RomeSpanish Steps in Rome: tips and is it worth a visit?
Spanish Steps in Rome: tips and is it worth a visit?
Published on 12 February 2025 Last updated on 22 March 2026 Citie to Travel Comments Off
The Spanish Steps in Rome are located in the heart of the historic center and connect Piazza di Spagna with the Pincio hill, where the 16th-century church Trinità dei Monti towers above the city. It is one of the most famous spots in Rome and attracts thousands of visitors every day who want to see and climb the steps.
But how special is a visit to the Spanish Steps really?
In this article, you will read what makes the Spanish Steps so special, what there is to see, and whether a visit is worth it during your city trip to Rome. You will also find practical tips, such as the best time to go, how long you need, and what to keep in mind during your visit.
What are the Spanish Steps in Rome and why are they so special?
Piazza di Spagna, also known as the Spanish Square, is located in the heart of Rome’s historic center. The square owes its name to the Spanish embassy, which has been located here for centuries. Today, it is one of the most famous and busiest places in the city.
The Spanish Steps consist of 135 travertine steps and form the connection between the square and the higher располож church Trinità dei Monti. At the foot of the steps lies the Fontana della Barcaccia, a fountain shaped like a half-sunken boat.
What makes this place so special is the combination of architecture, history, and its lively atmosphere. Street performers, tourists, and locals gather here, making the Spanish Square one of the most recognizable and photographed places in Rome. The view from the top of the steps is also considered one of the most beautiful in the city.
What is there to see at the Spanish Steps?
On and around the Spanish Square in Rome, you will find several well-known sights that you should not miss during your visit. Everything is within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore this area.
Below is an overview of the main sights at the Spanish Steps:
1. The Spanish Square 2. The Barcaccia Fountain 3. The Spanish Steps 4. Trinità dei Monti 5. The Egyptian Sallustiano Obelisk
1. The Spanish Square in Rome
The Spanish Square, also known as Piazza di Spagna, is one of the most famous squares in Rome. It is located at the foot of the Spanish Steps, which lead up to the church Trinità dei Monti. The square is named after the Spanish embassy to the Vatican, which has been located here since the 17th century.
In the square, you will find the famous Fontana della Barcaccia, which was designed by Pietro Bernini and his son Gian Lorenzo Bernini.
Near the square is the well-known shopping street Via dei Condotti, featuring luxury stores from international brands. In addition, you will find charming streets around the square where you can take a leisurely walk or sit down for a drink or something to eat.
2. The Barcaccia Fountain
The Fontana della Barcaccia is a famous Baroque fountain at the foot of the Spanish Steps on Piazza di Spagna in Rome. The fountain was built between 1626 and 1629 by Pietro Bernini and his son Gian Lorenzo Bernini, commissioned by Pope Urban VIII.
The fountain is shaped like a half-sunken boat, referring to a ship that is said to have been left here after the great flood of the Tiber River in 1598. Due to the low water pressure at this location, the Berninis designed a fountain where the water gently flows over the edges instead of spraying upward.
The Barcaccia Fountain is therefore not only a remarkable work of art but also a clever piece of design that perfectly fits its surroundings.
Tip: It is forbidden to sit on the edge of the fountain, climb into it, or put your feet in the water. However, you may still see this happening in practice. Do not do this, as the fountain is a protected monument and the fines can be high.
3. The Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps, also known as the Scalinata, were built in 1725 on the orders of the French. The steps form the connection between Piazza di Spagna and the higher располож church Trinità dei Monti. The design is in Baroque style and consists of multiple levels, which refer to the Holy Trinity. In total, the staircase has 135 steps.
The last major renovation took place in 2014, partly thanks to a donation from the Roman fashion house Bulgari. After a two-year restoration, the steps regained their original appearance.
Once at the top, you are rewarded with a beautiful view over the square and part of Rome’s city center. Especially in the early morning or around sunset, this is a pleasant place to take a moment and look around.
Please note: since 2019, it has been forbidden to sit on the Spanish Steps. The steps are a protected monument and the rules are strictly enforced. You can read more about this later in the article.
