We love to travel, but sometimes we might be reluctant to go in a given country or city as that place might be too expensive. But, while traveling – and even from reading various articles – I realized that there are some free things we can do anywhere in the world.

Sounds surprising to hear that there might be a universal “recipe”? Well, please tell me if you didn’t find these opportunities in the countries or cities you visited.

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Travel tips: FREE things available anywhere in the world

Parks

Bigger or smaller, any city has them: the parks. And they are all perfect for a break while taking long walks or to relax and enjoy them for themselves. Many have great flower arrangements, even special statues – Jardins de Tuilleries in Paris, Herastrau, Cismigiu (only two of the parks in Bucharest), and so on.

Each city has them, and they are a must-see attraction, as well as a free one!

Free concerts, exhibitions, events

Especially during the summer season, travelers and tourists have the chance to enjoy some really interesting concerts in open spaces – parks or dedicated places.

Such free concerts can be found on the local sites with spare time activities, and almost all the famous cities (and not only them) have such websites with versions available in English as well. Or you can ask the people from where you stay (hotel, hostel, etc.)

You might even see opera in open spaces, pop, rock, and many other concerts. Also, you might be lucky enough to be able to go to free exhibitions – many galleries host such art exhibitions and, even if you won’t buy something, you can still get better acquainted with the local artists.

Many cities also have big events or fairs in open spaces – I know of some on the river of the Danube in Vienna, but there are also fashion shows with free entrance in Paris (you have to book your place, but it is free – famous shopping galleries are hosting them).

So, you see? There are many options, you just have to make a little time before visiting a place to check out the available events and make the proper arrangements (booking places, announcing your participation, etc.)

Museums – either no tax, or free admission on different days

Almost all of the most famous museums across the globe can be visited for free. Did you know that? Yes, it is true!

There are two possibilities: free all year long or free on special occasions.

Therefore, I can only recommend that you check in advance and see when the museums that you would like to visit are open for free. I posted here an article with 25 of the best museums and galleries in London that can be visited for free.

Check online, regardless of the city you’ll visit, to see when the museums that interest you have free admission: in France, you can go for free on one of the first days of the weekend – each month – and many countries have this system (some offer free visitation during weekdays as well).

Don’t forget about the “white night of the museums” – one of the interesting initiatives going popular in more and more countries – a night a year when museums can be visited for free, even if you normally have to pay to visit them. Yes, there are many ways to save money for a holiday, as they are to save while traveling.

Walks

Strolling along the city is one of the most interesting things a person can do: discovering a place on foot, going off the beaten path, but also seeing famous landmarks, breathing the fresh air, and getting in touch with the locals.

Free attractions

Almost any city has various attractions that can be visited for free, such as memorial houses, smaller museums, cemeteries where famous people are buried or famous cemeteries for themselves – see The Merry Cemetery in Sapanta -, churches, cathedrals and more.

Free landmarks

Some of the famous landmarks do offer paid options – for instance, to see Paris from the Eiffel Tower you have to pay. But you don’t have to pay to get closer to the Eiffel Tower to see it. And it is the same with many other landmarks all over the world.

Take advantage of this opportunity and, even if you don’t see the interior of a palace or castle, or a famous monument, at least see it in person, not only in photos.

It would be, for instance, sad to miss the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin or Ankeruhr (Anchor Clock) – the public clock with human figures in Vienna, and many other similar places.

Window-shopping

Yes, I know, this means you don’t actually buy something, but you can have a closer look to famous shops, regardless of what they sell.

From bookshops to clothing shops, they can all offer you something special; sometimes, the building in which they can be found is an attraction by itself (a special galleria, a wonderful bookshop, etc.)

Local markets

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Many people love to go to local markets, for shopping or just to see how they are. From flower to fish markets and bazaars, even if you don’t buy, you can get a glimpse of the local culture, see beautiful flowers, fresh fish, and so on, depending on the market.

These are the attractions I think are common to any city in the world, given that they have the specific places (museums, galleries, etc.).One of the coolest items on this list of free things available worldwide?

Free City Views from Rooftops or Observation Decks

You don’t always have to pay to enjoy a stunning city view from above. Many places around the world offer free rooftop or high-up viewpoints—you just need to know where to look.

For example, in Tokyo, the Metropolitan Government Building has an observation deck open to the public for free. In Paris, the Pompidou Centre’s terrace gives you a nice skyline view. Parking garages, library rooftops, or public terraces can be surprisingly scenic too, especially during sunset.

In New York City, one clever hack is visiting rooftop bars or hotel lobbies just for a quick drink or photo – they often have great views with no entry fee.

Street Art and Murals

Berlin

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All around the world, cities are becoming open-air museums filled with vibrant street art, murals, and graffiti that reflect local culture, politics, or creativity. Exploring these areas is completely free and makes for amazing photo opportunities.

Some famous street art hubs include Bushwick in New York City, Shoreditch in London, Valparaíso in Chile, Melbourne’s laneways, and Berlin’s East Side Gallery. All you need is a good pair of walking shoes and a charged phone or camera.

You can also search for free self-guided street art tours – many local tourism boards or bloggers create maps you can follow at your own pace.

Libraries and Cultural Centers

Public libraries and cultural centers can be more than just places to read. They often host free exhibitions, community events, temporary art displays, and even free film screenings or lectures.

In New York, the New York Public Library is worth visiting for both its architecture and rotating exhibits. In Mexico City, the stunning Biblioteca Vasconcelos is a visual masterpiece. In Stuttgart, Germany, the futuristic Stadtbibliothek is Instagram-famous. And don’t forget national cultural institutes, like Goethe-Institut or Alliance Française, which often host free art events or talks.

Street Performers and Open-Air Entertainment

In popular plazas, busy intersections, and tourist-heavy spots, you’ll almost always find street performers putting on a show. From dancers to living statues, magicians to musicians, this free entertainment is a great way to feel the city’s energy and talent.

Some of the most vibrant street performances you can see are in Covent Garden in London, La Rambla in Barcelona, and Washington Square Park in New York City. While tipping is appreciated, watching is free, and you’ll walk away with a memorable experience.

University Campuses

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Even if you’re not a student, university campuses often welcome visitors to walk through and enjoy their beautiful gardens, architecture, or on-campus museums.

In Oxford and Cambridge, just strolling around the historic grounds feels like a step back in time. In Boston, campuses like Harvard and MIT have free public access and museums you can enter at no cost. In Tokyo, the University of Tokyo is known for its cherry blossom paths and peaceful setting.

Check online before you visit, as some campuses even offer free public lectures, art shows, or science exhibitions.

Free Festivals and Parades

Almost every country and city celebrates its culture through free festivals, parades, or national holiday events. If your trip lines up with one, you’re in luck!

For example, in France, Bastille Day comes with parades and fireworks. In India, Holi is a color-filled celebration where everyone joins in. In Austria, the Vienna City Festival often includes free concerts and art installations.

Some cities even host open-air cinema nights, public dance parties, or seasonal light festivals, and many of these are completely free to attend.

Free (or Tip-Based) Walking Tours

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In most large cities around the world, you’ll find guided walking tours labeled as “free.” In reality, they are tip-based, which means you pay what you feel the tour was worth. It’s a win-win: if you’re on a tight budget, you can tip a small amount; if you loved it, you can be more generous.

Such tours offer great insights into a city’s history, architecture, or hidden gems. You can find them in cities like Berlin, Lisbon, Prague, Tokyo, Barcelona, and even New York. Look for “free walking tour + [city name]” online or ask at your accommodation – they’ll often have leaflets or recommendations.