Fontana Barcaccia (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Fontana Barcaccia?
What makes it 57% Baby-Friendly: The flat, car-free square is stroller-friendly and cafés offer emergency diaper stops, yet there is no shade, nursing room, or changing table, and dense crowds make feeding or calming a baby difficult.
Positives:
- Stroller access: The pedestrian-only piazza is flat with no steps or barriers
- Flexible hours: The fountain is open 24/7 so you can time your visit around naps
Challenges:
- No baby facilities: There are no changing tables or nursing rooms at the fountain itself
- Peak crowds: Midday tour groups can crowd the plaza and narrow pathways
What is Fontana Barcaccia?
- A 17th-century Baroque fountain sculpted in the shape of a half-sunken ship
- Commissioned by Pope Urban VIII and executed by Pietro Bernini at the foot of the Spanish Steps in Piazza di Spagna
- Built to commemorate the 1598 flood, featuring a low-profile design that lets water lap gently over its curved hull
What is so special about Fontana Barcaccia for with baby?
- View a 17th-century baroque ship carved in travertine
- Enjoy a free, stroller-friendly stop in Piazza di Spagna
- Refill water bottles at the fountain’s edge spouts
- Pair with a quick photo at the Spanish Steps backdrop
Recommended visit duration: 30-45 minutes
Why 30-45 minutes visit duration is ideal for with baby: A short stop fits your baby’s schedule and covers the fountain and plaza
Baby-Friendly Activities in Fontana Barcaccia
Boat sculpture viewing:
Admire the half-sunk ship carved by Pietro Bernini at street level
Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and keep the stroller close on the flat piazza
Photo with Spanish Steps:
Frame the fountain against the iconic steps behind
Tip: Sit on the lowest step, secure your baby in the stroller, and use a wide-angle shot
Refill water trough:
Use the fountain’s edge spouts to top up your bottle
Tip: Bring a clean bottle to refill baby’s drinking water from the potable tap
Nearby café break:
Enjoy coffee or gelato at Caffetteria Barcaccia overlooking the fountain
Tip: Buy a small item to use their restroom for baby-changing and a shaded break
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Fontana Barcaccia
- Best times to visit: Go at 8 AM or after 2 PM to avoid peak crowds and heat
- Leverage café restrooms: Buy a small snack to use indoor facilities for baby-care needs
Reviews of Fontana Barcaccia
Khalid Aldubaikhy
We visited the Fontana della Barcaccia this afternoon and found it to be as charming as expected. The "sinking boat" design is so unique and beautiful, making it a real centerpiece at the foot of the Spanish Steps. As expected for a famous spot in Rome, it was a little crowded and busy, with plenty of people taking photos. Despite the crowds, the atmosphere was lively and energetic. It's definite...
Murillo Pontual
The Fontana della Barcaccia is a charming fountain shaped like a sinking boat, nestled at the base of the Spanish Steps. Its unique design and gentle water flow make it a peaceful gem amid the lively Piazza di Spagna.
Alexandra Hamilton
A beautiful little gem at the base of the Spanish Steps ⛲️ The Fontana della Barcaccia may not be as grand as Rome’s other fountains, but its charm and history make it worth a stop. Designed in the early 1600s, it’s shaped like a half-sunken boat and is said to be inspired by the flooding of the Tiber River 💭 I visited in the evening, and while it can get quite crowded, it’s still a lovely spot...
Bjørnar Utseth
The Fontana della Barcaccia is a charming little jewel at the base of the Spanish Steps. Shaped like a half-sunken boat, it’s unlike any other fountain in Rome and has a very unique character. I loved how its gentle water flow creates a calm, refreshing atmosphere in such a lively spot. It’s the perfect place to pause before climbing the Spanish Steps or after exploring the area. Sitting by the f...
Coral Cleland
A truly beautiful part of Rome to visit. Beware of pick pockets, wanting to take advantage of the tourist. A must see on your visit to Rome.
When is the best time to visit Fontana Barcaccia (Rome, Italy)?
Summer: attach a sunshade to the stroller and bring extra water. Winter: dress baby in layers against wind. Spring/Autumn: visit at 9 AM before tour groups arrive. December: enjoy holiday lights after dusk.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Fountain visit (free) | EUR 0 |
| Cappuccino at nearby café | EUR 3.5 |
| Public restroom fee | EUR 1 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 4.5 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Fontana Barcaccia
Address: Piazza di Spagna, 00187 Roma RM, Italy
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About Fontana Barcaccia
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+39 06 6710 323810 BEST nearby Activities
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