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Spanish Steps

Rome's iconic 18th-century stairway connecting Piazza di Spagna to Trinita dei Monti church. A masterpiece of Baroque urban design and eternal symbol of la dolce vita.

135
Steps to Climb
1725
Year Completed
FREE
Open 24/7
Top 5
Rome Attraction

An Iconic Roman Landmark

The Spanish Steps (Scalinata di Trinita dei Monti) are the widest staircase in Europe, designed by architects Francesco de Sanctis and Alessandro Specchi. Built between 1723-1725, they were funded by French diplomat Etienne Gueffier to link the Bourbon Spanish Embassy (Piazza di Spagna) with the French church Trinita dei Monti above.

Today, the Steps are one of Rome's most beloved gathering spots - a place to sit, people-watch, and soak in the atmosphere of the Eternal City. In spring, the steps are decorated with beautiful pink azaleas, creating an unforgettable sight.

What to See

The Spanish Steps area is packed with attractions, from historic monuments to world-class shopping

Barcaccia Fountain
Bernini

Barcaccia Fountain

At the base of the Steps, this "sinking boat" fountain was designed by Pietro Bernini (father of Gian Lorenzo). Its low design solved the problem of low water pressure in the area.

Trinita dei Monti
16th Century

Trinita dei Monti Church

The French Gothic church crowning the Steps offers stunning views over Rome. Inside, find beautiful frescoes and the famous anamorphic paintings in the convent.

Keats-Shelley House
Literary History

Keats-Shelley House

The pink house at the foot of the Steps is where poet John Keats died in 1821. Now a museum dedicated to Romantic poets who lived and wrote in Rome.

Luxury Shopping

Via Condotti & Designer District

Leading away from the Steps, Via Condotti is Rome's most exclusive shopping street. Here you'll find the flagship stores of Italian fashion houses: Gucci, Prada, Valentino, Bulgari, and Ferragamo.

Even if luxury shopping isn't your thing, walking these elegant streets offers a glimpse into Roman high society. Stop at historic Caffe Greco (founded 1760) for an espresso where Casanova, Goethe, and Byron once sat.

1760
Caffe Greco Founded
50+
Designer Boutiques
Via Condotti Shopping

Visiting Tips

Make the most of your visit to the Spanish Steps area

Best Time

Early morning (before 9 AM) or late evening for photos without crowds. Sunset from the top is magical.

Rules

No sitting on the steps (fines apply!), no eating or drinking, and no wheeled luggage. Keep moving!

Spring Flowers

Visit in April-May when the steps are decorated with pink azaleas - absolutely stunning!

Photo Tip

Best photos from Piazza di Spagna looking up, or from the top terrace looking over Rome.

Practical Information

Location
Piazza di Spagna, 00187 Roma
Access
Open 24 hours, free admission
Metro
Line A - Spagna (right at the base)

Walking Tours from Spanish Steps

Start your Rome exploration from this iconic location. Our guides know every hidden corner and fascinating story.

Heart of Rome Walk
3 hours
From $55
Rome by Night
2.5 hours + gelato
From $69
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Explore Rome's Elegant Heart

The Spanish Steps are the perfect starting point for exploring Rome. Let our expert guides show you the city's treasures.

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