20 Free Things to Do in Europe This Spring

England

The British Museum: Since 1759, this museum has provided patrons with a rich history of culture and artifacts. View the Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon sculptures, and more. The museum frequently adds new exhibits, so you're sure to see something great any time you go.

Columbia Road Flower Market: You can stop and smell the roses, but you don't have to buy any. This weekly market operates from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. every Sunday. Take a Sunday stroll and admire all the beautiful flowers without spending anything.

Houses of Parliament: Get a hands-on view of history in the making. If you visit when Parliament is in session, you can observe from the House of Commons' visitor gallery. If you visit when Parliament is in recess, you can take a guided tour of both chambers. The House of Parliament is also home to Big Ben and the Crown Jewels.

Science Museum: There are seven floors to explore, and it's all free. IMAX films and flight simulators cost extra, but with so much to see and do, you probably won't even end up spending anything (unless you hit the gift shop, of course). The museum is great for all ages.

Italy

Churches: As home to the center of Catholic culture, Italy offers a wide variety of beautiful churches. Even if you are not religious, you can certainly appreciate the art and majesty of these centuries-old institutions. From St. Peter's Basilica to the Pantheon, you're sure to find plenty to see for free.

Trevi Fountain: You probably recognize this iconic fountain from Roman Holiday. The fountain is free to visit, but you may be inspired to throw a few coins in. (You're supposed to throw in three coins over your left shoulder with your right hand.)

Piazzas: Most major cities across the country have a piazza or two. There's St. Marks in Venice or the Piazza della Signoria in Florence. Often central meeting places for citizens and tourists alike, these public squares are also great places for people-watching or enjoying small picnics.

Spanish Steps: Don't let the name fool you. You can find these famous steps in Rome between the Piazza di Spagna and the base of the Piazza Trinita dei Monti. They are the widest steps in Europe and another great spot for people-watching on a sunny afternoon.

Spain

Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia: This museum usually costs money to visit, but during select times you can visit for free. Don't miss the chance to see some of the most famous works of Salvador Dali and Pablo Picasso. Free admission is available on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 7:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Sunday from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Bullfighting Museum: Spain has a long tradition of bullfighting, but in Madrid you can learn a little more. Can't make it to an actual bullfighting match? Enjoy the next best thing. You can learn Spain's history of bullfighting and view classic costumes at this museum, appropriately located in Plaza de Toros de las Ventas.

Free Tapas: When in Spain, you have to partake in this tradition of light food with your drinks. You'll, of course, have to pay for your drinks, but you will be able to find some free tasty tapas in cities from Barcelona to Granada.

Flamenco Bar: Enjoy enchanting dance performances and great music at a flamenco bar. It's free to enter and watch, though you may be tempted to order a drink or two.

France

The Seine: There's nothing quite like an afternoon stroll along the Seine, the heart of Paris. Walk across the city's many bridges or along the canals as you take it all in.

Cathedrale Notre Dame de Paris: This unticketed site is perhaps one of Paris' most visited free locations. You can admire the Gothic architecture and learn about its history as the former center of Catholic Paris. It's a true masterpiece, having lasted since 1163 and inspiring the works of Victor Hugo.

City of Lights: Part of the beauty of Paris is just being able to admire it all. When the sun sets and the lights come on, there's nothing like it. You may have to pay to visit the top of the Eiffel Tower, but it's free to stand back and admire.

Parks: Paris is filled with parks and gardens for you to visit. While they may not be quite the gardens of Versailles, many parks are just as beautiful. Jardin du Luxembourg features many statues and a beautiful fountain and the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont offers a beautiful waterfall. These are just a few of the many parks throughout the city, so get out and explore.

Ireland

Trinity College: Walk the grounds of this famous historic college in the heart of Dublin. It costs extra to see tourist attractions like the Book of Kells, but walking through the college is free. The college was founded in 1592, so there's plenty of history to appreciate.

St. Stephen's Green: Ireland is known for its bright greenery, and you can experience it firsthand at one of the nation's largest parks. The park is filled with bright flowers and fun paths to explore. If it's raining, put on your galoshes, grab an umbrella, and take a quiet walk through the park.

Glasnevin Cemetery: Glasnevin appears in James Joyce's Ulysses, and for good reason—it's home to many of Ireland's famous historic figures. The cemetery is free to visit and even offers three free daily tours at 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. Even if you don't take the tour, it's fun to wander and explore.

Pub Music: Hit up Temple Bar any evening and chances are you'll find some great live music and maybe even some dancing. While you'll probably end up buying some drinks, you'll be enjoying great cheap entertainment.

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