Ah, Rome—the Eternal City of emperors, gladiators, and pasta. Many assume a trip here requires a royal budget, but for savvy backpackers and frugal travellers, Rome is a goldmine of affordable adventure. Getting to the Eternal City from the US is more affordable than ever. For example, we found round-trip flights on Norse Atlantic Airways from New York (JFK) to Rome (FCO) for just $317 (flying Sep 15-23)—a great deal when similar flights can cost between $510 and $770. This 3-day guide is designed to help you travel more and spend less.
🏛️ Day 1: The Glory of Ancient Rome
✅ Must-Do:
- Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill – The most cost-effective way to see these is with a single combination ticket booked online in advance. This will be your biggest expense, so get the most out of it!
- Capitoline Hill – After the Forum, walk up the adjacent Capitoline Hill for a stunning—and completely free—view back over the ruins.
- Piazza Venezia – Marvel at the enormous Altare della Patria (Altar of the Fatherland). You can't miss it, and it costs nothing to view from the piazza.
🍕 Frugal Food Tip: Avoid the tourist traps right by the Colosseum. Walk a few blocks away to find authentic spots. For a super cheap lunch, grab some "pizza al taglio" (pizza by the slice), which is sold by weight.
⛪️ Day 2: The Vatican & Bohemian Trastevere
✅ Must-Do:
- St. Peter's Square & Basilica – Entry to both the square and the basilica is FREE. Go early to beat the crowds and be sure to dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered).
- The Backpacker's Choice: Skip the Museums – The Vatican Museums are incredible but pricey. To keep your budget intact, skip the ticket and admire the free sights. You can always use the money saved for more pizza!
- Wander Through Trastevere – Cross the Tiber river into Rome's most charming neighborhood. Getting lost in its labyrinth of cobblestone streets is a perfect free activity.
🏨 Accommodation Tip: To find cheap places to stay, look for hostels and guesthouses in neighborhoods like Trastevere, Monti, or Prati (near the Vatican). You can find great deals on Booking.com if you book in advance.
🥂 Cheap Dinner Tip: Trastevere is famous for "aperitivo." From around 6-8 PM, buy a single drink for €8-€10 and get access to a free buffet of snacks, which can easily serve as a light, cheap dinner.
⛲️ Day 3: Fountains, Piazzas & Parks
✅ Must-Do:
- Spanish Steps & Trevi Fountain – See two of Rome's most iconic landmarks for free. Go early in the morning to experience them without the massive crowds. Don't forget to toss a coin in the Trevi!
- The Pantheon – Step inside this architectural marvel of ancient Rome. Entry is free, and seeing the oculus open to the sky is a must.
- Piazza Navona – Admire Bernini's spectacular Fountain of the Four Rivers in the center of this beautiful piazza.
- Relax in Borghese Gardens – Escape the city bustle in this huge, beautiful park. A perfect spot for a frugal picnic lunch.
💧 Backpacker Pro Tip: Don't buy bottled water! Rome is dotted with public drinking fountains called "nasoni" that provide fresh, cold, and safe water for free. Bring a reusable bottle and fill up all day to save money.
💼 What to Pack for a Rome Backpacking Trip
- Extremely comfortable walking shoes – This is non-negotiable. You will walk miles every day.
- A reusable water bottle to use at the nasoni.
- A scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders for entering churches.
- A portable power bank for your phone.
📌 Final Frugal Tips for Rome
- Free Museum Sunday: If your trip lines up, state-run museums and sites are free on the first Sunday of the month. Expect huge crowds.
- Eat Smart: The cheapest food is found away from the main squares. Look for "trattorias" with handwritten menus.
- House Wine: Ordering the "vino della casa" (house wine) is much cheaper than ordering a specific bottle and is usually very good.
✨ Rome proves that the best things in life—and travel—can be (mostly) free. From ancient wonders to breathtaking art, the city's greatest treasures are often just a walk away.