Drinking water in Rome: the nasoni, free fountains, and tap water

Yes, the water from the nasoni, Rome's small cast-iron fountains, is drinkable and free: the Rome tourist board counts about 2,500, over 200 of them in the historic centre, and their water is what comes out of the city's taps. This guide explains how to use them, what is forbidden at the monumental fountains and why a water bottle is enough in Rome. Information checked in October 2026.

The rule in short

The nasoni ("big noses") are cylindrical cast-iron fountains that run continuously, day and night. Their water is what has been supplied to Romans for over a century, very fresh because it does not stand. The network operator, Acea, handles its quality control. You can fill a bottle without asking anyone.

How to drink from a nasone

A nasone in Rome

The spout has a small hole on top. Block the lower outlet with a finger and the water spurts from the upper hole, so you can drink without your mouth touching the spout. There are many nasoni in the centre; the tourist board's website mentions the Acquea app to find the nearest one. A bottle filled at a nasone saves buying bottles sold for much more: see our budget for Rome.

What is forbidden

Monumental fountains are not drinking points. At the Trevi Fountain, sitting on the edge, entering the water or drawing water from it is punished with a fine (from €450 for immersion or drawing water). The urban police regulation also forbids misuse of the nasoni: the details are in our guide to the fountains and steps of Rome.

Tap water in Rome

Tap water in Rome is the same as the nasoni water: it is drinkable, and you can drink it at the hotel or apartment. In summer, fill your bottle before heading to open-air sites: see our guide to the best time to visit Rome.