walking tour of rome free

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Free Walking Tours in Rome

With local guides.

Welcome to Rome, the Eternal City, a place that needs no introduction.

There are 5 types of free tours in Rome, Italy, one of ancient Rome, another of Rome's centre, the Vatican museums, and St. Peter's Basilica, one that covers the Trastevere neighborhood, as well as free food tours.

We let you know about your options, provide schedules, and explain what you will see on each tour.

We are a group of local walking tour guides who lead daily walking tours throughout Rome.

We have also written several self-guided walks as well as audio tours of the city.

And, in the video below, Matteo from Rome Free Tours, one of our local guides, takes you on a virtual walk of Piazza Navona.

OVERVIEW AND SCHEDULE

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You can also book private tours for your group to customize the time and what you'd like to see in Rome! Highly rated What About Tours offers custom private tours.

• 2 pax - 50€ per person
• 3-5 pax - 40€ per person
• 6-10 pax - 35€ per person
• 11-20 pax - 30€ per person
• Children 0-14 years old are free of charge

More Tour Options?  More tours are available in the individual tour sections below.

• Ancient Rome
• Rome City Centre
• Rome Food Tours
• Night + Ghost Tours

This model of free tours is that they are technically free to take and there is no obligation to pay anything at the end.

However, they are popularly understood as pay-what-you-like tours. How much you pay is dependent on you.

You can pay what you think your walk was worth or what you could afford at the tour’s end. 

According to online reviews, most participants contribute between €10 to €20 per adult to the tour guide when they feel the tour was good.

Just about all of the companies have local guides who grew up in Rome or nearby.

We also offer tours throughout Italy including:

ANCIENT ROME FREE WALKING TOURS

These free walking tours cover notable historic sites which, in some cases, date back more than two millennia. 

If you’re interested in learning why Rome is called the Eternal City, these tours will give you plenty of information about how this city became home to one of the most remarkable empires in the history of the world. 

Learn about the emperors who ruled over the Roman Empire and the gladiators who entertained the masses.

Here are a few of the ancient sites you can expect to see on these tours:

• Roman Forum
• Palatine Hill
• Capitoline Hill
• Circus Maximus

You will also see not-so-ancient sights such as Piazza Venezia and the Campidoglio.

This walk is an abridged version of our Ancient Rome audio tour. Listen to a sample of the tour.

There is no schedule (take our tours anytime you wish). We also have an audio tour of Central Rome.

• Purchase this audio tour from our Booking Page  (scroll down to Rome).
• You’ll receive a confirmation email with a .pdf, Google Map link, and audio tour.
• Enjoy the tour(s).

For more information, check out our self-guided tour of the Roman Fori .

The free tours will not include admission to any of the attractions listed above and cover them from viewing platforms. 

You can purchase tickets for them either before or after your free tour.

However, the free tours cover areas not usually covered on the paid tours, including the Imperial Roman fora.

The paid tours, on the other hand, all include tickets to the Colosseum, Forum, and Palatine Hill.

Reservations are required for all tours.

New Rome Free Tour

Discover the history of the Roman Republic and Imperial Rome on this 2-hour free walking tour of the most ancient locations in the city.

This company has an overall rating of 4 ½ out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor, and reviewers suggest that they provide tips to help you get inside popular landmarks quickly, efficiently, and affordably. 

Their team is filled with local guides from Rome, who really know the hidden gems.

You can take this pay-what-you-wish tour every day at 11 am, and they also offer a tour of the city centre at 17:00 (5 pm) on the same day!

Meeting point: Foro Traiano (Trajan's Column) View the calendar above . Reservations are required .

Paid Ancient Rome Tours

If you’re looking for a tour that offers small group sizes, there are several paid tours you can take that you might want to consider.

In contrast to the free tours, all of these tours include admission to the Colosseum, the Forum, and Palatine Hill. 

Ticket prices range from €20-€80 and last for 2-4 hours on average.

Check this list of paid ancient Rome tours to find an outing that fits your itinerary.

FREE CENTRAL ROME TOURS

These free walking tours focus on the centre of Rome, such as the baroque squares and fountains and Renaissance architecture, rather than ancient Rome.

While some of the sites you’ll see are very old, this type of tour is about both helping first-time visitors become more familiar with the city and covering some of the history of Rome.

Join licensed Rome tour guide, Sara from Rome Tour Guide on a walk on and around the Spanish Steps.

If you’re looking for an introductory tour that provides a look at a wide variety of attractions and historical landmarks, central Rome tours are an excellent option.

Here are a few of the sites you can expect to see on these outings:

• Piazza Navona
• Bernini's 'Fountain of the Four Rivers
• The Pantheon
• Trevi Fountain
• Spanish Steps
• Venice Square
• Campo de' Fiori

A few tours even cover Villa Borghese from the outside.

Discover what you can see with our self-guided tour of Central Rome .

To learn more about these locations and get help finding your way around the Eternal City, consider one of the free walking tours listed below.

This company offers a free guided tour of the city centre which covers some of the most notable or historic architecture and the artwork you’ll find throughout Rome.

Their local guides will also point out some hidden gems and share anecdotes.

With an overall rating of 4 ½ out of 5 stars , this is one of the best-reviewed tour services in the entire city, and reviewers indicate that they also provide tips on the best places to eat!

Their 2-hour city centre tour is available daily at 17:00 (5 pm), which means you can enjoy both this outing and their Ancient Rome tour on the same day!

They also offer a Rome at Dusk Tour that has a similar route as the previously mentioned tour but starts at 20:30 (8:30 pm).

Reservations are required.   View the calendar above .

GPS-Led Audio Tour

Before we list the live guide tours, if you are looking to explore on your own in this age of social distancing, then we recommend taking a look at the following resource.

We offer a GPS-led audio tour of Rome’s City Centre researched, written, and recorded by one of our very own tour guides. 

Our tour begins at the Spanish Steps and visits some of Rome’s top sights, including most of the locations listed above in the intro.

Here's a sample.

There is no schedule (take our tours anytime you wish). We also have an audio tour of the Roman Forum.

• Purchase this audio tour from our Booking Page  (scroll down to Rome) ($2.99/download).

TRASTEVERE + THE OLD JEWISH GHETTO

Discover a side of Rome that you might not otherwise visit on a tour of neighbourhoods you usually won’t visit on other tours.

Trastevere is the area across the River Tiber.

In addition to visiting this location, you’ll also make a stop on Tiberine Island to see the area once known as the Old Jewish Ghetto.

You can expect to visit the following locations while taking one of these free walking tours:

• Vicolo dell’Atleta
• Isola Tiberina
• Portico d’Ottavia
• Jewish Ghetto

If you want to learn more and see these neighbourhoods for yourself, consider taking one of the tours listed below.

We also have our self-guided walk of the Old Jewish Ghetto .

New Rome Free Tours

We offer a food tour of Trastevere on both Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11 am. 

The tour includes several different food tastings! Taste one of the best pizzas in town, and savour the greatest salumi and porchetta and cheeses like Pecorino Romano.

While you walk from one food stop to another, you will be shown the best highlights of this unique area of Rome.

Paid Tours of Trastevere & Jewish Ghetto

There are a variety of paid services that cover the Trastevere and Jewish neighbourhoods. 

Whether you want to learn more about the area on foot, by bike, or by segway, there are several different tours to choose from.

In addition to these options, there are also some food tours in each location you might want to consider.

Ticket prices tend to range from €60-€100 or more, and many of these tours are also limited to smaller groups or are entirely private, allowing you to decide who joins you on the outing.

Check this list of paid Trastevere and Jewish Ghetto tours to learn more and find a service that fits your itinerary.

Rick Steves’ Audio Tours

If you want to discover these neighbourhoods at your own pace, Rick Steves offers two audio tours, one of Trastevere and one of the Old Jewish Ghetto. 

You can use your smartphone to either download the Rick Steves app and listen to the audio tour with their service or you can download the audio file and listen to it that way.

There is also a map you can download with each tour which will help you to find your way around the city.

• Trastevere Walk
• Jewish Ghetto Walk

FREE VATICAN TOURS

Although the Vatican Museums do require a ticket for admission, there are some audio tours you can use for free after entering the building.

There is also at least one audio tour that covers St. Peter’s Basilica as well (which is free to enter).

• Castel Sant'Angelo
• Ponte Sant'Angelo
• St. Peter's Basilica
• St. Peter's Square
• Via della Conciliazione
• Vatican Museums
• Passetto di Borgo

We do not offer our own free walking tours anywhere in Vatican City, but there are usually a few options to choose from here .

There are also several audio tours to choose from.

Paid Vatican Tours

There are several paid tours for visitors who are looking for a guided tour or a different kind of experience at the Vatican. 

Some of these outings offer reserved entrance, others cover both the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica, and there are even early morning priority access tours you may want to consider.

Ticket prices range from €20 - €60 on average.

