Rome will introduce an entry fee for foreign visitors to the historic Trevi Fountain starting February 1, 2026. The new charge, set at approximately $2.35 (€2), aims to combat severe overcrowding and help protect the iconic 18th-century monument. This decision follows an experimental period and data collection during recent maintenance work.
Key Takeaways
- Foreign visitors will pay a €2 fee to enter the Trevi Fountain area.
- The new tariff begins on February 1, 2026.
- The fee aims to manage crowd flow, protect the monument, and enhance visitor experience.
- Rome residents, disabled persons, and children under five are exempt.
New Fee Addresses Overcrowding Challenges
The city's government announced the new tariff system on December 18, which also applies to various museums and monuments across Rome. The Trevi Fountain attracts a significant number of visitors daily, with estimates reaching 30,000 on an average day and up to 70,000 during peak periods. This translates to more than 9 million visitors annually.
The introduction of this access tariff specifically for the Trevi Fountain reservoir is a direct outcome of an experimental phase. This phase took place during maintenance work completed in December 2024. City officials collected crucial data on visitor inflows and tested new management strategies.
Trevi Fountain at a Glance
- Daily Visitors: Around 30,000
- Peak Day Visitors: Up to 70,000
- Annual Visitors: Over 9 million
- New Fee: Approximately $2.35 (€2)
Protecting a Global Landmark
Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri previously highlighted the growing challenges. He stated, "The situation at the Trevi Fountain is becoming technically very difficult to manage." The constant flow of tourists puts immense pressure on the structure and surrounding areas.
The city's website explains that the fee will fund several key objectives. These include better management of crowd flows, enhanced protection for the fountain's delicate structure, and an improved overall experience for visitors. This proactive measure seeks to ensure the preservation of this historical site for future generations.
"The introduction of the access tariff to the Trevi Fountain reservoir derives from the experimentation started during maintenance work completed in December 2024. It became possible to collect fundamental data on inflows and to test new ways of use to combat overcrowding and protect the monument."
Exemptions and Broader Tourism Impact
Not all visitors will pay the new fee. Rome residents are exempt, as are persons with disabilities and children under the age of five. This ensures that the charge primarily targets foreign tourists contributing to the high visitor numbers.
The Lazio region, where Rome is located, saw a substantial 36 million tourists in 2023. This figure underscores the immense popularity of the Eternal City and its attractions. While tourism brings economic benefits, it also presents significant challenges in managing historical sites.
Coins and Conservation
The tradition of tossing coins into the Trevi Fountain is well-known. In 2023 alone, over $1.52 million was collected from the fountain. These funds are typically used for charitable purposes. The new entry fee is separate from these coin collections and is specifically allocated for monument management and visitor experience.
A Growing Trend in European Cities
Rome's decision reflects a broader trend among popular European destinations. Many cities are grappling with the impacts of overtourism, including Venice, which has also introduced a similar day-tripper fee. These measures aim to balance tourism revenue with the need to protect cultural heritage and maintain quality of life for local residents.
The Trevi Fountain's name itself has historical roots, deriving from a toponym used in the area since the mid-20th century. Its intricate Baroque design and rich history make it a must-see for millions. The new fee is part of a larger effort to ensure its continued splendor in the face of ever-increasing global tourism.
Improving the Visitor Journey
City officials hope that by controlling access and funding protective measures, the visitor experience will improve. Less crowded spaces can lead to more enjoyable and meaningful interactions with the monument. This approach balances accessibility with preservation, a critical goal for many historic sites worldwide.
Travelers planning a trip to Rome in 2026 should factor this new fee into their budgets. While a small amount, it signifies a shift in how popular attractions manage their immense popularity and the environmental toll on historical landmarks.
