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Informative as usual, Ms. RomeWise. I had the experience of walking up close to the sculptures the last time the fountain was undergoing restoration; it really is an interesting experience, especially if you've seen the fountain before. My favorite vantage point is on Via della Stamperia (off to the far right side) where the urn seems to grow right out of a sculpted rock.
Thank you! Yes, I do think this current opportunity to see the sculptures up close is interesting and something of a consolation to those visiting who won't get to see the fountain with the water. And yes, I love that view also.
Hi Elyssa. I went on a pilgrimage last month and got to see the famous fountain in all its glory. Coming back from our trip a week later, I found out they've barricaded Trevi Fountain. So grateful to see and really do appreciate its beauty before all these changes took place. Ciao! Grazie mille.
Thanks so much! I was so sad to see it was closed! We were there in September and it was beautiful! It’s understandable though that these monuments need occasional renovations! Love all your videos!
I was in Rome in 2014 where Trevi Fountain was closed for renovation. I am coming to Rome next week after 10 years and again it is closed for renovations. Seems like I have no luck with the fountain 😂😂😂
Nooooooo! Wow what a coincidence! Sorry you won't get to see the fountain yet again, but I hope you'll still enjoy all the amazing things there are to see and do in Rome!
i need your help! what’s the name of the hotel with the rooftop bar in front of the Trevi fountain and where is the entrance located? apparently there’s another hotel on a side street but with a blocked view of the fountain misadvertising as being in front of it
I really enjoy your videos and emails! So informative! I think a small fee is a great idea for the opportunity to see the monument with a bit less crowd.
I think it’s a great idea! Especially for the locals to get some breathing room. We were there in September of 2023 and it was so packed we viewed it from the back of the small square just for about 5 min, then moved on to the Pantheon which we got to go inside and was absolutely amazing. ❤ Thank you always for the up-to-date info you provide on your channel. I will be back in Rome in 2025.🎉
We just got back from our trip to Rome and I really appreciated all your advice!! Your videos were so helpful and I'm going to keep watching for the sake of my future trips now too haha
Hi Elyssa this might deter a few from visiting, we will have a better idea when we are there in a weeks time but any way to see such a beautiful monument is worth it. Thanks as always for the update.
A lot of people said they would not go back to the Pantheon now that there is an entry fee, but I always see people there so I think once it's in place and people get used to it, it just becomes normal. And with this situation, whatever plan they come up with will also one day become "normal." I hope you have a wonderful visit as always!
Thank you for the video! I think it's a great initiative by the city to implement an entry fee and limit visits to 30 minutes. With the overwhelming number of visitors each day, it's become nearly impossible to fully appreciate the beauty of the Trevi Fountain. A time limit will help manage the crowds and ensure a more enjoyable experience for everyone. Hopefully, this solution proves effective in preserving the site's charm.
Thank you. Rome is my favorite city in the world. I will hopefully return to it and I will search out the new more, controlled experience. I'm so glad that Rome is taking action to protect the fountain and to improve the visitor experience. When I saw it for the first time there weren't a lot of people there and the air spray of the fountain water cooled off the air and even smelled good. I could see the sides of the fountain up close and I saw such beautifully carved intricacies. I've also walked by it when it was too crowded for me to enjoy and so I skipped it. To me the Trevi Fountain is as important and beautiful as the Ara Pacis and Rome built a museum for itI Voglio bene a Roma!
Thank you for your comments. I agree, they have to do the maintenance to this and to so many monuments around Rome. The city is full of sites that are hundreds if not thousands of years old, and they need maintenance from time to time.
Thanks, Elyssa, for another great video. I understand the concerns with the Trevi fountain, but I don't know how to fix it. How do we fix the fact that many thousands believe themselves to be digital stars and models clogging the fountain's edge day and night with their narcissistic photo/video shoots? If I clamor for days when people turn up at Trevi to marvel at the beauty for a sensible and respectable time, then move on to give space to their fellow man, I’ll be called an old man hollowing at the moon! I’m comforted only by the fact that Rome is an ancient city that will endure this period of self-absorbed cultural rot. However, the city may want to rethink fixing one misconduct with an institutional transgression.
Yes, you've hit on the bigger issue of course - how to manage an explosion in tourism which has led to unsustainable crowds in some of the most popular destinations. I can see that many cities in Italy are working to manage the situation but it will all take time, funding, and patience.
I was also in Rome recently…the barrier was up but no walkway and the crowds were thick! Very underwhelming. Rome has so many beautiful monuments; not sure why this one draws such huge crowds!
Yes, I agree with you. I do love the Trevi Fountain but it's not my favorite thing to see in Rome. I think it's iconic because it's unique and because it's been made famous in movies. But yes there is so much else to see in Rome!
Too bad I missed the chance to get up close to the fountain. Curious to see how the crowd would spread out on the already very crowded and busy piazza - now that the lower level is restricted? it could cause even bigger bottle neck than current one...
Well so far the lower level has not yet been restricted. This next phase of trials will happen sometime in early 2025, after the renovations are complete. That's why they want to test it out, to see how viable it is.
Thanks for this information. I'll be back in Rome in the spring. The first time*, last fall, I happened on the fountain by accident, as I wandered. The crowds that engulfed me caused me to flee shuddering, without looking at the fountain. I have no desire to join any crowds for any monument. So while I urge others to follow the crowds, I will find even the most humble Roman street to wander down virtually alone. *First time as an adult. I am seventy-six; I was in Rome with my parents as a child. Rome is worth returning to...
