Visiting the Eternal City doesn’t need to cost an eternal fortune. With smart planning, you can explore Rome’s ancient wonders, Italian cuisine, and live “la dolce vita” without breaking the bank. Here’s an engaging, practical guide covering everything from flights to fettuccine – all the tips you need for a cheap Roman holiday.
Table of Contents
- Best flight options
- When to go
- Rome hotels
- Dining on a budget
- Must-see attractions in Rome
- Cheap Rome FAQ
Best flight options
Flights from London
London offers a wealth of direct flights to Rome’s two airports (Fiumicino-FCO and Ciampino-CIA). Budget carriers abound: easyJet flies from Gatwick (and Luton) to Fiumicino, Ryanair from Stansted (and often Luton) to Ciampino, typically giving the lowest fares. Meanwhile, British Airways and ITA Airways operate from Heathrow to Fiumicino, usually at higher base prices but with full service.
Return fares can be astonishingly cheap in low season – for example, a Ryanair London–Rome round-trip in late January was recently on sale for £26 return. More commonly, savvy travellers can snag London–Rome returns in the £50–£100 range off-peak, especially by booking well ahead and avoiding school holidays. In peak summer, that same route might soar to £150–£250 (or more) return.
To get the cheapest fares, aim for mid-week flights – flying out on a Tuesday or Wednesday is often cheapest, whereas Fridays command a premium. Also, look at alternative London airports: Stansted and Luton often have the lowest fares, but even Gatwick sees deals. Booking about 6 weeks in advance hits a sweet spot for price, and if you can travel light with hand luggage, you’ll save on budget airline fees.
Flights from other UK cities
You don’t have to connect in London – direct flights to Rome are available from across the UK. Manchester and Birmingham see budget-airline routes (Ryanair and Jet2 regularly serve them) and full-service options. Edinburgh and Glasgow often have summer routes too.
Fares from regional airports can be a tad higher due to less competition, but you can still find returns in the £60–£150 range outside peak periods.
- Travel off-peak whenever possible – Rome is a year-round destination, and airlines drastically drop fares in the low season.
- Watch for deals here on Flight Tribe and set fare alerts and check comparison sites (Skyscanner, Kayak) for fare trends.
- If you’re eyeing easyJet or Ryanair, book as soon as you see a great fare – those £30 bargains sell out fast.
- Be mindful of Rome’s airports: Ciampino is smaller and has cheaper transfers to the city, while Fiumicino is larger with more flight options.
When to go
Rome’s appeal shifts with the seasons, and so do the prices. Here’s a breakdown of visiting at different times of year, with cost estimates and pros and cons for each.
Winter (low season)
- When: Late November through February (excluding the Christmas/New Year holidays).
- Costs: The cheapest time to visit Rome. Flights can be under £50 return, and hotels drop their rates significantly.
- Pros: Fewer tourists, shorter queues, mild weather compared to the UK.
- Cons: Chilly and rainy days, shorter daylight hours, some smaller restaurants may close in January.
Spring (shoulder season)
- When: March through May (excluding Easter week).
- Costs: March and early April offer excellent value, with flights around £60–£80 and hotels moderately priced.
- Pros: Pleasant weather, blooming parks, fewer crowds.
- Cons: Prices rise around Easter, unpredictable weather in early spring.
Summer (peak season)
- When: June through August.
- Costs: Flights £150–£250, hotels at their highest rates.
- Pros: Long sunny days, lively atmosphere, festivals.
- Cons: Crowds, intense heat, high prices.
Autumn (shoulder season)
- When: Mid-September through early November.
- Costs: Prices start high in September but drop by late October. Flights can be £60–£100, and hotels reduce rates.
- Pros: Pleasant weather, fewer tourists by late autumn.
- Cons: Rain showers in late October, prices can spike during events.
Rome hotels
Budget stays (£50–£100/night)
The RomeHello Hostel: Modern facilities, social atmosphere, dorm beds from £33 per night.
Meininger Roma Termini: Private en-suite rooms from £82 per night.
Allegra’s House Caracciolo: Guesthouse near the Vatican, spacious rooms from £73 per person.
