Piazza Trilussa

The basics

The stately Acqua Paola water fountain sits at the center of this charming square. Carved with heads of dragons and lions, the fountain dates back to the early 17th century. Piazza Trilussa is a common starting point for exploring the narrow cobbled streets and attractive wine bars of Trastevere. Several city tours such as food- and history-themed tours include this square and neighborhood in their itineraries.

Things to know before you go

*Piazza Trilussa is a must-see attraction for history lovers and cultural travelers looking to experience local nightlife. *Streets are cobbled and uneven; wear flat shoes. *Bars, clubs, and restaurants fill the neighborhood, so expect a lively, sometimes quite crowded, atmosphere at night.

How to get there

Located at the western end of the Ponte Sisto bridge, Piazza Trilussa is a gateway to the Trastevere neighborhood. Most visitors arrive on foot or by taxi as parking is very limited in this area of Rome. Bus no. 271 connects to this piazza from the Colosseum.

When to get there

To experience Piazza Trilussa at its most vibrant, go for a stroll in Trastevere in the early evening hours. Locals will be enjoying aperitivo, or a drink before dinner, and this is an ideal time for people watching. After dinner in the neighborhood, return to Piazza Trilussa to see how the square becomes increasingly festive as the evening rolls on.

Gateway to Trastevere

Beyond Piazza Trilussa, there’s much to explore in Trastevere. Check out a historic church, the Basilica of Santa Maria, visit the Botanical Garden of Rome, stop into small gelato shops, and wander through the Villa Farnesina museum. A weekly flea market in nearby Porta Portese also draws bargain shoppers on Sunday mornings.

Ways to explore

Piazza Trilussa is a common starting point for exploring the narrow cobbled streets and attractive wine bars of Trastevere. Some Trastevere walking tours are historical, often focusing on the Rome Jewish Ghetto or the neighborhood’s fabulous food options (or both). Trastevere street food tours focus on Roman specialties, such as deep-fried artichokes, whereas food and wine tours tend to be more upscale. You can also arrange photo shoots in the neighborhood.

Accessibility

The square is broadly accessible. But travelers with disabilities won’t be able to scale the fountain’s steps, while the cobbled streets of Trastevere may challenge some people who use wheelchairs.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Leave the expensive jewelry and flashy watches at home; Rome’s reputation for pickpocketing is deserved.

What to wear

Flat shoes to navigate cobblestones

Not allowed

Romans love a drink, but in the appropriate place. Getting a to-go bottle to drink on the steps would be even more of an etiquette breach than drinking coffee with dinner.

Address

Located at the western end of the Ponte Sisto bridge, Piazza Trilussa is a gateway to the Trastevere neighborhood. It’s about 0.5 miles (800 meters) south of Piazza Navona.

Driving

Driving in Rome is only for the very bravest, and Trastevere’s narrow streets are closed to people who don’t hold permits for part of the week. Walk, take a taxi or a rideshare, or join a tour.

Public transportation

The metro isn’t convenient for Trastevere, and Piazza Trilussa isn’t particularly well connected to buses and trams either. From Rome Termini station, you can catch the H bus to Sonnino/Gallicano; buses, including the 23 and 280, run along the west bank of the Tiber towards Castel Sant’Angelo.

Best times to visit

To experience Piazza Trilussa at its most vibrant, go for a stroll in Trastevere in the early evening. Locals will be enjoying aperitivo, or a drink before dinner, and this is an ideal time for people-watching. After dinner, come back to see how the evening rolls on.

Best days to visit

The atmosphere is buzziest on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.

Best months to visit

On a warm summer night, Trastevere can be absolutely magical.

Special events

Around Christmas, the square sometimes hosts religious performances.