Rome has introduced a €2 fee for tourists to access the viewing area of the iconic Trevi Fountain, effective February 2, 2026, in a bid to manage overcrowding and fund maintenance. The move marks a significant change for one of the world’s most famous landmarks, which had previously been free to visit, and is part of broader efforts by the city to address the challenges of mass tourism.
The fee, equivalent to approximately $2.35, was implemented after a year-long trial that involved managing visitor flow with queues and pathways. Officials from Rome’s tourism department stated that the charge is intended to improve the experience for visitors by reducing congestion around the fountain, which often sees thousands of tourists daily. Additionally, the revenue generated is earmarked for the preservation and upkeep of the Baroque masterpiece, ensuring its longevity for future generations.
Tourists on the first day of implementation expressed varied reactions. Some, like Ilhan Musbah from Morocco, welcomed the fee, noting that it made access easier and more comfortable for taking photos. Others were more skeptical, with one Sicilian tourist quipping that they had to “pay and smile” at the Italian landmark, reflecting a resigned acceptance of the new cost. Despite the charge, many acknowledged that 2 euros is a small price to pay for enhanced access to a site immortalized in Federico Fellini’s film ‘La Dolce Vita.’
The Trevi Fountain fee is coupled with a new 5-euro ticket for some city museums, although Rome residents are exempt from both charges. This exemption is designed to benefit locals by expanding the number of free museums available to them, balancing tourist demands with resident needs. Alessandro Onorato, Rome’s assessor of tourism, emphasized that the fee is modest compared to similar attractions elsewhere, suggesting that if the fountain were in New York, the charge could be much higher.
This initiative follows similar measures in other Italian and European cities grappling with overtourism. For instance, Venice introduced a day-tripper tax last year, and the Louvre Museum in Paris recently raised prices for non-European visitors. Rome’s approach is seen as a proactive step to manage visitor numbers without deterring tourism, which is vital to the city’s economy. Officials estimate that the Trevi Fountain fee alone could bring in an additional 6.5 million euros annually.
Operationally, tourists can pay the fee in advance online or on-site, granting them access to the front of the fountain during prime daylight hours. After hours, close access remains free, and viewing from the piazza above is always free. The fee structure aims to strike a balance between generating revenue and maintaining accessibility, while preserving the fountain’s cultural and historical significance.
The Trevi Fountain, featuring the Titan god Oceanus, is not only a major tourist draw but also a symbol of Rome’s rich heritage. The tradition of tossing a coin over one’s shoulder to ensure a return to the city continues, albeit now with a small entry cost. As Rome adapts to increasing tourist pressures, this fee represents a pragmatic solution to sustain its cultural assets while enhancing the visitor experience.
Looking ahead, city officials will monitor the impact of the fee on crowd levels and revenue. If successful, similar measures might be considered for other congested sites, contributing to a more sustainable tourism model in the Eternal City. The implementation reflects a growing trend in European destinations to implement smart tourism policies that balance preservation with popularity.
