Rome will begin charging an entry fee for tourists to get a closer look at the iconic Trevi Fountain, starting February 1. The new measure aims to manage the large crowds and generate revenue for the Italian capital's popular historical sites. Residents of Rome will continue to have free access to the monument.
Key Takeaways
- Trevi Fountain entry fee of €2 for tourists starts February 1.
- Rome residents will not pay the fee.
- The fee applies to closer access, not distant viewing.
- Five other Roman museums will also introduce fees.
- This is part of broader efforts to manage overtourism in Italy.
New Fee Structure for Historic Sites
Mayor Roberto Gualtieri announced the new entry fee for the Trevi Fountain during a recent press conference. Tourists will need to purchase a €2 ticket to access the immediate area around the 18th-century Baroque fountain. Viewing the fountain from a distance will remain free of charge.
This initiative extends beyond the Trevi Fountain. Five other significant cultural sites in Rome will also implement new entry fees. These include the Villa of Maxentius, the Napoleonic Museum, the Baracco Museum, the Carlo Bilotti Museum, and the Pietro Canonica Museum.
Quick Fact
The Trevi Fountain attracted approximately 30,000 visitors per day this year, totaling around nine million tourists between January 1 and December 8.
Addressing Overtourism in Rome
The introduction of these fees is part of Rome's ongoing strategy to combat overtourism. The city has seen a significant increase in visitor numbers, putting strain on its infrastructure and historic landmarks. The Trevi Fountain area already has restrictions in place, limiting the number of people to 400 at any given time.
Mayor Gualtieri emphasized that the new fees are designed to help manage tourist flow and contribute to the upkeep of these sites. He also reiterated that free access for Roman residents remains a priority.
"We are taking steps to preserve our heritage while ensuring a sustainable tourism model for the future," Mayor Gualtieri stated regarding the new measures.
Broader Italian Efforts to Manage Tourism
Rome is not alone in implementing such measures. Italy, one of the world's most popular tourist destinations, has seen several cities introduce new rules and fees to handle mass tourism. These efforts aim to protect historical sites and improve the visitor experience.
For example, Rome's Pantheon, a former Roman temple now a church, began charging an entrance fee in 2023. Venice, famous for its canals, introduced an access fee for day visitors during peak periods in 2024, with the price doubling to €5 this year.
Background on Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain, completed in 1762, is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. It is famous for its tradition of visitors tossing coins into its waters. Legend says throwing one coin ensures a return to Rome, two coins lead to a new romance, and three coins guarantee a marriage or divorce. The coins collected from the fountain are typically used to support charities in Rome.
Impact on Visitors and Local Economy
The new €2 fee for closer access to the Trevi Fountain is a small charge for individual tourists but is expected to generate substantial revenue given the high daily visitor count. This revenue can then be reinvested into the maintenance and preservation of Rome's cultural heritage.
While some tourists may view the fee as an additional cost, city officials argue it is a necessary step for sustainable tourism. The goal is to ensure that future generations can also enjoy these historic sites.
The measures reflect a growing trend in popular European destinations to balance the economic benefits of tourism with the need to protect local culture and environment. These fees represent a shift towards more managed and controlled access to heavily visited landmarks.
- February 1: Start date for Trevi Fountain entry fee.
- €2: Cost of the ticket for closer access.
- 6: Total number of sites introducing new fees.
- 400: Current limit on people in the Trevi Fountain area at one time.