4. Trinità dei Monti in Rome
The church Trinità dei Monti is located at the top of the Spanish Steps and forms a recognizable part of Rome’s skyline. The church was built in the 15th century on the orders of the French king Charles VIII and is one of the French churches in the city.
The two symmetrical bell towers, also known as campaniles, stand at the front of the church and are clearly visible from Piazza di Spagna. At the top of the Spanish Steps, on the square in front of the church, you have a beautiful view over the center of Rome.
Inside, you will find a spacious nave with several chapels, decorated with artworks. One of the most famous is the fresco Desposizione by Daniele da Volterra, a student of Michelangelo.
5. The Egyptian Sallustiano Obelisk
The Egyptian Sallustiano Obelisk stands at the top of the Spanish Steps, on the square in front of the church Trinità dei Monti. The obelisk is approximately 14 meters high and forms a striking feature at this location.
According to historians, the obelisk is made of stone from Egypt, but the hieroglyphs were added later by the Romans. With this, they aimed to imitate the famous obelisks from the time of Emperor Augustus, such as those in the Circus Maximus.
What is the best time to visit the Spanish Steps?
The Spanish Steps are one of the most visited places in Rome and attract many tourists every year. Locals also come here regularly, partly because of the shops and the central location of the square. As a result, it can be busy at the steps at many times of the day.
However, there are moments when it is less crowded and you can better explore the steps and the square or take photos and videos.
The best time to visit the Spanish Steps is early in the morning, shortly after sunrise. At that time, it is still quiet and you have plenty of space to look around and take photos. It is also often less crowded in the evening, especially around sunset, compared to the middle of the day.
Between approximately 11:00 and 16:00, it is the busiest and there are many visitors.
If you want to avoid the crowds, plan your visit early in the day or later in the evening, preferably on a weekday.
How long do you need for a visit to the Spanish Steps?
For a visit to the Spanish Steps, you usually don’t need much time. If you only want to see the steps, take a few photos, and enjoy the view, you will often be done within 15 to 30 minutes.
If you also want to explore the surroundings, such as the Spanish Square, the fountain, and the church at the top of the steps, you can easily spend more time here. In that case, it is more realistic to allow about an hour.
Many travelers combine a visit to the Spanish Steps with other sights in the center of Rome. As a result, it is often a short stop during a walk through the city.
Tips for visiting the Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps are one of the most popular attractions in Rome. During my visits to Rome, I have been here several times. Based on that, I have a number of tips that are useful if you want to visit the Spanish Steps and the square.
1. Visit the steps preferably early in the morning or later in the evening. At those times, it is quieter and you can better explore the surroundings and take photos.
2. Keep in mind that you are not allowed to sit on the steps. Since 2019, this has been prohibited and it is regularly enforced. If you break the rules, you may receive a fine.
3. Wear comfortable shoes, as the steps consist of 135 steps and can be slippery in some places.
4. Also take the time to explore the surroundings. Around the square, you will find nice streets, shops, and other sights that you can easily combine with your visit.
Where are the Spanish Steps located in Rome?
The Spanish Steps are located in the center of Rome, at Piazza di Spagna. This square is situated in the Campo Marzio district, one of the most well-known and most visited parts of the city.
From here, you can walk to the Trevi Fountain in about 5 minutes and to Piazza del Popolo in around 10 minutes. The square is also located at the intersection of three well-known streets: Via dei Condotti, Via Borgognona, and Via Frattina.
How do you get to the Spanish Steps in Rome?
The Spanish Square, or Piazza di Spagna, is easy to reach by public transport.
By metro: The Spanish Steps are easily accessible by metro in Rome. Take metro line A (the red line) and get off at Spagna station. From there, you are almost immediately at the Spanish Steps.
By bus: Several bus lines stop near the square, including line 119. You can get off at the Spagna or Trinità dei Monti stop.
On foot from well-known places in Rome: The Spanish Steps are centrally located in the city and are easy to combine with other sights:
The Spanish Steps are located in a central part of Rome, which means there is plenty to see and do in the immediate area. You can easily combine this spot with other well-known attractions.
