Rome is undergoing a veritable cultural revolution that aims to make the capital’s historical heritage available to its citizens. On February 2, 2026, a structural reform of the Capitoline museum system came into force, breaking down economic barriers for those who live in the area on a daily basis, while introducing new management methods for international tourist flows.
Free access to museums for residents
The most significant change concerns the introduction of total and permanent free admission for all residents of Rome and the Metropolitan City. These are no longer sporadic initiatives or limited to the first Sundays of the month: from now on, anyone residing in the metropolitan area will be able to cross the threshold of the main municipal museums without paying for a ticket.
Among the institutions involved are the Capitoline Museums, the Centrale Montemartini, the Trajan’s Markets, and the Ara Pacis Museum. The measure also extends to more niche but immensely valuable institutions, such as the Museum of Rome in Trastevere, the Gallery of Modern Art, and the entire network of Villa Torlonia Museums. Archaeological sites scattered throughout the area—from the Sepulchres of Via Statilia to the Mithraeum of the Circus Maximus —will also become accessible free of charge, although for many of them advance booking or special opening hours will still be required.
Access for university students and residents remains unchanged. Thanks to the MIC Card, they can continue to enjoy the same benefits, confirming the city’s commitment to young people and education.
A turning point for the Trevi Fountain
While the doors are opening for locals, the City Council has introduced a historic change for non-resident visitors to one of the world’s most iconic monuments: the Trevi Fountain. For the first time, access to the inner perimeter of the fountain is regulated by a €2 ticket.
This measure is not only for financial reasons, but also aims to manage the immense crowds that have been putting a strain on the conservation of the site for years. Paid access is available from 9:00 a.m. (or 11:30 a.m. on Mondays and Fridays) until 10:00 p.m. After that time, the fountain is once again visible to everyone free of charge. It is important to note that residents, children under the age of 6, and people with disabilities still have free access to the cordoned-off area.