Mid-range hotels (£100–£200/night)
Hotel Raffaello – A straightforward, well-located hotel near Termini station. Rooms are clean, comfortable, and include breakfast, making it a solid choice for the price. Rooms start at £122 per night.
Hotel Santa Maria – A small hotel in Trastevere with a quiet courtyard. It’s a good option for those who want to be near Rome’s nightlife without staying in a noisy area. Breakfast is included. Rooms start at £139 per night.
Hotel Aventino – A simple, well-kept hotel in a quiet residential area near the Colosseum. The location is away from the crowds, but you can still walk to the main sights. Good value for those wanting a relaxed stay. Rooms from £142 per night.
High-end & luxury (from £200/night)
Hotel Artemide – A 4-star hotel on Via Nazionale with modern rooms and a rooftop terrace. The free minibar and strong service make it stand out in this price range. Rooms from £210 per night.
Palazzo Dama – A 5-star boutique hotel near Piazza del Popolo. It’s more private than larger hotels and has a pool, which is rare in central Rome. Not cheap, but offers a level of exclusivity that usually costs more. Rooms from £580 per night.
Rhinoceros – A design-focused hotel near the Roman Forum. The apartment-style rooms give you much more space than a standard luxury hotel, making it a good choice if you want high-end accommodation with extra room to spread out. Rooms from £588 per night.
Booking tips
- Book direct.. maybe check the hotel’s website for possible discounts, but price check elsewhere
- Use aggregator sites (Booking.com, Expedia) for deals.
- Stay slightly outside the centre for better rates.
- Check for city tax (usually €4–€7 per person per night).
Dining on a budget
Avoid tourist traps
- Skip restaurants with multilingual photo menus near major attractions.
- Venture a few streets away from tourist hubs for authentic trattorias.
Street food and snacks
Supplì: Deep-fried rice balls, around €1.50–€3.
Pizza al taglio: Pizza by the slice, pay by weight, typically €5–€8.
Sit-down pizzerias: Whole pizza for €6–€9.
Eat like a local
- Breakfast: Espresso and cornetto at the bar for around €2.50.
- Lunch specials: Pranzo fisso offers a pasta, side, and drink for about €12.
- Aperitivo: Buy a drink (~€8–€10) and enjoy free snacks.
Cheap authentic eateries
Da Augusto (Trastevere) – A no-frills trattoria serving classic Roman dishes at local prices. Portions are generous, and a full meal with wine costs about €20 per person, making it one of the best-value sit-down meals in the city.
Taverna Romana (Monti) – This small, family-run restaurant is known for its traditional pasta dishes like cacio e pepe and amatriciana. A multi-course meal with wine comes in at around €30 per person, which is excellent for the quality of food and central location.
Tavola calda – These self-service cafeterias, found throughout Rome, offer quick and affordable meals, with pasta dishes, meat, and vegetables for €6–€8. Ideal for a fast, filling meal without paying tourist prices.
Luxury restaurants that are worth it
Per Me Giulio Terrinoni
A Michelin-starred restaurant offering innovative seafood dishes in a refined setting. Tasting menus start at approximately €50 per person.
Imàgo
Located atop the Hassler Hotel, Imàgo provides panoramic city views alongside its Michelin-starred Italian cuisine. Tasting menus begin at around €198 per person.
Aroma
Situated near the Colosseum, Aroma offers a unique dining experience with views of this iconic landmark. Gourmet menus are available from approximately €150 per person.
Must-see attractions in Rome
Rome’s top sights don’t have to cost a fortune. Many are free, and even ticketed sites have discounts, combo passes, or free entry days. Here’s what to see and how to do it on a budget.
Trevi Fountain
Why go? The most famous fountain in Rome. Toss a coin in to ensure a return to the city.
Money-saving tips:
- Always free – visit early morning or late at night to avoid crowds.
- Coins go to charity, so no need to overdo it.
- Avoid overpriced cafés nearby – grab a takeaway coffee instead.
Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
Why go? The Colosseum is Rome’s most iconic ruin, while the Forum and Palatine Hill give a real sense of ancient Roman life.
