Trevi Fountain Reviews (Rome, Italy)

A stunning fountain!

Grimsby, England, United Kingdom

July 1, 2012

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Best of IgoUgo The Fontana di Trevi or otherwise known as the Trevi Fountain was another on my top things to do while in Rome although it was one of the last things we went to see. At our B&B we were given a map of Rome and shown how to get to certain places ...Read more The Fontana di Trevi or otherwise known as the Trevi Fountain was another on my top things to do while in Rome although it was one of the last things we went to see.

At our B&B we were given a map of Rome and shown how to get to certain places although we already went armed with guide books. The Trevi Fountain can be found by travelling to the Barberini metro stop which is on red line A and only 2 stops away from Termini. If you haven’t seen a picture of the fountain before, don’t be confused by the fountain right outside the metro stop. This isn’t what you want to see. The Trevi Fountain is about a 10 minute walk away from the metro stop and with the help of a good map, is easy enough to find.

After getting off the main road, you will begin to walk down some narrow, cobbled streets and you will know from here you are going the right way. The streets in this area are full of tourist souvenir shops, small boutiques and plenty of restaurants. The restaurants are overpriced though due to being near such a popular tourist attraction. If you move over just a couple of streets, you will be able to find places which are much more reasonable.

The Trevi Fountain kind of creeps up on you, even when following a map. All of a sudden, we turned a corner and there in front of us was this huge fountain with the surrounding area filled with people. Even though we had already been to the Colosseum, this was by far the busiest place that we visited. The steps leading down to the water were hard to navigate but I was determined to get right down to the bottom. Legend has it that if you throw a coin into the fountain, it secures you a return visit to Rome. Although I don’t really believe this and rarely ever visit the same place twice, I still wanted to take part in the tradition. After throwing in my coin, amongst many others doing the same, I could take a step back and look at the wonder of the fountain.

I have never seen anything like this before and I could have stood there looking for hours. The fountain was made in Roman tradition to build a fountain at the end of an aqueduct and in 19BC, it is said that with the help of a virgin, a source of pure water was found here. This tale is what makes up the scene told by the statues on the fountain. I really loved looking at the way in which the fountain was put together and which of the statues I recognised. With the water flowing freely, this is certainly a sight to remember.

If you have time, I would highly recommend that you visit this fountain in both the day and the night. While I thought it was beautiful in the day, it was even more spectacular at night. The whole fountain is lit up which makes the sight so much better. However, there seemed to be so many more people around at night time so if you want to throw a coin in, it is best to do this during the day.

Although this is a very beautiful place to visit, be warned that the area is filled with people trying to rip you off or trying to make you buy things. Rome has a lot of people walking around with roses and forcing them into your hands then making you pay for them. I have found that the easiest way to avoid this is just to not look at them and carry on walking. These kinds of sellers did ruin the experience a little bit for me but once you learn to ignore them, they’re not too bad. Close

From journal Rome pt. 1

For the after hours...

by Red Mezz

Inverness, Scotland, United Kingdom

January 7, 2012

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Best of IgoUgo So - on the big list for Rome, after Vatican City and the Colloseaum, what next? Well - for many the answer to that question is Trevi Fountain. The stunning 85 foot high fountain is one of the most famous in the world. Finished in 1762 - the ...Read more So - on the big list for Rome, after Vatican City and the Colloseaum, what next? Well - for many the answer to that question is Trevi Fountain. The stunning 85 foot high fountain is one of the most famous in the world. Finished in 1762 - the fountain really is a stunning example of the art in Rome, and something I could hardly suggest shouldn't be seen on a visit to the city, even if architecture is not your thing.

However - I do have to also mention that the Trevi Fountain marks one of the tourist attractions which is so profoundly overcrowded with tourists that it gives the city a reputation for being unpleasantly crowded and hard to visit. I have to say that I didn't find this to be the case at all - in October at least - thought Rome a city of breezy atmosphere and a rather relaxed size. In some ways it reminded me of Edinburgh - with the stately old grandeur, but a sense of style and relaxation not common in cities. However - this image was shattered in a few of the most popular tourist spots, and Trevi Fountain was one of the worst examples of this. It sits at a three way cross road and in recent times has become an absolute tourist trap. The glorious old fountain is surrounded by cheasy t-shirt and souvenir shops and you'll literally have to push your way in to find a spot to see up close, or toss a coin in.

However - it is worth it for a brief glance at something that is profoundly beautiful. However, do avoid it in the middle of the day if possible. Even in October the weather was sweltering in Rome at midday and the fountain was overfllowing with people around it. It was distinctly hard to move and we roasted once we finally got near it.

You should also be especially aware of picpockets here as it's one the places where they frequent the most. But - it's also worth mentioning in a city of pricy tourist sites, there's no cost at all to see this one.

