Piazza Navona, Rome, Italy - Piazza Navona
1 / 10

Piazza Navona

4.7
·204k reviews·Roma, Italy

Rome's most elegant Baroque square, built on an ancient stadium, featuring Bernini's masterpiece Fountain of Four Rivers.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, golden light

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Piazza Navona, Rome, Italy - Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, golden light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Rome's most elegant Baroque square, built on an ancient stadium, featuring Bernini's masterpiece Fountain of Four Rivers.

4.7
(204k reviews)

"A must-see in Rome, with stunning fountains and a lively atmosphere that captivates day and night."

Vertical photo
TIP

✨ Sunset Views

Catch the golden hour for stunning photos and a magical ambiance. The fountains glow beautifully!

🚶‍♀️ Explore Side Streets

Venture off the main square for authentic trattorias and charming shops.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Fountain of Four Rivers

Fountain of Four Rivers

Center of Piazza Navona

Bernini's masterpiece, a stunning Baroque fountain symbolizing four major rivers. A true Roman icon!

Sant'Agnese in Agone

Sant'Agnese in Agone

North end of Piazza Navona

A magnificent Baroque church with a striking facade, designed by Borromini. Admire its grandeur!

Stadium of Domitian (Underground)

Stadium of Domitian (Underground)

Beneath Piazza Navona

Explore the ancient Roman stadium's ruins, offering a unique glimpse into history. Fascinating underground tours!

Street Artists and Performers

Street Artists and Performers

Throughout the piazza

Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere created by talented artists and musicians. A lively and engaging experience!

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona can get very crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. Consider visiting early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the largest crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience. Some Redditors suggest that the square is particularly beautiful at sunset.

Navigating Piazza Navona's Charm

While the main attractions are the fountains and architecture, explore the surrounding narrow streets for hidden gems like local eateries and artisan shops. Be aware that some areas might be under restoration, as noted by travelers.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, golden light
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Magical atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Avoid weekend rush
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Everyone knows Piazza Navona in Rome. But very few know that you can go underground 😉 Piazza Navona was built right on top of the ancient Roman Stadium of Domitian, that is why it has this shape! We t...
@livevirtualguide
25.4K likes • 434.5K views

✨ Sunset Views

Catch the golden hour for stunning photos and a magical ambiance. The fountains glow beautifully! Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore Side Streets

Venture off the main square for authentic trattorias and charming shops. Reddit

Just steps from Piazza Navona and Via Coronari, this café is one of those Rome hidden gems that’s somehow stayed off the tourist radar. The kind of place you only find when someone lets you in on the ...
@travelento
22.9K likes • 216.1K views
✨ Detailed Itinerary ✨ Day 1-2: ROME In 2 days, we covered the classics: Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, Spanish Steps, and the Colosseum. And yes — we shopped (Via del Corso & Monti are must-visits)...
thecisterco
3.7K likes • 184.9K views

🏛️ Underground History

Don't miss the Stadium of Domitian for a unique historical perspective. TikTokInstagram

☕ Coffee Break

Grab a coffee at a nearby cafe for a classic Roman experience. Reddit

Everyone knows Piazza Navona in Rome. But very few know that you can go underground 😉 Piazza Navona was built right on top of the ancient Roman Stadium of Domitian, that is why it has this shape! We ...
livevirtualguide
37.6K likes • 1.5M views

Tips

from all over the internet

✨ Sunset Views

Catch the golden hour for stunning photos and a magical ambiance. The fountains glow beautifully! Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore Side Streets

Venture off the main square for authentic trattorias and charming shops. Reddit

🏛️ Underground History

Don't miss the Stadium of Domitian for a unique historical perspective. TikTokInstagram

☕ Coffee Break

Grab a coffee at a nearby cafe for a classic Roman experience. Reddit

🎨 Admire Bernini's Art

Take time to appreciate the intricate details of the Fountain of Four Rivers. TikTok

⚠️ Check for Restorations

Some landmarks might have scaffolding; check ahead for current conditions. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(204k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Piazza Navona is universally loved for its stunning Baroque architecture, particularly Bernini's Fountain of Four Rivers, and its vibrant atmosphere filled with artists and performers. Visitors appreciate its historical significance as the site of an ancient Roman stadium and its lively ambiance, especially in the evenings. Some find the immediate area quite touristy with higher prices, and occasional scaffolding can detract from views.

