Where To Stay In Rome: 10 best Areas & Neighbourhoods

Rome is truly one of the most stunning cities in the world, and it’s an absolute must on anyone’s itinerary if they plan on travelling to Europe anytime soon. 

It’s a bustling city with plenty to see and do, so it’s no surprise that there are countless accommodation options to choose from. 

However, deciding where to stay when you get there can be tricky, especially if you don’t know anything about the city’s neighbourhoods before you arrive.

Whether you want to be centrally located or off the beaten path, the perfect neighbourhood can make your trip that much more enjoyable, so don’t settle for any old spot! 

To help you narrow down your search on which neighbourhood is best to stay in when visiting Rome, I’ve divided the city into categories based on strategic areas and price ranges, and I’ve put together a list of the 10 best neighbourhoods to stay in Rome.

If you are planning a trip to Rome, I highly recommend you book your tours ahead of time to ensure availability!

Here are my top Rome recommendations to book in advance:

Semi-Private Early Morning Vatican Tour

The Best of Colosseum & Ancient Rome With Exclusive Arena Access | Semi-Private Tour

Private Morning Tour of Rome | Early Bird Walking Tour

Where to Stay In Rome: Overview of Rome’s Neighborhoods

Rome is a very large city and is divided into 15 municipalities (numbered from I to XV), which are also subdivided into 35 districts located outside the Aurelian walls.

The I Municipality of Rome is the city historic center, it’s where the main tourist attractions are located. 

It’s divided into 22 Rioni (neighbourhoods), all of which are enclosed in the ancient walls except for Prati and Borgo.

Central Rome is unsurprisingly the most popular area to stay for tourists, as it’s home to some of the city’s most iconic attractions like the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and Trevi Fountain. 

However, it can also be quite crowded and expensive. 

If you’re looking for a more authentic Roman experience or are on a budget, consider staying in one of Rome’s other neighbourhoods.

Rione Monti is in ancient Rome, in the area that includes the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, an intriguing mix of ancient sites and a fashionable neighbourhood.

Trastevere is a great option if you want to be close to the action but away from the tourist crowds. 

This historic neighbourhood is full of character with its winding cobbled streets, pastel-coloured houses, noisy taverns serving rich menus of traditional food, and churches with Baroque charm.

Another good choice for those looking for an authentic Roman experience is the Testaccio and Ostiense neighborhoods, south of Rome, which are known for their lively nightlife and excellent restaurants.

They are an excellent starting point for exploring the city because they are located along the metro line, which allows you to easily reach all points of interest.

Rione Prati, the area surrounding the Vatican, is a very quiet and elegant area that serves as a convenient base for visiting St. Peter’s Square and the Vatican Museums, making it ideal for families or those seeking a peaceful environment.

If, on the other hand, you are looking for a refined and elegant neighbourhood, I recommend looking in the North Rome area, which has some of Rome’s most elegant neighborhoods, i.e. Rione Parioli and Trieste.

Here you’ll be walking down avenues lined with Art Nouveau buildings and palaces, such as those in the Coppedè neighborhood. Of course, the prices for staying in this area are higher than average, so it’s best suited to those travelling on a high budget.

It’s also recommended for families due to its tranquilly and residential character away from the tourist crowds of the centre.

If you’re travelling on a budget, the area around Termini station is packed with hotels, B&Bs, and vacation rentals at much lower rates.

Of course, you must choose your lodging carefully because, as in almost all major cities, the area around train stations is frequently viewed as a dangerous part of town. If you are travelling with women or children, it’s best to avoid certain neighborhoods, such as Esquilino and Tiburtina (not to be confused with Tiburtino).

Where To Stay In Rome: Best areas & places

Centro Storico – To really soak up the Roman vibes

The Historic Centre is where you’ll find some of Rome’s most iconic sights, including the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and the Trevi Fountain. 

This neighbourhood is perfect if you want to really soak up the Roman atmosphere and get a feel for what life was like in ancient times.

It’s also close to the Colosseum, the Imperial Forum, and Vatican City, which are popular tourist destinations.

This area is packed with well-known pizzerias, bars, restaurants, and ice cream parlours, so staying here will allow you to take advantage of the best available. 

You can also enjoy the city’s architecture and immerse yourself in Roman culture while staying in the historic centre.

BEST FOR: All travellers, especially first-time visitors, who want to explore all of Rome’s highlights on foot.

Hotels in Centro Storico

Luxury: Singer Palace Hotel beautiful 5-star hotel with an elegant rooftop terrace;

Luxury: J.K. Place Roma a new luxury boutique hotel in the heart of Rome, just a stone’s throw from the Spanish Steps, the Pantheon and to all of the Eternal City’s most important attractions.