On one of my last days in Rome I passed a post card stand which had an image of the Trevi Fountain at night - all lit up. I hardly recognized it at first with so few people near it, and though I didn't hope to find it as unpopulated as the photo, I was hoping for a bit more breathing room so that I could actually stand back and enjoy the view. Alas - I never had the time to get back and see it at night, and that has since become top of my list of things to do when I return to Rome.

I can't say I enjoyed my visit to Trevi Fountain more than other bits of Rome - I enjoyed the quiet streets and cafes and stunning building two streets over more simply for the peace they offered me to soak up the atmopshere of such a beautiful city. However - to see it at night, or if you can find a rare moment when it's not so crowded is a rare and precious experience indeed, and one worth striving for. Close

From journal The Golden, Eternal city...

One of the most beautiful fountains of Rome.

by Zhebiton

Moscow, Moskva, Russia

May 22, 2011

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A huge sculpture-aqueous composition, which is let small but square. One of the most beautiful fountains of Rome. Grants wishes. 100% guarantee.Fountains - one of the symbols of Rome, the Italian capital wherewith rich as any other city in the ...Read more

From journal Rome is the 3rd Most Visited City in the EU

Not necessary to see, but why wouldn't you?

by Grundsu

Boston, Massachusetts

February 18, 2011

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I wasn't all that interested in going to Trevi Fountain. I knew what it would be: masses of people crowded around a fountain, throwing coins over their shoulders and having their pictures taken with big grins on their faces. But I've seen "Three ...Read more

From journal Roma!

Trevi Fountain

by Jctravel1983

Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands

November 30, 2010

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Best of IgoUgo IntroductionI was recently in Rome for one week when it was about 40 degrees in the shade, but still I enjoyed it very much. In Rome, I discovered a lot of tourist attractions. One was the Trevi Fountain.AccessibilityThe Trevi Fountain is located in ...Read more

From journal Going to Rome

The most stunning and beautiful fountain in rome

by alanmack37

Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom

October 25, 2010

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Best of IgoUgo The Trevi Fountain is a breath-taking monument in the heart of Rome. It is definetely worth visiting. I went to visit the Trevi fountain in 2007. The area holds a lot of touristic sights and is in within walking distance of the Spanish steps. The ...Read more The Trevi Fountain is a breath-taking monument in the heart of Rome. It is definetely worth visiting. I went to visit the Trevi fountain in 2007. The area holds a lot of touristic sights and is in within walking distance of the Spanish steps. The area is well signposted, the good thing about Italy is that the major cities are very familiar to tourists and English is widely spoken. I remember walking the street towards the Trevi fountain and followed the signposts and eventually found myself in a more crowded area as i got closer. It was kind of like going to the Louvre and walking through and seeing the Mona Lisa picture. The fountain is situated in the Piazza Di Trevi and once you arrive you will find yourself pushing to get to the fountain.

Legend says that if a visitor throws a coin into the Trevi fountain, he/she will certainly return to Rome. No wonder then that I made more than one trip to the fountain, each time throwing in a coinonce over the left shoulder and once over the right, not being sure of the correct ritual! Even if you do not believe this, no trip to Rome is complete without a visit to the Trevi! No matter what the time, the place is crowded with people, both locals and tourists--and has an atmosphere of its own.

Trevi is decorated with statues and bas reliefs on big rocks from which water gushes out. Set against the background of a huge building, the central figure of the fountain is Neptune, standing on a shell drawn by sea horses. On either side are Tritons, one trying to control an unruly sea horse, the other with a gentler animal symbolizing the two moods of the sea. There are figures Abundance on the left and Health to the right. Trevi is the largest and most famous fountain in Rome, so make sure you have enough time to admire its unique architecture and soak in the atmosphere.

My personal impressions were that the fountain was majestic. There seems an era of excitement and mystery and is absolutely beautiful. I found myself staring at the fountain for several minutes. This is also a great sight for taking photographs so dont forget your camera. The colour of the deep pure blue water with the amazing baroque statues on the backdrop is amazing. I was stunned at how large the fountain was as i was only expecting a tiny area, but the area is a large circular area in the middle of a square which holds hundreds of people.

There is a great underground subway system in Rome, but i stayed in an area where the central station Termini is. There are lots of cheap hotels, pensions and hostels here and the good thing is that there is a nice walk that will take you through all these sights: the colleseum, spanish steps and trevi fountain. I wouldnt call Rome a pedestrian city but it is possible and people love to walk here.

On another note if you fancy trying one of the Italian gelatos or pizza avoid the shops in the tourist area around Trevi fountain as they cost a small fortune. Its much better to go off the beaten track and get something to eat in the Termini area.

However the fountain is beautiful and well recommended a visit.

