturn (pictured above), the Arch of Titus, and the Temple of Vesta, you’ll realize that all of these structures tell a story of ancient Roman life and power, dating back to the 7th century B.C.
Take some time to cherish these architectural wonders, from the intricate carvings on the temples to the size and grandeur of the triumphal arches. Pay close attention to the details, as they provide clues to the craftsmanship and engineering skills of the ancient Romans.
As you explore the Forum, you probably won’t be able to help but try to imagine what life was like for people in Ancient Rome. People just as alive and present or attuned to their surroundings and culture as you or I or today.
Think of how crowded the bustling marketplaces were, how political debates were held back then, and the grand, religious ceremonies unfolding amidst the ruins.
Let your imagination run wild as you put yourself in the rich history of the site.
Another, incredibly must-see attraction located adjacent to the Forum is the nearby Palatine Hill, where the emperors of Rome once resided in opulent palaces. Though it has a separate entrance from the Forum, it’s located in the same archaeological region as the former.
You can head to the top of this hill to see sweeping views of the Forum below, as well as to explore the ruins of ancient imperial residences.
Price of tickets to Palatine Hill is about €18, and usually includes admission to the Colosseum and Forum as well.
Anyways, back to the subject at hand, you definitely won’t want to forget to bring your camera or smartphone to capture the beauty and history of the Forum. Whether you're snapping photos of ancient ruins or panoramic views of Rome, you'll want to preserve the memories here, as I did - which you can see from all the photos I’ve included.
Take a moment to reflect on the significance of this square as you stand amidst its ancient ruins. Consider the legacy of Ancient Rome and the impact it has had on Western civilization, and then contemplate the passage of time that has gotten us from 700 B.C. to where we are now, almost three millenia later.
Crazy to think about… and visiting the Roman Forum is an incredible journey that you cannot miss out on. Take your time, soak in the rich history of these incredible monuments, and let the spirit of the past transport you to another era - a bygone one.
Speaking of bygone eras, let’s delve into…
4. Divine Discovery: Dominating the Sanctity of Vatican City
As I enter the walls of Vatican City, a city-state within Rome that most of you know is considered to be the world HQ of the catholic church, I feel like I’m entering a different country altogether.
Walls of the Vatican.
While getting tickets to a guided tour of this place was a pain in the ass - don’t make the mistake that I did and spend an hour arguing with the company that I had to argue with… I wish I could remember their names, and I don’t… anyways -, the actual tour was exceptional - and the tour guide was an absolute mensch; one of the nicest guys I’ve ever met.
Many of you might’ve seen the Vatican in such movies as Angels and Demons (2009), Mission Impossible III (2006), & John Wick Chapter 2 (2017), and it’s even better than that in person.
I know… Rome has a habit of surpassing expectations when you actually visit it. No wonder it’s called the Eternal City!
Anyways, you obviously want to book tickets to Vatican City in advance; arrive as early as possible - depending on your tour times - to beat the crowds and / or to not miss your tour guide - like I almost did.
While you can visit the Vatican on your own, without a tour guide, I highly recommend you go with one, since their knowledge of the grounds as well as the history of each and every art piece is 100% worth the additional cost for the price of admission.
You’re already in Rome, so you might as well get the most out of it, and splurge a little bit on the stuff that matters, with the Vatican being at the forefront of that list.
Your tour guide will likely spend a while taking you through the Vatican Museums - as mine did -, which house one of the most extensive art collections in the world.
Museum highlights include the Raphael Rooms, the Gallery of Maps, and the Sistine Chapel, where you can admire Michelangelo's famous and insanely intricate ceiling frescoes, including the iconic depiction of the Creation of Adam.
Speaking of the Sistine Chapel, you’re going to want to take some time to admire and photograph it, as it’s one of the most famous artistic masterpieces in history.
Whether you choose to visit on your own or go with a group tour, you’ll likely end your exploration of Vatican City with a visit to St. Peter's Basilica, the largest church in the world and a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Marvel at its stunning dome, intricate mosaics, and awe-inspiring artwork, including Michelangelo's Pietà - a sculpture made between 1498-1499 A.D.