Some tours are either private or limited in size, so if you want to be part of a small tour group, these tours may be right for you.

Look at this list of paid Vatican tours to find the right service for your needs.

If you’re planning to visit either the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, or St. Peter’s Basilica, this company offers an audio tour of each location which is available either to download or via their app.

In addition to Rick’s audio tours, some maps will help you find all the best pieces of art and historical sites within each building.

• Vatican Museums Tour
• Sistine Chapel Tour
• St. Peter’s Basilica Tour

FREE ROME FOOD TOURS

Currently, there is only one company offering free food tours in Rome, and they focus on three neighbourhoods in the city: the Jewish Ghetto, Trastevere, and Monti.

Each of these outings includes at least 3-4 stops at great restaurants and food shops where you’ll find some of the best dishes in the city.

The foods you will try on these tours vary quite a bit depending on which neighbourhood they cover, but most outings will cover some of the following options:

• Parmigiano Reggiano

Although you don’t have to pay for the tour, you will have to pay for any food you might purchase along the way, and you should expect to spend around €10-€15 on average.

The nice thing is that even if you tip them another €10-€15 for the tour, you’ll still spend significantly less on this than you typically would on a paid Rome food tour.

In addition to their free walking tours, this company also provides 2-hour pay-what-you-wish food tours which allow you to pick and choose the dishes you will try.

Their Trastevere food tour is offered on both Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11 am. 

You can also take their Old Jewish Ghetto food tour on both Wednesdays and Fridays at 11 am.

Alternatively, you may also want to consider their Monti food tour on Mondays through Thursdays + Saturdays at 16:00 (4 pm). It also sometimes runs on Mondays at 11:00 am.

Paid Rome Food Tours

If you’re looking for a different kind of food tour or one that covers another area of the city, there are several paid options to choose from.

While some outings cover specific types of dishes such as street food, others provide a look at the best places to grab a bite in the city centre, Testaccio, and many other locations in Rome.

Ticket prices range from €40-€100 and some services offer small or private tour groups so that you’ll get the full attention of your guide.

Take a look at this list of paid Rome food tours to find one you like.

If you’re looking for another option, consider our self-guided Rome food tour .

ROME NIGHT AND GHOST TOURS

Rome is wonderful at all hours but Rome at dusk and by night is magical.

There are a few free night tours available most evenings as well as several ticketed tours, including tours of the Colosseum and the Vatican .

When daylight starts to fade, our passionate guides will show you the most authentic heart of Rome when it starts to emerge: the crowds thin, the locals come out and the monuments seem to exhale as they see off the last visitors and dress up in nighttime lighting.

This night tour runs daily at 20:30 (8:30 pm).

Ghost and Mystery Tours

There are usually a couple of pay-what-you-wish ghost or mystery/dark Rome tours available multiple times a week, if not daily.

We offer a daily ghost tour on weekdays @ 21:00 (9 pm). You can book this tour here .

Click here for even more options .

FREE TOURS WITH TOURIST PASSES

A tourist pass (or city pass) bundles together several tours and attractions into one discounted ticket or gives you discounted entry.

If you are considering purchasing a tourist pass, keep in mind that some might come with free walking tours already included.

Read our post on these passes .

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Rome's Ultimate Free Walking Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Ancient Rome & Colosseum Gladiators Group Tours

Small groups every day - SKIP THE LINE!

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 3 hours
• User Ages: All ages
• Info Group size: Up to 13 people
• Checkmark What to bring: Please be aware that to enter the Colosseum it is necessary to pass a metal detector security check. No visitor can avoid these checks. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Tour of Ancient Rome

In three hours you will discover everything about ancient Rome accompanied by a licensed tour guide who will thrill you with stories about gladiator fights, their personal stories within Roman society.

Walk to the breathtaking Palatine Hill to discover its beauty and the history of Roman nobility and their stunning houses. The Roman Forum lets you understand about Ancient Roman traditions, habits, and laws.

You will be amazed by the ruins that withstood the test of time and their everlasting beauty. Feel free to ask your guide about any curiosities. This group reaches a maximum of 24 people so you get to enjoy great company while discovering Ancient Rome.

Major highlights

• Gladiator’s Gate
• Colosseum Arena
• Palatine Hill
• Roman Forum

Please note:

• Not wheelchair accessible, near public transportation, normal-sized backpacks are permitted as huge backpacks will not be admitted. Small-group tour will average 16 people (with a maximum of 25 people).

Please be aware that to enter the Colosseum it is necessary to pass a metal detector security check; Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately. If you arrive late you might lose the entrance at the Colosseum or a part of the tour.

A current valid passport or ID document is required on the day of the tour for the entrance at the Colosseum.

The order of the visits might change due to the availability of tickets. It is possible that you will visit first the Roman Forum/Palatine Hill and the Colosseum. The arena floor might be closed in case of extreme weather.

Your itinerary will consist of visiting the Colosseum (entrance from the arena), Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum.

Related Tours

• POPULAR TOUR
• User All ages
• Hour Glass 2 hours

Daily Free Walking Tours of Rome

Our free daily tours depart in the morning and afternoon, giving you two opportunities to see all the major highlights of the incredible city of Rome, like the Spanish Steps, Colosseum, and more.

• Info Up to 10 people
• Hour Glass 3 hours

Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Group Tour

Visit the Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums with one of our passionate, knowledgeable guides. Enjoy this must-do tour in Rome with skip-the-line access.

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Free Walking Tour of Rome

• 9.30 / 10 1,691 reviews | 11,258 travellers Experienced and very competent guide. We saw some of the classic beauties of Rome, but we also managed to escape the crowds and observe the hidden beauties. I highly recommend the tour! 10 Nina Behr

Do you find yourself in the Eternal City ? Then be sure to join this f ree walking tour of Rome , and discover the Italian capital's passionate history.

What Will We See?

• Piazza di Spagna
• Trevi Fountain
• Agrippa's Pantheon
• Piazza Navona

The above is simply a taste of what we can expect to see on this walking tour of Rome.

Description

At the scheduled time, we'll meet in the centre of Rome, at Piazza di Spagna . Here, we'll learn about the history of this ancient place, a location known all around the world, and has been featured in many AAA movies. Actors such as Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck performed scenes here for the movie, Roman Holiday .

Our free walking tour of Rome will then continue at some of the most renowned artistic spots. Undoubtedly, Rome is the capital city of the Baroque and its accompanying art forms. We'll discover the most typical characteristic of this style of art alongside the world-famous Trevi Fountain , the masterful work by sculptor Nicola Salvi. Be sure to throw a coin into the fountain . Remember, throw with your right hand, over your left shoulder! The money collected from the fountain is used to help out the poor around Rome. The fountain's fame was thoroughly cemented after featuring in the Fellini film ' La Dolce Vita ', in which Anita Ekberg takes a dip in its waters.

On this guided tour of the Italian capital, we'll also have ample time to admire the façade and exterior of one of the city's most impressive monuments from the era of Imperial Rome: Agrippa's Pantheon .

After checking out some of the most amazing attractions in Rome's historic centre, we'll bring this tour to an end at the Piazza Navona . Do you know which rivers the fountains in this square represent? True or False, were mock naval battles celebrated here during the era of Imperial Rome? All of these interesting facts will be revealed at the end of the tour.

Additional Information

• Groups of more than 6 people are not allowed on this free tour of Rome. If you're a larger group, please reserve our  private tour  instead.
• Children must be accompanied by a parent.
• Schools and groups of students are not permitted on this free tour.

More Information

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

English–speaking guide

Headphones for participants over 10 years old

Not included

When to book.

You can book up to the start time, as long as there are places remaining. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Accessibility

Not wheelchair accessible.

Sustainability

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code .

Our providers commit to:

• Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
• Reduce, reuse, recycle.
• Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
• Uphold fair employment standards.
• Foster the growth of local communities.
• Preserve the integrity of local culture.
• Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
• Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
• Operate with honesty and transparency.
• Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

• No printing of documentation required.

Rome Bites Tours Show more

Corporate name: Filippo Calabria

Not permitted.

Frequently asked questions

Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.

Q - How to book?

A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

Q - Is a minimum number of participants required?

A - This activity requires a minimum of 4 participants. Should this number not be reached, we'll get in touch with you to offer alternatives.

If you have any other questions please contact us.

Free cancellation

Meeting point.

Piazza di Spagna, on the corner of Via di San Sebastianello

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Welcome to the first and oldest FREE WALKING TOUR in Rome and Italy

Walking tours & activities in, private, group and free tours in the eternal city, more than 10 tours daily, showing you the eternal city   enjoy authentic local experiences .

Since 2009 NEW ROME FREE TOUR , with over 10 tours (free, private and customized tours in english and other languages) offered daily, the oldest and the most reviewed free tour of the Eternal City and in Italy, with the best local freelance and licensed tour guides, who passionately share the city’s history and culture with their own unique and always-entertaining style.

