7 Essential Tips for Visiting Trevi Fountain in Rome

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Buongiorno and welcome to Stefano’s RomeCabs, Rome’s top-rated tour company. Trevi Fountain, the breathtaking masterpiece nestled in the heart of Rome, is an absolute must-visit for any traveler.

The Trevi Fountain, known as "Fontana di Trevi" in Italian, derives its name from its location. It is situated at the junction of three roads, or "tre vie" in Italian. The fountain marks the end point of the ancient Aqua Virgo aqueduct, which provided water to ancient Rome, including the nearby Baths of Agrippa. The convergence of these three streets and the presence of the aqueduct influenced the name given to this iconic landmark.

Why should you visit the Trevi Fountain?

Trevi Fountain is one of the most famous and most recognized Baroque fountains in the world and is a prominent feature on our Rome luxury tours. It boasts a rich history and exudes Baroque elegance through its captivating architecture, exquisite sculptures, and ornate ornamentation.

Originally the endpoint of the Aqua Virgo aqueduct, this monumental work began taking shape in 1732 under the guidance of architect Nicola Salvi, who won a public competition to design the fountain. The fountain was built against Palazzo Poli which is currently a museum of engravings and other significant artifacts.

The central focus of the fountain is the awe-inspiring sculpture of Oceanus, the sea god, depicted majestically in a chariot drawn by fierce sea horses and guided by tritons. Flanking Oceanus, the statues of Abundance and Salubrity further enrich the symbolism of prosperity and healing brought by the aqueduct's water. The Baroque architecture impresses with its grand semicircular façade, crowned by Corinthian pilasters and adorned with bas-reliefs and sculptures celebrating the aqueduct's origins.

Every inch of the Trevi Fountain is adorned with intricate details, from the meticulously crafted acanthus leaves on the Corinthian pilasters to the naturalistic rock formations cascading water in a breathtaking spectacle.

With its enchanting beauty and rich history, a visit to Trevi Fountain promises to be a highlight of your Roman adventure. Because Trevi Fountain is such a favorite with travelers and cruisers, it's featured in most of our Rome private tours such as:

To ensure you have an unforgettable experience, we have compiled seven essential tips for visiting Trevi Fountain that will help you navigate the crowds, understand the traditions, and make the most of your visit to this iconic landmark.

7 Tips for Visiting Trevi Fountain in Rome

1. Embrace the Early Morning Tranquility

If you are staying in Rome, plan on being an “early bird”. By arriving at Trevi Fountain in the early morning, around 7 AM (adjust your morning visit based on the season), you can relish the tranquility and have a more personal encounter with the fountain.

The peaceful atmosphere allows you to connect with its grandeur and appreciate the intricate details without the distraction of large crowds. It's an opportunity to enjoy a truly immersive experience.

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Take unforgettable photos of Trevi Fountain without crowds

With fewer tourists present, an early morning visit offers ideal conditions for photography enthusiasts. Take your time to compose stunning shots from various angles and capture the intricate details of the sculptures and cascading water without the need to navigate through crowds.

While at Trevi Fountain, take some time to explore the surrounding neighborhood in the early morning hours. If you skipped your hotel breakfast savor a freshly brewed coffee at a local café, or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets for the chance to witness Rome as it awakens, providing a unique perspective on the city's daily life.

In the early morning, Rome can be refreshingly cool, so dress in comfortable layers to adapt to changing temperatures. Planning your visit in advance and checking the weather forecast will ensure you make the most of your early morning experience at Trevi Fountain.

So, set your alarm, seize the opportunity, and discover the magical tranquility of Trevi Fountain before the city awakens.

2. Illuminated Majesty: See Trevi Fountain at Night

While the Trevi Fountain is undeniably captivating during the day, there is an entirely different charm that emerges when the sun sets and the fountain comes to life in a dazzling display of lights. Rome at night is quite enchanting!

Illuminated at night, the fountain casts a magical glow upon the Roman nightscape, captivating the hearts of visitors and locals alike while embodying the eternal beauty and splendor of the Eternal City.

Trevi Fountain at night Rome tours

The play of lights and shadows creates a dramatic backdrop for capturing stunning photos. Whether you're a professional photographer or simply an enthusiast, the captivating colors and reflections make for truly magical nighttime shots. Let your creativity soar as you capture the fountain’s allure in a unique and extraordinary way.

See for yourself in this video below the transformation of Trevi Fountain between Day and Night:

3. Follow Tradition: Toss A Coin into Trevi Fountain

While we explored in great detail the myths and rituals of tossing a coin in Trevi Fountain in another blog, here are the highlights.

As you stand before the majestic Trevi Fountain, immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of legends and traditions that have woven their way into the heart of this iconic landmark.

Among the most enchanting customs is the age-old tradition of tossing a coin into the fountain, a ritual believed to ensure your return to Rome. But there's more to this fascinating tradition than meets the eye. This is one of the highlights of our clients’ Rome tour, tossing a coin into Trevi Fountain with the enthusiastic hope that the legend is true.

The Legend of Tossing a Coin into Trevi Fountain

According to ancient tales, the tossing of coins into the Trevi Fountain originated from an ancient Roman ritual. In ancient times, it was customary for visitors to make offerings to the gods of water, hoping for a safe and prosperous journey.

