Finding the best areas of Rome to stay in can make all the difference in how you experience this historic city. Every neighborhood has a unique rhythm, charm, and hidden attractions, from Trastevere's cobbled alleys to Prati's elegant streets. If you are interested in the ancient sites of Rome, the lively nightlife, or the peaceful local cafes, a great spot is available.
While the Centro Storico places you at the heart of Rome's timeless beauty, nearby districts like Monti or Testaccio offer a more relaxed, budget-friendly stay without sacrificing convenience. To help you choose where to stay in Rome, here's a guide to the city's top neighborhoods, each with its vibe, highlights, and the perfect base for your Roman adventure.
1. Testaccio
The Testaccio/Ostensiense neighborhood is nestled behind Aventine Hill, just outside of Rome's historic city center. This neighborhood has interesting places, great restaurants, and unique specialty shops. The non-Catholic cemetery in Rome is particularly noteworthy because it is where poets Keats and Shelley were buried. Next to it, you'll discover a 2,000-year-old pyramid, formerly a Roman senator's tomb.
The Testaccio region has very few luxury hotels, but you'll get excellent value if you opt for an apartment or Airbnb. There may also be more parking available here if you're driving. While you may walk to the Colosseum and other ancient buildings from Testaccio, most of the city's attractions can only be reached by bus or Metro.
You can switch to the Vatican and Spanish Steps at Termini from the Piramide Metro stop on Line B. This region has historically been regarded as Rome's food bowl, and that reputation is still upheld today. Additionally, there is the Testaccio market, where you can get tasty street food and fresh produce. Studio apartments in Testaccios typically go for €1500 monthly.
2. Trastevere
Trastevere is a trendy area divided from Ancient Rome by the Tiber River. It's one of the best areas of Rome to stay for intending residents. Anyone may stay here and enjoy it; most of the main sights in the historic district and cobbled streets are within walking distance, but tourist crowds are not as bad as in Centro Storico.
Furthermore, charming hotels in Trastevere are less expensive than those on the right bank of the Tiber, with a wide selection of options to suit any budget. The same is true for dining establishments; Trastevere is among Rome's most outstanding Italian food and nightlife neighborhoods, offering affordable neighborhood bars and upscale rooftop lounges.
This walkable neighborhood offers many interesting views every few steps. A fifteen-minute stroll from your hotel will lead you to a charming cobblestone avenue lined with statues, plants, and a magnificent church. It's recommended to stay in Trastevere's north or southeast section; you'll be fine if you can walk to a bridge that crosses the Tiber River. Studio apartments in Trastevere typically cost €3000 monthly.
3. Monti
The tiny neighborhood known as Monti is between Via Cavour and Via Nazionale, extending up to the Santa Maria Maggiore Cathedral. It was formerly the slum area of the ancient city. However, it's now a charming and energetic area, with a focus on the bustling Piazza Madonna dei Monti, Via del Boschetto, and Via dei Serpenti, which run north from the area. Both are packed with enticing pubs and restaurants.
This city center is an excellent location to explore the apartment buildings and private terraces. Some cobblestone streets are filled with 5-star hotels. The district to pick for Bohemian style is Monti. Local boutiques, pubs, and restaurants radiate coolness, but the atmosphere is nice and lovely. The Santa Maria Maggiore is located in Monti, and the Colosseum and Forum are nearby. Studio apartments in Monti typically go for €1500 monthly.
4. Campo de Fiori
Located in the center of Rome, Campo Fiori is just a short stroll from the Pantheon and Piazza Navona. It's one of the best areas of Rome to stay. The square itself hosts one of the most renowned daily markets in the city and transforms into a bustling spot for refreshments at night.
You can pick an accommodation near Galleria Spada, which houses Borromini's fascinating optical deception, and Galleria Lorcan O'Neill. Satisfy your cultural cravings every evening with a cappuccino and rich pastries at Barnum, or go to Roscioli's wine cellar and have one of the city's greatest carbonaras.
You can always spend your evenings strolling the narrow streets or be at the Jerry Thomas Project enjoying speakeasy cocktails. Most accommodations here contain comfortable bedrooms to enjoy your night of sleep. Studio apartments in Campo de Fiori typically go for €1000 monthly.
5. Centro Storico
If this is your first time visiting Rome, the Centro Storico is the place to go. Think of a place so big that it could be divided into different zones. We're talking about the historic center, which includes the Piazza Navona, Pantheon, and the captivating Fontana di Trevi.
This area of Rome resembles a medieval maze, with winding alleyways that lead to churches, Renaissance and Baroque structures, and magnificent squares. We assure you that walking about this neighborhood is an experience you won't want to miss. The beautiful courtyards and mega hotels are a must-see! Centro Storico is teeming with eateries, cafes, and pubs outside the famous sites.
Here, you may enjoy some of the continental breakfast and beverages Rome offers while immersing yourself in its exciting nightlife. The historic buildings and charm of the city will enchant you in this area, which is not merely romantic in the conventional sense.