WALKING TOURS IN ROME

Ancient Rome Free Guided Tour Daily in the morning

Visit with a licensed and professional guide, the archeological areas of the Roman and Imperial Fora, the Colosseum and more, on a 2-hour tour.

Sunset City Centre Free Guided Tour Daily in the afternoon

Explore the Fountains and Squares of Rome as Spanish Steps, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Navona square, idden jems and more, on a 2-hour tour.

Recorrido gratuito en Espanol Diariamente por la tarde

Exploring Vatican City Free Guided Tour Daily

On our Vatican City Free Tour, you’ll discover the secrets hidden in St. Peter’s Square, Castel Sant’Angelo and the Vatican area

Free Food Tours Daily

Street Food Free Tours and Cooking Classes in the Eternal City From the first and original free tour, the most affordable food tours in Rome.

Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel Small Group Tours

Be astounded as you discover the masterpieces and secrets that for millennia have been secured within the fortified walls of Vatican City and the Sistine Chapel.

Skip-the-Line Colosseum Small Group Tour & Entry to Roman Forum More

Travel back to the days of the Roman Empire on a 2-hour. Hear stories of the gladiator fights and Roman emperors.

Vintage car & Vespa Experience with Photoshooting

Scoot around Rome in style with your choice of our iconic Fiat 500s or Skip the crowds and embrace the Roman spirit on our classic Vespa scooter tour.

PRIVATE, SCHOOL GROUP AND EDUCATIONAL TOURS

Colosseum Underground

The Colosseum will have no more secrets for you after this tour that includes all the levels from the dungeons to the top.

Colosseum and Rome Underground

Visit the Colosseum and the underground Rome 20 meters below the modern City. This is one of the most spectacular tour.

Private Vatican Tour

Visit wings and collections where usually groups never go. Explore, in a private tour, the Museums, Sistine Chapel and Saint Peter’s.

Secret Rome

Closed doors are opened, locked gates are magically unlocked. With our guides discover the secret beauty of Rome.

Discover Trastevere’s Gourmet Secrets – Exclusive Food Tour

This carefully curated tour promises an indulgent journey where every stop is a masterpiece crafted by skilled Italian chefs.

Squares of Rome Small Group Tour With Street Food, Tiramisù and Gelato

Explore the Baroque squares and fountains of Rome on a 2-hour walking tour, with the best pizza, gelato and tiramisu in town.

Monti Street Food & Ancient Rome Small Group Guided Tour

Join a guided 2-hour walking and eating tour in the historical neighborhood renowned for its local scene and travel back to the days of the Roman Empire.

School Groups and Educational Tours

We do not claim to be the market leader specialising in School and Educational Tours. We are the market leader. We also have the most experienced team.

TICKETS & ACTIVITIES

Discover the many faces of rome with a passionate local guide.

If it’s romantic fountains, wide piazzas, shopping, culture and culinary masterpieces you’re after, Rome is the place for you.

You’ll be a Roman in no time no matter which of our tours you choose. Step back in time as you walk in the footsteps of emperors and gladiators. Our guides will bring Ancient Rome’s past to life for you as they share stories and interpretations of this fascinating city. Discover Rome with a “local” you’ll wander along the city’s endlessly charming streets and a wealth of landmarks that have stood for more than a thousand years. Whether it’s history, food or art that draws you to Rome, when you take part to one of our day tours, you can be sure that you will experience the absolute best that the city has to offer.

Best of all, you can discover Rome the way you want to, when you explore it with us. We have two daily free tours and  a choice of customized and  private tours to choose from so that you can ensure your Roman experience will be exactly what you dreamed it would be.

Our guides love their job! They will share their passion and enthusiasm with you! and will help you as well  to orientate yourself   when you want to discover more  of the Eternal city.

A must-do when in Rome

Excellent tours

Welcome to Rome's Ultimate Free Walking Tour

Tour runs twice daily at 11am and 4pm.

Rome's Ultimate Free Tour brings the city's history to life like never before.

The free tour aims to show you a rich core of Roman history, an introduction to Christianity and its origins in Rome, as well as the usual funny stories, places to eat, sites to visit, and some essential nightlife recommendations.

The tour lasts around 2.5-3 hours and covers around 3km, suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.

Personal experience

Unlike many others, we limit the size of our groups to 15 maximum. This creates a more personal experience where people can ask questions and seek the information that they find relevant.

Rome's Ultimate free tour is lead by passionate guides with backgrounds ranging from classical history to architecture and beyond. We aim to give you a unique, in-depth look at the Eternal city.

Unmatched Quality

Our concept aims to give the highest quality exploration of Roman past and present, with no fee, and allow people to tip the guide to the value of their experience at the end of the walk.

Reservations are strongly recommended. Please book only if you plan to attend! To book the free tour simply click here . No reservation fee, no paper print outs. Bring some comfy shoes and water, and you’re all set!

Porta del Popolo

Our meeting point. The north gate of Rome, in the Aurelian walls of the city.

Piazza del Popolo

The People's Square. One of the largest and most spectacular piazzas in Rome.

Mausoleum of Augustus

The tomb of the first ever Roman Emperor.

The ancient temple to all the Roman gods and the best preserved Roman monument in the world.

Piazza Navona

One of the most idyllic piazzas in Rome including Bernini's 'Fountain of the Four Rivers'.

Ponte Sant’Angelo

The most beautiful bridge in Rome featuring Bernini's famed 'Angels'.

Castel Sant’Angelo

The military stronghold of the Vatican with a history spanning millennia.

Intro to the Vatican

The tour aims to give context and form to the Vatican and its contents and finishes with a stunning view close to St. Peter's square.

Book your spot

Mon - Sun 10:00 - 20:00

+39 064 544 7204

+39 328 765 3883 (Emergencies only )

[email protected]

Via dei Serpenti 89, Rome, 00184

How to find us

Our guide will meet you at the PORTA DEL POPOLO, the gate with 3 arches. He will be standing under the statue, on the left-hand-side of the central arch if you are facing it from the Flaminio Metro A Station.

What they say about us

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ROME'S ULTIMATE FREE WALKING TOURS - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Travel Blog | Travel Inspiration

Free Rome Self-Guided Walking Tour: Explore The Eternal City On Foot

Rome is an exciting city, with a wealth of world-famous attractions dating from nearly 3 millennia of history. Use this free self-guided walking tour of Rome to experience the best of the city on foot, including ancient ruins, icons of the Renaissance and charming vine-draped lanes.

One of the great things about exploring Rome using a self-guided walking route is that you don’t have to pay for a guide – it is free! And the other is that you don’t have to stick with a group – you have total freedom to go at your own pace.

Follow this two-day walking tour to explore the best of the Eternal City. There’s a lot in here, so feel free to use the Table of Contents if helpful.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. These are links to products or experiences I recommend and if you were to buy something after clicking on them, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Any earnings go towards the upkeep of this blog, which I appreciate.

Table of Contents

About This Rome Self-Guided Walking Tour

If you follow this walking tour, you can experience the following and more:

• All the main attractions of Rome, including the Vatican, Castel Sant’Angelo, Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, The Pantheon and Piazza Navona
• Relics of Ancient Rome, including the Colosseum, The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
• Renaissance masterpieces, at St Peter’s Basilica and Palazzo Farnese
• The charming old streets of Trastevere and Via dei Coronari
• Stunning viewpoints across the city, including from Pincio Hill, Aventine Hill and Janiculan Hill

Rome is not as big a city as London or Paris , but it is big enough with a lot to see and do, so this walking tour is spread out over two days. This is based on a walking tour I did myself – I tried to do it all in one day, but it was too much!  So I have suggested two walking tour routes which cover most of the main attractions in Rome. However, you could do this tour in less time if you cut some stops out at the beginning or end.

The walking distances are as follows:

• Day 1: 8km (5 miles), which would be 1 hour & 40 minutes of walking, if you did it all at a brisk pace with no stops
• Day 2: 7km (4.4 miles), which would be 1 hour & 25 minutes of walking, if you did it all at a brisk pace with no stops.

However, of course, there are a lot of things to see and experience along the way, plus you’ll want to stop for coffee etc – which is why you should allow much more time than the walking times suggest.

In this post I have described the main stops in the order I recommend you do them, and I’ve also put an annotated map at the end, so you can follow the route for each day.