I agree with you - I don't love crowds either. I understand why it's crowded - the square is very small so it "fills up" quickly. But you are right, there is so much else to see in Rome! And yes, agree, Rome is always worth returning to! I hope you'll have a wonderful visit next spring.
I have been watching all your videos lately , I’m soon to travel to Rome for the first time , but I haven’t seen a video from you recommending any hotels , is there a specific hotel you can recommend
Thanks for following me. I don't recommend specific hotels in any videos at the moment, but I have a lot of recommendations on my website. I have them mostly by neighborhood but also by type. You can start here: www.romewise.com/where-to-stay-in-rome.html
I will be bypassing the monetized Trevi Foundation. I am sure there are other fountains or monuments around Rome to view and enjoy for free. Thanks for the update.👍🌻🙏
Well as I mentioned in the video, first of all it's not confirmed. Second of all, it will remain free for everyone. And if they do add a fee, it will only be for getting up close to the basin below. But you are right, Rome is full of wonderful things to see and do besides the Trevi Fountain.
Thank you so much for your kind words. The fountain should be finished by then, but it's not guaranteed. They said "2 months" from the end of October, so let's hope it's ready by the time you come! But the renovations of many other fountains will have been completed by then so you will have plenty to see either way.
Hi Elyssa! Great video. Thank you One question, December 8 is national holiday in Italy 😱 and it will be my first day visiting it. Do you think I can schedule my day just as a normal Sunday? 😊 or this holiday modifies the city?
Thank you! Yes, it is a BIG holiday in Italy. Nothing is closed (except the Vatican Museums which are closed Sundays anyway), so you can schedule this day as you would normally, but you may wish to avoid the Spanish Steps as the pope will be there in the afternoon to change the wreath on the statue of Mary in nearby Piazza Mignanelli. Otherwise, just enjoy your trip!
We were there in last week of September and visited early am and late at night. it was beautiful. I think issue is too many people visiting to see the fountains. Regardless, visitors will creat traffic staying in line to enter for or just standing on walkway to take pics. The way it is now at list we have an open view.
I think you're right, which is why I think they want to see if this is even viable before they implement anything. We'll have to wait and see what happens!
Yep I was there just over a week ago. Two weeks ago, it was drained with a tarp covering the area and people kept throwing coins onto the tarp. Then a few days later, they removed the tarp and put a pool of water so people could throw coins into the pool (I was one of those). I was in Rome for a week... and only just returned to Sydney. I also visited a few churches and there are renovations all over the place.... probably related to the Jubilee 2025. Eg San Luigi dei Francesi took down the Caravaggios and you can only see "Pictures" of the paintings. I imagine there will be a ramping up of visitors next year as they draw closer to Christmas 2025. BTW I booked my own Colosseum tickets per one of your other videos and spent 2 1/2 days there... one visiting the Colosseum and the other in the Roman Forum & Palpatine parts. I was there on the one day there were bus & metro strikes so fortunately I could walk from my apartment to the Colosseum (but I can't imagine people who'd booked Vatican or other tickets and suddently found the metro not quite running).
OUTRAGEOUS!, Elyssa. This sounds like a bad idea to me. So, now they are going to pay people to stand and monitor and still only charge a couple of Euros? It doesn't add up, to me. I think this will cause congestion and lines in a small piazza with shops and residences. I'm not seeing this.
Yes there are a lot of people who agree with you. Nothing is set in stone so we'll have to wait until 2025 to see what develops. One thing is for sure, I will be updating everyone here when we have any news!
We were there in October and the day after we got there, the barriers went up! I get it, it’s so crowded, so it would be nice to have less people, have 30 min to take it all in and get photos and then move on. The good part about that is you have more time to go see other things!
Great idea, should be done everywhere at sightseeing places in Rome and other cities in Europe. So maybe it will do something against over tourism like in Rom. ❤
Hi, I was thinking of going to Rome for 3 days to celebrate my birthday near the end of Jan, but now am not sure if there are a load of renovation works across the city for the Jubilee. I know building works tend to run over, do you know if they are expected to be finished by Jan? Thanks :)
Most of the Jubilee-related renovations are supposed to be finished by the end of the year, in time for the start of the Jubilee. There are a few that are already slated to finish in early 2025 (like the Angel Bridge leading to Castel San'tAngelo.) You can use this site to see what's going on and when a given site is due to be completed: www.romasitrasforma.it/en Nobody can foresee delays, but I think you will find if you come in late January, a lot of the renovations will be complete, just not all of them.
Thank you for this video! My family and I are going to Rome for the first time and our first day will be all about Vatican City on December 24th, Xmas Eve. I was wondering if the restaurants will be closed on Dec 24th around 3pm? What time do restaurants normally close on Xmas eve? (The area we will be eating is Centro Storico region, near Piazza Navona.) As for Trevi fountain, I'm still confused if we can pay 1-2 euro to get on the walkway behind you in the video on Christmas? Thank you in advance for any insight. And also thank you for making all these videos about Rome!
Thank you. Regarding Christmas, many restaurants are open and you'll need to book in advance. www.romewise.com/where-to-eat-in-rome-at-christmas.html I have a lot of Christmas related content on my website, but you can start with that page. In this video I explain exactly about the fee and the walkway.
No doubt this situation is disappointing for the tourists and the visitors that arrive in Rome from all over the world, but just try to imagine what does it mean for the romans to live in a entirely scaffolded city for more than a year! 😝
Well it's been challenging for us, but not the scaffolding (because we know it will come down eventually) but moreso the re-doing of the area around the Vatican to create a pedestrian space. It will be terrific once it's finished but it has cause massive traffic headaches in the meantime! Sam with Piazza Venezia - but it's all part of life in Rome....what are you gonna do? 😂
Many of the renovations are coming to a close, and in any case, there is so much to see that was not being renovated anyway, so I am sure you will see a lot! Have a great trip!
