About
The Spanish Steps, known in Italian as the Scalinata di Trinità dei Monti, are a monumental stairway in the heart of Rome. Their 135 steps climb from the Piazza di Spagna up to the church of Trinità dei Monti, and the wide flights and landings make the climb a visit in its own right.
What to expect
The steps are one of the city's best-known gathering places. Visitors sit on the stone, talk, rest, and watch the square below, so the atmosphere is usually lively, especially in good weather. The view from the top looks back over the Piazza di Spagna and the rooftops of the centre, and it rewards the effort of the climb.
- A monument and a meeting point, rather than a museum with set rooms to tour.
- Best approached on foot, pausing on the landings as you go up.
- The church of Trinità dei Monti stands at the top, at the end of the climb.
Around the steps
The Piazza di Spagna at the foot of the stairway is a good place to begin or end a visit. The surrounding streets of the historic centre are full of shops, cafés and places to eat, so a stop at the steps fits easily into a longer walk through the city. Plan the visit as part of a day exploring this part of Rome rather than as a separate outing.
Plan your visit
The Spanish Steps are an open public stairway, so there is no ticket to buy to see them. Because the spot is popular, expect crowds at busy times of day and go early or later in the day if you prefer a quieter visit. Wear comfortable shoes, since the climb is long.