Tips For Walking Around Rome

Having walked this entire route myself, here are some tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes – you’re covering a lot of ground in this walking tour, so wear something cushioned and comfy to prevent blisters
• Bring a water bottle – but don’t worry if you run out of water. Rome has a system of fresh drinking water fountains called Nasoni . The name relates to the nose-like curved spout on the fountains. The water from these is free and clean – it’s the same drinking water piped into Roman homes.
• Manage your expectations of the cafes around the main sites – cafes and eateries on the main squares and around landmarks may have the best views. However, they may not be the best quality and might have high prices. I’m not saying you should avoid them – it can be nice to sit in a prime spot overlooking a beautiful landmark, but it’s worth knowing the score. I had a great view of the Pantheon in Piazza della Rotunda, but my cappuccino cost €4.50, service was slow and there were cockroaches in the toilet.
• Electric scooters & bikes are popular in Rome. You might consider hiring one of these to explore Rome easily. I am not sure exactly how the system works, but it seems like you pick them up wherever you find them and drop them off whenever you run out of money – they seem to be discarded all over the place!  You will see them everywhere, and it’s worth keeping an eye out for them on pedestrian roads – I nearly got hit by a scooter twice!
• Keep your eyes open – there are lots of world-famous sights in Rome, which this walking route will show you. But if you go slowly and take the time to look around, you’ll find all sorts of delightful corners and alleys that help make Rome a pleasure to walk around.

Rome Self-Guided Walking Tour – Day One

I suggest you start day 1 really early in the morning to see as much as possible in the morning light and without crowds – start at 7 or 7:30 am if you can.

The Vatican & St. Peter’s Basilica

This self-guided walking tour of Rome actually doesn’t start in Rome. The Vatican is a sovereign nation, a city-state within Italy, meaning it is not technically in Rome – although it is located within Rome.

The Vatican City State is a micro-state, comprised of St Peter’s Basilica, the Papal residence, the Vatican Museum and some other Vatican buildings & gardens. You can’t stay here overnight in a hotel or Airbnb here and I don’t think there are any restaurants (although there are food trucks just outside the boundary of the Vatican).

However, it draws a huge number of visitors because of its religious significance and its wealth of renaissance art and architecture. The main Vatican attractions are:

• St. Peter’s Basilica the large renaissance-style church of St Peters, where the Pope conducts mass, was completed in 1626. The basilica’s interior is as grand and opulent as the exterior and there are many works of art including Michelangelo’s Pietà. At 136.57m tall, St Peter’s dome is the largest in the world and if you climb up into it, you will be rewarded with stunning views of Rome.
• The Sistine Chapel , whose walls and ceiling are covered in vivid frescos, most famously the ceiling, painted by Michelangelo.
• Vatican Museum – this is an extensive museum showcasing a huge collection of classical Roman sculptures and Renaissance art. If you have a ticket for the Vatican Museum , the Sistine Chapel is included (and if you’re only interested in the Sistine Chapel, you will have to buy a ticket and go through the main museum to get there – I was a bit gutted about that when I went!)
• St. Peter’s Piazza – the circular piazza outside the basilica has an obelisk in the centre, is ringed by columns and porticoes and is overlooked by what looks like dancing statues. I saw Pope John Paul II here on my first visit to Rome – there was some kind of papal audience and he was driven in and out in his Popemobile.

Timing For The Vatican

Now, here’s the thing: if you want to explore all of these things in the Vatican, you will need at least half a day, which will reduce the time you have to explore Rome on this walking tour.

My suggestion is not to do both on the same day. When doing the walking tour, admire the basilica from St Peter’s Piazza and then move on. If you are there really early in the morning, like I suggest, you’ll have the special experience of seeing the place empty or almost empty.

Come back another day for the full Vatican experience – perhaps timing it so that you climb the dome just before sunset to see the city bathed in warm light.

Castel Sant’Angelo & Ponte Sant’Angelo

Ten minutes walk eastwards from St Peter’s is the Mausoleum of Hadrian, also known as Castel Sant’Angelo . It was built in the 2 nd century as a mausoleum for the Roman Emperor Hadrian and was later used by the popes as a fortress and prison. It is now a museum displaying artwork, frescoes and sculptures from Roman history and you can climb to the top to see the sculpture of Archangel Michael and also for views of Rome. Tours here are amongst the most unique tours in Rome .

Ponte Sant’Angelo has 10 angels on either side of the bridge and it crosses the Tiber to link the castle with the city. Again, if you’re here early, you will be able to experience the bridge with no tourists on it.

Ponte Umberto I

Heading east, the next bridge from Ponte Sant’Angelo is Ponte Umberto I , which is an attractive bridge opposite the Supreme Court of Cassation . However, the main reason for stopping here is that you get a great view of St Peter’s and Ponte Sant’Angelo from here. Looking westwards in the morning, with the sun behind you, the view should be lit beautifully.

Piazza del Popolo

To get to Piazza del Popolo, follow the river Tiber until you get to Ponte Regina Margherita – you can walk either side of the river. The left/west side is a quiet stretch of the walking route – with no major sites, there are not likely to be many tourists around here. If you walk on the right/east side, you could stop by the Mausoleum of Augustus .

Piazza del Popolo is an oval-shaped square with an Egyptian obelisk in the centre (another obelisk – there are 13 obelisks in Rome !). It was built in the early 1800s and features the twin churches Santa Maria dei Miracoli and Santa Maria in Montesanto . On the opposite side is Porta del Popolo , a gate in the Aurelian Walls of Rome.

Piazza del Popolo is also the start of Via del Corso , one of the main streets through the centre of Rome. There are some marble benches around the square if you need a breather by this point in your walking tour of Rome.

Pincio Viewpoint & Terrazza Viale Del Belvedere

Take the steps on the northeast corner of the square (looking back to take a picture if you want), and head up Pincio (Pincian Hill). The path goes up through some trees and you’ll pass a pay toilet if you need one.

At the top, there’s a large terrace with statues and a view over Piazza del Popolo and across the city – it’s a lovely scene. From here, head southeast down Viale del Belvedere, enjoying the leafy walkway and the glimpses of the city through the fruit trees. 

There’s another terrace with a view at Terrazza Viale del Belvedere . And a little further still, there’s a café called Caffè Ciampini di Marco Ciampini – you might appreciate a rest stop by this point!

Spanish Steps

A little further along this route and you’ll come to another obelisk outside a renaissance-style church, Trinità dei Monti . You’re now at the top of the Spanish Steps ,

It was built in the 1720s to connect the church to Piazza di Spagna , which has a baroque fountain and is not far from the Spanish Embassy to the Holy See. The grand stairway has 135 steps and there are fines for loitering on or damaging them.

There’s a scene in The Talented Mr Ripley (1999) where two of the main characters meet on a café terrace at the base of the Spanish steps – so I was really disappointed to learn there are none there in real life!

From Piazza di Spagna, you could wander westwards down Via dei Condotti , which is a major shopping street in Rome and where you’ll find high-end brands. However, our walking tour of Rome takes us in a different direction: southwards past the Column of the Immaculate Conception .

Trevi Fountain

The route to the Trevi Fountain goes down some cute cobbled streets – but there are also a lot of tacky souvenirs on sale on some of these streets.

The Trevi Fountain is spectacular: large and elaborate; the graceful baroque design and turquoise pool are gorgeous. It is a world-famous landmark and has featured in many movies, most memorably, La Dolce Vita (1960), in which Anita Ekberg’s character wades into the pool at night.

It is also, naturally, popular!  There’s no point expecting to have the place to yourself – you will be disappointed. It’s best to expect a crowd, and you might have to wait for a spot on the edge of the pool to be free. It’s also a good idea to keep a careful eye on your belongings here: thieves can take advantage of the opportunities crowds bring. The fountain faces south/south-east so it is well-lit in the mornings.

The fountain was finished in 1762 and features a central statue of Oceanus, an ancient Greek Titan and father of the river gods. There’s a tradition of throwing money into the fountain if you wish to return to the city one day – and I’m told the way to do it is to throw using your right hand over your left shoulder. The money gets collected and used for charity.

The Pantheon

The next stop on this self-guided walking tour of Rome is one of my favourites: The ancient and geometric Pantheon.

To get there, pass by the Marcus Aurelius Column , a column in honour of the Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius from the year 193, featuring a spiral relief telling the story of his victories in war. Just beyond that is Piazza di Monte Citorio , a piazza in front of Palazzo Montecitorio featuring another Egyptian obelisk.

The Pantheon itself sits in a small piazza named for the round shape of the Pantheon: Piazza della Rotunda . Guess what’s in the middle of Piazza della Rotunda fountain? You guessed it: an obelisk! There’s also a Nasoni right by the fountain.

The Pantheon is really remarkable – it is huge and ancient.  Originally a Roman Temple commissioned by Marcus Agrippa during the reign of Augustus (27BC-14AD), it was converted to a catholic church in 609AD. The building is cylindrical with a portico of large granite Corinthian columns. I remember the second time I was in Rome, I was wandering around aimlessly, turned a corner and there was the Pantheon in front of me, dark and mysterious!

What’s most impressive to me, though, is the domed ceiling. It is perfectly circular and features a central opening to the sky, surrounded by geometric reliefs. It looks too crisp and perfect to be almost 2,000 years old, but it is – and what’s more, the Pantheon’s dome is still the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome.  It’s far smaller and less glamourous than St Peters, but if there’s one church interior to see in Rome, personally, I think it’s this one.

