10 Free Things to Do Anywhere in the World

Are you travelling on a tight budget?

Do you wanna save your hard earned money for delicious food?

Perhaps you just like to do free things?

If the answer is yes, this guide is for you.

While it’s not completely free to travel it doesn’t have to be as expensive as most people think.

In fact, almost every destination has some great free things to do.

We have compiled a list of 10 activities you can find countless places in the world – at no charge.

Hopefully, you’ll get inspired for your own trip!

1. Visit a museum

Many cities are making an effort to make history and culture accessible to all.

All over the world, you can find museums that are free to visit. Even famous museums such as The Louvre in Paris and MoMA in New York have free entrance on certain days of the month.

If you have a valid student ID or you’re 26 years old or younger, there are even more museums you can visit for free.

We’re huge fans of museums – especially for those rainy days.

2. Go on a hike

Put on your hiking boots and pack a bag with water and snacks.

While most (big and famous) national parks usually have an entrance fee, you can often find several off-the-beaten-track hiking routes that don’t cost a thing.

It’s a great way to explore new places plus it will most likely include great views and bring you closer to nature. What’s not to like?

3. Relax on the beach

Aaaah… It’s such a nice feeling to spend the day by the beach sunbathing and swimming.

At least Victoria loves this. Alexander may get a bit restless sometimes and go for a run instead.

Nonetheless, it’s completely free!

Bring a book or download a podcast and voilá – your entertainment is free too.

Even in some cities like Los Angeles, Paris or Barcelona you can find beaches to visit and if it’s too cold for a dip in the water, a walk back and forth is great for both body and soul.

4. Visit a place of worship

Churches, temples, mosques and synagogues are amazing free opportunities to explore a city and gain insight into the culture.

Regardless of whether you are religious or not, these buildings are often spectacular works of art.

In Europe, there are still countless impressive churches and cathedrals, while in most parts of Asia you’ll find the most beautiful Buddhist and Hindu temples.

Some of the most memorable places of worship we have visited have been the Blue Mosque of Istanbul, St. Peter’s Basilica of Rome, Notre Dame in Paris, Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon, Grand Palace of Bangkok, and a small, very special Mexican church called Iglesia de San Juan.

5. Enjoy architecture and art

Apart from the places of worship many destinations usually have areas known for either extraordinary architecture, beautiful statues or public art.

Take your time to admire modern skyscrapers, ancient houses, historic landmarks or detailed water fountains.

Some cities might even have streets with art exhibitions or street art.

For example, you can enjoy more than 1,000 meters of art on the Berlin Wall at the “outdoor gallery” East Side Gallery, and in Georgetown, Malaysia there are numerous alleys with cool and interactive street art.

6. Chill out in a park

Do as the locals and use the public gardens or parks.

Take a walk hand in hand with your partner or find a nice spot for a picnic and enjoy the flowers.

In some parks, there may even be free concerts, performances or special events occasionally.

A few of our favourite city parks are Central Park in New York, Villa Borghese in Rome and Gardens by the Bay in Singapore.

Do you have a favourite? Let us know in the comments! We are always curious to learn about new green places.

7. Visit a market

Almost everywhere in the world, you can find both classic and alternative markets.

And most of the time they are free to visit – at least if you refrain from buying anything!

Whether it’s a flea market, food market, fish market or night market, you will often come across new and different sounds, smells and maybe even people.

It’s a great way to stimulate your senses.

We were completely impressed by the Grand Bazaar Market in Istanbul; a covered marketplace consisting of more than 4,000 small shops. And when we are in Asia we usually visit a lot of street markets – Alex is always excited to try the local food.

8. Listen to an audio tour

Have you ever joined a “free” walking tour? If yes, you’ll know that the reason we put free in quotation marks is because you’re always expected to tip the guide afterwards (which is totally the right thing to do but makes the whole thing not free).

And while that’s perfectly fine, we just wanted to tell you about something even cheaper: free guided audio tours!

Type in “free walking tour audio” or “free guided tour audio” + “city name” on Google and you will most likely get some great options.

This way, you’ll get to know the city better at your own pace (and skip stuff that bores you).

9. People watching

We are not talking about stalking here!

And while this may not count as an activity, it can be fascinating to watch people pass by. Especially if you’re from a completely different culture.

You can do this walking, sitting on a bench in a park or while drinking coffee at a café (we know that’s not free, but it’s delicious).

Take the time to relax and let your mind wander.

10. Watch the sunset

There’s a quote from writer Cheryl Strayed (who’s also portrayed in the movie Wild) saying: “There is a sunrise and a sunset every day and you can choose to be there for it. You can put yourself in the way of beauty.”

It may sound like a cliché, but there’s just something special about watching the sunset.

Every time we prioritize it, we feel blessed.

Whether it’s from a viewpoint in a big city or with our bare feet in the sand, it’s an absolutely magical experience.

It is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy our beautiful world.

Thank you for reading to the end!

What are your favourite free things to do when you travel? We would love to hear from you in the comments.