Cheap and Cheerful: Rome on a Shoestring
Rome, the eternal city, is rich in history, architecture, and culture, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. While it may seem like a rather expensive place to visit, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Rome on a shoestring budget.
From budget-friendly accommodation to affordable food options and free attractions, Rome offers plenty of opportunities to explore the city without breaking the bank. Here’s everything you need to know to visit Cheap and Cheerful: Rome on a Shoestring.
Getting There
When it comes to budget air travel, Rome is well connected with low-cost airlines such as Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air. These airlines often offer flights to Rome for as little as €20 each way, making it easy to travel to Rome on a budget.
Another option to save money on travel is to take the train. The train ride from the airport to the city center takes just over 30 minutes and costs around €8.
Where to Stay
When it comes to affordable accommodation, Rome has plenty of options. From budget hostels to budget hotels, there is something for everyone.
Hostels are the most budget-friendly option, with dorm rooms starting at around €10-€15 per night. If you prefer more privacy, budget hotels offer rooms for as little as €30 per night.
Another option is to stay in an Airbnb apartment. This can be a great option if you are traveling with a group as you can often find affordable apartments that can accommodate several people for as little as €50 per night.
What to Eat
When it comes to food, Rome has plenty of cheap and delicious options. Street food is a great way to try local cuisine without breaking the bank. You can find street food vendors all over the city selling delicious snacks like pizza, arancini, and the classic Roman dish of supplì.
If you’re looking for a sit-down meal, head to a local trattoria or osteria. These traditional Italian restaurants offer simple but delicious dishes at affordable prices, with pasta dishes starting at around €8 and pizzas around €7.
Another budget-friendly option is to grab a slice of pizza from a local pizzeria. You can find pizza by the slice all over the city for as little as €1-€2.
Free Attractions
Rome is home to many incredible attractions, and the good news is that many of them are free to visit. Some of the most popular free attractions in Rome include:
1. The Pantheon – this ancient temple is one of the best-preserved buildings from ancient Rome and is free to visit.
2. Trevi Fountain – tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain is said to bring good luck and is a must-do when visiting Rome.
3. The Spanish Steps – this iconic staircase is a great spot for people-watching and is free to visit.
4. Piazza Navona – this picturesque square is surrounded by stunning Baroque architecture and is free to visit.
5. The Roman Forum – this ancient site was once the center of political and social activity in Rome and is free to visit.
FAQs
Q: What is the best time to visit Rome on a budget?
A: The best time to visit Rome on a budget is during the offseason, from November to March. Accommodation and airfare prices are typically lower during this time.
Q: What is the best way to get around Rome on a budget?
A: The best way to get around Rome on a budget is by using public transport. A single journey on the metro or bus costs just €1.50 and is a great way to explore the city.
Q: What is the dress code for visiting churches in Rome?
A: When visiting churches in Rome, it’s important to dress modestly. This means no shorts or short skirts, and no bare shoulders.
Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Cheap and Cheerful: Rome on a Shoestring
1. The Colosseum – this ancient amphitheater is one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome and is a must-visit for any tourist.
2. The Vatican Museums – home to some of the greatest art collections in the world, the Vatican Museums are a must-visit for art lovers.
3. The Roman Forum – this ancient site was once the center of political and social activity in Rome and is a fascinating place to explore.
4. The Pantheon – this ancient temple is one of the best-preserved buildings from ancient Rome and is a must-visit for history buffs.
5. The Trevi Fountain – tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain is said to bring good luck and is a must-do when visiting Rome.
6. The Spanish Steps – this iconic staircase is a great spot for people-watching and is a must-visit in Rome.
7. Piazza Navona – this picturesque square is surrounded by stunning Baroque architecture and is a great spot for a leisurely stroll.
8. The Castel Sant’Angelo – this historic castle offers sweeping views of the city and is a great spot for photos.
9. Trastevere – this charming neighborhood is home to some of the best restaurants and bars in Rome and is a great spot to explore.
10. The Baths of Caracalla – these ancient Roman baths are incredibly well-preserved and offer a fascinating insight into Roman life.