Within a short walking distance, you will find the Trevi Fountain. Visiting the fountain is still free in principle, and you can view it from the square. If you want to get closer to the fountain, inside the restricted area near the water, you have had to pay a small entrance fee of about €2 per person since January 2026.
Piazza del Popolo is also nearby, as well as the Pantheon and the shopping streets in the city center.
In addition, the area is ideal for shopping. Streets such as Via dei Condotti are known for their luxury stores and are located right next to the Spanish Square. Here you will find brands such as Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton.
If you want to sit down somewhere, there are plenty of places around the square and in the surrounding streets where you can have a drink or something to eat. This makes the Spanish Steps a great place to take a break during your walk through the city.
Frequently asked questions about visiting the Spanish Steps
Are the Spanish Steps free to visit?
Yes, you can visit the Spanish Steps for free. You do not need a ticket to explore the square, the steps, or the surrounding area.
How many steps do the Spanish Steps have?
The Spanish Steps consist of 135 steps and connect Piazza di Spagna with the church Trinità dei Monti.
Are the Spanish Steps easy to climb?
Most people can climb the steps without any problems. The steps are wide and not extremely steep, but there are 135 of them. Therefore, take your time, especially on warm days.
Can you visit the Spanish Steps with children?
Yes, the Spanish Steps are easy to visit with children. Keep in mind that it is a popular place and you should keep a close eye on your children, especially on the steps themselves.
Are you allowed to sit on the Spanish Steps?
No, since 2019 it has been forbidden to sit on the Spanish Steps. The steps are a protected monument and the rules are strictly enforced. If you break this rule, you may receive a fine.
Are you allowed to eat or drink on the Spanish Steps?
No, it is not allowed to eat or drink on the Spanish Steps. Fines can also be issued for this, as the steps are a protected monument.
When is it less crowded at the Spanish Steps?
It is usually quieter early in the morning and later in the evening. In the middle of the day, especially between 11:00 and 16:00, there are more visitors.
How long do you need for a visit?
For a short visit, 15 to 30 minutes is usually enough. If you also want to explore the surroundings, allow about an hour.
Is a visit to the Spanish Steps in Rome worth it?
Over the past ten years, I have been to Rome more than ten times and have visited the Spanish Steps several times. During my first visit, I went to the steps in the afternoon. In hindsight, that was not a good idea, as it was so crowded that I was unable to see much of the steps and Piazza di Spagna.
Since then, I only visit the steps early in the morning or later in the evening. At those times, you can better explore the steps and truly enjoy the view. At the top of the Spanish Steps, on the square in front of the church, you have a beautiful view over part of the city. That view alone already makes the visit worthwhile for me.
During my last visit in June 2025, I noticed that it was busier than usual throughout the city, including at the Spanish Steps. This was due to it being a holy year, which attracts extra visitors to Rome.
Keep in mind that the climb to the top can be quite intense, especially on warm days. The steps consist of 135 steps, and it is nice to take a short break along the way on one of the landings.
In addition, it is important to be aware of the rules. You are not allowed to sit on the steps, and eating or drinking is also not permitted. These rules are strictly enforced. During my visits, I have regularly seen fines being issued.
Whether a visit is worth it for you depends on what you are looking for. If you enjoy visiting well-known places and want to experience the view for yourself, then this is definitely recommended. If you are less interested in this type of attraction or prefer to avoid busy places, you can also easily view the square and the steps from a distance during a walk through the city.
Edward
Hi, I’m Edward, an experienced city trip enthusiast. Over the past few years, I’ve visited dozens of cities across Europe, Scandinavia, and the United States. On Cities To Travel, I share personal experiences and practical tips to help you plan your next city break. Do you have any questions? Feel free to send me an email.
Disclaimer: This website contains affiliate links. If you book or purchase something through these links, I may receive a small commission—at no extra cost to you. This helps me maintain Cities To Travel and continue sharing up-to-date travel tips.
Over Cities To travel
Hi, I’m Edward, an experienced city trip enthusiast. Over the past few years, I’ve visited dozens of cities across Europe and America. On Cities To Travel, I share personal experiences and practical tips to help you plan your next city trip. Have any questions? Feel free to send me an email.