Entry To The Pantheon

Entry to the Pantheon is free Monday to Friday, but it is popular, so there can be a queue around the piazza. However, the queue moves quickly because there is only one space inside that you can explore in a loop. It’s a quick but memorable visit.

If you want to go on a Saturday, Sunday or public holiday, you’ll need to reserve a place on a paid guided tour or buy an audio guide .

By this point, you might want a bite to eat for lunch, and there are two tasty and affordable options near the Pantheon:

• All’Antico Vinaio is a chain that specialises in sandwiches including mortadella, prosciutto, salami and pancetta. They also have a few options with truffles, which I could smell from outside the shop!  There was also a massive queue here, so I went to the next place instead of waiting.
• Lost Food Factory is a smaller place that does freshly made panini – I really enjoyed my Magdalena panini, with aubergine, mozzarella, tomato and pesto. My panini was €7

Both of these places are take-way, but there are walls around the Pantheon where many people sat to eat their sandwiches – I saw a lot of All’Antico Vinaio wrappers there!

If you’re not hungry yet, there’s another great place to eat a bit further along the walking tour route:

• La Salumeria is a small sandwich shop near Ponte Sant’Angelo that has some eat-in space. I had a delicious prosciutto, brie and fig sandwich and drink here for €7.50.

Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona is one of the most prominent squares in Rome. It’s a long oblong shape and if you’re thinking it reminds you of a stadium shape, that’s because it was on built the site of the ancient Roman Stadium of Domitian, which was built in 80AD.

It’s a pleasant space, with three fountains – one at each end and one in the middle, near the church of Sant’Agnese in Agone. This one is the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi or Fountain of the Four Rivers and you already know what’s at the centre of the fountain (an obelisk, of course).

There are stone benches around the edges of the piazza and artists offering portraits. The last time I was here, a huge group of people with earphones took over one end and did a silent workout!

There are two hotels that have rooftop restaurants/bars where you can have a drink with a view in the evening, so Piazza Navona could be somewhere to come back to in the evening (though you will need to reserve a spot):

• “La Grande Bellezza” at the Eitch Borromini
• Mater Terrae Restaurant in the Bio Hotel Raphaël serves organic vegan food

Via dei Coronari

From Piazza Navona, head past the Bio Hotel Raphaël and through the narrow alleys onto Via dei Coronari . This long, straight Roman road runs through the Ponte district and it’s one of my favourite places in Rome.

Most of the buildings date from the 15th and 16th centuries and the street is narrow and quaint, with a lovely charm.  Take your time here – there are some craft and jewellery shops along here and plenty of pretty doorways and side streets to distract you. There’s also a Nasoni if you need a top-up of water.

Campo de’ Fiori & Palazzo Farnese

At the end of Via dei Coronari, head south until you find Via dei Banchi Vecchi and continue in a southeast direction (follow the map below for specific streets if you want them or just wander in that general direction). The smaller streets in this area are quite charming.

Your next stop is Campo de’ Fiori , a square once used for executions and now known for its market. It’s a busy spot with stalls selling flowers, food and clothes, plus there could be buskers playing. There are also café terraces and a fountain at the northern end. It’s a good spot for some shopping and/or people-watching.

A short walk down Via dei Baullari is Palazzo Farnese , a 16th-century palace that is considered to be a renaissance masterpiece and is now the French Embassy in Italy. You can have guided tours, but I haven’t done that and can’t speak to it. At the least, I suggest you pop your head into Piazza Farnese to see the dramatic façade.

Largo di Torre Argentina

The final stop on day 1 of this Rome self-guided walking tour is a taste of what is to come tomorrow morning: ancient Roman ruins.

Largo di Torre Argentina is a square containing the ruins of four Roman temples and Pompey’s Theatre. Julius Caesar was assassinated in a meeting space near the theatre. There is access to get into the ruins, where there’s also a cat sanctuary, which is a little random, but kind of cool. Alternatively, you can admire the site from the pavement surrounding it.

I have to say, when I did this walking route, by the time I made it here, I was feeling rather weary and I spent some time sitting and recuperating in a small leafy square called Piazza Benedetto Cairoli , before heading back to my hotel for a nap!

Rome Self-Guided Walking Tour – Day Two

I suggest you start early on day 2 also, especially because the route begins in one of the most touristy areas of Rome. If you plan to go inside monuments like the Roman Forum and the Colosseum, it is best to book them in advance.

Victor Emmanuel II Monument (Altar of the Fatherland)

Built on the slopes of Capitoline Hill, one of the Seven Hills of Ancient Rome and rising high above most other buildings, the Victor Emmanuel II Monument is a prominent and recognisable landmark in Rome.

It was built to honour Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of unified Italy. Work started in the 1880s and it was fully completed in 1935. I understand that during Mussolini’s fascist regime, it was a favourite place for military parades. The monument is neoclassical in style and contains a number of points of interest, including:

• A museum of Italian unification
• The Alter of the Fatherland (a name which some use to refer to the entire monument) celebrates united Italy
• The Tomb of the Unknown soldier
• Large portico with Corinthian columns and various fountains and statues throughout – including a statue of Victor Emmanuel II, of course
• An observation deck with views of Rome

In addition, tucked behind are some other landmarks:

• Basilica di Santa Maria in Ara coeli , a church from the 13the century
• Campidoglio , an attractive square designed by Michaelangelo

On my first visit to Rome, I remember hearing the Victor Emmanuel II Monument was nicknamed ‘the typewriter’ or ‘the wedding cake’ – and the latter stuck in my mind because its tall white structure topped with statues does remind me of a wedding cake!  For me, it’s not the most attractive monument in Rome, but it is undoubtedly a spectacle and part of the story of the city.

You can explore the monument itself, or if you simply want to look at it, there’s a good vantage point in the middle of Piazza Venezia .

Roman Forum & Via dei Fori Imperioli

Via dei Fori Imperiali is a straight road lined with iconic stone pine trees, from the Victor Emmanuel II Monument to the Colosseum. The road was built under fascism and named Via dell’Impero by Mussolini, who opened it in 1932.  It was renamed after World war II. It’s an impressive boulevard but quite touristy – expect there to be people selling souvenirs or phone chargers etc.

On either side of the road, you will see a large number of ancient ruins, collectively comprising the Roman Forum . The Roman Forum was the central hub of ancient Rome, millennia ago. Among the ruins are various temples and landmarks.

If you would like to explore these ruins in more detail, you can buy a ticket, and you can combine entry to the Forum with Palatine Hill and also the Colosseum . If you have only a passing interest, you might be satisfied with seeing the ruins from the road.

You’ll see the Colosseum from Via dei Fori Imperiali – it really is an incredible sight. No wonder it is one of the top things to see in Rome and is included as one of the New Seven W o nders Of The World .

The oval amphitheatre is the largest ancient amphitheatre ever built and was built in 80AD and could hold 50-80k spectators. It is perhaps most famous for its gladiatorial contests, but it was used for all sorts of entertainment, including animal hunts, executions, re-enactments of famous battles, mock sea battles and dramas.

The Colosseum is one of my favourite Rome attractions. I remember the first time I visited Rome, my friends and I decided to have a look around, so we wandered the streets near our hostel, not really with an agenda in mind. We turned a corner and there was the Colosseum, its oval shape and arched windows were unmistakable.  I couldn’t believe there was a road all around it – it seemed too precious to have traffic so near it!

In my opinion, the exterior is more impressive than the interior.  I found it rather crowded on my visit and hard to get a good view due to the number of people at every viewpoint. That said, I did not have a ticket to tour the basement level, so it might be better if you have that included ( these tickets cost extra) . I did enjoy some of the details within the amphitheatre, and also the way the huge windows from the view from it.

I suggest you do a full circumference around the exterior. If you want a good photo, there’s a good viewpoint on the pavement alongside Via Nicola Salvi on the north side of the Colosseum, where there are some plants including palm trees.

Be sure to check out the Arch of Constantine to the southwest of the Colosseum. It is a triumphal arch dedicated to the emperor Constantine the Great and dates from the 4 th century AD.  

Palatine Hill & Circus Maximus

From the Colosseum, head south on Via di San Gregorio , leaving the Colosseum crowds behind. It’s an attractive road : wide and straight; lined with stone pine trees. I love these trees – and if I see them anywhere else in the world, they always evoke memories of Rome.

There’s an entrance to Palatine Hill (or Palatino), another archaeological site with ancient roman remains, and another of the seven hills of Rome.

At the end of Via di San Gregorio, you’ll come to Circus Maximus, or Circo Massimo. This was originally an Ancient Roman chariot-racing stadium that could hold 150,000 spectators. Today looks simply like a grassy bowled depression, but you can make out the shape of what was the stadium. There’s a small museum at the south end and a viewing platform at Belvedere Romolo e Remo , which overlooks the circus and also the remains of the Palatino that lie behind it.

