Top things to do for free in Europe

In about two months from now I'm heading to Europe to do some backpacking through Italy, France, Switzerland, Germany and the Netherlands.

Having just finished college recently, this trip must fit in a fairly small budget.  I want to experience as much of the culture and history in each city as possible, but not come home completely broke. This seems to be the case for most students and youth that come into my office wanting to travel through Europe.  Having researched each of the cities I plan to visit, I have come up with the top things to do for free.


Here is a breakdown of my trip and the cities I will be looking at.  I am flying into Rome, visiting Pompeii, Sorrento and Capri. I will then travel north to Florence, with a stop in Orvieto along the way.  I will then make my way to Nice, stopping at Pisa along the way.  From Nice, I plan to do a day trip to Cannes.  Next, I will travel to Lauterbrunnen, then Munich, likely with a day trip to Neuschwanstein.  Next, I will visit Paris, then head to Amsterdam, where I fly out of.  Here are the top free experiences I have found in the major cities:

Rome, Italy
Spanish Steps - Climb to the top for a great view of the busy streets of Rome.
Trevi Fountain - A nice sight to see at night. (The only cost would be if you choose to throw a coin in the fountain to follow tradition).
Pantheon - Free to enter and see the magnificent dome. Wander around the outside in the evening as it is more lively.
Trestevere - Wander the narrow streets that lead to the Piazza Santa Maria, where you'll see one of the oldest churches in Rome.


Capri, Italy
Faraglioni - You can see these rock formations from the shore. The Faraglioni beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Capri.
Anacapri - Go to the highest part of the island to see the amazing view. 
Marina Piccola - Harbour with a pebble beach which has beautiful views of the sea and rock formations.





Sorrento, Italy
The Piazza Tasso and Piazza Antica - Squares where you can enjoy window shopping while walking through the cobblestone streets.
Coastline - Stroll the beaches and enjoy the sun.











Florence, Italy 

Piazzale Michelangelo - An amazing panoramic view of Florence.
Piazza del Duomo - A huge gothic cathedral has an elaborate exterior, and a bell tower. Entering the church is also free.
Piazza della Signoria - A historic center with many amazing sculptures, even a copy of Michelangelo's David.
Ponte Vecchio - Walk the medieval bridge over the Arno River, and stroll the streets lined with shops along the river.


Nice, France
Promenade des Anglais - Take a walk along the promenade which follows the coast and enjoy the view. You can experience local culture and see lots of boutiques.
Pebble beaches - Lounge on the pebble beach and float in the water, enjoying the sun. (Note: Ice cold beer in hand is not free, but definitely required).
Old Town (Vieille Ville) - A historic walking area with many old buildings, narrow alleys and unique cafes, bakeries, and a flower market. 
Castle Hill (Colline du Chateau) - An amazing lookout that overlooks the city and its coast.




Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland
Lauterbrunnen Waterfall Valley - An easy hike from the town to see many beautiful valleys and waterfalls, including Staubbachfall, and Trummelbach.







Munich, Germany
English Gardens - A beautiful park to go for a stroll in with rivers and beer gardens. (Okay, so the beer isn't free, but the scenery is!) 
St Peter's Church Tower- Climb to the top of the tower for free, for amazing views of the city.
Viktualienmarkt- Bavarian food market with local foods and historic buildings.
Glockenspiel - At 11am and midday, several life size figures do a dance.

Paris, France
Champs-Elysées - An amazing promenade to stroll down, with lots of cafes and shops, you can also see the Arc de Triomphe at the very end.
Cimetier Pere Lachaise - Famous cemetery where you can see graves of composer Frederic Chopin, and Jim Morrison of the Doors.
Louvre - Free admission to this museum on Fridays between 6-9:45 p.m if you're under 26.
Eiffel Tower at night - Beautiful lights twinkle for 5 minutes each hour after twilight.


Amsterdam, Netherlands
Vondelpark - Wander around the walkways through the rivers and see entertainers. Often there are free shows in the amphitheater in the summer.
Dam Square - Walk past the Royal Palace here as well Nieuwe Kerk (a church).  Experience the culture, and see street entertainers.
Ferry across the channel - A small cruise across the channel is free between Centraal Station and Amsterdam-Noord. You can then walk along the canal and see the ships wait to enter.



Of course there are many other budget-friendly things to experience that are not in this list, especially if you are a student or under 26 years old.  Many attractions and transportation companies offer discounts, you just have to be sure to ask. While I don't believe I'll be getting any discounts on beer, I still plan to have an amazing time, and not come out broke. Cheers, and happy backpacking!