Key Highlights:

1. Rome considers charging an entry fee for Trevi Fountain to manage overwhelming tourist numbers.
2. Timed, pre-booked access could be introduced to preserve the iconic landmark.
3. Roman residents may be exempt from the fee, while visitors may pay a nominal charge.

Rome’s Trevi Fountain: The City’s New Plan to Tackle Overtourism

Rome may finally have reached its breaking point—at least when it comes to the sheer volume of visitors flocking to its beloved Trevi Fountain. This iconic landmark, renowned for its stunning Baroque architecture and romantic legend of coin tossing, has long been a must-see for tourists. But with an influx of people arriving every day, the city council is now considering a bold new move: charging an entry fee to manage the crowds.

A Plan for 2025 Jubilee

Rome’s mayor, Roberto Gualtieri, recently addressed the issue, stating that managing the situation at the Trevi Fountain has become increasingly difficult. With the 2025 Jubilee fast approaching, the pressure to preserve and protect one of the world’s most famous landmarks is mounting. To handle the overwhelming number of visitors, the city council is exploring options, including introducing a small entry fee.

Alessandro Onorato, who also spoke to Corriere della Sera, elaborated on the proposal. His suggestion? Limited, timed, and pre-booked access to the fountain, allowing tourists to visit without overwhelming the area. This approach, he believes, would reduce the impact of overtourism while ensuring the long-term preservation of the monument.

How Much Will It Cost?

If the proposal is approved, visitors may be expected to pay a nominal fee of 1 to 2 euros to access the Trevi Fountain. However, Roman residents will likely be exempt from this charge, as the fee is primarily aimed at managing tourist numbers, not generating revenue.

Interestingly, many visitors already “pay” when they visit the fountain—albeit in a more symbolic way. Tradition dictates that tossing a coin into the fountain guarantees a return trip to Rome. The city even collects the money from the fountain, amassing around 3,000 euros daily. This ritual highlights how beloved the Trevi Fountain is, and the proposed fee would not interfere with this cherished custom.

Not About the Money

Despite the modest entry fee, officials stress that this isn’t about boosting Rome’s finances. The city isn’t looking to fill its coffers through tourism. Rather, the move is a necessary measure to control the overwhelming crowds and preserve the historic monument for generations to come.

The possibility of charging visitors to see the Trevi Fountain reflects a growing trend in popular tourist destinations struggling to balance cultural preservation with overtourism. As one of Rome’s most visited attractions, the fountain’s future management will be closely watched. Whether the fee is ultimately introduced or not, one thing is clear: Rome is taking serious steps to safeguard its treasures.