Rose Garden

From Belvedere Romolo e Remo, take Via di’Valle Murcia, which takes you up Aventine Hill . This is the southernmost of the Seven Hills of Rome and an elegant, well-to-do area which was once home to the aristocracy during the imperial era of ancient Rome.

It also has some lovely gardens and viewpoints. The first of these is the Municipal Rose Garden (or Roseto Comunale ), a gorgeous rose garden with some shady seats and glimpses of the city between trees. The Roseto is home to around 1,100 species of roses from all over the world. It’s a great place to sit and rest if your legs are tired.

However, its opening dates are unclear – I have read it is only open in May-June, and also that it is only open in October (which is when I visited it) and April. Sorry not to have a more definitive answer – but according to the Comune.Roma website, you can also arrange guided tours.

If it is closed when you do this walking tour, don’t worry, because there is another lovely spot coming up next.

Giardino degli Aranci

Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden in English) is a park and viewing terrace on top of Aventine Hill. It was built in 1932 and has an attractive symmetrical layout. There’s plenty of shade from the gorgeous trees and also places to sit.

The star attraction though is the viewing terrace, Terrazza Belvedere Aventino , which overlooks Rome, including great views of St Peter’s and the Victor Emmanuel II Monument. It’s one of the loveliest viewpoints in Rome.

Keyhole of the Order of Malta

A little further on from Giardino degli Aranci, past two churches ( Basilica di Santa Sabina all’Aventino and Basilica of Saints Bonifatius of Tarsus and Alexis of Rome ), you’ll come to a small square named Piazza of the Knights of Malta .

Here is one of the most unique things to do in Rome: Keyhole of the Order of Malta .

The Order of Malta (or, Sovereign Military Order of Malta in full) is a Catholic lay religious order related to the Knights Hospitaller, a chivalric order that was founded about 1099 during the Crusades in Jerusalem. I’ve read their focus is on humanitarian efforts and they have had permanent observer status at the United Nations General Assembly since 1994.

They have an embassy in Rome which has gardens, including two rows of trees lined up to create a tunnel view of the dome of St Peters. While you can’t visit the gardens, you can peek at through a keyhole (yes, a literal keyhole!) in a locked door – and the keyhole lets you look down that tree tunnel towards St Peters.

While it’s not as well-known as many of the other attractions in Rome, there’s likely to be a queue here (you can even see one on the satellite view of Rome on GoogleMaps!). I waited approximately 20 minutes for my look through the keyhole – and I would say it was worth it. Even though the experience is very brief, the view is lovely and I’ve certainly never experienced anything quite like it before!

Pyramid of Cestius & Porta San Paolo

Did you know there’s a pyramid in Rome? Well, there is and that’s the next stop on this walking tour of Rome.

For the last stop before lunch, head down the hill into the residential area of Testaccio, which, by the way, is one of the best areas to stay in Rome .

The white marble Pyramid of Cestius was built around 18-12 BC as a tomb for Gaius Cestius Epulo, who was some kind of magistrate. At 36.5 meters tall, it is smaller and also younger than the pyramids of Egypt and looks very well maintained. Its sharply pointed shape is apparently more like the pyramids of Nubia, which was attacked by Rome in 23 BC, suggesting they took inspiration from those pyramids for this tomb. At one time, it was not the only pyramid in Rome: a larger one, the Pyramid of Romulus, once stood between the Vatican and Castel Sant’Angelo but was dismantled in the 16th century and its marble was used for St. Peter’s Basilica.

The pyramid was not open for visitors when I went – I could only look at it from the street. I believe if you want to tour the Pyramid of Cestius, you need to arrange a guided tour.

Next to the Pyramid of Cestius is Porta San Paolo, a gate in the 3rd-century Aurelian Walls (the same walls that Porta del Popolo, which is on the Day 1 route, is part of). If they were anywhere else, I think these gates would be revered as a major landmark, but in Rome, they’re just on the side of a busy street, traffic whizzing by all day.

Lunch: Felice a Testaccio

You’re probably hungry by this point, so grab lunch at Felice a Testaccio , which is a very nice restaurant in the grid streets of Testaccio. I read about this place on a list of the best restaurants in Rome. Although I have not been to enough Rome restaurants to confirm this, it is one of the best that I have eaten in in Rome.

It’s quite fancy inside, but there’s a terrace outside that feels more relaxed. I really enjoyed the Ravioli alla Felice, which somehow felt fresh & light but also filling.

After lunch, head north through the grid streets, past Piazza Testaccio and Giardino Familglio di Consiglio , then across the River Tiber into Trastevere .

Trastevere means ‘beyond the Tiber’ and is an area of Rome on the west side of the river, south of the Vatican. Historically, it has been home variously to Etruscans, sailors and fishermen, the Jewish community and wealthy aristocrats. Compared to the east side of the Tiber, Trastevere has a small-town charm: with old buildings and narrow cobbled streets, sometimes draped with vines.

There aren’t really major sights to see here. There are a bunch of churches and even more pretty alleyways, so I suggest you just meander around and soak it up.

When I first visited Rome 20 years ago, Trastevere felt kind of sleepy, like you were getting away from the hubbub of Rome. However, its quaint charm has led to it becoming very popular – and in the evenings, the central streets can be heaving with people and there are queues for many restaurants.

Belvedere Niccolò Scatoli and/or Belvedere del Gianicolo

If you still have energy, I suggest you finish day 2 of this self-guided walking tour of Rome with a final viewpoint.

There are two on the Janiculum Hill above Trastevere, looking eastwards. Both are lovely at sunset, when, with the sun behind you on a clear day, the city will be bathed in the warm light of the setting sun:

• Belvedere Niccolò Scatoli is a relatively short walk and is an attractive terrace with a view across the rooftops. It is next to an ornate fountain, Fontana dell’Acqua Paola.
• Belvedere del Gianicolo is higher up the hillside overlooking some parkland and the city. It is next to a monument to Giuseppe Garibaldi, an Italian general who contributed to the unification of Italy.

Map: Rome Self-Guided Walking Tour Route

Here’s a Rome walking tour map showing the attractions and walking routes for this two-part walking tour:

How To Use This Map : Click the tab in the top left-hand corner of the map to view the layers. If you click the icons on the map, you can get more information about each one.  If you click the star next to the map’s title, it will be added to your Google Maps account. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu, go to ‘Your Places’ or ‘Saved’, then click Maps and you will see this map in your list.

FAQs: Rome Self-Guided Walking Tour

Why visit rome.

I’m someone who’s interested in cities and I often visit the capital city of countries, but Rome is not just the capital of Italy: it’s a major destination in Europe and the world. It’s travel mecca.

With history spanning millennia, it’s an ancient city, with an artistic soul and a relentless, infectious energy.

And it’s not even just the city: it’s also possible to get to lots of other wonderful places in Italy by taking day trips from Rome by train .

How To Get To Rome?

Rome has two airports: Leonardo da Vinci International Airport at Fiumicino, west of the city, which is the main one; and also Ciampino Airport, to the southeast of the city.

I tend to use Skyscanner to find flight deals.

Italy has a great train network, so if you’re travelling to Rome by train, the main station is Roma Termini, just east of the city centre. It is connected to the Rome metro network and is also served by buses.

How To Get From Rome Airport To City Center?

From Fiumicino , there’s an express train to Roma Termini, called the Leonardo Express . It runs every 30 minutes. There’s also a number of bus se rvices and you can also take taxis, which have a fixed price of €50. Uber operates in Rome.

From Ciampino , taxis have the same fixed price of €50. There’s a train connection called Ciampino Airlink , but you must take a bus from the airport to the train station first. There is also a shutt le bus option directly from the airport.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Rome?

My favourite time to visit Rome (and Italy in general) is in the shoulder seasons: March-May and September–November. The weather is mild enough to be out and about all day – even in November, and the crowds are reduced. It can be unpleasantly hot in the summer months of June – August, so I have avoided the summer for years now.

Where To Stay In Rome?

I really liked my most recent hotel in Rome, the Hotel Bloom . It was a little way from the city centre: a 10-15 minute walk from St Peters, up the hill above Trastevere (but without an easy route to Trastevere).

However, it made up for the distance with a really big, comfortable room and a great view of St Peters.

Can You Walk Around Rome In A Day?

Unless you have amazing stamina and you’re willing to rush from place to place without dwelling on them, I don’t think you can see all the main sights in a day. That’s why I have created this two-day Rome self-guided walking tour.

However, if you only have one day to explore Rome on foot, then you could use a cut-down version of this route. For example, you could start at the Spanish Steps, and follow the route all the way to the Colosseum. This way, you’ll see all the major sights in central Rome in one day. And if you wanted to at least see the Vatican during that day, you could detour from the route after Via dei Coronari and go onto Ponte Sant’Angelo, to have a look at it.

