Ranked: The world's best FREE attractions

Budget-friendly attractions

Travelling to the world’s top destinations can quickly drain your wallet, but with a bit of planning, you can uncover incredible experiences that won’t cost you a penny. We’ve ranked the 31 best free attractions across the globe, showcasing the most impressive spots where culture, history and beauty come together – without breaking the bank.

Read on to discover 31 of the world's best free attractions... 

31. Cologne Cathedral, Cologne, Germany

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), is renowned for its impressive Gothic architecture and towering spires. Visitors can explore the cathedral's interior free of charge, marvelling at its intricate stained glass windows and rich history. For a small fee, one can also climb to the top for panoramic views of the city.

30. Dallas Museum of Art, Dallas, Texas, USA

The Dallas Museum of Art boasts an extensive collection of over 24,000 works, spanning 5,000 years of global history. Explore captivating displays of paintings, sculptures, ceramics and jewellery, each offering a glimpse into diverse cultures and artistic traditions. For a deeper dive into the museum’s treasures, take advantage of its free talks and guided tours.

29. Vigeland Sculpture Park, Oslo, Norway

Located in Oslo's Frogner Park, Vigeland Sculpture Park has more than 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland made of cast iron, granite and bronze. Look out for The Angry Boy and striking The Monolith.

28. Langenberg Wildlife Park, Zürich, Switzerland

From brown bears to elks, experience unforgettable encounters with Switzerland’s animals at Langenberg Wildlife Park. Observe 20 species including wolves, bears and wild boars as you wander through the park’s peaceful walking routes.

27. Church of St. Louis of the French, Rome, Italy

This beautiful Baroque-style church is located in Rome's historic Centro Storico neighbourhood and is a peaceful respite from the crowds of Piazza Navona. The Roman Catholic church took roughly 70 years to complete – and when you step inside, you'll see why. The gorgeous vaulted ceilings are adorned with masterpieces by Caravaggio including infamous The Calling of St Matthew.

26. USS Constitution, Boston, Massachusetts, USA

Hop aboard the world’s oldest commissioned naval vessel still afloat, docked in Boston’s Charleston Navy Yard. Navy officers offer free tours of the magnificent ship on the upper deck where you’ll learn about its life in battle and how it helped America during the War of 1812. Visiting the ship is free but the adjacent museum has a suggested admission fee for adults.

25. The Ad Museum Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan

Dedicated to Japan’s unique advertisements, The Ad Museum Tokyo, which is located within the Caretta Shiodome mall, is a must-visit for something a little unusual.

From 17th-century woodblock prints to more recent TV, radio and print commercials, immerse yourself in the rich and vibrant history of Japanese advertising. The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday and is completely free to visit.

24. Sky Garden, London, England, UK

For incredible views of London without breaking the bank, look no further than the city's highest public garden.

Located on the 43rd floor of 20 Fenchurch Street, also known as the Walkie Talkie, the garden's floor-to-ceiling windows offer the chance to spot the city's most iconic landmarks including the Gherkin, Tower Bridge and the Shard. It's free to look around but you'll need to book a timed entry ticket in advance.

23. Vancouver Art Gallery, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Located in the bustling heart of downtown Vancouver, the Vancouver Art Gallery offers free entry on Tuesday evenings from 5pm. Step inside and journey through a rich tapestry of exhibitions, from cutting-edge contemporary Canadian art to timeless historic masterpieces and thought-provoking Indigenous works.

Don’t miss the iconic Emily Carr collection, a celebration of British Columbia’s breathtaking landscapes and cultural heritage.

22. Catedral de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain

While the Sagrada Família often grabs the limelight, the Gothic Catedral de Barcelona is a hidden gem that deserves a place on your sightseeing list. This architectural masterpiece offers free entry during specific hours set aside for worship – during these times, you can admire its soaring high ceilings, intricate stonework and breathtaking stained glass windows.

For those wanting a deeper exploration, including access to the cloister, choir and terraces with panoramic city views, cultural and tourist visits are available at other times for a small fee.

21. Garfield Park Conservatory, Chicago, Illinois, USA

For a touch of greenery while you’re in the Windy City, head to the Garfield Park Conservatory. Filled with tropical plants, flowers and palm trees across 12 acres of indoor and outdoor gardens, it’s the perfect respite from the bustling city streets. The conservatory is free to enter, although a small donation is encouraged.

