The Spanish Steps in Rome: Sitting Ban, History and What to See (2026)

The Spanish Steps climb from Piazza di Spagna to the church of Trinità dei Monti, and they are one of the most photographed places in Rome. For decades, travelers sat on them to rest and people-watch. That habit is now over, because since 2019 the city bans sitting on the steps.

Last updated: September 25, 2026

Spanish Steps at a glance

Can you sit on the Spanish Steps?

No. In 2019, Rome’s urban police regulation began to treat the staircase as a monument, and sitting or lying on it became an offense. The national news agency ANSA reported the ban when it came into force (checked September 2026). As a result, local police patrol the steps and move people on.

The rule has also held up in court. According to RomaToday (checked September 2026), the regional administrative court upheld a fine given to a visitor, on the grounds that sitting blocks the view of the monument. In short, treat the steps like a museum piece: walk, stop briefly for a photo, and keep moving.

The same logic applies elsewhere in the center. For example, sitting on the basin edge of the Trevi Fountain is also forbidden.

A short history of the Spanish Steps

The steps take their name from the Spanish embassy to the Holy See, which still stands on the square. However, French money paid for them, since the church at the top belonged to the French. The architect Francesco De Sanctis designed the staircase in the 1720s, and Pope Benedict XIII opened it for the Jubilee of 1725, according to Turismo Roma, the city’s official tourism site (checked September 2026).

The design is a clever solution to a steep slope. Instead of one straight flight, the steps split, curve and meet again on wide terraces, so the climb feels gentle. The travertine was fully restored in 1995, and a second restoration, funded by the jeweler Bulgari, was completed in 2016.

What to see around the Spanish Steps

The Barcaccia fountain

At the foot of the steps sits the Barcaccia, a half-sunken stone boat by Pietro Bernini, father of Gian Lorenzo. The water pressure here is low, so the fountain sits almost at street level.

Trinità dei Monti

The church at the top has twin bell towers and an obelisk in front. Then, from the terrace, you get one of the best free views of Rome’s domes and rooftops.

The Keats-Shelley House

The English poet John Keats died in 1821 in the house on the right side of the steps. Today it is a small museum about the Romantic poets who lived in Rome.

Via Condotti and the shopping streets

Straight ahead from the steps runs Via Condotti, the most famous luxury shopping street in Rome. Meanwhile, the parallel streets hold more affordable shops, cafés and art galleries.

When to visit the Spanish Steps

The steps are open all day and all night, so timing is up to you. Early morning is best for photos, before the crowds arrive. By contrast, late afternoon brings warm light on the travertine and a lively scene in the square.

In spring, the city decorates the Spanish Steps with pots of azaleas. According to Turismo Roma, the display runs from about mid-April to mid-May and dates back to the 1950s. In fall, the crowds are thinner and the light is softer, which makes it a good season for a relaxed walk.

How to combine the Spanish Steps with a day in Rome

The Spanish Steps sit at the start of an easy walking loop. First, climb to Trinità dei Monti and follow the road to the Pincio terrace. Then continue into Villa Borghese, where the Borghese Gallery holds Bernini’s sculptures; read our guide to Borghese Gallery tickets before you go, because entry needs a booking.

Alternatively, head downhill toward the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon, about a 10-minute walk away. Our Rome travel guide has more ideas, and our Italy travel tips cover the practical side.

Tours that include the Spanish Steps

Many walking tours of the center stop at the Spanish Steps. Options worth considering include a Rome night tour, a golf cart tour of Rome and a guided Borghese Gallery tour for the art up the hill. Also, compare the best tours in Rome for a first visit.

The Pantheon is a short walk away. Our guide to Pantheon tickets explains the entry fee, free categories and opening hours.

Spanish Steps: frequently asked questions

Can you sit on the Spanish Steps?

No. Since 2019, Rome’s urban police regulation bans sitting and lying on the steps, and the local police can fine offenders.

Is it free to visit the Spanish Steps?

Yes. The steps are a public space, free and open at all hours.

Why are they called the Spanish Steps?

They take their name from the Spanish embassy to the Holy See on Piazza di Spagna, even though French funds paid for them.

When are the azaleas on the Spanish Steps?

According to Turismo Roma, the azalea display usually runs from about mid-April to mid-May.

What is the nearest metro stop to the Spanish Steps?

Spagna, on metro line A, opens right next to the square.