First Sunday of the Month in Rome

Lines will be longer, even in November, than on a non-free Sunday. I would plan on one major site, and some smaller ones.

Remember that it’s only the state museums that are free on the first Sunday. Rome is quirky in that it has a lot of city and provincial museums that aren’t free that day (e.g. Capitoline). You can see a list of state museums in Rome at www.beniculturali.it – click on link beside picture titled Domenica al Museo and scroll down to Lazio – Roma. The list includes all state museums in the greater Rome area, including some that aren’t in Rome (e.g. Nemi) and some that are currently closed (e.g. Domus Aurea). While lines at the Colosseum were very long last time I was in Rome on a free Sunday, there were virtually no lines at the Forum or at the National Museum. The elevator to the top of the Vittorio Emanuele II monument may be free that day, and the views are spectacular. Castel Sant’Angelo was busy but not overwhelmed. You could also venture outside of Rome to Ostia Antica or Villa Adriana/Villa d’Este. There are several good options that don't involve long lines.

Free museum days are a great opportunity to see a number of appealing smaller museums not high on everyone's must-see lists, or museums that have some individual exhibits you're interested in, but that you really wouldn't want to pay for, since your visit would be short. Don't waste the free day standing in long lines or trying to see crowded exhibits.

What about the Villa Borghese Gallery?

How do I reserve for such a day?

Thank you.

You have to call them: +39 06 32810 Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm – Saturdays, 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.

I'm guessing tickets are long gone for next week but you could try. If any are still available, they'll be for a specific 2-hour time slot: be there 30 minutes before your reservation time to check your belongings.

I would use free Sunday to visit the lesser visited museums and galleries. You'll find you have them practically to yourself and will avoid the crush of the more popular sites. You can always visit them on a regular day and not deal with the "free day" crowds.

Donna

Based on a previous post, they only have 1/2 day or so on Sunday and all day Monday before flying out on Tuesday.