@ thank you! We are very much looking forward to it and our trip will be better than it would have been because your videos are so helpful and informative, so thanks again.
They said "two months" from around the beginning of November. With renovations like these, there is always an estimated end date but often that date can change as they get closer to it. I hope for your sake it will be finished by then but nothing is certain right now.
Oh so sorry! But do take the opportunity to go along the walkways to see the sculptures up close, because that is a rare opportunity not likely to happen again for at least another 10 years if not longer.
i was there in 21 october there was no water and it was so crowded. i am sad i didnt see the beauty with the water but its ok. my plan was for that day be there. hope we will see the better version later. thanks .
Great Video update. I think this is a terrible idea. We were there in September took a few pictures and frankly we did not see what the hype was. Don't get me wrong, it's a great monument as are many other monuments around Rome. If we do return to Rome again to Rome (and that's an IF because there are so many other places we want to visit) , I am not sure we would visit Trevi fountain, especially if it is a pay site. Does this set a precedent? If they will charge to visit the Trevi Fountain, then why not the Spanish steps, or Piazza Navona or any other piazza?
Thanks for watching! Yes, I agree, there is so much else to see in Rome, and if you've seen this fountain, you may not need to see it again, especially since it's become so crowded lately. I truly cannot imagine a way they could charge to see the Spanish Steps or Piazza Navona. And we still don't know what this proposed fee for the Trevi Fountain will look like in the end. But, as you said, there is a lot more to see! Glad you had a great visit this past September.
I'm going to Rome first week of December, So I will definitely not seeing the beautiful Trevi Fountain, in my opinion I prefer the original style of TF because that is how the ancient Romans built for everyone. Thanks Elyssa for the video! (Excuse my bad english, not my first language)
I heard that they'll install glass passarella platform to get closer and feel the miraculous experience to walk on the water. Rome will remain the eternal and the mother of all cities of the world. I'll return to Roma and want to experience it too. 😊
Yes much of this is to do with the upcoming 2025 Jubilee. They are already starting to unveil many works as we approach the upcoming Jubilee that starts on December 24, 2024. I hope you still enjoyed your visit!
One or two Euros isn't that bad, it might discourage some from going and might help have better views. We'll see when we visit next summer. We'll be in Rome for 4 full days in early July, then moving on to the Naples Metropolitan area for another 5 night, then in the Molise region to visit Larino, in the province of Campobasso, where my paternal grandfather was born before coming over here to Canada when he was four.
@@Romewise thanks! This is our first trip to Italy, it'll be the trip of a lifetime, and our last family trip, youngest will be 17 and oldest, who is 22, will not be able to be on vacation at the same time as us, but she wants to do an Italy trip with me in the future.
I’m ok with it. It may make people a little more careful and respectful. We didn’t get to see in in 2017 because of the crowds in April. Will be visiting again in February 2025 and hopefully get to see it. I don’t mind paying if it is up and running by then.😊
Thanks for your comments! By the time you visit this February, the renovations will be complete. As for the proposed fee, nothing is confirmed so it's possible you won't have to contend with that either. But we'll have to wait and see!
First of all, the Trevi Fountain maintenance is coming to a close. They are taking down the walkway now: www.skylinewebcams.com/en/webcam/italia/lazio/roma/fontana-di-trevi.html Second of all, in preparation for the Jubilee, many of the sites that were being restored have had their scaffolding removed. By the time you get here, the city will be nearly done with many (but not all) of the restorations. Stay tuned for an upcoming video as I share the progress and what to expect in Rome this holiday season!
In this video, I filmed it before they allowed people to walk across the bridge. But it doesn't matter, because the bridge is long gone. Please see my updated video, linked in the description, for the latest news.
I was just there a couple of weeks ago, and no coin pool. But you bet I tossed a coin over the barricade into the empty basin just like everyone else. Because tourist gotta tourist. 😂
Glad that we were there twobdays before renovation, Just wondering, It's not enough all the millions in coins that they pickup from inside the fountain? They should use that money to help for sure all the homeless around Rome
2019 my wife was told not to lean against the fountain for a photo. Last time in Rome, 2024, we visited it again (without leaning against it). Both times we gladly, and hopefully, tossed coins over our shoulders into it. This time, my wife's coin only just reached the pool - it skipped off the wall and into the water. I'm blaming her! :D We're already booked to be in Rome for 2025!
Glad to hear your coin tosses worked and now you are coming back to Rome. I think you will find it exceptionally beautiful in 2025, considering how many sites will have been renovated!
Terrible idea..and I blame people that ruined for others that now has caused this to now be charged. I’m just glad I got to go back in 2022 and was able to experience it in its splendor. I’ll go back to Rome 10 times over but I can easily skip this.
i understand the logic of making people pay, but if they do only allow online ticket purchases, i will be very disappointed. not being able to purchase tickets (or even just drop a coin into a turnstile) would prevent a lot of spontaneity of exploring the city!
Well it's all still to be confirmed. If they do implement a fee, it will likely be something you can purchase on at the last minute, but just not with a physical turnstile or ticket booth. And either way, they said they plan to keep the square open and free for everyone. For now, the idea is to charge a fee to get close to the basin below.
@ makes sense! while i personally don’t like it, i am an archaeologist and understand that we need to mitigate the damage to monuments as best we can! 😊
If I toss three coins into the fountain or basin, and then a fourth coin, I’m hoping to win the lottery or have a single Roman woman flirt with me. :-). Thx again for another super helpful video.