Money-saving tips:
- Buy a combo ticket (€16), which includes all three sites.
- First Sunday of the month is free, but expect long queues.
- Book online (€2 reservation fee) to skip ticket queues.
- EU citizens aged 18–25 pay €2; under 18s go free.
- Roma Pass holders still pay a €2 booking fee.
The Pantheon
Why go? The best-preserved ancient Roman building, featuring a perfect dome with an open oculus.
Do not confuse it with The Parthenon, or you’ll be kicked out. Maybe not, but you should be.
Money-saving tips:
- Entry is €5 (€3 for EU youth, free for under 18s).
- First Sunday of the month is free – arrive early to avoid crowds.
- Attend a Mass for free entry, but no sightseeing allowed.
Spanish Steps
Why go? A scenic staircase leading up to Trinità dei Monti church, with great views over Rome.
Money-saving tips:
- Always free – open 24/7.
- Avoid peak times (midday and early evening) for a quieter experience.
- Sitting on the steps is banned – avoid fines.
Piazza Navona
Why go? A stunning public square lined with fountains, including Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers.
Money-saving tips:
- Completely free to walk around and enjoy the architecture.
- Street performances are a free bonus – tipping is optional.
- Avoid pricey square-side cafés – better-value restaurants are a few streets away.
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
Why go? Home to Michelangelo’s famous frescoes, plus one of the world’s greatest art collections.
Money-saving tips:
- Free entry on the last Sunday of the month, but queues start early.
- Pre-book tickets online to skip long lines (€17 + small booking fee).
- Go late in the day (last entry around 3–4pm) to avoid tour groups.
- Discounts for students and under-25s with ID.
St. Peter’s Basilica
Why go? The world’s largest church, with Michelangelo’s Pietà and incredible interior.
Money-saving tips:
- Free entry, but arrive early (before 8am) to avoid security lines.
- Dome climb costs €8 (stairs) or €10 (with elevator) – great value for panoramic views.
- Dress code enforced – cover shoulders and knees to avoid buying an overpriced cover-up outside.
Castel Sant’Angelo
Why go? A fortress-turned-museum with excellent city views.
Money-saving tips:
- Free entry on the first Sunday of the month.
- Roma Pass includes free entry – good use of a pass.
- Admire from outside for free if short on budget.
Galleria Borghese
Why go? A world-class collection of art in a historic villa, including sculptures by Bernini.
Money-saving tips:
- Must book in advance – no walk-ins allowed (€13 + €2 reservation fee).
- Free entry on the first Sunday of the month, but still requires booking.
- Roma Pass includes entry, but reservation is still needed.
- Villa Borghese Gardens are free – explore them before or after your visit.
Are budget passes worth it?
- Roma Pass (48h: €32, 72h: €53–€58) – Covers 1 or 2 major sites, unlimited public transport, and discounts on others. Worth it if you plan to visit multiple paid sites in a short time.
- Omnia Pass (€129-€149) – Includes the Roma Pass plus Vatican Museums & St. Peter’s Basilica. Expensive and usually not worth it unless you plan to do everything in 3 days.
- Best strategy: If visiting 2+ big-ticket sites, Roma Pass can be a good deal. Otherwise, buy individual tickets.
Cheap Rome FAQ
How expensive is Rome?
Rome is moderately priced but can be expensive if you stay in tourist areas. A budget traveler can get by on €70–€80 per day, while a mid-range budget is around €200 per day. Meals cost €10–15 for pasta, €4–5 for a beer or glass of wine, and €2–3 for gelato. A hostel dorm bed starts at €40–50 per night, mid-range hotels at €150+, and budget hotels around €80–120. A metro ticket costs €1.50, and a 24-hour unlimited pass is €7.
What is the cheapest way to travel to Rome and get around?
The cheapest way to reach Rome is via budget airlines flying into Ciampino or Fiumicino, then taking a bus or regional train into the city. From Fiumicino, the FL1 train costs €8, or €14 for the Leonardo Express. Rome is highly walkable, but when needed, public transport is best. A €1.50 ticket covers buses, trams, and metro for 100 minutes, or get a 24-hour pass for €7. Avoid taxis as they have a €48–€55 airport fare and are expensive for short trips.