Spanish Steps in Rome: tips and is it worth a visit?
The Spanish Steps in Rome are located in the heart of the historic center and connect Piazza di Spagna with the Pincio hill, where the 16th-century church Trinità dei Monti towers above the city. It is one of the most famous spots in Rome and attracts thousands of visitors every day who want to see and climb the steps.
But how special is a visit to the Spanish Steps really?
In this article, you will read what makes the Spanish Steps so special, what there is to see, and whether a visit is worth it during your city trip to Rome. You will also find practical tips, such as the best time to go, how long you need, and what to keep in mind during your visit.
What are the Spanish Steps in Rome and why are they so special?
Piazza di Spagna, also known as the Spanish Square, is located in the heart of Rome’s historic center. The square owes its name to the Spanish embassy, which has been located here for centuries. Today, it is one of the most famous and busiest places in the city.
The Spanish Steps consist of 135 travertine steps and form the connection between the square and the higher располож church Trinità dei Monti. At the foot of the steps lies the Fontana della Barcaccia, a fountain shaped like a half-sunken boat.
What makes this place so special is the combination of architecture, history, and its lively atmosphere. Street performers, tourists, and locals gather here, making the Spanish Square one of the most recognizable and photographed places in Rome. The view from the top of the steps is also considered one of the most beautiful in the city.
What is there to see at the Spanish Steps?
On and around the Spanish Square in Rome, you will find several well-known sights that you should not miss during your visit. Everything is within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore this area.
Below is an overview of the main sights at the Spanish Steps:
1. The Spanish Square
2. The Barcaccia Fountain
3. The Spanish Steps
4. Trinità dei Monti
5. The Egyptian Sallustiano Obelisk
1. The Spanish Square in Rome
The Spanish Square, also known as Piazza di Spagna, is one of the most famous squares in Rome. It is located at the foot of the Spanish Steps, which lead up to the church Trinità dei Monti. The square is named after the Spanish embassy to the Vatican, which has been located here since the 17th century.
In the square, you will find the famous Fontana della Barcaccia, which was designed by Pietro Bernini and his son Gian Lorenzo Bernini.
Near the square is the well-known shopping street Via dei Condotti, featuring luxury stores from international brands. In addition, you will find charming streets around the square where you can take a leisurely walk or sit down for a drink or something to eat.
2. The Barcaccia Fountain
The Fontana della Barcaccia is a famous Baroque fountain at the foot of the Spanish Steps on Piazza di Spagna in Rome. The fountain was built between 1626 and 1629 by Pietro Bernini and his son Gian Lorenzo Bernini, commissioned by Pope Urban VIII.
The fountain is shaped like a half-sunken boat, referring to a ship that is said to have been left here after the great flood of the Tiber River in 1598. Due to the low water pressure at this location, the Berninis designed a fountain where the water gently flows over the edges instead of spraying upward.
The Barcaccia Fountain is therefore not only a remarkable work of art but also a clever piece of design that perfectly fits its surroundings.
Tip: It is forbidden to sit on the edge of the fountain, climb into it, or put your feet in the water. However, you may still see this happening in practice. Do not do this, as the fountain is a protected monument and the fines can be high.
3. The Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps, also known as the Scalinata, were built in 1725 on the orders of the French. The steps form the connection between Piazza di Spagna and the higher располож church Trinità dei Monti. The design is in Baroque style and consists of multiple levels, which refer to the Holy Trinity. In total, the staircase has 135 steps.
The last major renovation took place in 2014, partly thanks to a donation from the Roman fashion house Bulgari. After a two-year restoration, the steps regained their original appearance.
Once at the top, you are rewarded with a beautiful view over the square and part of Rome’s city center. Especially in the early morning or around sunset, this is a pleasant place to take a moment and look around.
Please note: since 2019, it has been forbidden to sit on the Spanish Steps. The steps are a protected monument and the rules are strictly enforced. You can read more about this later in the article.
4. Trinità dei Monti in Rome
The church Trinità dei Monti is located at the top of the Spanish Steps and forms a recognizable part of Rome’s skyline. The church was built in the 15th century on the orders of the French king Charles VIII and is one of the French churches in the city.
