I am a firm believer, that you can have an entirely amazing vacation without spending any extra money on activities. Most of the time, all it takes is a simple Google search for free things to do in a city, but if you’re having trouble coming up with ideas, here are some free things you can look for in almost any destination in the world.
Walking Tours
Not all walking tours are free, but many cities have free walking tours available that will take you to the most popular tourist sights. You can often find these online, on a bulletin board, or ask your accommodations person. If you want to do something your own pace, you can also usually find free self guided walking tours of a city online. If you happen to be in Europe, Rick Steve’s has a plethora of them.
Beach Days
Some of the best things in life are free, and going to the beach for relaxation in the sun, or fun in the water is one of those things.
Hiking
Many places have different parks with trails to hike around in. It will give you great exercise, a chance to experience local beauty and most of the time an amazing view as a reward. The caveat to this is if you are going to a National Park to hike, then there might be a fee. But sometimes if you can get there without a car (parking outside the entrance) they will waive the fee.
Free Museums
Not all museums are free, but many cities have at least one or two that are. They might not be the most well known, but they will still provide education, entertainment and enjoyment. London, England is an exception, because all major museums there are free! Many museums that charge a fee often have a free day, so a little research can tell you which day or time of the day that is.
People Watching
If you don’t mind just sitting and relaxing for a little while, people watching can be a great way to stay entertained and get a peak into the local culture. You don’t even have to people watch necessarily. Just getting outside and walking around with no purpose can lead you to some exciting discoveries.
Visiting Churches
Like museums, a lot of churches or places of worship around the world are free to enter. This does have some exceptions for major churches, but often even the major churches will have a section of the church you can see without paying a fee. Churches and places of worship are often architectural feats, and also play a large role in the landscape and city history as well.
Playgrounds
If you have kids, finding a nearby playground is an easy way to entertain kids for a couple hours without spending a dime.
Parks
Parks are usually free green spaces great to spend a half hour walking through or a relaxing whole afternoon with picnic. If you walk around and look, you can often find little signs with historical information that teaches you something new or helps you learn more about the destination you are in. In the summertime, look for free events that parks might be hosting, you might be lucky and find a free concert in your destination.
Local markets
Walking around a local market is a fascinating thing to do. The smells are delightful and you can get a good peak into the local cuisine, culture and people by doing so. You don’t have to buy anything, but you still get the experience.
Watch street performers
If you happen to see a stranger singing, doing magic, playing an instrument, dancing, or doing any other talent, don’t be shy to stand and watch or listen for a little while. Yes, they probably are hoping for a little tip, and if you can afford it than go right ahead, but if you can’t, they often enjoy the company/audience.
Check local school/university event calendars
A lot of times, local educational institutes will have free events like art shows, concerts and more around campus. It might take a little bit of research, but sometimes you can find a hidden gem.
Pick up Games
In every city, you can almost bet that you will find local kids playing a sport at a local court or park. It’s amazing how many people are willing to let you join in if you are willing to ask. My favorite was watching Dan play in a pick up soccer game in Croatia, with guys who couldn’t speak a lick of English. It was one of the best afternoons.
Bring Cards
If you add a deck of cards to your packing list, you will instantly have something to do. Playing cards on the lawn in front of the Eiffel Tower is something you will surely remember.
Check “unique sites” Websites
There are a few websites that users post interesting, weird, or oddity places that aren’t necessarily something you’d want to see, but depending on your interests could be. They are usually a little bit off the path, but if it’s your think could be worth it. For example, if you are a movie lover and in Washington, D.C., you can find the stairs and house from The Exorcist open for you to explore for free. A great resource for these kinds of finds is Atlas Obscura.
Strike up a conversation
This one is probably not something that comes naturally to everyone, but can sometimes be the most memorable part of your trip. Not only will you possibly make a new friend, but you might find out about something that you wouldn’t have known about otherwise.
As you can see, there are so many free things to do in every destination. You get a great sense of culture by doing these things as well.
And remember, although there are plenty of free things for you to do, you don’t always have to do something that’s free. The beauty of having free options is that if you want to splurge on something, then you can choose a free thing to do to make up for it. Traveling reasonably is all about balance. You don’t have to break the bank, but you don’t have to save every penny either. It is an experience after all!