Mid-range: Hotel Albergo del Senato charming hotel near the Pantheon, ideal for families visiting Rome.

Budget: Little Queen Pantheon beautiful and cosy B&B in the city centre, ideal for all travellers.

Check for availability and lodging options in Rome’s Centro Storico.

Tridente – Spanish Steps area

If you’re looking for somewhere central to stay in Rome, the area around the Spanish Steps and Piazza di Spagna is a great option. 

It’s also known as the Tridente area, because of the shape of the three streets that extend from Piazza del Popolo, and revolves around the Spanish Steps. 

It was once an essential stop on the Grand Tour and is still popular with tourists.

It’s located in the northern part of central Rome and is surrounded by luxurious 4- and 5-star hotels, designer boutiques, and numerous shopping opportunities.

You’ll be within walking distance of some of Rome’s most famous attractions, including the Trevi Fountain, Pantheon and Piazza Navona. 

There are also plenty of restaurants, cafes and bars in the area, so you’ll never be short on things to do.

A truly one-of-a-kind place to stay in Rome.

BEST FOR: Those looking for high-end shopping and luxury hotels. 

Hotels near Piazza di Spagna

Luxury: Hotel De La Ville elegant 5-star hotel near the Spanish Steps with a lovely terrace for an aperitif overlooking Rome.

Luxury: Hotel Hassler historic 5-star luxury hotel near the Spanish Steps

Mid-range: My suites Piazza di Spagna luxury guest house in the heart of Rome, just a few steps from the imposing Spanish Steps.

Budget: Charme Spagna Boutique Hotel a lovely three-star boutique hotel in Rome’s historic centre, with elegant accommodation and two terraces for guests’ enjoyment.

Check for availability and lodging options in Piazza di Spagna area.

Rione Trevi (Trevi Fountain) 

It’s Rome’s second district, known for the magnificent Trevi Fountain in late Baroque style, and one of the most sought-after areas to stay in Rome.

It’s the beating heart of the city, where you only need to walk through the narrow streets and alleys with the famous sanpietrini (cobblestones) to appreciate all of the magnificence of the eternal city.

Because of its central location, it’s ideal for families and those who prefer to get around on foot, as they can easily visit all of the attractions in the centre from here.

It’s a busy area during the day, but it’s fairly quiet at night. Accommodation in this area is, predictably, high-end.

BEST FOR: All visitors and families who want to explore all of Rome’s highlights on foot.

Hotels near Trevi Fountain

Luxury: Harry’s Bar Hotel & Restaurant elegant, romantic 5-star hotel near the Trevi Fountain, with a terrace overlooking it. 

Mid-range: Concept Terrace Hotel a beautiful 4-star hotel with spacious rooms and airport shuttle service, ideal for families, couples, and small groups.

Budget: Domus Fontis B&B in a historic 16th-century building near the Trevi Fountain, ideal for couples and foodies, within walking distance of great restaurants such as Sora Lella and Tonnarello.

Apartment: Prinsi Apartment is 500m from the Trevi Fountain and features a fully equipped kitchen, private bathroom, and bike rental service. Perfect for families and couples.

Check for availability and lodging options in Trevi area.

Trastevere – For a more local and authentic experience

Trastevere is one of Rome’s most popular neighbourhoods, and for good reason. It’s located on the Tiber River’s right bank and is full of charming narrow streets, cute cafes and restaurants, and lovely Roman architecture.

It’s one of the best places to stay in Rome because the neighbourhood is very close to the historical center; you simply need to cross one of the many bridges, such as the Ponte Garibaldi or the Ponte Sisto, to get there.

However, the area is served by numerous buses and trams and has some pretty cheap hotel and apartment deals.

If you enjoy scenic views, from here you should go to Janiculum Hill, where you’ll have one of the best views of Rome.

BEST FOR: Romantics and foodies seeking a charming local neighbourhood near the historic centre.

Hotels in Trastevere

Luxury: Villa Agrippina Gran Melià one of Rome’s top 5-star hotels, with a seasonal pool for hot summer days.

Mid-Range: Donna Camilla Savelli VRetreats a charming 4-star hotel with a terrace in a former monastery

Mid-range: Relais Le Clarisse beautiful 3-star hotel in the heart of Trastevere’s quaint and lively district, ideal for families and couples on a romantic getaway.

Budget: Nikis Collection Trastevere comfy hotel in the heart of Trastevere with a beautiful terrace overlooking the city, ideal for all travelers. 

Budget: Little Rhome Suites ideal for exploring the best of Rome, this classic-style hotel has a terrace and continental breakfast. 

Check for availability and lodging options in Trastevere.