The two symmetrical bell towers, also known as campaniles, stand at the front of the church and are clearly visible from Piazza di Spagna. At the top of the Spanish Steps, on the square in front of the church, you have a beautiful view over the center of Rome.
Inside, you will find a spacious nave with several chapels, decorated with artworks. One of the most famous is the fresco Desposizione by Daniele da Volterra, a student of Michelangelo.
5. The Egyptian Sallustiano Obelisk
The Egyptian Sallustiano Obelisk stands at the top of the Spanish Steps, on the square in front of the church Trinità dei Monti. The obelisk is approximately 14 meters high and forms a striking feature at this location.
According to historians, the obelisk is made of stone from Egypt, but the hieroglyphs were added later by the Romans. With this, they aimed to imitate the famous obelisks from the time of Emperor Augustus, such as those in the Circus Maximus.
What is the best time to visit the Spanish Steps?
The Spanish Steps are one of the most visited places in Rome and attract many tourists every year. Locals also come here regularly, partly because of the shops and the central location of the square. As a result, it can be busy at the steps at many times of the day.
However, there are moments when it is less crowded and you can better explore the steps and the square or take photos and videos.
The best time to visit the Spanish Steps is early in the morning, shortly after sunrise. At that time, it is still quiet and you have plenty of space to look around and take photos. It is also often less crowded in the evening, especially around sunset, compared to the middle of the day.
Between approximately 11:00 and 16:00, it is the busiest and there are many visitors.
If you want to avoid the crowds, plan your visit early in the day or later in the evening, preferably on a weekday.
How long do you need for a visit to the Spanish Steps?
For a visit to the Spanish Steps, you usually don’t need much time. If you only want to see the steps, take a few photos, and enjoy the view, you will often be done within 15 to 30 minutes.
If you also want to explore the surroundings, such as the Spanish Square, the fountain, and the church at the top of the steps, you can easily spend more time here. In that case, it is more realistic to allow about an hour.
Many travelers combine a visit to the Spanish Steps with other sights in the center of Rome. As a result, it is often a short stop during a walk through the city.
Tips for visiting the Spanish Steps
1. Visit the steps preferably early in the morning or later in the evening. At those times, it is quieter and you can better explore the surroundings and take photos.
2. Keep in mind that you are not allowed to sit on the steps. Since 2019, this has been prohibited and it is regularly enforced. If you break the rules, you may receive a fine.
3. Wear comfortable shoes, as the steps consist of 135 steps and can be slippery in some places.
4. Also take the time to explore the surroundings. Around the square, you will find nice streets, shops, and other sights that you can easily combine with your visit.
Where are the Spanish Steps located in Rome?
The Spanish Steps are located in the center of Rome, at Piazza di Spagna. This square is situated in the Campo Marzio district, one of the most well-known and most visited parts of the city.
From here, you can walk to the Trevi Fountain in about 5 minutes and to Piazza del Popolo in around 10 minutes. The square is also located at the intersection of three well-known streets: Via dei Condotti, Via Borgognona, and Via Frattina.
How do you get to the Spanish Steps in Rome?
The Spanish Square, or Piazza di Spagna, is easy to reach by public transport.
By metro:
The Spanish Steps are easily accessible by metro in Rome. Take metro line A (the red line) and get off at Spagna station. From there, you are almost immediately at the Spanish Steps.
By bus:
Several bus lines stop near the square, including line 119. You can get off at the Spagna or Trinità dei Monti stop.
On foot from well-known places in Rome:
The Spanish Steps are centrally located in the city and are easy to combine with other sights:
1. From the Trevi Fountain: about a 5-minute walk
2. From Piazza del Popolo: about a 10-minute walk
3. From the Pantheon: about a 15-minute walk
What is there to do around the Spanish Steps?
The Spanish Steps are located in a central part of Rome, which means there is plenty to see and do in the immediate area. You can easily combine this spot with other well-known attractions.
Within a short walking distance, you will find the Trevi Fountain. Visiting the fountain is still free in principle, and you can view it from the square. If you want to get closer to the fountain, inside the restricted area near the water, you have had to pay a small entrance fee of about €2 per person since January 2026.