Additionally, Piazza Navona is home to Rome's most well-known market, a sight to behold if you're there for Christmas! Accommodation rates in this area of town might be high. However, considering the expenses, the place is an affordable option for a day trip. You may have to go a little further to locate something cheaper, but the experience you gain makes the effort worthwhile. Studio apartments in Centro Storico typically go for €1300 monthly.
6. Piazza di Spagna
If you're searching for a luxurious hotel or apartment, good dining options, and one of the world's best designer shopping avenues, Via Condotti, just outside your door, the neighborhood around the Spanish Steps and Piazza di Spagna is the place! It's one of the best areas of Rome to stay. Moreover, Villa Borghese and the Trevi Fountain are nearby.
The famous art museum has lovely parks and gardens, making it perfect for families. The most well-known sites are all within walking distance of the Piazza di Spagna, making it an excellent area for walking. Additionally, if you need to travel farther, it has two Metro stops: Spagna and Barberini. Reserve a seat at La Terrazza for supper, which offers Michelin-starred cuisine and unmatched city views.
Alternatively, enjoy your morning coffee at Antico Caffé Greco, as writers Byron and Keats did two centuries ago. Enjoy your quiet nights in this beautiful location. Studio apartments in Piazza di Spagna typically go for €4500 monthly.
7. Prati
Prati is a popular destination for first-time visitors. For those tourists who wish to see the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica, it is the perfect central location because it is adjacent to Vatican City. On the other hand, Prati is close to Centro Storico and provides a metro connection to different parts of Rome.
Piazza Navona is easily accessible from Castel Sant Angelo, and the journey offers some breathtaking views. Prati is also popular for its excellent (and affordable) restaurants, including Pastasciutta. If you simply go by this small eatery, you'll see many individuals eating pasta while standing or sitting on the sidewalk.
Furthermore, Prati is a tiny, walkable neighborhood with many accommodations in all price ranges. Travelers on a tighter budget may struggle to find acceptable lodging, but mid-range and luxury travelers will be spoiled for choice in this wealthy Rome neighborhood. Studio apartments in Prati typically go for €1300 monthly.
8. Spanish Steps (Scalinata di Spagna)
The Spanish Steps is well-known for its fashionable stores, hotels, train stations, good public transport, and restaurants, but it also houses the exquisite Villa Borghese, one of Rome's largest gardens. You'll enjoy an incredible trip to this location, which has historic apartments, tents, gorgeous garden terraces, an internal courtyard, and a breakfast buffet.
This is a great area to tour the world's most beautiful city, and it's right in the Centro Storico. The Spanish Steps lead to the Piazza di Spagna by a cascade of balustrades, rooftop terraces, and balconies. In the nineteenth century, they were popular among young hopefuls vying for the position of artist models.
Nowadays, the setting remains almost unchanged, with the stairs serving as a platform for international posing and flirtation late into the summer nights. The piazza's name comes from the Spanish Embassy, which is their only Spanish aspect. The place is also a convenient location for good apartment rentals. Studio apartments in the Spanish Steps typically go for €2000 monthly.
9. Pigneto
Pigneto, which is covered in street art, has long been a gathering point for creatives on the city's eastern side. It's one of the best areas of Rome to stay. Italian Neo-Realist filmmaker Pier Paolo Pasolini is quite famous for using the neighborhood's Liberty-style villini (detached residences) as a living background for his social satire films.
This is one of the best destinations for solo travelers, especially women. The best way to experience the lively spirit of the neighborhood is to walk down Via del Pigneto, also known as the Isola (island). This pedestrianized street is home to a market during the day but turns into Rome's nightlife hotspot as the stores close and the bars fill up with people.Â
Furthermore, you can stay near the lush garden of 100-year-old Necci and always enjoy the classic Roman cuisine at the ever-popular Pigneto 41. Studio apartments in Pigneto typically cost €700 monthly.
10. Villa Borghese
Rome's Villa Borghese neighborhood and the quiet streets north of Piazza del Popolo provide fascinating accommodation options. It's one of the best areas of Rome to stay. This neighborhood is functional yet charming because it is close to the city center and has good metro access.
When you rent a place near Tridente's retail district, you can easily see Piazza Navona and Piazza di Spagna. The Villa Borghese park, one of Rome's biggest parks, provides panoramic views of the entire city, which is always a pleasure to behold.
Furthermore, the Borghese Museum and Gallery is housed in the Cardinal's old home and ancient ruins. The park's lake provides entertaining boat excursions for families (at extra cost), or you can take a leisurely walk around its immaculate gardens.
This neighborhood is more than simply a place to stay; it's a destination that speaks for itself, with each attraction offering a distinct window into various aspects of art and history. Studio apartments in Villa Borghese typically go for €1500 monthly.
Conclusion
The best areas of Rome to stay aren't just places to sleep; they set the tone for your entire trip. Each neighborhood adds flavor to your Roman story, from vibrant streets to quiet corners. Choose what speaks to you, and let the city do the rest. Rome always rewards curiosity.
