Rome on a Shoestring Budget Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Colosseum & Roman Forum
    15 minutes (1.5 miles) from Termini Station

    Explore the iconic Colosseum, imagining gladiators fighting in the arena. Then, wander around the ancient Roman Forum ruins, learning about Roman Empire history.

  2. Day 2: Vatican City & St. Peter's Basilica
    30 minutes (3.5 miles) from Colosseum

    Avoid admission fees by joining the free tour of Vatican City. Admire the ancient art, architecture, and history, and end the tour at St. Peter's Basilica.

  3. Day 3: Piazza Navona & Pantheon
    30 minutes (2.3 miles) from Vatican City

    Stroll around the elegant Piazza Navona, and experience the baroque style fountains. Then, head to the towering Pantheon, and enjoy the natural light illuminating the interior.

  4. Day 4: Trastevere & Gianicolo Hill
    20 minutes (1.5 miles) from Piazza Navona

    Discover the charming Trastevere neighborhood with its narrow alleys and picturesque churches. Then, take a break at the Gianicolo Hill for the beautiful panoramic view of Rome.

  5. Day 5: Villa Borghese & Spanish Steps
    20 minutes (1.8 miles) from Trastevere

    Visit the splendid Villa Borghese art gallery with masterpieces such as Bernini sculptures, Botticelli paintings, and Caravaggio's Judith Beheading Holofernes. End the day at the iconic Spanish Steps, a popular meeting spot for tourists and locals.

  6. Day 6: San Giovanni & Basilica di San Clemente
    25 minutes (2.6 miles) from Villa Borghese

    Experience the local vibe at the lively San Giovanni neighborhood with street markets, food vendors, and bars. Then, head to the Basilica di San Clemente, a hidden gem with 3 underground levels dating back to the 4th century orthodox church.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Colosseum & Roman Forum (2-3 hours, free)
  • Vatican City & St. Peter's Basilica (2-3 hours, free)
  • Piazza Navona & Pantheon (1-2 hours, free)
  • Trastevere & Gianicolo Hill (2-3 hours, free)
  • Villa Borghese & Spanish Steps (2-3 hours, €25 admission fee to Villa Borghese)
  • San Giovanni & Basilica di San Clemente (2-3 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: €25

Useful Tips

With more time, consider visiting the Trevi Fountain and the Borghese Gallery. For a cheaper alternative to Villa Borghese, visit Galleria Nazionale d'Arte Moderna e Contemporanea with modern art exhibitions. For a more expensive option, try a food tour in Testaccio. With less time, skip Villa Borghese and/or Basilica di San Clemente.

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