Rome Imposes 2-Euro Fee at Trevi Fountain to Manage Overcrowding and Preserve Historic Landmarks, A Step Towards Sustainable Tourism in Italy – Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting This Iconic Landmark

Published on December 26, 2025

Rome, one of the most iconic cities in the world, has decided to implement a 2-euro fee for visitors to access the legendary Trevi Fountain. This fee, set to start from February 1, will impact tourists wishing to get up close to the magnificent Baroque fountain that has captivated millions for centuries. While the fountain’s historical significance and stunning beauty remain free to enjoy from afar, the city of Rome aims to better manage crowds, preserve its heritage, and improve the visitor experience. With a projected annual income of 6.5 million euros, the fee serves as a proactive step in preserving the Eternal City’s treasures for future generations.

Rome’s Efforts to Manage Overcrowding

The Trevi Fountain has long been one of Rome’s most visited tourist attractions, drawing millions from around the world. However, the overwhelming number of visitors has led to issues of overcrowding, long queues, and the wear-and-tear of the historic monument. In response to these challenges, the city has decided to implement a tourist fee, which will be enforced from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. each day. Visitors can expect to pay the fee upon entry, either online in advance or on-site while waiting in line.

The primary goal behind this measure is not to deter tourists but to better organize their visits and maintain the integrity of the site. The Trevi Fountain, commissioned in 1640 by Pope Urban VIII, and revitalized in the 18th century under Pope Clement XII, has endured centuries of natural wear and human interaction. It now faces the challenge of preserving its artistic and cultural value in the face of mass tourism.

How the Fee Will Be Collected

Starting next month, tourists will have the option to pay the 2-euro fee either before visiting through online platforms or by purchasing tickets at local tourist spots in Rome. This fee is expected to raise approximately 6.5 million euros annually, which will be reinvested into heritage conservation efforts across the city. The city residents of Rome will remain exempt from this fee, reinforcing the city’s commitment to making cultural experiences more accessible to its citizens.

Balancing Tourism with Local Needs

Rome is not alone in grappling with the challenges of overtourism. Similar initiatives have been rolled out in Venice, where a tourist tax was introduced to manage the flood of day-trippers, and at Rome’s Pantheon, which also charges an entry fee. These measures are designed not only to generate revenue for preservation but also to make the city more livable for residents by balancing the number of visitors with local needs.

The introduction of the Trevi Fountain fee follows a successful pilot experiment in which the number of visitors allowed to approach the fountain was limited through controlled queue systems. This system reduced chaos and improved the overall experience for visitors, which officials are now hoping to replicate with the mandatory entry fee.

What Tourists Should Expect

For tourists hoping to capture the perfect selfie at the Trevi Fountain, here’s what you can expect:

• Entrance Fee: A 2-euro fee will be charged to enter the area around the fountain from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Queue Control: The organized system, already tested, will guide visitors through designated entrance and exit pathways, minimizing overcrowding.
• Free Access After Dark: Once the sun sets, the fountain will remain accessible free of charge, allowing those who prefer a more tranquil experience to visit in the evening.
• Visitor Limitations: The fountain’s proximity will be regulated to avoid overburdening the area, especially during peak tourist season.

These steps aim to enhance the overall experience for those visiting the iconic landmark while ensuring the preservation of its cultural and artistic heritage.

Additional Insights for Travelers

For those planning to visit the Trevi Fountain, here are some travel tips to make the most of your experience:

• Plan Your Visit Early or Late: The fee will apply primarily during the day, so consider visiting in the early morning or after 9 p.m. to avoid crowds and save on entry costs.
• Buy Tickets in Advance: If you’re visiting during peak hours, consider purchasing your ticket in advance to save time and avoid long waits.
• Explore Nearby Attractions: After visiting the Trevi Fountain, take time to explore other nearby attractions, such as the Pantheon, Spanish Steps, and Piazza Navona, which are also central to Rome’s historic charm.
• Take Advantage of Free Museum Access: As part of the city’s cultural initiative, some museums will offer free entry for registered Roman residents. This is a great opportunity to experience more of the city’s vast artistic treasures without any added costs.

The Future of Rome’s Cultural Tourism

Rome’s move to impose a fee at the Trevi Fountain marks a significant shift in how the city is managing its cultural tourism. As the city faces the dual challenge of maintaining its rich history while accommodating millions of visitors annually, such measures may become more common at other cultural sites across the city. This approach is meant to reduce the environmental and physical strain on its historic landmarks while enhancing the tourist experience.

In the coming years, more of Rome’s landmarks may follow suit in adopting similar systems, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the city’s cultural gems while also securing the funds needed to maintain them.