In a bold move to tackle overtourism, Rome’s city hall has announced that starting February 1, 2026, visitors will need to purchase a €2 ticket for close-up access to the Baroque icon, the Trevi Fountain. While everyone can still admire the fountain from the surrounding square for free, getting up close to toss coins and snap photos will be reserved for ticket holders.
Combating Overtourism with Ticketing
Mayor Roberto Gualtieri revealed at a December press conference that the initiative will apply to six key sites across the Italian capital. Apart from the Trevi Fountain, entry to the other five attractions will cost €5 each. The measure is designed to ease gridlock in popular spots and protect Rome’s heritage from wear and tear caused by dense crowds.
Numbers Behind the Change
Between January 1 and December 8, 2025, an estimated 9 million tourists passed through the area right in front of the Trevi Fountain—roughly 30,000 people per day. Such high footfall has not only made it hard to get a clear view but also opened doors for pickpockets and other safety concerns.
Balancing Accessibility and Preservation
Tradition runs deep at the Trevi Fountain, immortalized by Federico Fellini’s classic La Dolce Vita. Each week, thousands of euros in tossed coins are collected and donated to Caritas charity. However, to ensure sustainable tourism, experts say a controlled flow of visitors is essential. Rome residents will enjoy free access, while tourists can buy tickets online or on-site via contactless payment.
A Growing Trend Across Italy
Rome is not alone in this approach. The Pantheon introduced an entry fee in 2023, and Venice has levied tourist charges during peak seasons. City hall expects the new tickets to generate around €6.5 million annually, funds that will be reinvested in maintenance, crowd management, and heritage conservation.
What This Means for Travelers
For digital nomads, culture seekers, and young globetrotters planning a 2026 Italian adventure, budgeting an extra €2–€5 per site may be a small price for smoother visits and enhanced preservation of world-renowned landmarks. Advanced booking is encouraged to skip on-site queues.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
