As a college student, I’m always looking for ways to travel on a budget. I’ve learned that you can still enjoy a trip without spending money on fancy tours and tickets to attractions. Even just walking around a new city can be an amazing experience, and you may even wander upon some hidden gems you otherwise wouldn’t have found. Travel doesn’t have to be expensive, you just have to know how to make it fit within your budget. Here are some free things to do when you travel:
- Watch the sunset
- Whether you are on a beach or in a city, this is one of my favorite free activities. When I was in Florence, Italy, there was a great place to do this at the top of a hill just a short walk from the city center called Piazza Michaelangelo. There was also a beautiful place on a bridge called Ponte Vecchio. Crowds gathered to watch the sun go down and colors paint across the sky, and every evening it was a magical experience. Wherever you are, there will always be some kind of lookout or viewpoint to watch.
- Go to a free museum
- Many cities have museums with free admission for students or even free admission for all. When in Bologna, Italy, I simply wandered into three different museums for free with many Renaissance paintings and historical artifacts. You could do research on your city beforehand and see what’s available, or just try your luck with walking around and seeing what you find.
- Take pictures
- This is a pretty easy free activity, especially when you’re in an incredible new place! Take pictures of everything- the food you eat, the people you’re with, and the beautiful architecture or nature around you. You can even take the time to practice with lighting and angles to make sure you’re getting Insta-worthy shots.
- Take a free walking tour
- Believe it or not, you do not have to pay to get an amazing walking tour of a new city. This is the first thing I do when I travel to a new place to orient myself with my surroundings and learn about the history of where I am. You can go online and search for a free walking tour of where you are, and sign up on any company’s website where you will receive a confirmation with a meeting point for the tour. Many of them are similar and part of organizations that host free tours which make a profit on tips. If you do this, I would recommend tipping your tour guide if you enjoy your experience, although the tour itself is free.
- Watch street performers
- As you are walking around you will notice plenty of musicians, singers, dancers, and artists that make a city lively. Many gather a crowd, so don’t be afraid to take the time to appreciate their talents. These performers make a city feel vibrant and help to enhance the overall feel of a public space. Take the opportunity to experience something you otherwise wouldn’t have!
Simply wandering around a new city and taking in the sights is the best free way to experience travel. You can see many of the main attractions without paying to go inside, and you’ll have more time to enjoy the feeling of being in a new place. Take time to enjoy the view, walk slowly, and notice the details. You can still enjoy traveling and being in a new environment without breaking the bank!