"One of many piazza in Rome where people segregates at for all sorts of purposes. Be amazed by the fountains here and the obelisk which seems to be Egyptian more than Rome or Greek. From here, you can easily walk to the pantheon to spend hours at. Lots of restaurants and stores are here for local food and cuisines. Careful of the non-locals street peddlers. There are videos online of what they do."

Lucas Tan

"Piazza Navona is easily the most beautiful piazza in all of Rome. Three stunning fountains anchor the north, center, and south ends of the square, each one a masterpiece. The piazza is lined with lively restaurants offering plenty of outdoor seating, and there's always a vibrant buzz in the air. Whether you're stopping by during the day or in the evening, it's full of charm and atmosphere."

Casey Perepelecta

"The Piazza was pretty, but the real stunner was the church just beside it, you randomly walk in and see beautiful sculptures and a wonderful pained domes building. Stand in the centre and look up and you will feel the cold air coming up from the crypt below."

Steve James

What People Like

Beautiful fountains
Lively atmosphere
Historic significance

What People Dislike

Tourist crowds
High prices nearby

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From the Colosseum, you can take a bus (e.g., line 87) or a taxi to reach Piazza Navona. Alternatively, it's a pleasant walk of about 25-30 minutes through historic streets. TikTokInstagram

Yes, several bus lines stop near Piazza Navona, making it easily accessible. The closest tram stop is Largo di Torre Argentina, which is a short walk away. Instagram

From Termini Station, you can take bus number 64 or 492 directly to a stop near Piazza Navona. Taxis are also readily available. Instagram

Absolutely! It's a very short and scenic walk, taking only about 5-10 minutes. The route is well-signposted and passes through charming streets. InstagramReddit

Parking in the immediate vicinity of Piazza Navona is very difficult and expensive due to its central location and pedestrian-friendly nature. It's best to use public transport or walk. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Piazza Navona itself is a public square and is free to enter and explore at any time. TikTok

The fountains, including the famous Fountain of Four Rivers, are part of the public square and do not require tickets or have entrance fees. TikTok

Piazza Navona is always open, as it is an outdoor public space. However, shops and restaurants around the piazza will have their own operating hours. Instagram

Yes, there is a fee to enter the Stadium of Domitian museum and explore the underground ruins. Booking tickets in advance is recommended. Reddit

Piazza Navona often hosts various events, concerts, and street performances, especially during festive seasons. It's worth checking local listings. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The main attractions are the Fountain of Four Rivers by Bernini, the Fountain of Neptune, the Fountain of the Moor, and the church of Sant'Agnese in Agone. TikTok

Piazza Navona retains the shape of the ancient Stadium of Domitian, built in the 1st century AD, which was used for athletic contests. TikTokInstagram

Yes, many guided tours are available that cover Piazza Navona and its history, including the underground stadium. TikTok

Comfortable walking shoes are essential as you'll likely be doing a lot of walking. Dress in layers as Roman weather can change. Reddit

The piazza itself is largely flat and accessible. However, some older buildings and underground sites may have limited accessibility. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Look for trattorias in the smaller streets east of the piazza for more authentic and less touristy options. Reddit+1

Yes, Osteria de Memmo and Il Conte Brillo are recommended for their great food and nice ambiance, perfect for a semi-romantic meal. Reddit+1

Hosteria Grappolo d'Oro, Armando al Pantheon, and Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina (reservations essential) are frequently praised for their quality. Reddit+1

Pizzeria Da Baffetto is a highly recommended spot for pizza, though it's known for its queues. Reddit

The 'tartufo' is a famous chocolate ice cream dessert, and it's said to have been created in the vicinity of Piazza Navona. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Early morning or late afternoon/evening offer the best light for photography, with fewer crowds and beautiful golden hour hues. Instagram

The Fountain of Four Rivers, Sant'Agnese in Agone church, and the general ambiance of the piazza with its artists are highly photogenic. TikTok

Generally, there are no restrictions on photography in the public areas of Piazza Navona. However, be mindful of private businesses and churches. TikTok

For daytime, a moderate aperture (f/8-f/11) for good depth of field. For evenings, a wider aperture and higher ISO or a tripod for sharper shots. Instagram

Drone usage is generally restricted in central Rome, especially over historical sites and public squares like Piazza Navona, due to safety and privacy regulations. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Piazza Navona is a fantastic spot for families. The open space allows children to move around, and the street artists and performers often captivate young audiences. TikTok The Fountain of Four Rivers is particularly engaging, with its animal sculptures and dramatic figures. Consider a visit to the Stadium of Domitian for an interactive history lesson that can make the past come alive for kids. Reddit

When it comes to food, look for pizzerias or trattorias in the side streets that offer simpler pasta dishes or pizza, which are usually kid-friendly. Reddit Keep an eye out for gelato shops – a guaranteed hit with children. Comfortable shoes are a must for everyone, as exploring the piazza and nearby streets involves a lot of walking.