Legend has it that the tradition of tossing coins into Trevi Fountain began with a group of German academics who journeyed to Rome in the 18th century. As they bid farewell to the Eternal City, they revived the ancient pagan ritual of offering gifts to the water gods believed to reside within the fountain's depths. With a flick of their wrists, they cast their coins into the sparkling waters, a gesture of gratitude and a plea for a safe return.

This whimsical practice spread far and wide, reaching its pinnacle of fame in the 1950s through movies and songs that celebrated the magic of Trevi Fountain. The timeless film "Three Coins in the Fountain," further immortalized the allure of this charming ritual.

How to toss a coin into Trevi Fountain (according to tradition)

When tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain, remember to use your right hand, symbolizing the act of giving. Close your eyes and feel the weight of your wish as you toss your coin over your left shoulder into the fountain.

The sight of countless coins glimmering beneath the surface is a testament to the dreams and desires of those who came before. As the story goes, if you follow this ritual, you will be granted one of three wishes: to return to Rome, to find true love, or to ensure good fortune.

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Beyond the legends and traditions, the coins thrown into the Trevi Fountain serve a practical purpose. The money collected from the fountain, about 3,000 Euros a day, is used to support local charitable causes. The funds are distributed to organizations that provide assistance and sustenance to those in need.

Join the countless visitors who have ventured before you, their wishes mingling with the shimmering cascade of coins. And who knows, as you bid farewell to the fountain, a little bit of Rome will stay with you, waiting to welcome you back with open arms.

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4. Stay Vigilant when visiting Trevi Fountain

While Trevi Fountain is undoubtedly captivating, it is also crowded and it can attract pickpockets and other unsavory elements that prey on tourists.

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Protect your belongings by keeping them close to you at all times. Use bags with secure closures and consider wearing a money belt under your garments to keep your valuables safe. Avoid carrying wallets in the back pockets where they can be easily snatched.

Stay alert, particularly in crowded areas, and be cautious of anyone approaching you with distractions or unsolicited offers such as roses or bracelets. They are never gifts, but the giver will demand money.

5. Dress Comfortably when visiting Trevi Fountain

Dress comfortably and wear appropriate footwear for your visit to Trevi Fountain to avoid slipping on the stone steps that are frequently crowded with tourists. Comfortable shoes will ensure you can navigate the cobblestone streets of Rome without discomfort. High heels or flip-flops are discouraged in Rome as they can be quite uncomfortable along Rome’s cobblestone streets and in some cases even uneven pavement.

Mornings and evenings can be chilly out. If you anticipate being out and about from morning to night, it is recommended to dress in layers so you may remove and add layers as the temperature fluctuates.

Remember to also bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated during your exploration.

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6. Respect Local Regulations Visiting Trevi Fountain

Trevi Fountain draws visitors from all over the world, creating a vibrant and bustling atmosphere. While enjoying your visit, remember that many sites in Rome have certain measures in place to preserve the integrity of the monuments.

It is forbidden to bathe, dip, or enter the Trevi Fountain, or any fountain in Rome.
Visitors are prohibited from sitting on the edge of the basin.
It is illegal to take coins that have been tossed into the fountain.

So, embrace the spirit of camaraderie and appreciate the shared experience with fellow visitors.

Essential tips to visit Trevi Fountain in Rome private tours

7. Explore the Areas around Trevi Fountain

While the Trevi Fountain is undeniably the neighborhood's crown jewel, the surrounding area holds many more treasures to discover. Stroll along its winding streets lined with historic buildings, charming boutiques, and quaint cafes, where the tantalizing aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air.

Indulge your taste buds with the creamy delights of authentic Italian gelato. The neighborhood is brimming with gelaterias, offering a myriad of flavors to tantalize your palate. Treat yourself to a scoop (or two) of this frozen delight and savor every blissful bite as you wander the picturesque streets.

Continue your exploration to the nearby Spanish Steps, a monumental staircase adorned with elegant terraces and vibrant flowers. Ascend the steps and revel in the breathtaking views of Rome's rooftops, providing a panoramic snapshot of the city's timeless beauty. From there, explore the luxurious Via dei Condotti lined with luxury shops, or venture to Via Margutta - an oasis of charm featured in the classic film “Roman Holiday”.

About a 10-minute walking distance from Trevi Fountain, you'll encounter the architectural marvel that is the Pantheon as you stroll along Piazza della Rotonda (remember, to visit the Pantheon admission tickets are required).

A few minutes away from the Pantheon is the lively Piazza Navona, which boasts its own three magnificent fountains.

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If you prefer to not walk all over the city (especially during the super hot summer months) you may also hire a private car service in Rome and explore Rome comfortably and easily. There are so many great reasons to book private tours in Italy, and convenience, comfort, ease, and the opportunity to see MORE of Rome and Italy in LESS time are just a few.

** ALSO READ before your trip to Rome:

A visit to Trevi Fountain is a magical and unforgettable experience. Whether you're tossing a coin, capturing the beauty through your lens, or simply taking in the enchanting atmosphere, Trevi Fountain is sure to leave an indelible impression on your journey through Rome.

If you are staying in Rome exploring on your own or on a sightseeing tour of Rome, or if you are visiting for a day on a Rome tour from Civitavecchia, by following these essential tips you can enhance your visit, immerse yourself in the traditions, and create lasting memories.

Thank you for reading our travel blog 7 Essential Tips for Visiting Trevi Fountain in Rome and for choosing Stefano's RomeCabs for your private Rome tours and shore excursions from Civitavecchia.

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