A friend of mine met her now husband at the Trevi Fountain. He was standing next to her when she visited for the first time, and threw her coin in and they got to talking...and they've been married over 20 years now!
Wow! What a great story! I might have to bring a whole bag of coins after reading your comment! If that happens to me, I’ll make sure to invite you and your husband to the festivities. :-). Thx again!
Especially in the Eternal City, and while jam packed with your info as well as other material. Long have I wanted to visit the Tomb of the Scipio Family and the Church of Domine Quo Vadis. Now, thanks to you, it will be so much easier to have an efficient and fabulous trip.
@@RomewiseJust look at Venice, see what is happening there. Started off at €5 on 29 days of the year. Next year its €10 on 54 days of the year. Trevi starts at €1, or €2, will very soon creep upwards. Nickel and dimeing the golden goose that feeds the natives, within an inch of its life….
Poorer tourists are being priced out of everything, everywhere… When tourists stop coming….. EES and ETIAS will slash British tourist visits by a third next year.
Well at least the entry fee will be very small and in fact, not even necessary, only if you want to get close to the basin. It will still be open and free for everyone from above.
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Thank you so much for your great videos! I studied many of them to get prepared for my first visit to Rome and it was awesome! Thanks again!!!🙏🙏🙏
Glad you like them! Thanks for your kind comments!
Informative as usual, Ms. RomeWise. I had the experience of walking up close to the sculptures the last time the fountain was undergoing restoration; it really is an interesting experience, especially if you've seen the fountain before. My favorite vantage point is on Via della Stamperia (off to the far right side) where the urn seems to grow right out of a sculpted rock.
Thank you! Yes, I do think this current opportunity to see the sculptures up close is interesting and something of a consolation to those visiting who won't get to see the fountain with the water. And yes, I love that view also.
So informative, City of Rome should be paying you!
Awww thank you!
Love this idea. As always, you explained it perfectly.
Thanks so much!
Hi Elyssa. I went on a pilgrimage last month and got to see the famous fountain in all its glory. Coming back from our trip a week later, I found out they've barricaded Trevi Fountain. So grateful to see and really do appreciate its beauty before all these changes took place. Ciao! Grazie mille.
Lucky you that you got to see it!
Thanks so much! I was so sad to see it was closed! We were there in September and it was beautiful! It’s understandable though that these monuments need occasional renovations! Love all your videos!
Thank you for your kind comments! Glad you enjoyed your visit this past September.
I was in Rome in 2014 where Trevi Fountain was closed for renovation. I am coming to Rome next week after 10 years and again it is closed for renovations. Seems like I have no luck with the fountain 😂😂😂
Nooooooo! Wow what a coincidence! Sorry you won't get to see the fountain yet again, but I hope you'll still enjoy all the amazing things there are to see and do in Rome!
EXACTLY the same for us 😂
@@ckash611 oh dear!!!
I’m going next week too and I hope it isn’t closed.
@@michaelblackson2006 If you come next week, you'll see it as it is in this video. The renovations are due to be finished in about 2 months.
i need your help! what’s the name of the hotel with the rooftop bar in front of the Trevi fountain and where is the entrance located? apparently there’s another hotel on a side street but with a blocked view of the fountain misadvertising as being in front of it
The only hotel that is ONE the piazza and directly in front of the Trevi Fountain is the Hotel Fontana.
I will be there in two weeks, thanks for the update!
Have a great visit!
I really enjoy your videos and emails! So informative! I think a small fee is a great idea for the opportunity to see the monument with a bit less crowd.
Thank you!
감사합니다❤
I was there last Nov. and didn't think it would be that beautiful. Boy was i wrong! The visit was well worth the time. So absolutely beautiful!
So glad you enjoyed it!
I think it’s a great idea! Especially for the locals to get some breathing room. We were there in September of 2023 and it was so packed we viewed it from the back of the small square just for about 5 min, then moved on to the Pantheon which we got to go inside and was absolutely amazing. ❤ Thank you always for the up-to-date info you provide on your channel. I will be back in Rome in 2025.🎉
Thanks for watching and for your comments. We will have to see how this all develops. Stay tuned as I will update everyone here when there is news.
We just got back from our trip to Rome and I really appreciated all your advice!! Your videos were so helpful and I'm going to keep watching for the sake of my future trips now too haha
Aw thanks! So glad to hear it!
Hi Elyssa this might deter a few from visiting, we will have a better idea when we are there in a weeks time but any way to see such a beautiful monument is worth it. Thanks as always for the update.
A lot of people said they would not go back to the Pantheon now that there is an entry fee, but I always see people there so I think once it's in place and people get used to it, it just becomes normal. And with this situation, whatever plan they come up with will also one day become "normal." I hope you have a wonderful visit as always!
I visited Rome in February many years ago. Great time to go. Also a super good time to see Pompeii
You are right, February is a great time to visit Italy - it's not that cold and peak season hasn't kicked in yet.
Thank you for the video! I think it's a great initiative by the city to implement an entry fee and limit visits to 30 minutes. With the overwhelming number of visitors each day, it's become nearly impossible to fully appreciate the beauty of the Trevi Fountain. A time limit will help manage the crowds and ensure a more enjoyable experience for everyone. Hopefully, this solution proves effective in preserving the site's charm.
Thanks for watching and for sharing your thoughts! I hope whatever they do will alleviate some of the crowd pressure....fingers crossed!