Piazza del Popolo is also nearby, as well as the Pantheon and the shopping streets in the city center.
In addition, the area is ideal for shopping. Streets such as Via dei Condotti are known for their luxury stores and are located right next to the Spanish Square. Here you will find brands such as Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton.
If you want to sit down somewhere, there are plenty of places around the square and in the surrounding streets where you can have a drink or something to eat. This makes the Spanish Steps a great place to take a break during your walk through the city.
Frequently asked questions about visiting the Spanish Steps
Are the Spanish Steps free to visit?
Yes, you can visit the Spanish Steps for free. You do not need a ticket to explore the square, the steps, or the surrounding area.
How many steps do the Spanish Steps have?
The Spanish Steps consist of 135 steps and connect Piazza di Spagna with the church Trinità dei Monti.
Are the Spanish Steps easy to climb?
Most people can climb the steps without any problems. The steps are wide and not extremely steep, but there are 135 of them. Therefore, take your time, especially on warm days.
Can you visit the Spanish Steps with children?
Yes, the Spanish Steps are easy to visit with children. Keep in mind that it is a popular place and you should keep a close eye on your children, especially on the steps themselves.
Are you allowed to sit on the Spanish Steps?
No, since 2019 it has been forbidden to sit on the Spanish Steps. The steps are a protected monument and the rules are strictly enforced. If you break this rule, you may receive a fine.
Are you allowed to eat or drink on the Spanish Steps?
No, it is not allowed to eat or drink on the Spanish Steps. Fines can also be issued for this, as the steps are a protected monument.
When is it less crowded at the Spanish Steps?
It is usually quieter early in the morning and later in the evening. In the middle of the day, especially between 11:00 and 16:00, there are more visitors.
How long do you need for a visit?
For a short visit, 15 to 30 minutes is usually enough. If you also want to explore the surroundings, allow about an hour.
Is a visit to the Spanish Steps in Rome worth it?
Over the past ten years, I have been to Rome more than ten times and have visited the Spanish Steps several times. During my first visit, I went to the steps in the afternoon. In hindsight, that was not a good idea, as it was so crowded that I was unable to see much of the steps and Piazza di Spagna.
Since then, I only visit the steps early in the morning or later in the evening. At those times, you can better explore the steps and truly enjoy the view. At the top of the Spanish Steps, on the square in front of the church, you have a beautiful view over part of the city. That view alone already makes the visit worthwhile for me.
During my last visit in June 2025, I noticed that it was busier than usual throughout the city, including at the Spanish Steps. This was due to it being a holy year, which attracts extra visitors to Rome.
Keep in mind that the climb to the top can be quite intense, especially on warm days. The steps consist of 135 steps, and it is nice to take a short break along the way on one of the landings.
In addition, it is important to be aware of the rules. You are not allowed to sit on the steps, and eating or drinking is also not permitted. These rules are strictly enforced. During my visits, I have regularly seen fines being issued.
Whether a visit is worth it for you depends on what you are looking for. If you enjoy visiting well-known places and want to experience the view for yourself, then this is definitely recommended. If you are less interested in this type of attraction or prefer to avoid busy places, you can also easily view the square and the steps from a distance during a walk through the city.
Edward
Hi, I’m Edward, an experienced city trip enthusiast. Over the past few years, I’ve visited dozens of cities across Europe, Scandinavia, and the United States. On Cities To Travel, I share personal experiences and practical tips to help you plan your next city break. Do you have any questions? Feel free to send me an email.
These are the most popular tickets and tours for a visit to Rome
Disclaimer: This website contains affiliate links. If you book or purchase something through these links, I may receive a small commission—at no extra cost to you. This helps me maintain Cities To Travel and continue sharing up-to-date travel tips.
Over Cities To travel
Hi, I’m Edward, an experienced city trip enthusiast. Over the past few years, I’ve visited dozens of cities across Europe and America. On Cities To Travel, I share personal experiences and practical tips to help you plan your next city trip. Have any questions? Feel free to send me an email.
You might also find this interesting
Popular Attractions
Categories
Search