How to travel to Rome (or any destination) on a budget and enjoy it to the fullest

Traveling doesn't have to be a luxury reserved for the few. With proper planning, it's possible to enjoy incredible destinations, like Rome, without spending a fortune. In this article, I'll share with you how I managed to live an unforgettable experience in the Eternal City with a friend, using affordable strategies that you could replicate on any other trip.

DESTACADASVIAJES

1/13/20256 min read

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gray concrete bridge and brown concrete building under blue sky

1. Stay economically without losing comfort

Renting an apartment through platforms like Airbnb can be a much cheaper option than a hotel, especially if you're slightly away from the center. In our case, we opted for a place located 20 minutes walk from the heart of Rome. Not only did we save money, but we also enjoyed a quieter, more authentic environment, surrounded by locals instead of tourists.

Some of the best neighborhoods to stay cheaply in Rome include Trastevere , with its bohemian vibe and typical restaurants; Monteverde , ideal for those looking for a more residential experience; and San Lorenzo , known for its vibrant nightlife and affordable prices. In each of these neighborhoods, you'll find a unique personality and options for all tastes.

Tip: Look for apartments with a kitchen so you can prepare your own meals. This brings us to the next important point.

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2. Save on food without giving up enjoying gastronomy

Instead of always eating out, we bought groceries at local supermarkets to prepare simple breakfasts and dinners in the apartment. This allowed us to save considerably, leaving room in the budget to enjoy typical restaurants and try Italian delicacies such as fresh pasta, pizza al taglio and gelato at places recommended by locals.

In neighborhoods like Trastevere and San Lorenzo , you can find trattorias and bars with affordable prices and a cozy atmosphere. In addition, we enjoy university parties with drinks at very affordable prices, an excellent option for those looking for nightlife without spending a lot.

Tips: Use apps like Tripadvisor or Google Maps to find restaurants with good value for money. Many small restaurants away from the tourist areas offer authentic Roman cuisine at very reasonable prices.

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3. Walk as much as you can

Rome is a city that is ideal for exploring on foot. During our trip, we walked between 15 and 20 kilometers a day, and there were days when we walked up to 35. This not only helped us save on public transportation, but also allowed us to enjoy details that might otherwise go unnoticed. However, it is important to adapt to your possibilities: if you do not want to walk so much, a good itinerary that combines short routes with breaks will allow you to enjoy it just the same.

Pro tip: Plan your day from a key starting point and plot a logical route to the places you want to visit. Rome is very well connected and most of the monuments are relatively close to each other.

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4. Don't miss the emblematic monuments and neighborhoods

Rome is a city steeped in history and beauty. Must-see sites include the Colosseum , the Roman Forum , the Trevi Fountain , the Pantheon and the Vatican . But it's not all about grand monuments: exploring neighbourhoods like Trastevere lets you discover the essence of Roman life, with picturesque alleys, lively squares and a unique atmosphere.

In Monteverde , you can enjoy spectacular views at the Gianicolo , a less crowded viewing point that offers an unforgettable panorama of the city. Meanwhile, San Lorenzo will surprise you with its mix of culture, urban art and alternative venues.

5. Traveling in the low season has advantages

Although we traveled in the winter and encountered cold weather and some construction, we found that it was one of the best times to avoid crowds. Enjoying iconic sites without the usual crowds allowed for a more relaxed and authentic experience. Plus, prices tend to be lower at this time.

Tip: Look for deals on flights and accommodation using tools like Skyscanner or Kayak . Planning ahead can make a big difference to your budget.

6. Prioritize experiences over photos

One thing we learned is that while taking photos is important, the most valuable thing is connecting with the local people and culture. In Rome , the warmth of the people and the spontaneous conversations with the locals were unforgettable moments. If you open yourself up to this experience, you will discover that a trip is not only measured in views, but in stories and emotions.

Furthermore, this trip was much more than just tourism: it was a moment of personal reflection and motivation. Just as I was walking through the streets of Rome, I found the clarity I needed to shape the ideas of this blog. Traveling not only enriches the soul, it also inspires and transforms.

brown concrete building under blue sky during daytime

7. Plan, but be flexible

Traveling on a budget doesn't mean giving up on fun. During our trip, we even got to enjoy Roman nightlife, exploring local bars and small events we found on social media and recommendations from locals.

Extra tip: Search on platforms like Eventbrite or Meetup to find free or low-cost activities during your stay.

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Traveling is not just about spending, but about living and experiencing. With some creativity and willingness, you can explore the world without breaking the bank. As we proved in Rome, living a unique trip is possible even with limited resources.

Thanks for reading!

At BlogDropEvent , every article has a purpose, and this one is no exception. We don’t just share our strategies for budget-friendly travel, we also seek to inspire you to take that first step towards your dream destination. Rome wasn’t just a place on the map, it was a life-changing experience that pushed us to reflect, grow, and clarify our ideas. What new horizons await you?

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