Where should I stay in Rome on a budget?
For budget stays, the Termini Station area has the cheapest hostels and hotels. San Lorenzo and Monti offer affordable B&Bs and a more local feel. Prati, near the Vatican, is a great mid-range choice with cheaper food and hotels compared to the city center. Trastevere is a lively option with affordable small hotels and a great atmosphere. If budget isn’t a concern, the historic center (Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Spanish Steps) puts you within walking distance of attractions, though prices are higher.
How can I eat cheaply in Rome?
Eat where locals eat to save money. Pizza al taglio (by the slice) costs €2–4, and panini (sandwiches) are around €5–6. Trattorias away from tourist areas serve pasta for €9–13, much cheaper than central restaurants. Lunch menus are often more affordable than dinner. A cappuccino and pastry costs €3 if ordered at the bar, but sitting down costs extra. Refill a bottle at Rome’s free drinking fountains (nasoni) instead of buying water.
How much spending money do I need for a trip to Rome?
A 3-day budget trip can be done for €200–250 (staying in hostels, eating street food, walking), while a mid-range trip costs €600+. A 5-day trip on a budget is around €350–500, while mid-range travelers spend €1000+. A 7-day budget trip is around €550–600, whereas a more comfortable experience costs €1400+. Your spending depends on accommodation, dining, and paid attractions.
What are the best free or cheap things to do in Rome?
Rome has plenty of free sights. Visit Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona, and the Pantheon without spending a euro. St. Peter’s Basilica is free, and the Vatican Museums are free on the last Sunday of each month. Many museums, including the Colosseum and Forum, are free on the first Sunday of the month. Walking around Trastevere, the Jewish Ghetto, or Villa Borghese Gardens offers a great experience at no cost.
Is Rome cheaper than the UK?
Rome is cheaper than London but more expensive than some UK cities. Eating out is more affordable—pasta dishes cost €10–15, while a similar meal in London could be £15–20. Public transport is cheaper, with metro tickets at €1.50 compared to London’s £2.80–£5. Hotels can be expensive in tourist zones, but mid-range and budget options are better value than in the UK.
Is it best to take cash to Rome?
Cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to have some cash for small cafés, market stalls, and taxis. ATMs are common, and withdrawing euros in Rome usually gives a better rate than exchanging money in the UK. Avoid airport currency exchange booths as they charge high fees.
How do I get from the airport to the city cheaply?
From Fiumicino Airport, the cheapest option is the FL1 regional train (€8) if heading to Trastevere or Tiburtina. The Leonardo Express (€14) is the fastest option to Termini Station. From Ciampino Airport, shuttle buses cost around €6. Public transport is significantly cheaper than taxis, which charge a fixed €48–€55.
What is the cheapest way to see the Colosseum?
The Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill share one €16 ticket. Visit on the first Sunday of the month for free, but expect crowds. Booking online saves time, as same-day tickets often sell out. The Roma Pass covers the Colosseum and public transport, which can be good value if visiting multiple sites.
What is free in Rome?
Many top sights are free, including Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, St. Peter’s Basilica, Piazza Navona, and the Pantheon (except during paid hours). Rome’s first Sunday of the month offers free entry to major museums and ruins. Walking around the Villa Borghese Gardens, Jewish Ghetto, or Aventine Hill is also free and highly recommended.
How long do I need in Rome?
Three days in Rome is enough for highlights like the Colosseum, Vatican, Pantheon, and Trevi Fountain, but five days allows for a more relaxed experience and extra sights like Villa Borghese or a Trastevere food tour. A week gives time for day trips to Ostia Antica or Tivoli.
Is Rome expensive to eat out?
Eating out can be expensive in tourist areas, but local trattorias, pizza al taglio spots, and markets offer great food for under €15 per meal. Avoid restaurants with menus in multiple languages—these tend to be overpriced. Look for lunch specials and aperitivo deals for better value.
