Spanish Steps travel guide

The iconic Spanish Steps, located in the heart of Rome, have a rich and storied history. This monumental stairway of 135 steps was built with French diplomat Étienne Gueffier’s bequeathed funds of 20,000 scudi, between 1723 and 1725, linking the Bourbon Spanish Embassy to the Holy See with the Trinità dei Monti church at the top.

The Steps were designed by architects Francesco de Sanctis and Alessandro Specchi, and they represent a perfect blend of architectural and landscape design, making it a favorite spot for artists, poets, and later, photographers.

Over centuries, the Steps have been restored several times, with the most recent restoration completed in 2016, funded by the luxury brand Bulgari. The Spanish Steps aren’t just a tourist attraction but have also been the backdrop for many cultural events, including the annual fashion show, 'Donna Sotto Le Stelle', and featured in films like 'Roman Holiday' starring Audrey Hepburn. Today, the Spanish Steps continue to captivate visitors with their elegance and grandeur.

The Spanish Steps, a monumental stairway of 135 steps, are a blend of curves, straight flights, vistas, and terraces. This design makes it unlike any other stairway in the world. They are not just a fancy set of stairs but a gathering place where people sit and enjoy the picturesque views of the Piazza di Spagna at the base and the Trinità dei Monti Church at the top. The steps are adorned with beautiful azaleas in the spring, providing a colorful spectacle. The Fontana della Barcaccia, a charming Baroque-style fountain at the foot of the steps, adds to the captivating appeal. At night, the steps transform into a magical place with soft, radiant lighting that enhances its architectural beauty. It is worth noting that the Spanish Steps are one of the few places in Rome where silence is officially preserved to maintain its tranquil ambiance.

Located in the dynamic Municipio I, the popular Spanish Steps is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Rome or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Italy.

Rome is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Rome offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Rome and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Trevi Fountain, Colosseum, Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and Roman Forum.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Rome has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Rome, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Italy!

Spanish Steps is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Rome, Italy. If you're flying in, Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport is approximately 14.5 miles (23.4 km) away from Rome. From there, you can easily reach Spanish Steps by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Rome, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Spanish Steps, which is located 0.9 miles (1.4 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Spanish Steps, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Piazza di Spagna, 00187 Roma RM, Italy.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Spanish Steps!

The best time to explore Spanish Steps is in the quieter seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). During these periods, the weather in Rome is pleasantly warm, ideal for walking the 135 steps and enjoying the nearby Piazza di Spagna. Spring offers the additional delight of blooming azaleas on the steps, adding a colorful spectacle to your visit. The Steps are also less crowded at these times, making it a more enjoyable experience. Consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid peak tourist hours. Also, every July, the Spanish Steps become the picturesque venue for the 'Donna Sotto Le Stelle' fashion show. This event is a must-see for fashion enthusiasts planning a visit. However, irrespective of the season, the Spanish Steps offer an enchanting view at dusk when they are beautifully lit, adding a romantic touch to your Roman holiday.

To truly enjoy your visit to Spanish Steps, joining a tour that features this popular monumental staircase in Rome is highly recommended. As one of Italy's most iconic attractions, Spanish Steps draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Spanish Steps starting at just 4.99 EUR below.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Spanish Steps and Italy's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport and the city of Rome, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Italy cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Rome and beyond.

Conveniently explore Spanish Steps and plenty more captivating attractions in Rome by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Spanish Steps and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Rome has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Spanish Steps below.

Aside from Spanish Steps, Rome is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Rome, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Trevi Fountain, Colosseum, and Pantheon.

Trevi Fountain is a bucket-list park and top attraction in Rome, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 340,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Trevi Fountain is Piazza di Trevi, 00187 Roma RM, Italy.

Another appreciated attraction in Rome is Colosseum. Like Trevi Fountain, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars among 320,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this establishment is Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma RM, Italy.

Pantheon is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Rome. This establishment and top attraction in Rome has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 180,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Piazza della Rotonda, 00186 Roma RM, Italy.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Rome below.