Rome's "Nasoni": where to find the best (and free) water in the city!

Rome is the only city in the world that offers a monumental open bar thousands of kilometers long. If you're walking among the ruins of the Forum or the alleys of Trastevere and feel thirsty, don't rush to the first tourist bar to buy a warm plastic bottle. Instead, look for a Nasone. But what exactly is a Nasone, and why do Romans love it so much? Here's everything you need to know about the planet's most iconic public water feature. 1. Why are they called that? The "Nasone" is the typical Roman cast iron drinking fountain, first introduced in 1874. The name comes from the curved shape of the metal spout, which resembles a large nose. Today, there are approximately 2,500 scattered throughout the city (and over 200 within the walls of the historic center). They're everywhere: in the most famous squares and in the most hidden corners.

2. The water is drinkable (and delicious!) Many tourists hesitate when they see a public fountain, fearing the water isn't safe. Nothing could be more wrong! The water that flows from the Nasoni is the same water that reaches Roman homes: it's meticulously controlled, low in sodium, and always cold, because it flows continuously through deep underground pipes. It's not just water: it's liquid history. Many of the aqueducts that feed these fountains still follow the lines designed by ancient Roman engineers over 2,000 years ago. 3. The "hole" trick (to drink like a true Roman) Look closely at the Nasone spout: you'll notice a small hole at the top of the bend. Here's how to use it correctly without getting your clothes wet: Don't bend over with your face under the main stream (beginner style). Place a finger under the main water outlet to stop the flow. As if by magic, the water will spurt upward through the top hole, creating a perfect jet for drinking comfortably and in style. 4. An eco-friendly (and wallet-saving) gesture Buying bottled water in Rome, besides being expensive, produces a huge amount of plastic waste. Bring a thermal water bottle: filling it at the Nasoni will save you between 10 and 20 euros a week and help keep the city cleaner. Insider tip: There's a free app called "Waidy WOW" that shows you the nearest Nasone on a map in real time. It's the ultimate ally for July days! Beyond the thirst for water, the thirst for stories Rome is a generous city: it gives you the best water in the world and breathtaking views around every corner. But to truly understand what you're looking at while filling your water bottle, you need a guide who knows the secrets behind every stone. Did you know that some fountains in Rome hide esoteric messages or ancient curses? If you want to discover the capital beyond its surface, join us. Our experiential tours are designed for those who want to discover the "authentic Rome": the Nasoni, the quiet alleys, and the stories no history book will ever tell you. Fill your water bottle and join us: discover our walking tours!