Thank you, always interesting. ❤
Glad you enjoyed it
Thanks for the update Elyssa 👍🏼
Thanks for watching!
Thank you. Rome is my favorite city in the world. I will hopefully return to it and I will search out the new more, controlled experience. I'm so glad that Rome is taking action to protect the fountain and to improve the visitor experience. When I saw it for the first time there weren't a lot of people there and the air spray of the fountain water cooled off the air and even smelled good. I could see the sides of the fountain up close and I saw such beautifully carved intricacies. I've also walked by it when it was too crowded for me to enjoy and so I skipped it. To me the Trevi Fountain is as important and beautiful as the Ara Pacis and Rome built a museum for itI Voglio bene a Roma!
Thank you for your comments. I agree, they have to do the maintenance to this and to so many monuments around Rome. The city is full of sites that are hundreds if not thousands of years old, and they need maintenance from time to time.
It’s still beautiful! Embrace it. I was there in June .
I would love to see some videos on Rome during christmas, weather, things to do etc...
I have a whole playlist with Christmas and Holiday content:
ua-cam.com/play/PLEAd_Z-Tx6V2k0eykkhfuj60cCd0N4COn.html
I love winter in Rome! Then go to Venice Carnivale in Feb.
Definitely!
I'll be there next March!
Most renovations will be done by then!
Thanks, Elyssa, for another great video. I understand the concerns with the Trevi fountain, but I don't know how to fix it. How do we fix the fact that many thousands believe themselves to be digital stars and models clogging the fountain's edge day and night with their narcissistic photo/video shoots? If I clamor for days when people turn up at Trevi to marvel at the beauty for a sensible and respectable time, then move on to give space to their fellow man, I’ll be called an old man hollowing at the moon! I’m comforted only by the fact that Rome is an ancient city that will endure this period of self-absorbed cultural rot. However, the city may want to rethink fixing one misconduct with an institutional transgression.
Yes, you've hit on the bigger issue of course - how to manage an explosion in tourism which has led to unsustainable crowds in some of the most popular destinations. I can see that many cities in Italy are working to manage the situation but it will all take time, funding, and patience.
I was also in Rome recently…the barrier was up but no walkway and the crowds were thick! Very underwhelming. Rome has so many beautiful monuments; not sure why this one draws such huge crowds!
Yes, I agree with you. I do love the Trevi Fountain but it's not my favorite thing to see in Rome. I think it's iconic because it's unique and because it's been made famous in movies. But yes there is so much else to see in Rome!
Too bad I missed the chance to get up close to the fountain. Curious to see how the crowd would spread out on the already very crowded and busy piazza - now that the lower level is restricted? it could cause even bigger bottle neck than current one...
Well so far the lower level has not yet been restricted. This next phase of trials will happen sometime in early 2025, after the renovations are complete. That's why they want to test it out, to see how viable it is.
Thanks for this information. I'll be back in Rome in the spring. The first time*, last fall, I happened on the fountain by accident, as I wandered. The crowds that engulfed me caused me to flee shuddering, without looking at the fountain. I have no desire to join any crowds for any monument. So while I urge others to follow the crowds, I will find even the most humble Roman street to wander down virtually alone.
*First time as an adult. I am seventy-six; I was in Rome with my parents as a child. Rome is worth returning to...
I agree with you - I don't love crowds either. I understand why it's crowded - the square is very small so it "fills up" quickly. But you are right, there is so much else to see in Rome! And yes, agree, Rome is always worth returning to! I hope you'll have a wonderful visit next spring.
Thank you!
You're welcome!
Hi!! Can you do a video of Monte Testaccio?!
Do you mean the neighborhood of Testaccio or specifically Monte Testaccio?
I have been watching all your videos lately , I’m soon to travel to Rome for the first time , but I haven’t seen a video from you recommending any hotels , is there a specific hotel you can recommend
Thanks for following me. I don't recommend specific hotels in any videos at the moment, but I have a lot of recommendations on my website. I have them mostly by neighborhood but also by type.
You can start here:
www.romewise.com/where-to-stay-in-rome.html
I will be bypassing the monetized Trevi Foundation. I am sure there are other fountains or monuments around Rome to view and enjoy for free. Thanks for the update.👍🌻🙏
Well as I mentioned in the video, first of all it's not confirmed. Second of all, it will remain free for everyone. And if they do add a fee, it will only be for getting up close to the basin below. But you are right, Rome is full of wonderful things to see and do besides the Trevi Fountain.
Looks like you got up early to get your footage. Good morning 🌞
Yes, I did, I even talk about it in the video :D
Thank you
You're welcome
Thank you so much. Your videos are the best. I will be in Rome on December 25th. Will it be closed by this time?
Thank you so much for your kind words. The fountain should be finished by then, but it's not guaranteed. They said "2 months" from the end of October, so let's hope it's ready by the time you come! But the renovations of many other fountains will have been completed by then so you will have plenty to see either way.
Hi Elyssa! Great video. Thank you
One question, December 8 is national holiday in Italy 😱 and it will be my first day visiting it. Do you think I can schedule my day just as a normal Sunday? 😊 or this holiday modifies the city?
Thank you!
Yes, it is a BIG holiday in Italy. Nothing is closed (except the Vatican Museums which are closed Sundays anyway), so you can schedule this day as you would normally, but you may wish to avoid the Spanish Steps as the pope will be there in the afternoon to change the wreath on the statue of Mary in nearby Piazza Mignanelli. Otherwise, just enjoy your trip!
We were there in last week of September and visited early am and late at night. it was beautiful.
I think issue is too many people visiting to see the fountains. Regardless, visitors will creat traffic staying in line to enter for or just standing on walkway to take pics.