Do I Need To Book Vatican Tour In Advance?

Yes, it can get booked up, so it is wise to book your tickets in advance. In fact, I would advise this for any major Rome attraction that requires a ticket, including the Colosseum and the Pantheon (if you’re going there on a weekend).

Can You Do A Self-Guided Tour Of The Colosseum?

Yes, there are several ticket options that allow you to explore at your own pace, without a guide. At the beginning of the route through the colosseum, there’s an exhibition where you can learn about the construction and use of the structure.

The Final Word

I hope you find this Rome self-guided walking tour helpful!  The only other piece of advice I can give you is don’t hold back from taking detours from the route – I really enjoy a bit of aimless wandering and Rome is a great city in which to do that.  

Finally, do check out my other posts on Italy , including Venice and Bologna .

If you like this article, I'd be delighted if you shared it!

About The Author

Martha Knight

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4 thoughts on “free rome self-guided walking tour: explore the eternal city on foot”.

Hi, we recently followed this 2 day tour on a family holiday and it was superb! Thank you for putting it together and for all the helpful information.

Oh great! Thanks so much for letting me know – I’m really pleased you enjoyed it. Hope your feet weren’t sore by the end of it 🙂

I was unable to get the table of contents to open. Great article!

Thanks! And sorry about the table of contents – there was a big but its fixed now, I believe 🙂

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All roads lead to Rome they say, so a visit to the Eternal City is almost inevitable and certainly won’t disappoint! Also known as Caput Mundi, or the “Capital of the World”, this ancient city has millennia of history on display at every corner, so bring your walking shoes and lend your ears to a local guide to discover Rome for yourself.

Whether it’s history, culture, cuisine, fashion or simply a taste of the Dolce Vita that draws you to Rome, the tours offered by our partner, New Rome Free Tour, have all bases covered.

Immerse yourself in the world of gladiators, emperors, senators and slaves on the Ancient Rome tour , as you witness marvels of civilisation such as the Colosseum, the Forum and Palatine Hill. Explore Baroque squares and fountains, Renaissance wonders and the magnificent Spanish Steps on the City Centre Tour , or opt to do your exploring in the evening with the Dusk Tour, a special opportunity to experience the Eternal City by night. And of course, don’t forget to throw your coin into the Trevi Fountain and make a wish to return to Rome!

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Home » Free Itineraries » Free Walking Tour of Trastevere Rome

Free Walking Tour of Trastevere Rome

• Duration: 3 hours
• Tickets: not needed
• Accessibility: Partially Accessible to people on wheelchairs
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Best time to visit: Winter: 10.30 pm – 4.00 pm / Summer: 8:30 am – 2:30 pm

Itinerary Highlights

1 piazza trilussa in trastevere.

– Statue of the Roman Poet; – Carlo Fontana’s Fountain;

2 PIAZZA SANTA MARIA IN TRASTEVERE

– Santa Maria in Trastevere Church; – Fountain of Santa Maria in Trastevere;

3 VIA DELLA LUNGARETTA

4 vicolo dell’atleta, 5 church of santa cecilia.

– Stefano Moderno’s sculpture of St. Cecilia;

6 TIBERINA ISLAND

7 the great synagogue of rome, 8 teatro di marcello, do you like this itinerary.

Discover the neighbourhood of Trastevere in Rome by following a free walking tour designed by official, local tour guides! Enjoy a pleasant stroll through the picturesque, cobblestone alleys of one of the most charming areas in Rome at a leisurely pace. Discover masterpieces of art, fountains, squares, churches and spots where locals usually go.

1. PIAZZA TRILUSSA

This free walking tour to discover the district of Trastevere in Rome starts in Piazza Trilussa . The square is named after the great Roman poet Carlo Alberto Salustri, better known with the nickname “Trilussa”, born in Rome in 1871 and died in 1950. On the left side of the square there’s a small garden with a commemorative monument, a marble statue of the poet reciting a poem.

“IN THE SHADE While reading the usual newspaper, snuggling in the shade of a haystack I see a hog, and I say: – hello, pig! – I see a donkey and I say: – hello, jackass! –

Maybe these animals won’t understand me, but at least I feel satisfied for being able to say how things are for real without the fear of landing in jail.”

With the fountain in front of you take the street on your left called Vicolo del Moro. At the end of the street, turn right and stop at the stunning “Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere”.

2. ST. MARY IN TRASTEVERE

The Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere overlooks the homonymous square, the beating heart of this neighbourhood in Rome. Dating back to 337, this is the oldest Basilica in Rome . Beside the facade stands a lovely Romanic bell tower from the 12th century. The interior of the apse is decorated with a mosaic dating back to 1143. Inside, the Church of Santa Maria in Trastevere features impressive mosaics by Pietro Cavallini.

In the middle of the square rises a beautiful fountain , work of Donato Bramante, Bernini and Carlo Fontana which has always been regarded as quite interesting due to its mysterious origins. Indeed, according to tradition, this is the oldest fountain in Rome dating back to the 8th century, but the exact date of its construction is still unknown. According to legend, on the night of the birth of Christ a fountain of oil miraculously appeared from the ground right on the spot where today stands the Church of Santa Maria in Trastevere, hence it was given the name of “Santa Maria in Fontibus”.

At sunset the Fountain of Santa Maria in Trastevere is particularly lovely.

Sit down and rest for a while on the steps as locals do. Listen to the sound of the bells ringing as the bars in the square fill up for aperitif hour.

Leave the square and the Church behind, and walk ahead down Via della Lungaretta.

3. VIA DELLA LUNGARETTA

Dive into the night life of the Eternal City! Via della Lungaretta in Trastevere will set your senses alive with its cafes, restaurants, gelato shops, cocktail bars, which all stay open until late in the evening!

Cross the big avenue called “Viale Trastevere” and continue along Via della Lungaretta until you find on your right a little street known as “Vicolo della Luce”. Walking down this cobblestone, picturesque alley you will encounter another street “Via dei Genovesi”.

At your right stands a big brown building that houses a famous chef school! Keep walking for about 5 minutes until you cross “Vicolo dell’Atleta”. You will find it on your right.

4. VICOLO DELL’ATLETA

This narrow street is named after a famous statue depicting an Athlete, found in this exact spot by chance in the 19th century. Today the statue is housed inside the Vatican Museums .

At the end of the street, on the right side stands a building, which according to several sources could have been one of the oldest Synagogues in Rome. The site is no longer used for ritual functions, and houses today several apartments and a fine restaurant.

At the end of the street, turn left and then take the first street on your right called “via Santa Cecilia”.

5. CHURCH OF SANTA CECILIA IN TRASTEVERE

The Church of St. Cecilia in Trastevere dates back to the 5th century and is especially interesting for its history which links the church to the martyr’s life. According to tradition, the church rises on the remains of Cecilia’s house.

Legend seems to have roots in history though. Indeed digging activities under the church have brought to light a group of ancient buildings and houses dating back to the Roman times when St. Cecilia lived.

Enter the church and don’t miss the sculpture located in front of the altar by Stefano Maderno, depicting St. Cecilia in the same position she was found in her tomb. Looking at the statue up-close and personal you will see that the position of the fingers of the right hand symbolize the Holy Trinity.

Exit the Church, take via Santa Cecilia once again! Walk toward the river and reach the Tiberina Island.

6. TIBERINA ISLAND

Two bridges join the Isola Tiberina or Tiberina Island to the mainland: the Cestio bridge (46 b.C.) and Ponte Fabricius, also known as Quattro Capi, because of the four headed statue at the bridge entrance on the side of the Jewish Ghetto built in 62 B.C.

At Springtime and Summertime, you may see locals sunbathing here in the afternoon, while in the evening and the little square close to the river bank is usually crowded by people heading to restaurants and cocktail bars. The Church of Saint Bartholomew stands on the ruins of the ancient Temple of Aesculapius, the Greek god of medicine, once a pilgrimage site for the diseased.

7. THE ROMAN JEWISH GHETTO & THE GREAT SYNAGOGUE OF ROME

Cross the small bridge and reach the Jewish Ghetto of Rome. Across the river you can clearly spot among the trees the beautiful facade of the Great Synagogue of Rome .

Inaugurated in 1904, today the Synagogue is home to the Jewish Museum in Rome, which houses an impressive collection of artwork and documents, all evidence of the historic importance of the Jewish community in the city of Rome, as well as the fascinating history of Roman Judaism.

Taken all together, the surrounding streets form what was known as the historical “ghetto” – which was established in the middle of the 1500’s until the 19th century – the area where all Roman Jews were forced to live.

We strongly suggest you to taste some of the Roman Jewish snacks at the patisserie shop in front of the school on via del Portico d’Ottavia. Don’t miss lip-liking hot biscotti and chocolate-ricotta tart.