20. Art Gallery of NSW, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

Sydney’s modern art museum showcases a rich collection of 19th-century and contemporary pieces by international, Aboriginal and Australian artists – and general admission won’t cost you a dollar.

A highlight is the Yiribana Gallery, dedicated to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art, featuring an impressive collection of artefacts and sculptures. While general admission is free, special exhibitions may have a ticket fee – visit the gallery’s website for the latest information before your visit.

19. Man Mo Temple, Hong Kong

Built in 1847 as a dazzling tribute to the God of Literature (Man) and the God of War (Mo), the Man Mo Temple is one of the oldest temples in Hong Kong and is free to enter. As you step inside, marvel at the lavish red and gold décor, and rows of glowing lanterns.

18. Koorie Heritage Trust, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Learn about Aboriginal history and culture with a visit to the Koorie Heritage Trust in Melbourne. Established in 1985, this not-for-profit cultural centre houses more than 60,000 Indigenous items from ancient artefacts to modern paintings. The trust also frequently holds free events and talks by members of Australia's Koorie community.

17. National Museum of China, Beijing, China

The National Museum of China, an iconic 1950s Soviet-style building located on Beijing’s Tiananmen Square, is a treasure trove of history and culture. As the largest museum in China, it houses an unparalleled collection that spans millennia, offering visitors a deep dive into the nation’s rich heritage. With a dynamic and ever-changing lineup, the museum offers a fresh experience on every visit.

16. Singapore Botanic Gardens, Singapore

Singapore’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, the stunning Singapore Botanic Gardens, is an unmissable destination for nature lovers and explorers alike. Spanning over 200 acres, these lush gardens provide the perfect backdrop for a leisurely afternoon stroll, complete with serene landscapes and diverse flora.

Admission is free, with the exception of the National Orchid Garden, where a $5 fee grants you access to a spectacular display of more than 1,000 orchid species. It’s a small price to pay for a dazzling and colourful experience that showcases the garden’s horticultural brilliance.

15. Getty Center, Los Angeles, California, USA

For unbeatable views of LA’s sprawling metropolis and an impressive art collection, plan a visit to the Getty Center. From 19th-century European paintings to American photography and stunning gardens, the centre offers a wealth of treasures to explore.

While admission is free, you’ll need to reserve a timed-entry ticket in advance, which can be easily obtained on the Getty Center’s official website. Keep in mind that the museum is closed on Mondays.

14. Musée d'Art Moderne de Paris, Paris, France

Full of beautiful contemporary pieces from the 20th and 21st centuries, including works by Pablo Picasso, the Musée d'Art Moderne de Paris is a must for art-lovers. It's located in contemporary exhibition space Palais de Tokyo, which also houses top restaurants and an events space.

13. BMW Welt, Munich, Germany

Located in the heart of Munich, BMW Welt is a state-of-the-art exhibition space and immersive experience into the world of BMW. The building itself is a marvel of modern architecture and inside, visitors can explore an impressive showcase of BMW’s latest cars, motorcycles and technological innovations.

Beyond the vehicles on display, visitors can enjoy hands-on exhibits that delve into the technology and design process behind BMW's iconic products. There are also regular events, such as new vehicle unveilings, workshops and cultural performances, making each visit unique.

12. National Museum of Korea, Seoul, South Korea

Located in Seoul, Korea’s flagship museum for art and history houses more than 12,000 items in its permanent display. Spanning medieval history, traditional Korean paintings, calligraphy, Buddhist sculptures and world art, it's a must-see for anyone visiting the capital. Be sure not to miss the outdoor exhibition area, which features stone relics such as pagodas and shrines.

11. Temple of Debod, Madrid, Spain

For an underrated attraction in the Spanish capital, visit the Temple of Debod. Originally constructed in the 2nd century BC near Aswan, Egypt, the temple was dismantled and gifted to Spain in the 1960s as a gesture of gratitude for aiding in the preservation of other historic sites. It was carefully rebuilt between 1970 and 1972 in Madrid’s Parque del Oeste, where it has stood ever since.

The stunning interior of the temple is open to visitors, offering a closer look at its ancient hieroglyphics and sculptures. Admission is free, but opening hours vary by season, so it’s best to check ahead before your visit.

10. Sacré-Coeur Basilica, Paris, France

Paris’ Sacré-Cœur Basilica, with its world-famous domes, is a must-visit landmark – and better yet, entry to this architectural gem is completely free. Step inside to marvel at its stunning interiors and captivating art collections.

For those seeking a breathtaking view of the city, the basilica’s dome offers a panoramic perspective, accessible for a small fee. Just keep in mind that the climb is a bit of a workout as there’s no elevator.

9. Cupnoodles Museum, Osaka, Japan

Foodies will enjoy this quirky museum in Osaka, dedicated entirely to the history of instant noodles. Explore exhibits like the Instant Noodles Tunnel, featuring over 800 product packages tracing the evolution of this global favourite, and 'The Birth of Chicken Ramen', a faithful recreation of Momofuku Ando's work shed where he invented the world’s first instant noodles in 1958.

Oh, and don’t miss the 'My CUPNOODLES Factory', a hands-on experience where you can customise your own instant noodle creation by choosing from a variety of soups and toppings. Yum.

8. National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK

Dive into Scotland’s fascinating history at the National Museum of Scotland, one of the country's most remarkable cultural institutions, located in the heart of Edinburgh. Spanning three expansive levels, the museum features thousands of objects that celebrate Scotland's heritage, science, art and nature.

Highlights include the awe-inspiring Grand Gallery, where light-filled architecture meets stunning exhibits, Dolly the sheep – famous as the first cloned animal – and an impressive T-Rex skeleton that continues to enthrall visitors of all ages.

7. East Side Gallery, Berlin, Germany

Once the site of the historic Berlin Wall, which divided the city from 1961 to 1989, this landmark has been transformed into the world’s longest open-air gallery. Stretching nearly a mile (1.3km), the East Side Gallery features a remarkable collection of murals that celebrate the Wall's fall and Berlin’s vibrant cultural heritage. It’s the perfect spot for an afternoon stroll steeped in art and history.

6. Chester Beatty, Dublin, Ireland

Channel your inner bookworm and check out the Chester Beatty library and museum while visiting Ireland's capital. Once home to American businessman and collector Alfred Chester Beatty, the huge collection boasts approximately 40,000 artefacts.

Lose yourself in the array of rare books, manuscripts and other treasures from around the globe, marvel at the permanent displays or take a look at the changing exhibitions.

5. Library of Congress, Washington DC, USA

History lovers visiting Washington DC can't miss one of the capital’s most beautiful buildings, the Library of Congress, established more than 200 years ago in 1800. Explore the collection of interactive exhibits or take a free tour of the magnificent building to discover the fascinating past of America's oldest federal institution.

4. The National Gallery, London, England, UK

London has many impressive free museums and The National Gallery, located in Trafalgar Square, is one of the best. Explore a collection of more than 2,300 paintings, including the likes of Vincent van Gogh’s Sunflowers and Monet's The Water Lily Pond. Although there’s a fee for special exhibitions, entrance to the main gallery won’t cost you a thing.

3. The High Line, New York City, New York, USA

New York’s High Line is a brilliant transformation of a historic railroad into an elevated park that winds its way through the trendy Meatpacking District and Chelsea. Along the lush, landscaped pathways, you’ll find seasonal gardens that change with the weather, sleek wooden benches and open viewing platforms, making it a perfect place to pause and soak in your surroundings.

Public art installations, from striking sculptures to colourful murals, line the route, with pieces that change regularly to keep the experience fresh. Best of all, this slice of urban innovation is completely free, making it an unmissable stop for those looking to escape the city’s chaos.

2. Smithsonian, Washington DC, USA

A visit to Washington DC is incomplete without exploring the Smithsonian Institution, the world's largest museum and research complex. Comprising 21 museums and galleries, as well as the National Zoo, the Smithsonian offers a diverse range of exhibits and experiences.

Highlights include the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of Natural History (pictured) and the National Portrait Gallery. Notably, admission to all Smithsonian museums and the zoo is free of charge, with the exception of the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum in New York City.

1. Vatican Museums, Vatican City

The Vatican Museums' Free Sunday Entry in Vatican City is one of the most remarkable free attractions in the world. On the last Sunday of each month, the Vatican Museums open their doors for free, allowing visitors to marvel at one of the greatest art collections ever assembled.

This includes access to the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s awe-inspiring frescoes, including The Creation of Adam, adorn the ceiling. While it requires early arrival due to popularity, the experience of witnessing such historic and artistic masterpieces without a fee is unmatched – earning it the number one spot on our list of the world's best free attractions.

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