Piazza di Spagna travel guide

Piazza di Spagna, one of the most famous squares in Rome, is steeped in history.

Its name originates from the Spanish Embassy to the Holy See, located in the square since the 17th century.

The iconic Spanish Steps, built between 1723-1725, were designed by architects Francesco de Sanctis and Alessandro Specchi. Commissioned by Pope Innocent XIII, the steps were intended to link the Bourbon Spanish Embassy to the Trinità dei Monti church.

The square's central feature, the 'Fontana della Barcaccia', is a beautiful Baroque-style fountain built in the early 17th century. It's believed to be the work of Pietro Bernini, possibly with the help of his more famous son, Gian Lorenzo Bernini.

Over the centuries, Piazza di Spagna has been a popular spot for artists, poets, and writers, including English Romantic poet John Keats, who lived (and died) in a house beside the Spanish Steps, now a museum dedicated to his memory.

One of the most distinctive features of Piazza di Spagna is the Spanish Steps, a grand Baroque staircase with 135 steps, which is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Rome. The staircase's elegance and panoramic views of the Eternal City from the top are truly breathtaking. In spring, the staircase is adorned with beautiful azalea blooms, adding to its charm. At the base of the stairs is the Barcaccia Fountain, a quaint and unique boat-shaped fountain designed by Bernini. The Piazza is home to the Keats-Shelley House, where the famous English poet John Keats lived and died, now a museum dedicated to English romantic literature. Lastly, the Piazza di Spagna is known for the Column of the Immaculate Conception, a monument dedicated to the Virgin Mary, which is adorned with a wreath every December 8th, marking a significant annual event.

Discover Piazza di Spagna, a prime feature of Rome, in the vibrant Rome. Piazza di Spagna is situated at Piazza di Spagna, 00187 Roma RM, Italy, just a short distance from Spanish Steps and Palazzo Borghese, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Piazza di Spagna, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Rome, a city in Italy rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Discover the best time to visit Rome to fully enjoy the seasonal charm of Piazza di Spagna. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Rome travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

Piazza di Spagna is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Rome, Italy. If you're flying in or planning to book a flight to Rome, Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport is approximately 14.5 miles (23.3 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Piazza di Spagna by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Rome, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Piazza di Spagna, which is located 0.9 miles (1.4 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Piazza di Spagna, 00187 Roma RM, Italy.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Piazza di Spagna!

The best time to explore Piazza di Spagna, one of Rome's most iconic attractions, is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). These seasons offer mild weather that's perfect for outdoor exploration and less crowded conditions, enabling a more leisurely experience. The Piazza's Spanish Steps bloom with beautiful azaleas in spring, adding an extra layer of charm. Alternatively, visiting in the late summer months allows for a more comfortable exploration during the cooler early mornings and late evenings. The Piazza is beautifully lit at night, creating a romantic atmosphere. December is noteworthy as well, when the Piazza is adorned with a Christmas tree and the Steps host a special display of nativity scenes. Regardless of the season, early morning visits are recommended to avoid peak tourist hours. Remember, the best time to visit the Piazza di Spagna depends on your personal preferences for weather, crowd levels, and special seasonal events.

To truly enjoy your visit to Piazza di Spagna, joining a guided tour of this renowned public square in Rome is highly recommended. As one of Italy's most iconic attractions, Piazza di Spagna draws visitors from across the globe, often leading to long queues and limited availability.

Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience. With the biggest selection of tours and tickets in Rome, you’re sure to find an option that fits your schedule and preferences.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Piazza di Spagna starting at just 24 EUR below. Enjoy benefits like free cancellation and 24/7 customer support for added convenience.

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Rome, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Piazza di Spagna.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic public square in Italy.

Upon arriving at Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport, you’ll find 3 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the city of Rome.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Rome.

Choosing the right accommodation near Piazza di Spagna from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Rome can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Piazza di Spagna, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Piazza di Spagna, Rome boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From park to establishment, the top attractions in Rome offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Rome is Trevi Fountain, located at Piazza di Trevi, 00187 Roma RM, Italy. This well-known park enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Colosseum is worth seeing when you're in Rome. It's a popular establishment that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma RM, Italy.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Pantheon completes any trip to Rome. This establishment draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Piazza della Rotonda, 00186 Roma RM, Italy, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Rome below to discover even more incredible places to explore.