The Trevi Fountain, set against Palazzo Poli on the small Piazza di Trevi, is the end point of the Aqua Virgo, the only ancient aqueduct in Rome still in use. Since 2 February 2026, the City of Rome has charged €2 for access to the area by the edge of the basin, from 9am to 10pm (from 11:30am on Mondays and Fridays); the square itself remains free, and access to the basin is free for residents of Rome and its metropolitan area. Early in the morning and after 10pm, you can walk down to the water without a ticket. Tradition says you should throw a coin over your shoulder to be sure of returning to Rome; the coins collected go to Caritas Rome.
Highlights
Nicola Salvi's façade
In 1732 Pope Clement XII launched a competition won by the architect Nicola Salvi, who designed the fountain as a triumphal arch set against the palace. The work was completed in 1762 by Giuseppe Pannini. In the centre, the god Oceanus drives a shell-shaped chariot drawn by two horses, one restless, the other calm; in the side niches stand the allegories of Abundance and Health.
The fountain at night
After the paid area closes at 10pm, the illuminated fountain can be seen free of charge by everyone. The crowds thin out late in the evening, especially on weekdays.
The coin toss
The ritual is to throw a coin with your right hand over your left shoulder, with your back to the basin. It is the only object you are allowed to throw: the coins are collected regularly and donated to Caritas Rome, which uses them to help people in need.
The aqueduct reliefs
Above the statues, two reliefs tell the story of the Trevi water: a young girl shows the spring to Roman soldiers, and Agrippa orders the building of the aqueduct, completed in 19 BC. This is the basin where Anita Ekberg wades in Federico Fellini's La Dolce Vita (1960).
Rules and fines
It is forbidden to sit on the edge of the basin, to step into it, or to eat, drink or smoke within the perimeter: fine of €40 to €240. Bathing or drawing water costs €450, and any damage to the fountain is an offence punishable by prison.
Opening hours and prices
Access to the edge of the basin: Monday and Friday from 11:30am to 10pm, other days from 9am to 10pm, last entry at 9pm; price €2, including on the first Sunday of the month. Free for residents of Rome and its metropolitan area (ID required), children under 6, people with disabilities and a companion, licensed tour guides and MIC Card holders. Tickets on the fountain's official website, at the municipal museums, at tourist information points, at authorised retailers (cash or card) and at the entrance (card only); tickets bought in advance are not dated and are non-refundable.
Infos pratiques
Tips
The ticket only lets you go down to the edge of the basin: for a photo from the square, there is no need to pay. Buy it on the official website or at the entrance, and beware of street sellers offering "tickets" or roses. Watch your bags and phones, as the square is well known to pickpockets. Prices checked in October 2026.
How to get there
Piazza di Trevi, 00187 Rome. Metro line A, Barberini – Fontana di Trevi station, about a 6-minute walk away. Buses 52, 53, 62, 63, 71, 83, 85, 160 and 492, Tritone/Fontana di Trevi stop on Via del Tritone, 200 m away.
Opening hours
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