Rome To Charge 2 Euros for Close Access to Trevi Fountain
Beginning Feb. 1, visitors seeking close access to Rome’s Trevi Fountain will have to pay a 2-euro entry fee, a move city officials say is aimed at easing relentless crowding and helping fund basic upkeep around one of the world’s most photographed landmarks.
Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri announced the measure at a city briefing, describing the fee as modest but practical. “Two euros isn’t very much,” he said, arguing it would help reduce congestion and create “less chaotic tourist flows.” Officials say a clear charge at the point of access will also be easier to enforce than repeated requests for visitors to keep moving or step back.
Under the new system, access will be divided into two zones. Paying visitors will be allowed into a compact forecourt beside the fountain’s basin, offering closer views and photo opportunities. Those who do not pay may still see the monument from behind a new barrier, set at a fixed distance in a general viewing area. The queuing system introduced after recent restoration work will remain in place, and the number of people allowed near the water will continue to be capped at about 400 at any given time.
City staff will scan tickets, manage lines, and guide foot traffic, while also assisting visitors needing help. Officials say the approach is designed to improve safety, protect sightlines, and reduce wear on the surrounding stonework and narrow streets.
The Trevi Fountain fee is part of a broader overhaul of Rome’s cultural pricing. Several heritage sites will become free for city residents, including the Sacred Area of Largo di Torre Argentina, the archaeological complex associated with the assassination of Julius Caesar. At the same time, nonresidents will begin paying admission at six museums, among them the Napoleonic Museum, shifting more of the cost of preservation to visitors while keeping access open for locals.
Children under 5, people with disabilities, and one accompanying caregiver will be exempt from the Trevi Fountain fee. The long-standing tradition of tossing coins for charity will continue.
Completed in the 18th century to designs by Nicola Salvi, the Baroque masterpiece remains a global tourist magnet. On peak days, more than 30,000 people funnel into the small square. Recently, overtourism has placed a strain on the monument and the surrounding neighborhood, giving rise to complaints and protests.
Whether a modest fee and tighter crowd controls can bring relief is the question now facing Rome. And cities around the world facing similar pressures will be watching closely.
Sean Jung R&D Division Director teen/1768800079/1613367592
1. Who announced the 2-euro fee for Trevi Fountain access?
2. What happens to the coins tossed into the fountain?
3. When will the new entry fee system take effect?
4. (Inf) How might charging fees change how tourists visit Rome?
1. Should tourists pay to keep old city landmarks clean?
2. How would you feel about seeing barriers at famous sites?
3. Is it more important to welcome tourists or protect locals?
4. What can cities do to reduce crowding without charging money?
Beginning Feb. 1, visitors seeking close access to Rome’s Trevi Fountain will have to pay a 2-euro entry fee, a move city officials say is aimed at easing relentless crowding and helping fund basic upkeep around one of the world’s most photographed landmarks.
The Trevi Fountain fee is part of a broader overhaul of Rome’s cultural pricing. Several heritage sites will become free for city residents, including the Sacred Area of Largo di Torre Argentina, the archaeological complex associated with the assassination of Julius Caesar. At the same time, nonresidents will begin paying admission at six museums, among them the Napoleonic Museum, shifting more of the cost of preservation to visitors while keeping access open for locals.
