Trevi Fountain, Rome
Must-SeeThe world's most famous fountain — Nicola Salvi's theatrical cascade fed by a Roman aqueduct. Visit at 7am or 11pm to avoid crowds.
Bernini's Four Rivers Fountain, Piazza Navona
Must-SeeFour river gods representing four continents. The obelisk balancing on the hollow rock is Bernini's engineering joke. Best at night.
Fontana di Diana, Siracusa
Must-SeeAn Art Nouveau fountain in Ortigia's main square — Diana surrounded by nymphs and sea creatures.
Fontana Maggiore, Perugia
Must-SeeNicola and Giovanni Pisano's Gothic masterpiece — 50 carved relief panels illustrating the months, seasons, and liberal arts.
Fontana del Nettuno, Bologna
Must-SeeGiambologna's muscular Neptune — the fountain that gave the city its nickname and inspired the Maserati trident logo.
Where to start
Italy has the world's greatest concentration of fountains. Use this guide to find the masterpieces — then let yourself be surprised by what you discover on your own.