Why is Rome so expensive?
Rome can feel expensive due to its popularity, but costs are lower than in other major European capitals. Hotels in prime locations charge a premium, and tourist traps inflate food prices. However, transport, coffee, and local dining remain very affordable.
Is Rome a good budget city break?
Yes, Rome is a great budget destination if you plan carefully. Many of its best attractions are free, food can be cheap if you avoid tourist traps, and transport is affordable. Staying slightly outside the center and prioritizing free activities can make a trip very budget-friendly.
Is there a beach near Rome?
Yes, Ostia Beach is the closest, reachable by train from Piramide station in 45 minutes for about €1.50. The water isn’t spectacular, but it’s a good escape in summer. Santa Severa and Sperlonga are nicer options, but slightly farther.
How much money should I take for 5 days in Rome?
For a budget trip, around €350–€500 should cover hostel stays, food, transport, and some paid attractions. A mid-range traveler should budget €1000–1200 for a mix of restaurants, hotels, and tours. For high-end stays, expect €2000+.
Can you visit Rome on a budget?
Absolutely. Walk instead of taking taxis, eat at local trattorias, stay in hostels or budget hotels, and take advantage of free sights. Planning around free museum days and using public transport keeps costs down. Rome is an expensive city, but budget travelers can still experience its magic without overspending.
How much is a pint of beer in Rome?
A pint of beer in a bar or restaurant costs around €5–6, while supermarkets sell bottles for as little as €1.50–€2.
How many euros for 3 days in Rome?
For a budget trip, expect to spend around €200–250 including accommodation, food, and attractions. Mid-range travelers might spend €600+, while a luxury trip could exceed €1000.
How much does a week-long trip to Rome cost?
A budget week in Rome costs around €550–€600, a mid-range trip is around €1400, and a luxury stay can be €2500+ depending on dining, accommodation, and activities.
How much is a meal in Rome?
A meal at a local trattoria costs €10–15 for pasta, €12–20 for meat or fish dishes, and €4–5 for wine or beer. A pizza dinner is about €10–12, while fine dining can cost €50+ per person.
How much is a breakfast in Rome?
A typical Italian breakfast of cappuccino and a cornetto (pastry) costs €2–3 at a bar. A hotel or sit-down café breakfast is usually €6–12.
How much does food cost per day in Rome?
A budget traveler can eat well for €20–30 per day by having a €3 breakfast, €6 lunch (panini or pizza), and a €10–15 dinner at a trattoria. Mid-range diners might spend €50–70 per day.
When is the best time to visit Rome?
The cheapest months to visit are January–March and November, when hotel prices drop. Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) have great weather but higher prices. July and August are hot and busy, with slightly lower hotel prices.
What is the best part of Rome to stay in as a tourist?
For first-time visitors, Centro Storico (Pantheon, Trevi, Piazza Navona) offers the most central location, while Trastevere has a lively atmosphere with affordable dining. Prati is great for mid-range hotels near the Vatican.
How long is the train from Rome airport to city center?
The Leonardo Express train from Fiumicino to Termini Station takes 32 minutes. The FL1 regional train (cheaper but slower) takes about 45 minutes.
Is Italy expensive to visit from the UK?
Italy is generally cheaper than the UK, with lower food and public transport costs. However, flights, hotels, and attractions in Rome and other tourist areas can be pricey during peak seasons.
Is 3 nights in Rome enough?
Yes, three nights allow you to see major sights like the Colosseum, Vatican, Trevi Fountain, and Pantheon, but five days is better for a more relaxed experience.
Is 5 days in Rome enough?
Five days is enough to see all major attractions at a relaxed pace, explore local neighborhoods, and take a day trip to Ostia Antica or Tivoli.
How to spend 3 hours in Rome?
In a short visit, see Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and Piazza Navona, all within a short walk. If arriving at Termini Station, you could visit Colosseum and Roman Forum instead.
Why is Rome so expensive?
Rome is a major tourist destination, so if you dont plan well (using this guide!) many hotels, restaurants, and attractions in central areas charge high prices. However, local transport, coffee, and street food remain cheap.
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