Behind the area, in via del Portico d’Ottavia , rises the homonymous porticus dedicated to Emperor Augustus’s sister, Octavia, in I century a.D.

8. TEATRO DI MARCELLO

Inaugurated by Augustus around the 17 b.C., Marecellus Theatre – also known as Teatro di Marcello – was dedicated to the memory of his nephew. The original building reached 33 meters in height and could accommodate up to 15,000 spectators. Teatro Marcello was one of the biggest theatres in ancient Rome. Later in years, the building was used as a quarry to extract precious materials, folling the same destiny of other monuments in Rome.

Before leaving the site, look at the remains of the Temple of Apollo Sosiano. There are three beautiful columns standing. Other remains of this ancient temple can be admired today at the Centrale Montemartini Museum.

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Join us for a unique evening tour of Rome and experience the magic of the Eternal City as the sun sets. Our tour starts in the historic center, where we'll take a stroll through the charming streets and see famous landmarks such as the Quirinal palace and the Trevi Fountain .

We'll also visit some lesser-known gems, including Piazza Repubblica and the fountain (Quattro fontane) and much more... As we continue our journey, we'll enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife. Our tour guides will be more then happy to tell you where to go, eat and drink and overall what to do ones in Rome.

With our expert local guide, you'll gain an in-depth understanding of Rome's rich history and culture. Don't miss out on this unique experience, book your spot today!

This tour includes: Piazza Repubblica - Quattro fontane - Quirinale palace - stunning view on the Saint Peter's church - Trevi fountain - and much more...

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Why This Unique Tour In Rome Was My Favorite Way To Explore The City

R ome has a rich history and vibrant culture that can transport you to a different era. Long before I ever visited Rome, what I knew of the ancient city came from the movies. I’m a classic movie buff, and Roman Holiday , the 1953 romantic comedy, is my favorite film.

The story unfolds as Princess Ann, who, during a visit to Rome, escapes her guardians to explore the city. Enter a handsome newspaper reporter who whisks her away on the back of his Vespa. I’ll never forget the images of iconic landmarks in the eternal city whizzing by as the movie unfolds.

On a recent visit, I found that exploring Rome by Vespa Sidecar Tour can make you feel like you’re living a similar fantasy. 

My private Vespa Sidecar Tour was provided by Anantara Palazzo Naiadi as part of a hosted stay at the beautiful hotel. As always, all opinions are my own.

The Vespa Sidecar Tour 

The Vespa Sidecar tour offers a unique way to discover the city’s famous landmarks, hidden gems, and picturesque squares. As you motor through the bustling city, you can imagine yourself as Audrey Hepburn’s character, Princess Ann, embarking on her own Roman adventure. 

The company’s owner, Luca Di Trapano, explained that the Vespa Sidecar Tour was born in a flash of inspiration after 2 decades of giving tours in Rome. He thought the concept was genius but later learned his idea was 45 years too late.

The makers of the Vespa stopped producing the model equipped with a sidecar in 1968. Not easily deterred, he persevered and brought his dream to reality. Since 2018, Luca has welcomed over 20,000 passengers on board without a single accident. He told me, “It is like having sailed through the streets of Rome with four or five gigantic cruise ships!”

The tours are 3 hours, depending on traffic. The price is 110 euros per person (about $117) on the small group tour (12 guests max). You can take the tour solo as I did or with a companion or group. Trade places halfway through for a new perspective. A private tour’s price depends on the number of guests.

Here are several reasons why you should explore Rome on this unique Vespa tour.

Easy Meeting Point

Piazza della Repubblica is the tour meeting point. The square is well-connected and easy for drop-offs by taxis and vehicles. Take the subway Line A to the Repubblica-Teatro dell’Opera stop. It’s just a 2-minute walk from the Central Termini Railway Station.

Pro Tip: If you want somewhere to stay close by, I recommend Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel . A restored 19th-century, crescent-shaped palazzo, it fronts Piazza della Repubblica, where the Vespa tour starts. At the assigned time, I met my guide, Alessio, at the concierge desk. My chariot, i.e. baby blue Vespa, was waiting just outside.

The Iconic Landmarks Of Rome

Exploring the highlights of the Eternal City, we visited 12 sights, including the Spanish Steps, Piazza del Popolo, and the Borghese Gardens. There were several opportunities to stop, stretch our legs, and linger, including the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon.

It’s A Blast!

When exploring the beautiful city of Rome, I loved all the astonished looks on people’s faces as we made our way down tight alleys and broad avenues. I felt like a movie star — everyone was smiling, waving, and snapping our photo. We must have been quite a sight; something special to share with family members when you get home.

Avoid The Crowds

What’s the best way to avoid crowds and see a different side of Rome? See it on a Vespa! If you’re fearless, you could rent one yourself. But my advice? Enlist a pro. You will feel much safer riding next to or behind someone who understands the ins and outs of Rome’s streets, where locals think traffic lanes are merely suggestions.

It’s A Beautiful Ride

The Vespa is a classic: These stunning coupes from Italy are iconic on the streets of Rome. Piaggio & Co. started making the Vespa after WWII as cheap, affordable transportation. Eventually, in 1953, the hit movie Roman Holiday showed the world how great a Vespa could be, resulting in record sales. Like the Colosseum, the Italian scooter has remained a part of Italy’s landscape. You will feel like an authentic Italian in the sidecar of a Vespa.

Unique And Unforgettable Way To See The Eternal City 

Unlike larger vehicles, a Vespa can easily maneuver through tight spaces, allowing you to see more of the city’s hidden gems and local hotspots. As you zip through the streets, you’ll experience the city in an exciting and unique way. Your guide will share his knowledge of the city’s history and culture, providing insights into the backstories of the pivotal figures in the Roman Empire.

A Driver And Official Guide Rolled Into One

My driver, Alessio, wasn’t just a history buff: He’s also an official guide, which means he’s been trained to lead tours and provide in-depth information on all the sites you’ll see. He knows how to keep you engaged, entertained, and informed, making your Vespa tour an unforgettable experience. Throughout the tour, he shared fascinating facts, historical anecdotes, and his favorite neighborhoods and restaurants. With his expertise and passion for sharing the city’s rich history, you’ll have a one-of-a-kind adventure that you’ll remember for years to come. 

Radio-Connected Modern Whispers

As we cruised along the streets of Rome, Alessio provided commentary directly into my ear through a modern whisper system. He pointed out the window overlooking St. Peter’s Square where the Pope makes his Sunday address. It was chilling to see the balcony above the Piazza Venezia, where Mussolini delivered his most famous speech, the declaration of war on France and Britain in 1940.

A Sense Of Freedom And Excitement

Take in Rome’s sights, sounds, and smells from the open-air Vespa sidecar. You can enjoy the warm breeze on your face, witness the daily life of Romans, and immerse yourself in the city’s timeless beauty. 

Pro Tip: Three hours is about the right amount of time to get a taste of Rome. I saw much more than I would in a walking tour, and it was a better experience than a hop-on, hop-off bus tour — we could go where large coaches could not.

I Felt Safe 

The guides are expert drivers and the top-class helmets have face shields and disposable head covers. The passenger wears a seatbelt with a shoulder harness. We traveled at the most 24 miles per hour; just the right pace. Once you are on board, your unease fades away as you sit back, hold on, and enjoy the thrill of exploring Rome on a Vespa.

The Hidden Gems Of Rome

Rome is one of the most beautiful places in Italy and a real bucket-list destination. But allow some time to visit the hidden gems many tourists miss. Janiculum Hill, called the “Eighth Hill of Rome,” is a beautiful, often overlooked area with the best views of Rome. It’s a bit of a climb on foot, but on a Vespa, sit back and enjoy the ride. Piazzale Garibaldi in the center has the Giuseppe Garibaldi Monument with a cannon that fires daily at noon. Don’t miss the 17th-century Aqua Paola Fountain.

Cappuccino And Cornetto 

After visiting the Pantheon, we stopped for a cappuccino and cornetto, the traditional Roman breakfast choice. Our baby blue Vespa was parked nearby and I enjoyed watching how much attention it got from passersby. On the afternoon tours, customers are offered gelato instead.

Unforgettable Experience 

This is the perfect gift for someone who has done everything and an unforgettable experience for curious travelers of all ages. You will carry home remarkable moments and fun memories. 

Would I recommend Vespa Sidecar Tour? Absolutely. If this had been my first time in Rome, it would have given me a good overview of the places I would like to return to for a deeper dive. I have been to Rome several times, but until now, I’ve never seen the eternal beauty of Rome from the seat of a Vespa sidecar. And the coin I tossed into the Trevi Fountain guarantees I’ll be back.

Related Reading: 

• 9 Ways To Avoid Looking Like A Tourist In Rome
• 7 Unexpected And Unforgettable Attractions You Need To See In Rome
• 7 Best Places To Indulge In Dolce Far Niente While Visiting Rome

This article originally appeared on TravelAwaits