Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
People-Watching on the Piazzas
Hanging out and enjoying the spectacle on Rome's operatic piazzas is a signature Roman
experience. Top people-watching spots include Piazza Navona (
Click here
), Campo de'
Fiori (
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), scene of a vibrant morning market, and the monumental Piazza del
Popolo (
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).
Exploring the Parks
It doesn't cost a thing to enjoy Rome's parks. The most famous is Villa Borghese (
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here
) but you'll also find pockets of greenery at Villa Torlonia (
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) and Villa Ce-
limontana (
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). Rising behind Trastevere, the Gianicolo Hill (
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) offers
superb rooftop views - yours for nothing more than the effort it takes to walk there.
Free (or Nearly Free) Food & Drink
Aperitivo
A good way to snag a meal for the price of a drink is to have an
aperitivo
. Pay for your
drink (usually around €8) and feast on pastas, snacks, rice salads and other nibbles from
the buffet spread.
Drinking Fountains
To slake your thirst on free natural spring water, fill up at one of the many drinking foun-
tains across town. The water is refreshingly cool and perfectly safe to drink.
Free Festivals & Events
May Day Concert
This massive free concert, held every 1 May on Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano, at-
tracts hundreds of thousands of fans and Italy's top music acts.
Public Holidays
Rome's public holidays and festivals are a great way of experiencing the city. Summer is a
good time with many free events, but there's action year-round: February means Carne-
vale, while Rome celebrates its birthday, the Natale di Roma, on 21 April with fireworks
and historical processions.
