Fontana dell'Acqua Paola

No ticket — public monument: The Fontana dell’Acqua Paola is a free, open monument — you can visit the fountain and terrace without admission. • Location & view: Sited on the Janiculum (Gianicolo) near Porta San Pancrazio and San Pietro in Montorio, the fountain crowns a terrace with one of Rome’s best panoramic views over the city and its domes — perfect for skyline photos. • History & design: Commissioned by Pope Paul V Borghese and completed c.1612, the Baroque “Fontanone” marks the restored aqueduct’s terminus. Architects Giovanni Fontana and Flaminio Ponzio (with sculptural work by Ippolito Buzio/Carlo Fontana in later phases) shaped the triumphal-arch façade. • What to see: The grand marble façade with papal emblems (eagle & dragon), multiple arched water outlets, semicircular forecourt basin (added later), and the sweeping terrace above make the site both an architectural showpiece and a great photo platform. • Hours & access: The fountain and terrace are publicly accessible (round-the-clock in practice); best photography and calmer visits are early morning or at sunset. No official ticketing is required. • Getting there: Reachable by bus or a pleasant walk up from Trastevere; nearest major points are Via Garibaldi / Porta San Pancrazio — use local buses or walk up the Janiculum steps from Trastevere. ⸻ ⚠️ What to keep in mind • Crowds at sunset & weekends: The terrace is a popular sunset spot — expect many visitors and photographers at golden hour. Arrive early for a quieter experience. • Restoration & upkeep: The fountain has undergone restorations (most recently in recent years) — occasional conservation works or scaffolding may affect some views; check local notices if timing is critical. • Surface & steps: Marble surfaces and steps can be slippery when wet; wear sensible shoes and supervise children near the water and drop-offs. • Combine nearby sights: Pair the visit with a walk to San Pietro in Montorio, the Pincio/Piazza del Popolo viewpoint, or a Trastevere stroll to make a full outing of the neighborhood

Fontana dell’Acqua Paola is an absolute gem of Rome. Perched on the Janiculum Hill, it offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the city, especially at sunset. The fountain itself is majestic and elegant, with powerful flowing water that feels both refreshing and timeless. It’s less crowded than many other landmarks, which makes the experience even more special and peaceful. A perfect spot to pause, take photos, and truly appreciate the beauty and history of Rome. Highly recommended for anyone looking to see the city from a different, unforgettable perspective.

If you've just finished lunch in Trastevere, I highly recommend spending 20 minutes walking up here. It’s great for digestion, and you’ll find a beautiful fountain and the best view of Rome waiting for you!

Maybe the best place I go in Rome apart from the very obvious tourist zones. The ambient is perfect and one of the most precious arounds to go. You can also get access to a beautiful panoramic photo of the city. Totally recommended 👌😌

What an amazing fountain. Far from the busy city center, but quickly reachable. The view from there is just spectacular. We came by foot from Trastevere and up until Gianicolo Belvedere, what a nice stroll. Perfect when you have already done everything in Rome and want something different, also much calmer since there are much less tourists.

Ladies and gentlemen, today I invite you on a brief yet enchanting journey to one of Rome's hidden treasures. Picture yourself under the iconic Saint Angelo Bridge, far from the bustling crowd above. Here, you stand on the banks of the storied Tiber River, where the whispers of ancient Rome tickle your imagination, painting vivid pictures of what used to be. As your eyes trace the horizon, the grandeur of the Vatican's domes comes into view, piercing the sky with regal magnificence. It's as if they've been reaching for the heavens for centuries, a testament to human creativity and devotion. This isn't just a place; it's an experience where art, architecture, and atmosphere blend in perfect harmony. It's a rendezvous point for history and beauty, serenading you with their eternal dance under the stars. So, next time you're in Rome, don’t just admire the Saint Angelo Bridge from above. Descend to its roots, and bask in the magic that awaits beneath. This hidden gem promises a whisper of wonder and a memory etched in the heart. Thank you!

Such a beautiful spot that isn't usually on the normal must see list but should be! We saw it by accident on our way to Janiculum Hill. It is a monumental fountain located near the church of San Pietro. Make sure to stop by and don't forget to check out that amazing view!

This is a truly hidden in plain sight gem. Very few visitors on the Friday morning we visited. At the top of one of Rome’s seven hills. The overlook view of the city is spectacular! If you are in Trastevere, this is really not to be missed!

This was a nice fountain in the city that is not crowded like the others in centro Rome. Our vespa tour took us here to get a nice view of the city across the street and to see this beautiful fountain .

This may not be the prettiest or grandest of fountains in Rome, but it is well worth the visit, especially when you see the panoramic vista of Rome below! We walked up Monteverde from American University in Rome and onto this breathtaking view. Bellissimo!

We walked up this lovely fountain that provides a great view of the city. Well worth the hike. We took the longer path.

A LONG hike for a fountain that pales in comparison to Trevi, but a peaceful place with excellent views of the city. Pros: Fontana dell'Acqua (Italian for Water Fountain) is a gorgeous location far removed from tourists high atop Janiculum Hill with sweeping views of Rome. The skyline doesn't translate in photographs, but it is fantastic in person as you gaze over the walls of the elite Spanish Academy. The fountain was built in 1612, but the marble was extracted from a temple dating back to 85 AD. The design is so impeccable that it actually inspired the design of Rome's most famous Trevi Fountain. It's so far from the most popular tourist sites that you'll practically be alone. Cons: Even though we're in good shape, this was an exhausting walk from our hotel in central Rome to this hillside locale in very hot weather. I would take a taxi if you really want to see it. This is nowhere near as stunning as the Trevi Fountain, but if you're willing to hike or happen to be in the neighborhood, it's a nice, peaceful environment.