City of Rome announces strict measures to combat overtourism at the iconic Fontana di Trevi. Here is everything travelers need to know.

• Location: Piazza di Trevi, Rome, Italy
• Effective Date: February 1, 2026
• Price: €2.00 (Free for Rome residents)

The End of Free Access to the Water’s Edge

Rome’s most famous Baroque masterpiece, the Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi), is officially changing its access rules. Starting February 1, 2026, tourists will no longer be able to walk down to the fountain’s edge—the famous “coin tossing” area—without a paid ticket.

This decision marks a significant shift in Rome’s tourism strategy, aiming to curb overtourism, protect the monument’s structural integrity, and improve the experience for visitors who currently face overwhelming crowds.

Key Details for Travelers to Rome (2026)

If you are planning a trip to Italy’s capital in 2026, here is what you need to prepare for:

• Entrance Fee: A ticket will cost €2.00.
• Who Must Pay: The fee applies to all non-residents. Residents of Rome will continue to have free access.
• Booking System: A reservation system utilizing QR codes and online booking is expected to be implemented. This will strictly limit the number of people allowed near the water at any one time (capped at approx. 400 people).
• Restricted Zone: The fee specifically applies to the stone steps and the area immediately surrounding the water basin. The upper square overlooking the fountain will remain open to the public for free viewing.

Why is Rome Charging for the Trevi Fountain?

The City Council of Rome, led by Mayor Roberto Gualtieri, has cited several reasons for introducing the entrance fee:

1. Crowd Control: The fountain sees up to 12,000 visitors per hour during peak times. The new system aims to reduce chaos and safety risks.
2. Preservation: Massive foot traffic causes wear and tear on the historic stone. Limiting numbers helps preserve the UNESCO World Heritage site.
3. Maintenance Funding: The estimated revenue (approx. €2 per visitor) will be reinvested into restoration, cleaning, and security personnel.

Travel Tips: How to Visit the Trevi Fountain in 2026

To ensure you get your “La Dolce Vita” moment without the stress, follow these geo-specific travel tips:

• Book in Advance: Once the online portal opens, reserve your slot immediately. Walk-up availability will be scarce.
• Visit Early or Late: The fee applies during peak hours (typically 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM). Visiting at sunrise or late at night may still offer a different, quieter experience, though specific “free hours” outside the ticketed times are yet to be fully finalized.
• Don’t Forget the Coins: The tradition of throwing a coin over your left shoulder with your right hand is still allowed—but you’ll need a ticket to get close enough to the water to do it properly.

Summary

• What: Trevi Fountain Entrance Fee
• When: Starts Feb 1, 2026
• Where: Rome, Italy
• Cost: €2.00