The Trevi Fountain, one of Rome’s most iconic Baroque landmarks, is a must-visit for travelers. Nestled in the historic center, this masterpiece is rich in history and surrounded by legends.
Discover the symbolism in its design, from mythological figures to the tradition of tossing coins into its waters for good luck. Learn about its fascinating construction and the renowned architects behind its creation.
We’ll also guide you on the best ways to reach the fountain and offer tips for avoiding the crowds, ensuring you make the most of your visit to this stunning Roman treasure.
Trevi Fountain Quick Facts
Tickets and Guided Tours to Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is free to visit and open to the public at all times. However, several guided tours of Rome’s iconic landmarks include the Trevi Fountain, providing valuable insights into its history and significance.
- Rome Walking Tour: Includes the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, and Piazza Navona.
- Guided Night Tour: Explore Rome by night, with the Trevi Fountain illuminated.
- Private Tours: Tailor a private walking tour to include the fountain and other nearby attractions.
Things to Do at the Trevi Fountain
A visit to the Trevi Fountain offers more than just admiring the beauty of its sculptures and cascading waters. Here’s what you can explore:
Key Highlights:
- Coin Toss Tradition: Toss a coin over your shoulder into the fountain to ensure a return to Rome. According to folklore, tossing two coins brings romance, and three coins lead to marriage or divorce.
- Fountain Sculptures: Admire the intricate statues of Oceanus, Tritons, and sea horses that adorn the Baroque masterpiece.
- Nighttime View: The Trevi Fountain is beautifully illuminated at night, offering a serene and magical experience. Visit after sunset for a quieter, more atmospheric view.
Where Is It Located? & How to Get There?
The Trevi Fountain is centrally located in Rome's historic center, in the Trevi district, close to other major landmarks like the Spanish Steps and the Pantheon.
- Address: Fontana di Trevi, Piazza di Trevi, 00187 Roma
- Google Maps: Trevi Fountain Location
The Trevi Fountain is easily accessible by public transport or on foot from several major landmarks:
- On Foot:
- From the Spanish Steps: 7-minute walk
- From the Pantheon: 8-minute walk
- From the Colosseum: 25-minute walk
- By Metro: Take Line A to Barberini – Fontana di Trevi station; it’s a 5-minute walk from the metro stop.
- By Bus: Buses 52, 53, 62, and 85 stop near the fountain at Tritone/Fontana di Trevi.
You can find official Public Transport Maps via this link.
Opening Hours and Best Time to Visit
The Trevi Fountain is open 24/7, and there’s no admission fee. However, visiting at certain times can improve your experience:
Best Times to Visit:
- Early Morning: Arrive before 8 AM to enjoy a peaceful visit before the crowds arrive.
- Late Evening: The fountain is beautifully lit at night, offering a magical and serene experience.
- Off-Season: Visiting in winter provides a quieter, more relaxed experience.
How Much Time Should I Plan to Visit the Trevi Fountain?
Visitors usually spend 30 to 45 minutes at the Trevi Fountain. This allows time for photos, tossing a coin, and admiring the surrounding architecture. If you're exploring nearby attractions like the Pantheon or Spanish Steps, allocate additional time.
A Brief History of the Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain in Rome is a stunning symbol of the city's history and Baroque architecture. Originally a simple basin, known as the "Aqua Virgo," it provided fresh water to Romans from an ancient aqueduct. In the 17th century, Pope Urban VIII commissioned Gian Lorenzo Bernini for a redesign, but it was Nicola Salvi who created the fountain we see today, completed under Giuseppe Pannini's guidance.
The fountain features mythical figures like Oceanus and is renowned for its intricate sculptures. A popular tradition involves tossing a coin over the shoulder into the fountain, believed to ensure a return to Rome. Funds from this tradition support charitable causes.
Recent restoration efforts, funded by Fendi, highlight its cultural significance. The Trevi Fountain remains a beloved landmark, captivating millions of visitors each year.
The Statues of the Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain’s sculptures are a remarkable example of Baroque artistry, featuring mythological figures that tell a story of power and nature:
- Oceanus: The central figure representing the god of water, commanding the scene.
- Tritons and Sea Horses: Representing the power and unpredictability of the sea.
- Abundance and Health: Symbolizing prosperity and well-being, they frame the architectural grandeur of the fountain.
These statues, crafted by Pietro Bracci and Filippo della Valle, highlight the artistic mastery that went into creating this Baroque masterpiece.
Good to know:
The Trevi Fountain derives its name from the Latin word "trivium," meaning the intersection of three streets. It is located at the meeting point of Via De' Crocicchi, Via Poli, and Via Delle Muratte, standing as a stunning centerpiece amidst the bustling streets of Rome.
Why Is the Trevi Fountain So Famous?
- Iconic Symbol of Rome: As one of Rome's most recognizable landmarks, the Trevi Fountain showcases stunning Baroque architecture, intricate sculptures, and a majestic cascade of water, reflecting the spirit of ancient Rome.
- Historical Significance: Located at the terminus of an ancient aqueduct, the fountain symbolizes the city’s continuity and resilience, connecting it to Rome’s rich past.
- Artistic Magnificence: Celebrated for its artistic splendor, the fountain exemplifies the pinnacle of Baroque artistry with its masterful sculptures and dynamic interplay of light and water.
- Cinematic Legacy: Featured in numerous films, including the iconic scene from "La Dolce Vita," the Trevi Fountain is cemented in popular culture, attracting visitors inspired by its cinematic magic.
