6 best areas to stay when you’re in Rome
Wondering where to stay in Rome? With 22 districts in the city center alone, you’re almost too spoiled for choice. We’re here to help you narrow down your options by the type of traveler you are.
1. Trastevere
Best for: First-time visitors
First-timers to Rome will want to stay near Centro Storico, but instead of finding a hotel in the historical center itself, we recommend making Trastevere your base. Sitting on the west bank of the Fiume Tevere (Tiber River), Trastevere is a neighborhood of cobblestone streets, lively piazzas, and quaint restaurants. You’ll be near iconic attractions like the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain, but far enough from the action to enjoy some peace and quiet.
Top things to do
Visit the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, one of Rome’s oldest churches, to gaze at the ornate mosaics dating back to the 12th century. For an aerial view of the city’s main sights, ascend Colle del Gianicolo, also known as Janiculum Hill. Don’t forget to visit the botanical garden at the bottom of the hill—the Orto Botanico’s Japanese garden is particularly lovely, featuring a small bamboo grove and waterfall. For an alternative sightseeing adventure, hop on a Vespa sidecar to hit key landmarks and explore Trastevere by scooter.
Best places to stay
Hotel Santa Maria is a quiet oasis located a short walk away from Rome’s tourist attractions, with rooms overlooking a courtyard lined with orange trees. The equally charming Relais Le Clarisse in Trastevere is also conveniently situated near public transportation options and surrounded by bars and restaurants.
2. Monti
Best for: Bohemians, young travelers
Monti is a funky neighborhood known for its trendy bars, hipster shops, and bohemian atmosphere. Have we mentioned it’s also near to almost all of Rome’s major attractions?
Top things to do
Shop for indie labels at Via del Boschetto, the heart of Rome’s alternative fashion scene, or go window shopping at Via Urbana, a cobbled street dotted with artisan and vintage shops. On Sundays, check out Mercato Monti for vintage clothes, local jewelry, and vinyl records, or embark on a tour of an ancient Roman market at Mercati di Traiano.
Best places to stay
With only 15 rooms, the Fifteen Keys Hotel ($$) guarantees dedicated service and undisturbed sleep. Enjoy breakfast while overlooking the mighty Colosseum at Hotel Palazzo Manfredi ($$), a historic villa offering a luxurious experience. The charming Amalfi Hotel ($) is also a great pick, with its convenient location near metro and bus stations—we recommend requesting a room with a balcony.
3. Piazza di Spagna
Best for: Shopaholics
If you’re planning to shop until you drop, Piazza di Spagna is the right spot for you. Located near the iconic Spanish Steps, this bustling square is bordered by endless streets lined with luxury stores like Fendi and Valentino.
Top things to do
Once you’re done browsing the ateliers near Piazza di Spagna, continue onto Via dei Condotti and Via del Corso, two huge shopping districts within walking distance. Conquer the famous Spanish Steps, where you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view at the top. There, you can take a break by exploring the numerous chapels in Trinità dei Monti. In the springtime, pots of blooming azaleas will accompany you along each step.
Best places to stay
Treat yourself to a Roman holiday at the grand Hotel Hassler ($$$) overlooking the Spanish Steps. Watch the sunset from the hotel’s rooftop bar or admire the view from the seventh floor’s terrace, open to all hotel guests. Check into Portrait Roma ($$$), a private mansion owned by the Salvatore Ferragamo family, which prides itself on its stylish luxury studios and bespoke experience, including a private Vespa tour. For a more affordable stay in this prime location, Hotel Scalinata di Spagna ($) sits in a charming 19th-century building and is furnished in a mix of modern and classic styles.
4. Testaccio
Best for: Food connoisseurs
Known for its rich culinary history, Testaccio is a local neighborhood that was once home to Rome’s slaughterhouses. Today, Testaccio’s traditional roots remain strong, and you’ll find thriving trattorias, mom-and-pop delis, and bustling markets.
Top things to do
Explore the best of Testaccio while learning about its history when you join this food and market tour. You’ll get to shop for fresh produce at the Mercato di Testaccio, a farmer’s market featuring stalls passed down over generations of Romans, as well as browse the Volpetti Salumeria market, which offers a wide range of meats, cheeses, wines, and a smorgasbord of free samples.
Best places to stay
Seven Suites ($) offers spacious and spotless rooms along a peaceful street, with complimentary breakfast served in the Pasticceria Linari bakery downstairs. For a cozy bed-and-breakfast experience in elegantly furnished rooms, we recommend Althea Inn Roof Terrace ($)—true to its name, this hotel has a large terrace you can dine at every morning.
5. Parioli
Best for: Families
If you have little ones in tow, we recommend avoiding the crowded city center and opting for a quieter district like Parioli. This primarily residential neighborhood is only a quick 15-minute bus ride away from Rome’s tourist attractions and has a ton of green spaces and family-friendly activities.
Top things to do
Pack a picnic basket and head to Villa Ada or Villa Borghese to soak up some sunshine. The latter also houses the Bioparco di Roma, a small zoo in the heart of the city. Or stroll down the tree-lined avenue of Viale dei Parioli and stop by any of the restaurants along the main street.
Best places to stay
Feel right at home in Hotel delle Muse ($), which offers triple and quadruple rooms for families of all sizes. Best of all, the hotel has an elevator, a rather rare find in Rome. Or stay in Hilton Garden Inn Rome Claridge ($) for a modern suburban experience away from the hustle and bustle of the city, though you’ll have restaurants and supermarkets right next to your hotel.
6. San Lorenzo
Best for: Travelers on a budget, nightlife
Experience Rome in all its gritty charm at the Quartier San Lorenzo. Having endured extensive bombing during World War II, this down-to-earth neighborhood isn’t for anyone expecting to live in the lap of luxury. But if you’re looking for a lively area with lots of flavor, cheap eats, and cool bars, we vote for San Lorenzo.
Top things to do
During the day, wind through San Lorenzo’s alleys to check out the colorful street art scene, including a sweeping mural painted by legendary street artist Alice Pasquini. While San Lorenzo is seeing a number of up-and-coming restaurants and cocktail bars, like Officine Beat and Trattoria Sapori di Casa, the proximity of La Sapienza University means the area is also home to affordable pizza parlors like Pizza dai Cinque and dive bars. For an even more laidback experience, simply grab a beer and mingle with the young Romans gathered around the main piazza.
Best places to stay
The B&B Hotel Roma San Lorenzo Termini ($) is one of the cheapest accommodations you can find in Rome and includes breakfast, an ensuite bathroom, and free Wifi. The Best Western Globus Hotel ($) is a short walk from the various tram, bus, and metro stations, and comes with a generous breakfast buffet.
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