Throughout 2024 and 2025, one of Rome’s most famous landmarks was surrounded by metal barriers and fences.
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Trevi Fountain’s waters were drained, and it was closed off to visitors in order to do maintenance on the site. The goal was to improve Trevi Fountain’s operations for the upcoming Catholic Jubilee, which ended in early January 2026.
The unsightly construction was distressing for many visitors, especially those who had dreamed of throwing a coin into the fountain’s waters in hopes of a wish being fulfilled. Still, it was meant to be temporary.
Unfortunately, fences surround Trevi Fountain once more—and they’re here to stay. Starting on February 1, 2026, Trevi Fountain is no longer free for visitors.
Inside the new entry fee at Trevi Fountain
As you can see from the photos, the fencing around Trevi Fountain doesn’t block all views. The structure allows passers-by to see the fountain from a distance. However, to get close to the fountain (for photos, for coin-tossing, or to better appreciate the site), visitors must now enter a line and pay the €2 fee to access the fountain’s famous stone steps.
The only people exempt from the €2 fee are local residents, children under six, and people with disabilities (and their caretakers).
The small fee is expected to generate upwards of €6.5 million annually (up to €20 million, by some estimates), which will be used to help manage and preserve the fountain. The choice to fence in Trevi Fountain is also designed to prevent overcrowding, prevent pickpocketing, and to generate funds for Rome’s most famous historic sites.
Unfortunately, the new setup means you can’t toss your coins into the fountain. In fact, there have already been incidents of tourists lobbing coins over the barriers, nearly hitting those who paid to stand on the stone steps.
Apparently, the barrier is also designed for a more ‘authentic’ experience by removing chaotic crowds. While some have pushed back against the new fee, others consider it reasonable. According to Alessandro Onorato, Rome’s Assessor for Tourism, Major Events, Sport, and Fashion, “I believe that if the Trevi Fountain were in New York, they would have charged at least $100.”
That being said, there is a workaround. Authorities are only charging visitors to Trevi Fountain when they arrive between 11:30 am and 10 pm on Monday through Friday, then 9 am to 10 pm on Saturday and Sunday. So, if you want prime views without paying a single euro, visit at midnight.