The way it is now at list we have an open view.
I think you're right, which is why I think they want to see if this is even viable before they implement anything. We'll have to wait and see what happens!
Yep I was there just over a week ago. Two weeks ago, it was drained with a tarp covering the area and people kept throwing coins onto the tarp. Then a few days later, they removed the tarp and put a pool of water so people could throw coins into the pool (I was one of those). I was in Rome for a week... and only just returned to Sydney. I also visited a few churches and there are renovations all over the place.... probably related to the Jubilee 2025. Eg San Luigi dei Francesi took down the Caravaggios and you can only see "Pictures" of the paintings. I imagine there will be a ramping up of visitors next year as they draw closer to Christmas 2025.
BTW I booked my own Colosseum tickets per one of your other videos and spent 2 1/2 days there... one visiting the Colosseum and the other in the Roman Forum & Palpatine parts. I was there on the one day there were bus & metro strikes so fortunately I could walk from my apartment to the Colosseum (but I can't imagine people who'd booked Vatican or other tickets and suddently found the metro not quite running).
I'm glad you still had a great visit to Rome. Thanks for letting me know you found my videos helpful with your Ancient Rome visit!
OUTRAGEOUS!, Elyssa. This sounds like a bad idea to me. So, now they are going to pay people to stand and monitor and still only charge a couple of Euros? It doesn't add up, to me. I think this will cause congestion and lines in a small piazza with shops and residences. I'm not seeing this.
Yes there are a lot of people who agree with you. Nothing is set in stone so we'll have to wait until 2025 to see what develops. One thing is for sure, I will be updating everyone here when we have any news!
A fee is a horrible idea. Caritas will have a major reduction in funds, snd the crowds at the top will still be bad.
We'll see how it plays out!
We were there in October and the day after we got there, the barriers went up! I get it, it’s so crowded, so it would be nice to have less people, have 30 min to take it all in and get photos and then move on. The good part about that is you have more time to go see other things!
Glad you got to see it! And yes, there is so much else to see in Rome!
Lots to see w/o Trevi, Roman Forum, Pantheon and Elyssa tips my faves.
What is Elyssa?
Thank you as always! 🙏☺
I think that comments is referring to me :D
Yep. I just came back and they hadn't installed the walkway just the barrier. Disappointing but hey what you going to do
Yeah but at least the current situation is temporary...
Great idea, should be done everywhere at sightseeing places in Rome and other cities in Europe. So maybe it will do something against over tourism like in Rom. ❤
Hi, I was thinking of going to Rome for 3 days to celebrate my birthday near the end of Jan, but now am not sure if there are a load of renovation works across the city for the Jubilee. I know building works tend to run over, do you know if they are expected to be finished by Jan? Thanks :)
Most of the Jubilee-related renovations are supposed to be finished by the end of the year, in time for the start of the Jubilee. There are a few that are already slated to finish in early 2025 (like the Angel Bridge leading to Castel San'tAngelo.)
You can use this site to see what's going on and when a given site is due to be completed:
www.romasitrasforma.it/en
Nobody can foresee delays, but I think you will find if you come in late January, a lot of the renovations will be complete, just not all of them.
Thank you for this video!
My family and I are going to Rome for the first time and our first day will be all about Vatican City on December 24th, Xmas Eve.
I was wondering if the restaurants will be closed on Dec 24th around 3pm? What time do restaurants normally close on Xmas eve?
(The area we will be eating is Centro Storico region, near Piazza Navona.)
As for Trevi fountain, I'm still confused if we can pay 1-2 euro to get on the walkway behind you in the video on Christmas?
Thank you in advance for any insight. And also thank you for making all these videos about Rome!
Thank you.
Regarding Christmas, many restaurants are open and you'll need to book in advance.
www.romewise.com/where-to-eat-in-rome-at-christmas.html
I have a lot of Christmas related content on my website, but you can start with that page.
In this video I explain exactly about the fee and the walkway.
I'll be there next April 😉
Have a great visit!
We are planning to go on March next year. Will that be done right?
They've said the renovations of the fountain should take two months, so I am sure it will be long done by next March.
I’m flying toro e Wednesday morning. Sad to know this. But I know it needs maintenance 😢
But you will get to see the sculptures on the temporary walkway, which is a unique opportunity. I know it's not quite the same but...
No doubt this situation is disappointing for the tourists and the visitors that arrive in Rome from all over the world, but just try to imagine what does it mean for the romans to live in a entirely scaffolded city for more than a year! 😝
Well it's been challenging for us, but not the scaffolding (because we know it will come down eventually) but moreso the re-doing of the area around the Vatican to create a pedestrian space. It will be terrific once it's finished but it has cause massive traffic headaches in the meantime! Sam with Piazza Venezia - but it's all part of life in Rome....what are you gonna do? 😂
Hi dear, is the Trevi Fountain still closed? I am going to Rome on Dec 25th I would love to see it without these frames.
I talk about this in my video coming out tomorrow. Please stay tuned as I have news I share there!
@@Romewise Thank you! I am looking forward to seeing it!
The video is up and I shared the news there, along with a live-cam. Hope that helps!
I watched it! I am so glad to hear all these good news! Thank you so much❤
I want to come to Rome Italy next month in December. suggest me
Here is my video about Rome in December:
ua-cam.com/video/HBODbz1M90g/v-deo.html
We’ll be there in a month. Hopefully not too many sights are being renovated!😂
Many of the renovations are coming to a close, and in any case, there is so much to see that was not being renovated anyway, so I am sure you will see a lot! Have a great trip!