For panoramic, bird’s eye views of Vatican City and Rome, you’ll want to climb to the top of St. Peter's dome. The ascent can be challenging - if you’re a young guy like myself, it shouldn’t be a problem… unless you’re scared of heights and steep, few hundred year-old stairwells -, and the views from the top are well worth the effort. Just check out some of my photos below!
If you happen to be checking out the Vatican City on a Wednesday, and if the pope is in Rome on that day, you might very well get a glimpse of him, so consider attending a papal audience in St. Peter's Square. This is a unique opportunity to see the Pope in person and receive his blessing.
And the best part? It’s completely FREE! Don’t fall for the scammy tour guides trying to sell you $50+ tickets to the Papal Audience - you don’t have to pay a cent.
When you’re done all that, or perhaps even earlier, you might want to visit the Vatican Gardens, which cover more than half of Vatican City's territory. These are especially useful to see with a guided tour, which provides insights into the history, architecture, and flora of this peaceful oasis.
And of course, you’ll be in awe when - at the end of your journey through the Vatican -, you’ll find yourself standing in Saint Peter’s Square, a gigantic piazza first opened in 1667, and located directly in front of and beneath St. Peter’s Basilica.
The towering columns - of which there are 284 total - supporting the colonnade surrounding the entire plaza are alone worth the price of admission, as you’ll be staring up in awe at them, admiring their gargantuan size, and taking photos like there’s no tomorrow. I know that’s what I did.
St. Peter’s Square.
Now remember to dress modestly when visiting Vatican City, especially when entering St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums. This means covering your shoulders and knees, and avoiding clothing with offensive slogans or graphics.
Vatican City can also be overwhelming due to its size and popularity, so it's essential to plan your visit in advance. Consider purchasing skip-the-line tickets to avoid long queues, and as I mentioned before, book guided tours for a more in-depth experience.
Finally, take a moment to reflect on the spiritual significance of Vatican City as you explore its sacred sites and marvel at its artistic treasures. Despite the controversial and disturbing history of the catholic church - especially in the modern age - there is simply no missing going to the Vatican when you’re in Rome, be it as a common tourist, like myself, or as an admirer of art and history.
Either way, Vatican City is sure to leave a lasting impression on you, as it is an unforgettable experience that combines spirituality, art, and history in a truly unique, historic, gargantuan, and regal setting.
Take your time to explore the city’s artistic treasures, soak in its Renaissance atmosphere, and appreciate the rich cultural heritage of this remarkable city-state.
Next, we’ll cover another, perhaps not quite as gargantuan, yet still iconic landmark known as…
5. Temple Trek: Unraveling the Secrets of Rome's Pantheon
Most of you have probably heard of or seen The Pantheon, an iconic former Roman temple, first opened in 125 AD - so it’s nearing 2000 years of age!
It’s pretty cool how ordinary it looks when you walk by it in Rome. It kind of just stands there on the street, alongside some apartment buildings, shops, cafes, and restaurants.
It’s obviously huge. Just that it’s not isolated like it probably once was in its past, and it stands proudly amidst the comparatively modern buildings and city streets surrounding it.
Anyways, this former Ancient Roman temple is a masterpiece of engineering and one of the best-preserved historic buildings in the world. You’re going to be in awe of its facade.
The monolithic columns - made from Egyptian granite - are to die for, and are in EXTREMELY good condition, considering how old the structure is.
And yes, you can and WILL want to go inside. Entry is free if you’re under 18 - with proof - , €3 if you’re between the ages of 18 - 25, and €5 if you’re 25 and older. So the tickets are quite cheap.
Pantheon entrance.
When you step inside the Pantheon's massive rotunda - which is a round room with a dome -, prepare yourself to be awestruck by its size and majesty.
The dome, with its famous oculus (or opening) at the top, is a miracle of ancient engineering, and it remains the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world.
You’ll obviously want to walk around and explore the interior of the Pantheon since it’s filled with beautiful artistic, sculptural, and architectural details, including the marble floors, the massive Corinthian columns that support the dome, and the beautifully coffered ceiling.
You’ll also want to check out the tombs inside the Pantheon, which serves as the final resting place for several notable, historic figures, including the artist Raphael and the Italian kings Vittorio Emanuele II and Umberto I.
You’ll also want to stand beneath the Pantheon's oculus and watch as sunlight streams through the opening, casting ever-changing patterns of light and shadow on the interior walls.
