Rome is a city of piazzas. You could say that it’s these piazzas that give Rome its soul and makes it the city that so many fall in love with. Any itinerary will prominently feature several piazzas and you’ll likely wander into many more. You won’t see them all, but here’s the piazzas and fountains of Rome that you don’t want to miss.
Piazza Navona – Fiumi Fountain, Fountain of Neptune, Fountain of Moro
This piazza is home to not one, but three fountains. They are the Fontana Quattro Fiumi (Fountain of the Four Rivers), Fontana del Moro (Moor Fountain) and Fontana del Nettuno (Fountain of Neptune). The Fontana Quattro Fiumi is the largest and sits in the center of the piazza and commands your immediate attention. This is partly owing to the large obelisk that rises out of the center of the fountain. It is quite the striking visual and hard to take your eyes off of.
The piazza is an enormous open space aside from the fountains and is in the shape of an oval. Along the sides there are numerous cafes that provide a great view of the square while you eat your meal. Also alongside the perimeter of the piazza is the Sant’ Agnese in Agone. This baroque styled church is amazing in its architecture and sits on the west side, in the middle of the piazza.
Piazza della Rotonda – Fontana del Pantheon
This piazza is well known for being the home of the world famous Pantheon. Either before or after you enter the Pantheon, spend some time enjoying the marvel that is the Piazza della Rotonda and the fountain as well. The fountain is a beautiful work of art that has as its focal point an Egyptian obelisk that rises from its center.
Surrounding the fountain are steps that are perfect for sitting, relaxing and either taking in the amazing atmosphere of the piazza or just people watching. The piazza is almost always busy but it doesn’t detract from enjoying the space.
Piazza Barberini – Fontana del Tritone
This piazza sits at the center of a roundabout, showcasing Bernini’s stunning Triton Fountain. The fountain features four dolphins gracefully supporting Triton, with water elegantly streaming from the top. While the piazza itself may not have many other notable features, the fountain’s artistic brilliance makes it a must-visit. It’s a perfect stop to appreciate the mastery of one of Rome’s most iconic sculptors in a serene, open setting.
Piazza di Trevi – Trevi Fountain
The Piazza de Trevi is dominated by the fountain that bears its name. The fountain is perhaps the most famous in Rome and is stunning in its appearance and artistry.
The meticulous detail is impressive as well as the sheer scale of the structure. There are wide steps that provide room to sit as well as benches.
The Trevi fountain area can get quite crowded but when you find a spot to sit and admire the fountain, you’ll quickly find yourself captivated and wanting to stay for hours.
A great feature is that enjoying the fountain takes on a certain feel if you visit it during the day. It then provides a different feel when you visit it at night.
You get two different experiences from visiting the same site. The piazza really appears small with such a large fountain as the focal point.
The result of that is an impression of intimacy within the piazza and adds to the unforgettable atmosphere.
Piazza di Spagna – Fontana Della Barcaccia
This triangular shaped piazza is home to the Spanish Steps and one of the more interactive fountains in Rome. Fontana della Barcaccia or Fountain of the Old Boat has as its focus a sculpture of a boat which sits in the fountain.
Water pours out of the ends of the boat which provides drinking water. You can step onto a small landing at the end of this Piazza Spagna fountain to reach out and fill up your bottle with the water that streams out of the fountain.
This Baroque styled fountain sits at the foot of the Spanish Steps and in the middle of Piazza di Spagna.
Piazza del Popolo
This amazing piazza is not only remarkable for its structure, but for its history. At the north end of the piazza stands the original gates to the city of Rome which was a part of the Aurelian Walls.
At the center the piazza is an Egyptian obelisk which sits on a platform surrounded by steps. To the south end of the piazza stretches three streets that run through the historic center of Rome.
Via del Babuino which leads to Piazza di Spagna and the Spanish Steps; Via del Corso which leads to the main shopping area and Via di Ripetta. In between the streets sits two massive churches, the Santa Maria dei Miracoli and Santa Maria in Montesanto.
These two churches along with the three streets frame the south end of the piazza in spectacular fashion.
For the best view of the piazza, you can head up the stairs that are on the northeast end of the piazza and follow them up to Terrazza del Pincio.
This terrace which sits at the end of the Borghese Gardens overlooks the piazza and the city and reveals one of the best views in Rome.
Piazza di Santa Maria
This piazza is fairly understating compared to the grandeur of some of Rome’s more famous spaces. Though it’s not one of the most visually stunning piazzas in Rome, the atmosphere of the area is something to be experienced.
Situated in the lively neighborhood of Trestevere this piazza is often home to performers and curious crowds. Adding in the cafes that line the piazza and the unique atmosphere is something that you don’t want to miss.
Piazza San Pietro – Bernini Fountain and Maderno Fountain
The grandest piazza in all of Rome. Located in Vatican city with St. Peter’s Basilica featured prominently this amazing space is truly majestic.
Within the piazza sits two fountains, the Bernini Fountain and the Maderno Fountain. In between the fountains sits a large Egyptian obelisk.
Bordering the piazza are two colonnades that stretch on either side containing a total 284 columns. All combined, this large piazza makes for a stunning visual treat.
Piazza Venezia
As soon as you enter the Piazza you can’t miss the larger than life Vittorio Emanuele II Monument. This massive building constructed in 1935 is a fairly new addition to the city.
The structure gleams due to its white color and can easily be seen from various points across the city. It’s worth it to climb the steps and enjoy the view from various points on the monument.
The chaotic roundabout (if you can call it that) is the heart of the square as traffic enters and exits from several directions at once. The main street that branches off of Piazza Venezia is the Via del Corso which runs through the heart of the historic center of Rome.
Piazza Campo de Fiori
For a fantastic shopping experience, visit the lively Campo de’ Fiori. By day, this piazza buzzes with a bustling market offering a mix of fresh food, handcrafted jewelry, and unique finds.
As evening falls, it transforms into a vibrant social hub, with its many cafes and restaurants providing the perfect setting to unwind. Whether you’re hunting for treasures or enjoying the energetic nightlife, Campo de’ Fiori captures the essence of Rome’s charm and vibrancy.
BONUS LOCATION
Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere – Fontana di Santa Maria in Trastevere
Nestled in the vibrant Trastevere neighborhood, Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere is home to the captivating Fountain of Santa Maria in Trastevere. Considered Rome’s oldest fountain, it was originally commissioned by Pope Callixtus II in the 16th century.
The fountain features graceful bas-reliefs and whimsical mermaids that joyfully spray water, crafting an inviting, peaceful atmosphere.
Encircled by beloved local eateries, the piazza provides an authentic taste of Roman culture as diners relish exquisite cuisine.
The adjoining Santa Maria in Trastevere Basilica, with its ancient architecture and stunning mosaics, deepens the historical charm, making the visit an unforgettable Roman experience.
Enjoy The Piazzas And Fountains In Rome
Rome’s piazzas and fountains are more than just beautiful landmarks—they are living, breathing parts of the city’s vibrant culture and history. Each piazza tells a story, whether through its stunning architecture, bustling markets, or the artistry of its iconic fountains. From the grandeur of Piazza Navona to the charm of Campo de’ Fiori, these spaces invite you to take in the magic of Rome. As you wander through these timeless locations, take a moment to appreciate the blend of history, artistry, and daily life that makes each piazza unique. Exploring them is not just sightseeing—it’s stepping into the heart of Rome itself. As you plan your family’s trip to Rome be sure to check out our essential guide to Rome, as well as an itinerary so that you don’t miss the best of Rome and our guide to help choose the best areas to stay in Rome. Safe travels!