@ thank you! We are very much looking forward to it and our trip will be better than it would have been because your videos are so helpful and informative, so thanks again.
Visiting in late December 2024, would it be open by 20th ?
They said "two months" from around the beginning of November. With renovations like these, there is always an estimated end date but often that date can change as they get closer to it. I hope for your sake it will be finished by then but nothing is certain right now.
I'm travelling tomorrow from Scotland to see this 😢 I'm so disappointed not seeing it in its splendour. 😢
Oh so sorry! But do take the opportunity to go along the walkways to see the sculptures up close, because that is a rare opportunity not likely to happen again for at least another 10 years if not longer.
@Romewise I did, and it was magnificent ♥️
i was there in 21 october there was no water and it was so crowded. i am sad i didnt see the beauty with the water but its ok. my plan was for that day be there. hope we will see the better version later. thanks .
I hope you'll be able to come back and see the fountain after it's finished being renovated!
@ I will inşallah. And hope I can’ see you also ma’am 🙃 thanks for being helpful
Great Video update. I think this is a terrible idea. We were there in September took a few pictures and frankly we did not see what the hype was. Don't get me wrong, it's a great monument as are many other monuments around Rome. If we do return to Rome again to Rome (and that's an IF because there are so many other places we want to visit) , I am not sure we would visit Trevi fountain, especially if it is a pay site. Does this set a precedent? If they will charge to visit the Trevi Fountain, then why not the Spanish steps, or Piazza Navona or any other piazza?
Thanks for watching! Yes, I agree, there is so much else to see in Rome, and if you've seen this fountain, you may not need to see it again, especially since it's become so crowded lately. I truly cannot imagine a way they could charge to see the Spanish Steps or Piazza Navona. And we still don't know what this proposed fee for the Trevi Fountain will look like in the end. But, as you said, there is a lot more to see! Glad you had a great visit this past September.
😂😂😂😂😂
I'm going to Rome first week of December, So I will definitely not seeing the beautiful Trevi Fountain, in my opinion I prefer the original style of TF because that is how the ancient Romans built for everyone. Thanks Elyssa for the video! (Excuse my bad english, not my first language)
Thanks for watching and commenting - and your English is just fine!
I heard that they'll install glass passarella platform to get closer and feel the miraculous experience to walk on the water. Rome will remain the eternal and the mother of all cities of the world. I'll return to Roma and want to experience it too. 😊
Nothing is confirmed. People may be talking about the glass passarella because it's what Fendi did, but we still don't know yet...
I just got back and most of the fountains were closed off and covered.
Yes much of this is to do with the upcoming 2025 Jubilee. They are already starting to unveil many works as we approach the upcoming Jubilee that starts on December 24, 2024. I hope you still enjoyed your visit!
One or two Euros isn't that bad, it might discourage some from going and might help have better views. We'll see when we visit next summer. We'll be in Rome for 4 full days in early July, then moving on to the Naples Metropolitan area for another 5 night, then in the Molise region to visit Larino, in the province of Campobasso, where my paternal grandfather was born before coming over here to Canada when he was four.
Wow that sounds like a wonderful trip! I hope you have a great visit to Italy next summer!
@@Romewise thanks! This is our first trip to Italy, it'll be the trip of a lifetime, and our last family trip, youngest will be 17 and oldest, who is 22, will not be able to be on vacation at the same time as us, but she wants to do an Italy trip with me in the future.
@@gmnewlook I'm sure you will all love it, even if you have to travel at different times. Have fun!
@@Romewise I'm sure we will!
I’m glad I went last year 😂
I’m ok with it. It may make people a little more careful and respectful. We didn’t get to see in in 2017 because of the crowds in April. Will be visiting again in February 2025 and hopefully get to see it. I don’t mind paying if it is up and running by then.😊
Thanks for your comments! By the time you visit this February, the renovations will be complete. As for the proposed fee, nothing is confirmed so it's possible you won't have to contend with that either. But we'll have to wait and see!
What a dilemma... I am very curious what are they going to do in the end!
I am too!
I plan on going my first time in 3 weeks. I hope that not everything is closed.
First of all, the Trevi Fountain maintenance is coming to a close. They are taking down the walkway now:
www.skylinewebcams.com/en/webcam/italia/lazio/roma/fontana-di-trevi.html
Second of all, in preparation for the Jubilee, many of the sites that were being restored have had their scaffolding removed. By the time you get here, the city will be nearly done with many (but not all) of the restorations.
Stay tuned for an upcoming video as I share the progress and what to expect in Rome this holiday season!
interesting!
@RomeWise Do you think the renovations will be done by the end of January? Planning on visiting again around that time! :)🙏
Wait, do you not walk across the bridge in this video?
In this video, I filmed it before they allowed people to walk across the bridge. But it doesn't matter, because the bridge is long gone. Please see my updated video, linked in the description, for the latest news.
@Romewise I just wanted to see how it looked being up that close since I can't be there. 😕
@ ah I understand. I went several times to walk across the bridge and the wait was over an hour so I gave up. Sorry for that.
@Romewise oh ok 😆👍
@@VesaJay Ah ok I see. Well, please do check out my updated video, I did get some shots of the fountain from down at the basin level.
We can always count on Elyssa to keep us up-to-date on all things happening in Rome.
Thanks Evelyn!
I was just there a couple of weeks ago, and no coin pool. But you bet I tossed a coin over the barricade into the empty basin just like everyone else. Because tourist gotta tourist. 😂
Well at least you know your money will be put to good use! :)
Glad that we were there twobdays before renovation, Just wondering, It's not enough all the millions in coins that they pickup from inside the fountain? They should use that money to help for sure all the homeless around Rome
I speak quite a bit about this in the video. They do use it for that.