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From journal la dolce vita in roma

Toss a coin at Trevi

by Meggysmum

Oxford, United Kingdom

September 16, 2010

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The Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi) is an enormous Baroque fountain in the centre of Rome that shouldn’t be missed.You come upon the fountain through narrow streets which suddenly open out into a small square that is completely dominated by this ...Read more

From journals Historical Italy, Italian Delights

This Baroque Confection Is Awe-Inspiring

by AnythngArt

Rockford, Illinois

March 2, 2010

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Best of IgoUgo Few fountains have inspired as much awe as Trevi Fountain in Rome. Not only has it played a central part in two movies, its legend has caused millions of visitors to throw coins over their shoulders in the hopes of returning to the Eternal City, ...Read more Few fountains have inspired as much awe as Trevi Fountain in Rome. Not only has it played a central part in two movies, its legend has caused millions of visitors to throw coins over their shoulders in the hopes of returning to the Eternal City, which is Rome. From its beginning, The Fontana di Trevi has been all about the drama. A delightful Baroque confection, the Trevi Fountain has been wowing travelers since 1732, and has no plans for stopping.

Its Legend
Although most people are aware of the Trevi legend: throw a coin over your shoulder into the fountain, and you will return one day to Rome, not everyone knows the proper ritual. To ensure your Roman holiday is not a one-time event, the proper way to ensure success is to take the coin in your right hand and toss the coin over your left shoulder, standing with your back to the fountain. Some advocate throwing two coins: one for a return to Rome and one for your wish. In any case, these coins go to a good cause; nearly 120,000 Euros are collected each year from the Trevi and donated to charity.

Inspiration for Movies
This coin-tossing legend has not only inspired travelers from hundreds of countries to participate, but it was also inspiration for the first color film in Cinemascope to be produced on location. In 1954, "Three Coins in a Fountain" starring Clifton Webb, Jean Peters, and Louis Jourdan, was made, enticing thousands to visit the city.
Others have been inspired by the romantic scene from "La Dolce Vita," in which Anita Ekberg and Marcello Mastrioanni splash merrily in the Trevi. Be aware that any movie buffs or lovebirds seeking to recreate the scene today will be met by Italian police who guard the Trevi Fountain 24/7 and can slap a 500 Euro fine on trespassers.

History of the Trevi
The Trevi Fountain is an acquatic marvel in a city full of outstanding structures. Even in a city of fountains, however, few match the majesty of the Trevi. Roman fountains dot the landscape and are a holdover from the age of ancient aqueducts. The Trevi itself marks the end point of the ancient Acqua Vergine, which was created in 18 BC by Agrippa.

In the case of the Trevi, its unique status is largely the result of its location at the confluence of three streets ("tre via" in Italian), which gives the fountain its name. In addition, this spectacular fountain emerges from an unlikely location...the back of a palace, the Palazzo Poli. This idea was first envisioned by the artists Gian Lorenzo Bernini & Pietro da Cortona for Pope Urban VIII who planned to rebuild the fountain. However, it was not until 3 popes later that Nicolo Salvi would finally begin the work, winning the design competition for Pope Clement XIII. Unfortunately, however, Salvi did not live to see his masterpiece reach completion. While working in the aqueducts, the architect caught cold and died.

Yet, the Trevi Fountain remains today as it was in 1762 at its completion: a massive cascade of water, dominated by Neptune, standing on a chariot led by winged horses. The Baroque whimsy does not stop there, with gushing water showcasing a range of sea shells, writhing sea beasts, and enchanting mermaids. With a huge basin set amidst a busy intersection of three roads, which converge at its piazza, the Trevi Fountain is a showstopper for tourists and Italians alike. Few who see Trevi Fountain will ever forget its wonderful display, and more than a few are hoping that the coin trick works, and they can return one day to the beautiful city of Rome. Close

A Beautiful Fountain in Trevi Square

by Praskipark

Warsaw, Poland

January 19, 2009

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La Fontana di Trevi-------------------------This is one attraction that I couldn't leave out of the review because it must be the most beautiful fountain in the whole of Rome. It is impressive and totally dominates the Trevi square. The central ...Read more

From journal Six Days in Eternity

Trevi Fountain at Night

by Sask99

Melville, Saskatchewan

July 27, 2008

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Trevi Fountain is a fountain, don't expect to see more than that. It is a popular tourist place, which means it will be crowded (watch out for pickpockets). The saying is you are to throw a coin over your shoulder into the fountain so that you ...Read more

From journal An Awesome Week in Rome

IgoUgo

Trevi Fountain

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User Reviews

A stunning fountain!

For the after hours...

One of the most beautiful fountains of Rome.

Not necessary to see, but why wouldn't you?

Trevi Fountain

The most stunning and beautiful fountain in rome

Toss a coin at Trevi

This Baroque Confection Is Awe-Inspiring

A Beautiful Fountain in Trevi Square

Trevi Fountain at Night

Trevi Fountain

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Avg. User Rating:

User Reviews

A stunning fountain!

For the after hours...

One of the most beautiful fountains of Rome.

Not necessary to see, but why wouldn't you?

Trevi Fountain

The most stunning and beautiful fountain in rome

Toss a coin at Trevi

This Baroque Confection Is Awe-Inspiring

A Beautiful Fountain in Trevi Square

Trevi Fountain at Night