Rome is a city that has a lot to offer to its visitors. From ancient ruins, stunning architecture, and art to delicious food and wine, there is something for everyone in this city. Unfortunately, Rome can be an expensive destination, and if you’re on a budget, it can be challenging to enjoy everything the city has to offer. However, with a little planning, you can have a cheap Rome break without missing out on any of the city’s highlights.
In this ultimate guide to cheap Rome breaks, we have put together some practical tips and tricks to help you make the most of your time in this beautiful city without breaking the bank.
Getting to Rome
The best time to travel to Rome on a budget is during the low season (November-February). Flights tend to be cheaper, and there are fewer crowds. However, if you can only travel during the high season (May-September), then try to book your flight a few months in advance to get the best deal.
There are several budget airlines that fly to Rome from major European cities, including Ryanair and EasyJet. If you’re coming from further afield, consider flying with a more substantial airline and booking your ticket well in advance.
Accommodation in Rome
Accommodation in Rome can be expensive, especially if you’re looking for centrally located hotels. To save money, consider staying in a hostel or a budget hotel outside the city center. Hostels can be found for as low as €15 per night, while basic hotels can be found for less than €50 per night.
If you’re planning on staying in Rome for an extended period, consider renting an apartment. Airbnb is a great option, and you can find affordable apartments in the city center for as low as €50 per night.
Getting around Rome
Rome has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, trams, and a metro system. The metro system is cheap and efficient, with a single ticket costing €1.50. You can also buy a 24-hour ticket for €7 or a 72-hour ticket for €18.
Walking is also an excellent way to explore Rome, and many of the city’s attractions are within walking distance of each other. Biking is another option, and you can rent a bike for around €4-€6 per hour.
Eating and Drinking in Rome
Food is an essential part of Italian culture, and Rome has some of Italy’s best food on offer. However, eating and drinking in Rome can be expensive if you’re not careful. To save money, avoid eating near major tourist sites, as the prices tend to be higher.
Look for trattorias and osterias in residential areas, as these restaurants are often family-run and offer excellent local food at reasonable prices. Consider ordering a pizza or pasta for lunch, as these are often cheaper than other dishes.
When it comes to drinking, avoid ordering a drink with your meal, as this can add up quickly. Instead, visit a local bar or enoteca and order a glass of wine or a spritz. You can also buy wine and snacks from a local supermarket and have a picnic in one of Rome’s many beautiful parks.
Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Rome
1. The Colosseum: The Colosseum is one of Rome’s most iconic sights and is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. You can buy a combined ticket that includes entry to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Palatine Hill for €16.
2. The Roman Forum: The Roman Forum is a fascinating archaeological site where you can wander among the ruins of ancient Rome. Entry to the Roman Forum is included in the combined ticket mentioned above.
3. The Pantheon: The Pantheon is a stunning ancient temple that is one of the best-preserved buildings from ancient Rome. Entry to the Pantheon is free.
4. The Vatican Museums: The Vatican Museums are home to some of the world’s most famous art and are a must-see for art lovers. The entry fee is €17, but you can avoid the crowds by visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
5. St. Peter’s Basilica: St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the world’s largest churches and is located in the Vatican City. Entry to the basilica is free, but there can be long lines, so arrive early.
6. The Trevi Fountain: The Trevi Fountain is a stunning Baroque fountain that is a popular spot for tourists to toss a coin for good luck. Entry to the fountain is free.
7. The Spanish Steps: The Spanish Steps are a beautiful staircase in the heart of Rome and are a great spot to take in the city’s views. Entry to the Spanish Steps is free.
8. Villa Borghese: Villa Borghese is a beautiful park in central Rome that is home to several museums, a lake, and stunning gardens. Entry to the park is free, while entry to the museums varies.
9. Piazza Navona: Piazza Navona is a beautiful square in Rome that is surrounded by Baroque buildings and is home to several fountains. Entry to the square is free.
10. Castel Sant’Angelo: Castel Sant’Angelo is a fortress located in the Vatican City that offers stunning views of Rome. Entry to the fortress is €10.
FAQs
Q. How much money do I need to budget for a trip to Rome?
A. The amount of money you need depends on the length of your trip and your travel style. However, you can budget around €50-€100 per day for accommodation, food, and transportation.
Q. What is the best time to visit Rome?
A. The best time to visit Rome is during the low season (November-February) when the crowds are smaller, and the prices are lower. However, if you want to visit during the high season (May-September), try to book your accommodation and activities in advance to save money.
Q. Is Rome safe?
A. Rome is generally safe, but like any big city, you should take precautions to avoid becoming a victim of pickpocketing or other petty crimes.
Q. What should I wear in Rome?
A. Rome is a stylish city, so avoid wearing too casual clothing. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
Q. Can I visit the Vatican City for free?
A. It’s possible to visit St. Peter’s Basilica for free, but entry to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel requires a ticket.