Via Margutta

The basics

Via Margutta is not a street lined with sights, but there are a couple of places to pause—the former home of Italian film director Federico Fellini and a small fountain known as the Fontana delle Arti. You won’t find the lane as part of most city tours, but some walking tours do include it, particularly those focused on art or “hidden gems.”

Things to know before you go

*Via Margutta is ideal for those looking to get off the beaten path in Rome. *The lane is cobbled, like many of Rome’s streets, so high heels are not recommended. *Attractions within walking distance of Via Margutta include the Spanish Steps, Villa Borghese, and the River Tiber.

How to get there

Via Margutta runs parallel to the longer Via del Babuino, which stretches between Piazza del Popolo and Piazza di Spagna. The closest Metro station is Spagna on Line A.

When to get there

A public street, Via Margutta doesn’t open or close. It’s a nice place to arrive around midday in warmer months, when the sun starts to beat down and you’re looking for a shadier, cooler spot in the city. Twice a year, the “100 Pittori di Via Margutta” (100 Painters of Via Margutta) festival takes place along the lane, where Italian and international artists set up stalls to exhibit their work.

Spanish Steps

Piazza di Spagna is one of Rome’s most popular squares due mainly to its position as the bottom of the Spanish Steps—the wide staircase that rises from the piazza to Trinita dei Monti, a Renaissance church at the top. The piazza is also home to the baroque Fontana della Barcaccia and designer shops such as Prada.

Ways to explore

Via Margutta is a destination for its charm, and that beauty means it’s easy to find a tour that stops here. Bike, e-bike, and walking tours of Rome’s historic center may include a visit, although car and bus tours avoid the pedestrianized area. Tranquil and close to the Spanish Steps, it’s a popular location for photo shoots. Movie buffs can also visit on La Dolce Vita tours, which take in key locations from Fellini’s 1960 classic, as well as the director’s home.

Accessibility

Via Margutta is accessible to all, although the low cobbles may make using a wheelchair hard work.

Age limits

All ages are welcome, but there’s not a lot to engage younger children.

What to pack

Water bottle and sunscreen in summer

What to wear

Flat shoes for the cobblestones

Not allowed

Haggling

Amenities

Shops, restaurants, hotels

Address

Via Margutta runs parallel to the longer Via del Babuino, which stretches between Piazza del Popolo and Piazza di Spagna, about 1 mile (1.5 kilometers) north of Piazza Navona.

Driving

This is a pedestrian street, and Rome’s historic center is generally closed to vehicles without permits. Walk, use public transportation, jump in a taxi or a rideshare, or join a tour.

Public transportation

The closest Metro station is Spagna on Line A, a 5-minute walk away on Piazza di Spagna.

Best times to visit

A public street, Via Margutta doesn’t open or close. It’s a nice place to arrive around midday in warmer months, when the sun starts to beat down and you’re looking for a shadier, cooler spot in the city.

Best days to visit

If art is on your agenda, avoid Sundays, as most galleries and stores are closed then.

Best months to visit

Via Margutta is most charming in the warmer months, when the street is bathed in sunshine.

Special events

In spring and fall, the 100 Pittori di Via Margutta (100 Painters of Via Margutta) festival takes place along the lane, where Italian and international artists set up stalls to exhibit their work.