- Tradition and Superstition: The tradition of tossing a coin into the fountain, believed to ensure a return to Rome, adds a touch of mysticism and intrigue, drawing millions to partake in this age-old ritual.
Why Throw Coins into the Trevi Fountain?
The tradition of tossing coins into the Trevi Fountain is popular worldwide, and its significance can be broken down into three aspects:
Ritual of Tossing Coins: Visitors stand with their backs to the fountain and toss a coin over their left shoulder with the right hand, believed to ensure a return to Rome. Variations include tossing three coins: for a return to Rome, new romance, and marriage or divorce.
Symbolism and Meaning: The act symbolizes respect and gratitude to the city, expressing a wish to revisit Rome. It also represents universal hopes and dreams, reflecting a belief in luck and wish fulfillment.
Charitable Contribution: Coins collected from the fountain are donated to charity, helping those in need. This tradition links personal wishes to acts of kindness, making the fountain a symbol of hope and generosity.
Facilities and Accessibility of the Trevi Fountain
- Restrooms: There are public toilets located nearby on Via del Lavatore, but they are not wheelchair accessible.
- Cafes and Restaurants: There are many cafes and restaurants lining the Trevi Square where you can relax and enjoy the view of the fountain.
The Trevi Fountain itself is not wheelchair or stroller accessible due to the stairs leading down to the water's edge. However, you can still get close enough to see the fountain from the surrounding piazza.
What You Should Know Before Visiting the Trevi Fountain - Visiting Rules
Before visiting the Trevi Fountain in Rome, it's essential to be aware of certain rules and guidelines to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience:
- Swimming or entering the water is strictly prohibited and may result in heavy penalties.
- Do not drink the water as it is unsafe.
- Avoid littering or throwing objects into the fountain.
- Refrain from climbing on the fountain or its surrounding structures.
- Respect the designated pathways and avoid blocking access for other visitors.
When visiting the Trevi Fountain, consider bringing
- Cash for tossing coins into the fountain.
- Sunscreen and water to stay hydrated, especially during hot weather.
- A camera or smartphone to capture memories of your visit.
What not to bring
- Large bags or backpacks, as they may be subject to security checks.
- Food or beverages, as consuming them near the fountain is discouraged.
- Pets, with the exception of service animals.
For attire, it's recommended to dress comfortably and respectfully, particularly if visiting religious sites nearby. Ensure your clothing is appropriate for walking and exploring, and consider bringing a light jacket or scarf for cooler evenings.
Traveler Tips for the Trevi Fountain
- Beat the Crowds: Visit the Trevi Fountain early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds.
- Toss a Coin: According to legend, tossing a coin over your right shoulder ensures a return to Rome. The coins collected are donated to charity.
- Photo Tip: Due to the crowds, take photos from a distance to capture the full beauty of the fountain.
- Stay Safe: Be aware of pickpockets and avoid scams from people offering to sell items or take photos.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring a refillable water bottle, especially during summer.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes for walking around Rome.
- Explore the Area: After visiting the fountain, explore nearby attractions like the Spanish Steps, the Pantheon, and Trevi Square with its cafes and restaurants.
Top Attractions Near the Trevi Fountain
Here's a list of 10 must-visit tourist attractions near the Trevi Fountain in Rome, all reachable within a 30-minute walk, sorted according to distance:
- The Spanish Steps (0.4 miles / 0.7 km, 7-minute walk)
A grand staircase from Piazza di Spagna to Trinità dei Monti, popular as a meeting spot and featured in many films. - The Pantheon (0.5 miles / 0.8 km, 8-minute walk)
An ancient temple and church known for its perfectly preserved circular dome and as a symbol of Ancient Rome. - Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore (0.9 miles / 1.4 km, 17-minute walk)
One of the four major basilicas in Rome, famous for its frescoes, mosaics, and ornate ceilings. - Campo de' Fiori (0.6 miles / 1.0 km, 10-minute walk)
A lively square with a daily market selling fresh produce and local specialties, transforming into a charming restaurant area in the evening. - Palazzo Montecitorio (0.9 miles / 1.4 km, 15-minute walk)
Seat of the Chamber of Deputies, featuring an impressive Baroque facade. - Piazza Navona (0.7 miles / 1.1 km, 12-minute walk)
Famous for its Bernini fountains, including the Fountain of the Four Rivers. - Castel Sant'Angelo (1.0 mile / 1.6 km, 18-minute walk)
A fortress, once a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, now a museum with stunning city views. - Piazza Venezia (1.0 mile / 1.6 km, 18-minute walk)
Dominated by the Vittoriano Emanuele II Monument, offering panoramic views of the city. - The Colosseum (1.0 mile / 1.6 km, 18-minute walk)
The largest ancient amphitheater, known for hosting gladiatorial combats and public events. - Roman Forum & Palatine Hill (1.1 miles / 1.8 km, 20-minute walk)
Explore the ruins of the Roman Forum, the center of Roman public life, and Palatine Hill, the residence of wealthy Romans. A single ticket covers both.
Whether you’re drawn by its breathtaking beauty, rich history, or the allure of its timeless legends, the Trevi Fountainoffers an unforgettable experience.
As you stand before this Baroque masterpiece, take a moment to appreciate the artistry and symbolism that have made it one of the most beloved landmarks in Rome.
Don’t forget to toss a coin into its sparkling waters and make a wish—a tradition that promises a return to this enchanting city. With this guide, we hope you’re now well-prepared to explore and enjoy every aspect of the Trevi Fountain. Happy travels!