Rome: Trevi Fountain and Navona Square Underground Tour

Exploring Rome’s famous squares and underground sites, the Rome: Trevi Fountain and Navona Square Underground Tour offers a fascinating mix of above-ground beauty and hidden archaeology. Priced at around €54, this 2.5-hour walking experience departs from Spagna Square, guiding visitors through notable landmarks like the Trevi Fountain, Navona Square, and the Stadium of Domitian.

This tour stands out for its combination of outdoor sightseeing and underground exploration. It is ideal for those who appreciate art, history, and architecture, but it’s important to note that the tour may not suit visitors with mobility impairments, claustrophobia, or wheelchair needs. The small group size and live guide help create an engaging experience, especially for those eager to learn about lesser-known Roman sites.

Key Points

• Includes underground sites like the Stadium of Domitian and Vicus Caprarius
• Start in Spagna Square, with a visit to Bernini’s Barcaccia Fountain
• Discover the hidden features of the Trevi Fountain and make a wish
• Walk along the iconic squares of Navona and Rotonda Square
• Learn about ancient water systems and Roman relics through archaeological findings
• Tour duration is approximately 2.5 hours with skip-the-line access

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Meet at Spagna Square Near the Acqua di Parma Store

The tour begins at Spagna Square, directly in front of the “Acqua di Parma” store. The guide is easy to spot, holding a lollipop with “The Voyager” logo. This central meeting point makes it straightforward for visitors to find the group, and the coordinates 41.9057, 12.4823 help with navigation.

Starting from this lively square, the tour quickly immerses you in the vibrant atmosphere of Rome’s historic center. The walking pace is manageable, and the meeting point’s location is a convenient hub for exploring nearby landmarks.

Visiting Bernini’s Barcaccia Fountain in Spagna Square

Your exploration kicks off in front of Bernini’s famous Barcaccia Fountain, a charming water feature at the heart of Spagna Square. Here, the guide introduces the tour’s theme of combining surface beauty with underground secrets. The fountain’s design is a highlight, and it sets the scene for the treasure hunt of hidden Rome to follow.

This initial stop allows you to appreciate the lively square, often crowded with locals and travelers, before heading toward the Trevi Fountain. The tour includes passing through the domus aqueduct to access the hidden part of Trevi Fountain, adding an extra layer of discovery to this iconic site.

Toss a Coin and Discover Trevi Fountain’s Hidden Features

At the Trevi Fountain, visitors get the chance to make a wish by throwing a coin into the world-famous water feature. Beyond its aesthetic allure, the tour offers insights into hidden aspects of the fountain, revealing details many visitors might overlook.

The guide explains the story behind the fountain and the passage through the domus aqueduct, which connects the fountain to ancient water systems. This underground element adds a unique dimension to the usual sightseeing of Rome’s most photographed fountain.

Exploring the Vicus Caprarius and the City of Water

Descending underground, the tour takes you into the Vicus Caprarius, also known as the City of Water archaeological site. Here, ancient Roman waterworks and artifacts are on display, including amphorae and coins uncovered during excavation.

The Vicus Caprarius showcases how water from the Trevi Fountain and other sources flowed through Roman masonry, providing insight into ancient engineering. This part of the tour is especially engaging for those interested in archaeology and Roman infrastructure.

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Discovering the Stadium of Domitian Beneath Navona Square

One of the tour’s most intriguing surprises is the Stadium of Domitian, located 5 meters below Navona Square. After walking through the square, the guide leads visitors underground to explore this ancient Roman sports arena.

The development of this site from stadium to current square reflects Rome’s layered history. Visitors learn about Roman entertainment and see archaeological findings from the days of the Roman Empire, adding depth and context to their understanding of the city.

Admiring Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers at Navona Square

Back in Navona Square, the tour continues with a visit to the Fountain of the Four Rivers, a masterpiece by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. This baroque fountain features four river gods symbolizing the four continents known at the time.

While in the square, visitors can also appreciate the surrounding architecture and the lively atmosphere. The guide explains the artistic and historical significance of Bernini’s work, completing the experience with a visual feast of Rome’s artistic heritage.

The Development of Roman Squares and Ancient Sports

Throughout the tour, the guide shares stories of how these squares evolved, from ancient Roman sports arenas like the Stadium of Domitian to the modern public spaces. These insights help contextualize Rome’s urban development from imperial times to today.

You also see artifacts from the Roman Empire era, uncovered during excavations, which showcase everyday life and leisure activities in ancient Rome. This historical perspective enriches the visual experience of the architectural sights.

Practical Tips and Accessibility Notes

The tour is designed for comfort, but it may not suit individuals with mobility impairments, claustrophobia, or wheelchair users. It requires walking, and descents into underground sites involve standing and navigating stairs or confined areas.

Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring water and ID or passport, and dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour takes place rain or shine. The group size is kept manageable, enhancing interaction with the live guide.

Final Thoughts on the Tour’s Value

This 2.5-hour experience offers an engaging way to see Rome’s most famous squares while uncovering hidden underground sites. The skip-the-line access and live guides make it a practical choice for those wanting a structured, informative tour with special underground visits.

While some reviews note that most of the tour is above ground, the underground exploration of the Stadium of Domitian and Vicus Caprarius provides a distinctive edge. The cost reflects the special access and local expertise involved.

This tour is best suited for history enthusiasts, art lovers, and adventurers interested in Rome’s unseen layers. It’s a solid choice for visitors wanting a compact, informative experience that balances famous sights with archaeological discoveries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Spagna Square, near the “Acqua di Parma” store, with the guide holding a “The Voyager” logo.

What landmarks are visited during the tour?
Stops include Bernini’s Barcaccia Fountain, Trevi Fountain, Vicus Caprarius, Stadium of Domitian, and Navona Square with the Fountain of the Four Rivers.

Can I access the underground sites if I have mobility issues?
No, this tour may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments, claustrophobia, or wheelchair needs.

Are tickets included or do I need to buy them separately?
The tour includes skip-the-line access, and additional tickets are not necessary for the main sites; however, accessibility may be limited in underground areas.

Is this tour available rain or shine?
Yes, the tour takes place rain or shine, so dress accordingly.

What languages are the guides available in?
Guides and audio guides are offered in English and Italian.

Is there a refund policy?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How many people typically join this tour?
The exact group size isn’t specified, but the experience emphasizes small group interactions with the guide.

What should I bring on the tour?
Participants should bring passport or ID, comfortable shoes, water, and appropriate clothing.

This Rome: Trevi Fountain and Navona Square Underground Tour offers an accessible, compact way to enjoy Rome’s most celebrated squares plus underground secrets that deepen the understanding of the city’s ancient infrastructure. It balances famous landmarks with hidden archaeology, making it a worthwhile addition to any Rome itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby