Trevi Fountain

The basics

Situated at the end of the restored Aqua Virgo aqueduct, the Trevi Fountain is a popular spot for first-time and returning visitors alike. It’s an essential stop on just about every guided tour of Rome—whether on foot or by bike—which also typically visits the Spanish Steps (Piazza di Spagna) and Piazza Navona.

Although Trevi Fountain tours are easy to squeeze into a busy day of sightseeing, you’ll still have to jockey for a position close to the water in order to throw a coin over your left shoulder and (supposedly) guarantee a return to the Eternal City.

Things to know before you go

• Palazzo Poli, the palace behind the fountain was redesigned to include majestic columns and statues befitting the fountain below.

• Wear comfortable shoes to walk through central Rome's cobbled streets.

• Distracted tourists make easy targets for pickpockets, so keep your valuables close.

• The Trevi Fountain was the central monument in the movie Three Coins in the Fountain and brought Anita Ekberg to fame for her memorable scene in Federico Fellini’s La Dolce Vita.

• Throwing a coin over your left shoulder into the fountain has a symbolic meaning of returning to Rome someday.

How to get there

The Trevi Fountain dominates the Piazza di Trevi in the historic center of Rome, not far from the Quirinal Palace. It’s easiest to get there on foot or by bike, given the narrow streets surrounding the fountain. To take public transportation, hop on the metro line A to the Barberini stop.

When to get there

The Trevi is an outdoor public fountain open year-round. Given its popularity, sometimes visitors have to wait their turn to admire it, get a good picture, or get close enough for a coin toss. Early morning and evening visits can be quieter and more atmospheric, especially during Rome’s less touristed winter months. To avoid crowds and get stunning lighting for your photos, visit at sunrise.

Throwing coins is a charitable act

Coins thrown into the Trevi Fountain add up quickly, amounting to a few thousand euros/dollars per day. The city collects the coins each night and donates the money to a local charity called Caritas, which helps Romans in need.

Ways to explore

Popular among first-time and repeat visitors alike, the Trevi Fountain is an essential stop while sightseeing in Rome. Combine it with the Spanish Steps (Piazza di Spagna) and Piazza Navona on a tour of the city’s highlights, whether on foot or by golf cart, or photograph it in the moonlight on a tour of Rome by night.

If you visit the Trevi Fountain on your own, allow ample time for your photo and coin toss. In 2025, the city of Rome implemented a queuing system to combat overcrowding at the Trevi Fountain, and wait times may be lengthy.

Accessibility

Due to crowds and steps leading down to the basin, it may be difficult for visitors using wheelchairs to approach the Trevi Fountain. However, you can still get a good look at the attraction from farther back in the square.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Bring coins to toss into the fountain—one to ensure another visit to Rome or three for luck in love.

What to wear

Comfortable walking shoes for the cobblestone streets

Not allowed

Entering the water, sitting on the steps or fountain edge, eating, drinking, smoking

Address

Located in the middle of historic Rome, the Trevi Fountain is within walking distance of the Colosseum, Piazza Navona, and other major attractions. You can also get there by car or public transportation.

Driving

Self-navigating in Rome isn’t recommended due to the city’s heavy traffic and numerous pedestrian zones. Consider using a taxi or rideshare service to get you close to the site instead.

Public transportation

The Trevi Fountain is about a 10-minute walk from the Barberini metro stop, reachable via the A line from Termini train station. Several bus lines through the historic center serve the Tritone/Fontana Trevi stop, among others.

Best times to visit

If you don’t mind seeing the Trevi Fountain by moonlight, visit in the evening to avoid waiting in line; free access starts at 9pm.

Best days to visit

Coin collection—and sometimes cleaning—takes place on Mondays and Fridays, so head to the fountain on other days of the week for minimal disruptions to your visit.

Best months to visit

Though Rome can be chilly from November–March, it’s best to visit the Trevi Fountain in this less touristic season for shorter wait times and calmer atmosphere.