Whilst inside, reflect on the history of the Pantheon and its significance in Roman history and culture. Think about it… 2000 years old this building is. Originally built as a temple to all the gods of Ancient Rome, it later served as a Christian church and remains in use as a place of worship to this day.
If you're visiting the Pantheon during a religious service, consider attending Mass to experience the spiritual atmosphere of this historic site. Whether you're a devout Catholic or simply curious about the religious traditions of Rome, attending Mass at the Pantheon can be a deeply moving experience.
Don't forget to bring your camera or smartphone to this place. It’s DEFINITELY worth taking some photos of, as you can see from the pics I took when I was there.
Finally, take a moment to contemplate the legacy of the Pantheon and its enduring impact on modern architecture, engineering, and culture. From its miraculous dome to its timeless beauty, the Pantheon continues to inspire awe and admiration.
After visiting the temple, you can explore the beautiful surrounding neighborhood, which is actually quite close to Trevi Fountain. Wander through the narrow streets of the historic center, visit nearby attractions such as Piazza Navona and the aforementioned fountain, and stop for a coffee or gelato at one of the charming cafes or gelaterias nearby.
Much like with the Colosseum and Roman Forum, visiting the Pantheon is a journey back in time to Ancient Rome, where you can marvel at the ingenuity of its builders and experience the grandeur of one of the world's most iconic monuments.
Take your time, soak in the history, and let the spirit of the past transport you to another era.
6. Eternal Elevation: Conquering Rome's Iconic Spanish Climb
Photo by Neil Cartwright on Unsplash
And finally, make sure to visit the iconic, 300 year old Spanish steps to get stunning views of the city and its architecture.
To beat the crowds, consider visiting the steps, built between 1723-1725, early in the morning or later in the evening. You can still visit during the day, just that there will naturally be way more tourists there.
As you approach the Spanish Steps, take a moment to admire the Baroque design and architecture, since the steps are adorned with terracotta pots of colourful flowers, creating a stunning backdrop against the background of Rome.
Ascend the 135 steps of the Spanish Climb, rewarding yourself with panoramic vistas of Rome's rooftops, domes, and historic landmarks once you get to the top.
Once you've reached the top of the Spanish Steps, find a spot to sit and relax while soaking in the lively atmosphere. The steps are a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike, making it the perfect spot for people-watching and enjoying the vibrant energy of Rome.
Don't forget to bring your camera!
Also at the top of the Spanish Steps, you'll find the Church of Trinità dei Monti, a beautiful 522 year old Renaissance church with a stunning facade and interior. Take some time to visit this historic temple and admire its impressive artwork and frescoes. Tickets are between €5 - €15, depending on what sort of ticket you invest in.
Just remember to dress appropriately as this is a place of worship!
After visiting the Spanish Steps, take some time to explore the surrounding area known as the Piazza di Spagna. Wander through the narrow streets lined with designer boutiques, art galleries, and charming cafes, or stroll through the nearby Villa Borghese Gardens for a tranquil escape from the city.
And if you’re a history buff and / or literature enthusiast, you DEFINITELY won't want to skip out on visiting the Keats-Shelley House, located right at the foot of the Spanish Steps.
This museum, which is dedicated to the lives and works of the Romantic poets John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley, offers a fascinating glimpse into their time in Rome.
Anyways, visiting the Spanish Steps and its surrounding attractions is a quintessential Roman experience that’s not only free; it offers a perfect blend of beauty, history, and culture. Take your time to soak in the sun atop this outdoor staircase, and let the charm of its flowers and history enchant you.
Alright, gentlemen, that’s it for this blog post on Rome.
We’ll be back with more on this city as - like with a lot of popular tourist locations and attractions - there’s way too much to cover in a single article.
If you found this blog post helpful, then once again, we urge you to subscribe to our Facebook, Twitter / X, and Instagram channels in order to get instant updates and weekly, practical tips for saving money whilst backpacking and traveling the globe.
We’ll help you see the world on a budget, without sacrificing your money or the fun experiences and beauty associated with some of the most stunning locations on the planet.
What actionable backpacking / world traveling tips and tricks do you want us to cover in our next blog post? Comment down below or on our aforementioned SM channels and let us know!
Until next time, stay safe, strong, and resilient out there; have a great week!