Get ready to save your coins… or pay up! This coming February 1, 2026, Rome will introduce a €2 ticket for close-up access to the iconic Trevi Fountain 🏛️💧.
The idea? Tackle the gridlock of tourists cramming into Piazza di Trevi every day — about 30,000 on average — making it nearly impossible to enjoy the Baroque masterpiece in peace. Visitors will still be able to admire the fountain from a distance for free, but only ticket holders can step right up to the balustrade and make that classic coin toss.
Mayor Roberto Gualtieri announced the measure as part of a wider plan to manage overtourism: starting February, six major sites in the city will require tickets. The Trevi Fountain costs €2, while the other five attractions will carry a €5 entry fee.
Why now? Crowds not only create 'gridlock' but also open the door for pickpockets and other headaches. The new system aims to spread visitors more evenly, improve security, and even boost funds for city services — local residents get in free, and ticket sales at the Trevi Fountain alone could bring in around €6.5 million a year!
Of course, opinions are mixed: one tourist told us, 'It should be free,' while another said he'd 'have to think about' coming back once the fee kicks in. 🤔
This isn't Rome's first experiment with paid entry — the Pantheon started charging in 2023, and Venice rolled out peak-period fees last year. Will this be the new normal for Europe's most beloved landmarks? Only time (and ticket scanners) will tell! ⏳🎫
Planning to visit? You can buy tickets online in advance or on the spot via contactless payment. Separate lines will keep ticket holders and walk-ups moving smoothly. See you at the fountain — coins or card in hand! 💳🪙
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
