Visitors to one of the world's most famous fountains will soon need to pay more than just a coin for a wish. The city of Rome has announced it will impose a new access fee for tourists wanting to see the Trevi Fountain up close.
New Fee for Iconic Landmark
The Rome municipality confirmed that starting February 1, 2025, a fee of 2 euros will be required for tourists to access the recessed edge of the Trevi Fountain. The announcement was made on Friday, December 19, 2025. This move is designed to help manage the immense crowds that flock to the Baroque masterpiece daily and to contribute to its ongoing preservation.
Managing Mass Tourism
The Trevi Fountain, immortalized in films like "La Dolce Vita," attracts thousands of visitors daily, leading to significant congestion and wear on the historic site. The new fee structure is part of a broader effort by Italian authorities to balance tourist access with conservation needs for cherished cultural heritage sites. Similar measures have been discussed or implemented for other overcrowded destinations across Italy in recent years.
The specific area covered by the fee is the sunken section directly in front of the fountain where tourists traditionally toss coins. This practice, legend says, ensures a return to Rome. The revenue generated is expected to be directed toward maintenance and security costs for the fountain and its immediate surroundings.
Implications for Travelers
For Canadian and other international tourists planning a trip to Rome, this adds a new consideration to their travel budget. While the fee is modest, it signifies a growing trend of European cities implementing small charges to mitigate the impacts of mass tourism. Visitors should be prepared for this charge when visiting after the February 1st implementation date.
The iconic fountain, completed in 1762, remains a must-see attraction. The new policy aims to ensure it can be enjoyed by future generations while addressing the practical challenges of maintaining a free, open-air monument in the heart of a modern city.
