The iconic Trevi Fountain in Rome has long been a must-see spot where visitors toss coins for luck, believing one ensures a return trip, two spark romance, and three promise marriage. As of this week, getting close enough to make that traditional toss now comes with a small cost for non-residents. The city has rolled out a 2 euro fee, roughly $2.20, to approach the fountain’s edge during peak hours. This change aims to ease the crushing crowds that have plagued the site for years.
The new rules apply on Mondays and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. on other days. After 10 p.m., barriers come down and access becomes free again. Rome residents, children under five, and people with disabilities enter at no charge. Tickets are easy to grab online or by scanning QR codes right at the location.
Early feedback from visitors shows a mix of opinions, though many seem pleased with the results. People on social media highlight how much nicer it is to snap photos without massive groups blocking the view. One person shared excitement about approaching the fountain quickly for the first time ever. The reduced wait times have turned a formerly chaotic experience into something more enjoyable.
@romedreamguide 🚨 LIVE – FIRST DAY! 🚨 Trevi Fountain officially costs €2 for the first time in history! With a lot of confusion & speculation around how this will work once in effect… ⬇️ here's everything you need to know about the new entry fee: ➡️ How to book: 🎟️ Online at fontanaditrevi.roma.it 💳 At the ticket office next to the fountain (card only) 🕰️ Opening times: Monday – Sunday 09:00 – 22:00 (last entry 21:00) FRIDAYS only: 11:30 – 22:00 📅 Your €2 ticket is valid for 30 days from purchase. Ticket gains entry to the lower levels of the fountain, for photos & coin throwing 🪙 ⏰ Officially, 30 minutes max time is allowed. 👀 Views from the upper levels & piazza remain free! 💬 What do you think – would you pay to visit the iconic Trevi Fountain? Tell us in the comments! 📌 Save this for your trip and share with a Rome loving buddy! 🔖 Follow us for Rome insider tips and friendly local advice! 🇮🇹 #rome #trevifountain #romeitaly #visitrome #rometravel ♬ Canyons – Official Sound Studio
Not everyone is on board, of course. Some tourists have tried skipping the fee by tossing coins over the barriers from afar, leading to missed shots and a few close calls for those inside. City officials plan to add patrols soon to keep things safe. A visitor from France argued that charging for such a beloved public space feels wrong and takes away from the emotional magic.
Rome’s mayor, Roberto Gualtieri, pointed out that more than 10 million people lined up to throw coins just in 2025, with peak days seeing up to 70,000 visitors. The fee is expected to bring in between about $7 million and $22 million each year. That money will help cover maintenance and extra staff. Alessandro Onorato, the city’s councilor for tourism, explained that the main goal is better crowd control while noting that similar spots elsewhere might charge far more.
This move fits into broader efforts across Italy to manage overtourism. Places like Venice already require day-trip fees, and other areas have added restrictions. Interestingly, the coins collected from the fountain, around $1.65 million annually, still go straight to Caritas, a charity supporting those in need. Rules also ban eating or drinking near the water to cut down on mess and protect against pickpockets.
@luizantoniogmb Fontana di Trevi, nos primeiros dias de 2026. 🇮🇹 #italy #rome ♬ som original – luizantoniogmb
The fountain gained worldwide fame through scenes in ‘La Dolce Vita’, drawing endless crowds ever since. Barriers were first tested back in 2024 to limit access to the edge, and now the paid system builds on that. For many, the small fee feels worth it for a calmer visit. An Argentine tourist mentioned he would happily pay about $2.20 to get up close, though anything higher might be too much.
Overall, the change highlights the tricky balance between preserving historic sites and handling modern tourism pressures. Rome continues to adapt while keeping its charm intact. The quicker access and fewer crowds have won over plenty of first-time users of the new setup.
What do you think about charging small fees for popular landmarks like the Trevi Fountain – share your thoughts in the comments.
