Spanish Steps (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Spanish Steps?
What makes it 68% Kids-Friendly: Kids can race up the wide landings and sample water at the boat fountain, but no seating, thick foot traffic, and pickpocket risk make prolonged visits tiring and require close supervision.
Positives:
- Central location: Next to designer shops and easy to combine with Piazza di Spagna strolls.
- Free activities: Climbing steps and fountain play cost nothing.
Challenges:
- Crowded midday: Heavy tourist traffic can make climbing with kids tricky.
- No sitting allowed: Official rules ban sitting on the steps; fines apply.
What is Spanish Steps?
- An 18th-century Baroque staircase linking Piazza di Spagna with the Trinità dei Monti church
- Composed of 135 travertine steps arranged in a graceful butterfly-shaped layout across three terraces
- Commissioned by a French diplomat and executed by Italian architects to harmonize the differing elevations of piazza and terrace
What is so special about Spanish Steps for with kids?
- Friendly wide landings let kids run and climb safely
- Low fountain spouts are perfect for water play
- Nearby gelato and pastries satisfy young and adult tastes
- Free activity with easy access and central location
Recommended visit duration: 15-30 minutes
Why 15-30 minutes visit duration is ideal for with kids: Kids can climb the steps, play at the fountain, and grab a gelato without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Spanish Steps
Climb and race on the steps:
Let kids burn off energy by timing each other up the 135 travertine stairs.
Tip: Try a friendly race at the widest landing to keep it safe and fun.
Play at Fontana della Barcaccia:
Let children lean over its low spouts to taste fresh spring water.
Tip: Bring reusable bottles so kids can refill and stay hydrated.
Gelato at La Strega Nocciola:
Reward the climb with artisanal gelato just off the steps.
Tip: Try flavors like basil or chocolate; scoops cost about €2.50 each.
Pastries and drinks at Antico Caffè Greco:
Parents sip espresso while kids enjoy milkshakes or sweets.
Tip: Order maritozzo or panna cotta for a local pastry experience.
When is the best time to visit Spanish Steps (Rome, Italy)?
In summer, visit early or late to avoid heat. In spring and fall, crowds thin out midweek. In winter, bring jackets for chilly breezes atop the steps.
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Reviews of Spanish Steps (Rome)
Gregory Cunniff
We decided to visit here due to the reputation primarily as well as to view the fountain slow and the church at the top. It wasn’t too busy despite this being a jubilee year as it’s September but there are certain things you should stop and appreciate and the Spanish Steps (named for the square and embassy at the bottom) are one of those places. More than just the history which took way too long t...
Tiffany Chong
⭐ 3.5/5 – Beautiful Steps, Sunset Not Ideal ⏰ Timing & Visit We visited in the evening hoping for a sunset, but the view wasn’t ideal—the famous Spanish Steps view doesn’t face the sunset, and surrounding buildings blocked most of the sky colors. 🪜 Climbing Tip To get a farther view of the sunset, you need to climb all the way up the steps. This gives a more meaningful perspective if you want t...
Gopala krishnan Vellingiri (VGK)
When we visited, there were no flowers, so it was simply a set of steps. It’s best to keep this spot for the end of your Rome sightseeing, as you can sit, relax, and wind down before heading back to your room. The metro is within walking distance, making it easy to reach other main attractions from here. If you go to the top, you can also catch a nice sunset view.
Brian Mercer
Awesome view from these historic steps. Do not sit or eat! Show respect to the culture, please. Fronted by a wonderful fountain, these steps are worth the effort! A great view awaits you at the top. The history of the steps are very interesting as well. You should add this to your list to visit when in Rome
Massimino Malacrino
Truly is beautiful! But people are sitting on the steps & sleeping on them so disrespectful! The fountain at the bottom is truly unique and you can get water from it ! To many people take the magic away for their social media they stand there taking to many photos in one spot it’s embarrassing! The world is getting worse there not enjoying what they see ! Enjoy my pictures as I only took a couple ...
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Gelato (4 scoops) | EUR 10 |
| Pastries and drinks (4) | EUR 20 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 30 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Spanish Steps
- Bring refillable bottles: Use the fountain to refill and save on bottled water.
- Visit off-peak: Go early or late to avoid crowds and heat.
Map of Spanish Steps
Address: Piazza di Spagna, 00187 Roma RM, Italy
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