Rome: The Trevi Fountain, a major tourist attraction in Rome, Italy, has officially begun charging an entrance fee, after previously being free to visit, in an effort to reduce overcrowding.
According to Thai News Agency, since yesterday, tourists have to pay 2 euros (approximately 75-80 baht) to enter the Lower Piazza, or the stone steps adjacent to the Trevi Fountain, to get up close to the fountain, including taking photos and throwing coins. Reservations are required via an app or by scanning a QR code at the entrance, and visitors are limited to a maximum of 30 minutes per session in the lower area. However, those who don't want to pay can still view the Trevi Fountain from a distance or from street level above for free, but they are not allowed to go down to take photos up close or throw coins at the edge of the fountain without paying. Exceptions apply to Roman residents, people with disabilities and their caregivers, and children under 6 years old.
The Rome City Council decided to implement this measure starting in 2025 to address the problem of overcrowding at the Trevi Fountain. Previously, the area in front of the fountain was so crowded that it was almost impossible to move, risking stampedes and becoming a breeding ground for pickpockets. Charging an entrance fee will also help conserve the fountain, reduce damage to the ancient marble from being trampled on, and the revenue will be used to clean moss, chewing gum, and maintain the fountain. Most tourists say they are happy to pay, as the measure is expected to reduce overcrowding to some extent. Data shows that between December 2024 and December 2025, more than 10 million tourists from around the world visited the Trevi Fountain.
Many tourist attractions in Italy are increasingly charging entrance fees, such as the Pantheon, which charges 5 euros, and Venice, which also charges a "land entry fee," demonstrating Italy's growing commitment to screening tourists.