Interesting that they did not take away the opportunity for tourists to throw a coin in the water. 😉
Yes exactly - and tourists are loving it and throwing coins in. Good thing it all goes to charity.
Glad we were there in April.
They should also add like a QR code for payment if you didnt bring coins 😡
Most Rome sites now have ticketing with QR codes so if they do go ahead with a fee, I am sure they will include a QR code.
2019 my wife was told not to lean against the fountain for a photo. Last time in Rome, 2024, we visited it again (without leaning against it). Both times we gladly, and hopefully, tossed coins over our shoulders into it. This time, my wife's coin only just reached the pool - it skipped off the wall and into the water.
I'm blaming her! :D
We're already booked to be in Rome for 2025!
Glad to hear your coin tosses worked and now you are coming back to Rome. I think you will find it exceptionally beautiful in 2025, considering how many sites will have been renovated!
Great idea 💡. Tourists do tremendous damage to the ancient monuments And this is much needed for their protection for future generations.
Yes, I think so, too.
Terrible idea..and I blame people that ruined for others that now has caused this to now be charged. I’m just glad I got to go back in 2022 and was able to experience it in its splendor. I’ll go back to Rome 10 times over but I can easily skip this.
I hear you! Things have changed a lot in recent years and they will continue changing as tourism continues to grow...
A Good Ideal 💯 For Everyone, Thanks For The Update.
It is not a good idea, certainly not for everyone.
Very informative video! Thank you very much! You have a like and Sub from me!
Awesome, thank you!
i understand the logic of making people pay, but if they do only allow online ticket purchases, i will be very disappointed. not being able to purchase tickets (or even just drop a coin into a turnstile) would prevent a lot of spontaneity of exploring the city!
Well it's all still to be confirmed. If they do implement a fee, it will likely be something you can purchase on at the last minute, but just not with a physical turnstile or ticket booth. And either way, they said they plan to keep the square open and free for everyone. For now, the idea is to charge a fee to get close to the basin below.
@ makes sense! while i personally don’t like it, i am an archaeologist and understand that we need to mitigate the damage to monuments as best we can! 😊
@@jackass-noir I hear ya!
Sadly, the time has come that all fees & fares must be created & increase, with exceptions for Italians, of course.
Yes, piano piano, this is coming, although I think for some things, like the Spanish Steps and Piazza Navona, it will never happen. Spieramo bene.
Dynamic pricing. More demand times of day, the higher the prices….
Yes, nothing has been confirmed. I've heard that if there is a fee, they may only have it during peak visiting times.
How sad!! To Disneyfi the Trevi Fountain. 😢
Yeah things are changing...
I actually like this idea to limit the crowds and fee isn’t an astronomical so it should be good. Roll on April ❤
Trevi will soon be Pay per View…. 😢
Yes maybe...
DISSAPOINTING, IM TEAVELING LATE DECEMBER SO I WONT BE ABLE TO SEE IT , WHAT A TIMING
You may be able to! It might be finished by then - fingers crossed...
It is a great idea!
It is a terrible idea.
If I toss three coins into the fountain or basin, and then a fourth coin, I’m hoping to win the lottery or have a single Roman woman flirt with me. :-). Thx again for another super helpful video.
A friend of mine met her now husband at the Trevi Fountain. He was standing next to her when she visited for the first time, and threw her coin in and they got to talking...and they've been married over 20 years now!
Wow! What a great story! I might have to bring a whole bag of coins after reading your comment! If that happens to me, I’ll make sure to invite you and your husband to the festivities. :-). Thx again!
@@ralphcasale9702 You just never know what can happen in life!!
Especially in the Eternal City, and while jam packed with your info as well as other material. Long have I wanted to visit the Tomb of the Scipio Family and the Church of Domine Quo Vadis. Now, thanks to you, it will be so much easier to have an efficient and fabulous trip.
@@ralphcasale9702 Wow that's great, Ralph, that you will visit these much lesser-known sites. Have a wonderful trip!
I will pay if it is more comfortable and not too expensive.
That's what they are aiming for, I think.
Great.
A euro or two, to start…. Tick, tick, tick, five or ten euros….
We'll see....
@@RomewiseJust look at Venice, see what is happening there. Started off at €5 on 29 days of the year. Next year its €10 on 54 days of the year. Trevi starts at €1, or €2, will very soon creep upwards. Nickel and dimeing the golden goose that feeds the natives, within an inch of its life….
@@davidwebb4904 Yes, things are changing little by little.
I was there at 5am last October expecting it to be empty, it’s not. while it’s still dark, around 10 people beat me to it.
Ah no, lately in high season, which includes October, it's been busy at the fountain nearly 24/7.
Stupid idea. Just charge a country entry fee. I would pay that.
I'm sure they are evaluating many ideas - nothing is confirmed yet.
It is a terrible idea.
I think many agree with you.
Poorer tourists are being priced out of everything, everywhere… When tourists stop coming…..
EES and ETIAS will slash British tourist visits by a third next year.
Well at least the entry fee will be very small and in fact, not even necessary, only if you want to get close to the basin. It will still be open and free for everyone from above.
I'm ok with it. Change creates resistance but to all those first-timers, onward, would know no difference and i can see how it would be beneficial.
Terrible idea
I think many agree with you!
Thank you so much for your great videos! I studied many of them to get prepared for my first visit to Rome and it was awesome! Thanks again!!!🙏🙏🙏