When I go out for a walk in any city I usually bring a bottle of water with me, just in case I'm thirsty. When I walk in the streets of Rome I don't really have to care about it, I can easily find a standpipe, a so called "nasone".
The "nasoni" are a real institution in the city. These standpipes were built around 1870. The first version was designed with a dragon head as ornament. Now you can find just a few of these in the city: one of the oldest is in piazza della Rotonda (Pantheon). All the others are a simplified version, without the dragon head, and it's actually these which gave the inspiration for the name. Nasone in Italian means big nose and if you look at these standpipes you can easily understand why they have this name.
Even if these standpipes use a lot of water, the Romans really love them. The society for the distribution of the public water in the city has decided to make an interactive online map with all the "nasoni" in the city. You can find it scrolling its homepage and you will find the link at the end of this page so you will always know where you can drink for free.
Find your way with 170 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Need a peaceful break during a busy day? Come and sit in Saba Caffè's garden and enjoy seasonal pastries and their menu from antipasti to pasta.
by
La Norcineria di Iacozzilli isn’t just a place to eat — it’s a place to connect with history, culture, and the timeless joy of simple, delicious food.
by
Emporio Sant’Eustachio near the Pantheon offers specialty coffee and pastries, including vegan and gluten-free options. Grab a table and enjoy!
by
Cozy vegan spot near Piazza Navona serving creative veggie dishes, organic wines & reinvented Italian classics. Try the chickpea and lentil "meatballs"!
by
Caffe Peru near Campo de’ Fiori has true Roman charm with its eclectic decor and lively atmosphere. Grab an aperitivo and enjoy people-watching!
by
Reserva Restaurante blends a chic and modern style with upbeat music, colorful cocktails, seafood and Argentine-inspired dishes in Rome’s historic center.
by
At Vino e Vinili feels like you are hanging out at a friend's house as you browse through records, play your favorite tunes and chat with the friendly staff.
by
"Gelateria Fassi" in Rome is a historical gelato shop almost all locals know. The atmosphere takes you back in time, and it's open 24/7, too!
by
"Al Gallo Rosso" in Rome is loud, informal and sincere. The perfect pizzeria to take your friends for some arrosticini to enjoy the company of each other!
by
"Parco della Caffarella" in Rome has been my gym, my mountain, my restaurant, my first date. I wouldn't be the same today without this piece of nature...
by
"Caffè Ciamei" has the oldest coffee license in Rome and it's still one of my favorite places in town to get a cup. Try their cremina instead of sugar!
by
170 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 170 Insider Tips