Top 10 Ways to Make the Most of Free Activities While Travelling

Travelling the world doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, there are countless ways to experience new places without spending a penny. Whether you’re on a tight budget or simply love the thrill of discovering hidden gems, free activities can offer some of the best travel experiences. From free walking tours to scenic hikes and public museums, there’s always something for every type of traveller. Here’s a guide to making the most of free activities while exploring popular destinations.

1. Take a Free Walking Tour

One of the best ways to explore a new city is on foot, and many cities around the world offer free walking tours. These tours are usually guided by locals who are passionate about sharing their knowledge of the city’s history, culture, and hidden gems. The beauty of these tours is that they typically run on a "pay what you want" basis, meaning you only need to tip the guide what you feel the experience was worth.

Destinations like Berlin, Barcelona, and Amsterdam are renowned for their excellent free walking tours. It’s an incredible way to learn about the city from a local’s perspective, meet fellow travellers, and get insider tips for the rest of your stay. Even cities that aren't typically known for budget travel offer these tours, so keep an eye out for them during your visit. Free Tours on Foot offers free walking tours in several cities across the world, including New York City, Washington DC, and Paris.

2. Explore Public Museums and Galleries

Many cities offer free entry to museums and art galleries, making it easy to soak up some culture without spending a penny. In some cities, public museums are free every day, while in others, they offer free entry on certain days of the week or for specific hours.

For example, the British Museum in London is free every day and provides an incredible collection of artefacts from around the world. Similarly, The Louvre in Paris offers free entry on the first Saturday of every month and on Bastille Day. You can also enjoy art galleries like the National Gallery in London or the Museo de Arte de São Paulo in Brazil, both of which offer free access to their permanent collections.

Checking the museum’s website before your visit is always a good idea to see if they offer free entry times or special events. And, of course, free museums and galleries are great for rainy days when you want to stay indoors but still make the most of your travel experience.

3. Hike Scenic Trails

Nature is often the best free attraction a destination can offer, and hiking is an ideal way to connect with the outdoors. Many destinations feature free hiking trails that offer stunning views, peace and quiet, and the chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

If you’re visiting New Zealand, for example, there are a plethora of breathtaking hikes that you can enjoy for free. Tongariro National Park offers dramatic landscapes with volcanic craters, emerald lakes, and alpine forests. In Switzerland, the Jungfrau region boasts scenic trails with views of the Alps, and in Canada, Banff National Park offers numerous trails for hikers of all levels.

Hiking not only allows you to take in some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the world, but it also provides an opportunity to get off the beaten path and experience a destination from a different angle.

4. Relax in Public Parks

Public parks are a perfect place to unwind, people-watch, or enjoy a picnic while travelling. Many of the world’s most famous parks are free to enter, and they offer a great way to spend a day without spending money.

Central Park in New York City is iconic, offering a green oasis in the middle of the urban jungle. Similarly, Hyde Park in London and Parc des Buttes-Chaumont in Paris provide beautiful green spaces where you can relax and enjoy some tranquillity. In cities with hot climates, public parks often feature fountains and shaded areas where you can cool off, making them perfect for a break during a busy sightseeing day.

In addition to relaxing, public parks can also be the site of free events such as concerts, outdoor fitness classes, or community gatherings. Keep an eye on local listings for any free events happening during your visit. Websites such as Time Out London often feature free events in the city.

5. Visit Historic Sites and Landmarks

Not every historic site has an entrance fee, and many cities offer free access to important landmarks, monuments, and public squares. These sites can offer a fascinating glimpse into a city’s past and are often ideal for those who enjoy history and architecture.

In Rome, you can visit the Pantheon or take a stroll around the ancient Roman Forum without paying an admission fee. In Athens, the Acropolis can be viewed for free from various vantage points around the city, and in Paris, you can visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral for free (though the bell towers require a ticket). You’ll often find that these landmarks are just as impressive from the outside as they are on the inside, and wandering around them is an experience in itself.

6. Attend Local Festivals and Events

Festivals are an incredible way to immerse yourself in local culture, and many are free to attend. From music festivals to street fairs and parades, local events can offer an authentic and vibrant experience of a destination.

In Edinburgh, the Fringe Festival features free performances all around the city during August, while La Tomatina in Spain, although not entirely free to participate, offers spectators a chance to watch the famous tomato fight for free. Many cities also have seasonal events such as Christmas markets, open-air film screenings, and street performances that are completely free to attend.

To find free festivals and events, check local event listings, tourism websites, or ask locals about upcoming celebrations during your trip. Websites like VisitScotland and Time Out often list free events in major cities.

7. Take a Swim at Public Beaches or Lakes

If you’re visiting a coastal city or a destination known for its lakes, make the most of the free natural attractions it has to offer. Many popular beach destinations have public beaches that are free to use, and spending the day swimming or sunbathing can be the perfect way to relax and recharge during your travels.

In Sydney, Bondi Beach is free and accessible to all visitors, and in Hawaii, the beaches on Oahu are open to the public. Lake Geneva in Switzerland and Lake Bled in Slovenia also offer opportunities for swimming and relaxation without any entrance fee.

Beaches and lakes are great places for outdoor activities such as beach volleyball, frisbee, or simply lounging in the sun.

8. Explore Free Markets and Street Food

Another way to experience a destination is through its markets, which often offer a sensory overload of sights, smells, and sounds. Many markets are free to wander around, and you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere without needing to spend a dime. Even if you’re not planning to buy anything, the experience itself can be a highlight of your trip.

For example, the Pike Place Market in Seattle or Mercato di San Lorenzo in Florence is a treat for the senses, and both offer free entry. In Bangkok, you can explore the local street markets to see fresh produce, handmade crafts, and street food. Even if you don’t buy anything, just soaking in the local culture is a fantastic experience.

9. Use Public Transportation to Explore the City

Many cities offer free public transportation options, such as trams, buses, or ferries, especially for short distances or in certain districts. For example, in Zurich, the City Day Pass allows visitors to hop on and off trams, buses, and boats for free. In Tallinn, Estonia, public transport is free for residents, and tourists can access free travel cards for exploring certain areas.

Using free public transport to get around gives you a unique opportunity to explore neighbourhoods or scenic routes that might otherwise be out of reach, all without spending any money. Check local websites or apps like Citymapper for public transport information and free travel offers.

10. Join Free Yoga or Fitness Classes

Staying active while travelling doesn’t have to cost a thing. Many cities offer free fitness classes, including yoga, pilates, and even group runs or cycling tours. These classes are often organised by locals or tourism boards, and they provide an excellent way to meet people while staying healthy.

Cities like Berlin, Vancouver, and San Francisco often offer free yoga in public parks, while London has free outdoor fitness classes like boot camps or running clubs. These classes are perfect for those who want to stay fit while discovering the city in a unique and social way. You can check websites like Park Yoga for schedules.