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Piazza Navona itself is free to enjoy, making it an excellent budget-friendly attraction. You can spend hours simply soaking in the atmosphere, watching the artists, and admiring the fountains without spending a euro. TikTok Pack your own water bottle and snacks to save money on drinks and treats from the more tourist-oriented vendors directly on the piazza. Reddit

For affordable meals, explore the side streets away from the main square, where you're more likely to find trattorias offering better prices and authentic local food. Reddit+1 Consider a 'pizza al taglio' (pizza by the slice) or a simple pasta dish from a 'pastificio' (pasta shop) for a delicious and budget-conscious meal. Reddit

couples

Piazza Navona offers a wonderfully romantic setting, especially in the late afternoon and evening. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the fountains, perhaps stopping for an 'aperitivo' at a bar with a view. Instagram The ambiance becomes truly magical as the sun sets and the piazza lights up. TikTok

For a romantic dinner, seek out restaurants in the charming side streets that offer a more intimate atmosphere and excellent Italian cuisine. Reddit+1 Consider a gelato from one of the many shops for a sweet end to your evening. The proximity to other historic sites like the Pantheon also makes it ideal for a romantic evening walk through Rome's historic center. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History Beneath Your Feet: Stadium of Domitian

Piazza Navona's distinctive elongated shape is no accident; it's a direct legacy of the Stadium of Domitian, built in the 1st century AD. This ancient arena was primarily used for athletic contests, including foot races, hence its name 'Circus Agonalis' (field of combat). Today, visitors can descend beneath the modern piazza to explore the remarkably preserved archaeological remains of the stadium's structure, including seating areas and the original walls. TikTokInstagram

These underground excavations offer a fascinating glimpse into Rome's imperial past, revealing the scale and purpose of the original stadium. The site often hosts exhibitions and provides context about the gladiatorial games and athletic events that once took place here. It's a stark contrast to the vibrant Baroque square above, highlighting centuries of Roman history layered upon each other. Reddit

Exploring the Stadium of Domitian is a highly recommended activity for those interested in Roman history and provides a unique perspective on how the modern piazza evolved from its ancient origins. It’s a testament to Rome’s enduring historical footprint. TikTok

Bernini vs. Borromini: A Baroque Rivalry

Piazza Navona is a showcase for the artistic rivalry between two of the Baroque era's greatest masters: Gian Lorenzo Bernini and Francesco Borromini. Bernini's Fountain of Four Rivers (Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi) dominates the center of the piazza, a dynamic masterpiece representing the Nile, Ganges, Danube, and Plate rivers. Its dramatic sculptures and central obelisk are a focal point of the square's energy. TikTok

Facing the fountain is Borromini's Sant'Agnese in Agone, a church whose facade curves inward, creating a sense of theatricality and dialogue with Bernini's fountain. Legend has it that Borromini designed the church to 'turn away' from Bernini's fountain, though this is debated by art historians. Regardless, the interplay between the fountain and the church is a defining feature of Piazza Navona's Baroque splendor. TikTok

Beyond these two titans, the Fountain of Neptune and the Fountain of the Moor also add to the piazza's artistic richness, showcasing the era's grandeur and Bernini's influence. The entire square is a living museum of Baroque art and architecture. TikTok

Culinary Delights Around Navona

While Piazza Navona itself is bustling with cafes and restaurants catering to tourists, venturing into the surrounding narrow streets can lead to more authentic culinary experiences. Redditors often recommend seeking out these side streets for better value and quality. Reddit+1

For a truly Roman pasta experience, Senza Fondo is highlighted for its all-you-can-eat Roman pasta dishes like carbonara and amatriciana. TikTok Other highly praised establishments include Hosteria Grappolo d'Oro, recognized by Slow Food and Michelin, and Armando al Pantheon, both offering traditional Roman cuisine. Reddit+1

Don't forget to try local specialties like 'supplì' (fried rice balls) or enjoy an 'aperitivo' at places like I Pizzicaroli. For dessert, the famous 'tartufo' ice cream is a must-try, with origins linked to the area. Reddit+1

You may also like

1 of 2