Monti/Celio – The Ancient Rome area (Colosseum & Roman Forums)

If you’re looking for the best places to stay in Rome, you can’t go wrong with the areas near the Colosseum. 

This iconic landmark is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Rome, and it’s surrounded by a number of great hotels, restaurants, and cafes. 

There are a few different areas that are considered to be “near” the Colosseum, but the two main ones are the Monti district and the Celio district. 

Both of these areas offer a great selection of accommodation options, as well as plenty of things to see and do. 

The Monti district is one of the oldest parts of Rome, and it’s filled with charming streets, beautiful buildings, chic cafes, bars, and clubs, as well as trendy shops and boutique hotels. 

It’s one of the trendiest neighbourhoods in Rome right now. 

This is a great area to stay if you want to be close to all the action but still have a quiet place to retreat to at night. 

The Celio district is located on top of Caelian Hill, one of Rome’s seven historic hills, which offers stunning views of the Colosseum. 

This area, located east of the Palatine Hill, is home to a number of Roman ruins as well as some great restaurants and cafes. 

If you’re looking for somewhere with a bit more of a “local” feel, then Celio is definitely the place for you.

BEST FOR: Those who enjoy ancient history and getting lost in the streets in search of charming hidden shops and restaurants.

Hotels in Monti / Celio district, near the Colosseum

Luxury: Hotel Palazzo Manfredi a lovely old mansion transformed into a charming 5-star hotel with spectacular views of the Colosseum 

Luxury: Dharma Boutique Hotel & Spa, a luxury four-star hotel in the Monti district, has a panoramic terrace with a view of the city’s rooftops, the ideal place to enjoy a cocktail.

Mid-Range: Nerva Boutique Hotel, located opposite the Imperial Forum and very close to the Colosseum, this hotel is ideal for visiting all of Rome’s attractions.

Mid-range: Hotel Lancelot 3-star hotel with a view of the Colosseum

Budget: Hotel Colosseum 3-star hotel in the characteristic Monti district, perfect for visiting the city’s most important attractions.

Check for availability and lodging options in Ancient Rome.

Borgo & Prati (Vatican City) – If you want to be close to all the major sites

Vatican City is the world’s smallest sovereign state and home to some of the most famous sights in Rome.

The area surrounding the Vatican is a very quiet and elegant area that serves as a convenient base for visiting St. Peter’s Square and the Vatican Museums, making it ideal for families or those seeking a peaceful environment.

This area, however, is extremely touristy, and hotel rates are extremely high.

Consider staying in the nearby Borgo or Prati neighbourhoods; they are less expensive and a great way to stay near the Vatican on a budget.

These neighbourhoods are close to the city centre but far enough away to allow you to relax and get away from the chaos and traffic.

They are located outside the ancient walls, but they are adjacent to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums and are within walking distance of the Castel Sant’Angelo.

Plus, you can easily walk to all the other neighbourhoods on this list from here.

BEST FOR: Those who want to visit the Vatican as the main reason for their trip to Rome or who want to stay in a quiet, residential neighbourhood.

Hotels in Prati/Borgo 

Mid-range: NH Collection Roma Giustiniano a spacious, modern 4-star hotel in the heart of Prati, just a five-minute walk from the Vatican and Castel Sant’Angelo.

Budget: B&B A Picture of Rome excellent B&B just a short distance from St. Peter’s Square, with lovely and spacious rooms

Budget: Rome Armony Suites B&B near Castel Sant’Angelo and St. Peter’s Basilica, in a central location from which you can walk to major tourist attractions.

Check for availability and lodging options near Vatican area.

Rione Parione (Campo de’ Fiori, Piazza Navona) – For its lively nightlife and central location

Rione Parione is one of Rome’s most central and touristy districts; here you’ll find the famous Piazza Navona, with its typical stadium shape and beautiful Baroque sculptures, and the picturesque Campo de’ Fiori, so named because it used to be a cultivated area by the city’s inhabitants until the fifteenth century.

From here, you’ll be within walking distance of many of Rome’s major sights, including the Colosseum, the Spanish Steps, and the Trevi Fountain.

It’s also a great neighbourhood for food lovers, as it’s home to numerous markets and restaurants serving up delicious Roman specialties.

The old Jewish Ghetto of Rome, located southeast of Campo de’ Fiori, is a vibrant and authentic neighbourhood with some outstanding restaurants.

BEST FOR: Foodies and first-time visitors who want to walk through all of Rome’s highlights.

Hotels near Piazza Navona

Luxury: Navona Palace Luxury Inn, a luxury hotel in the historic centre housed in a Renaissance palace, is just a 2-minute walk from Piazza Navona and a 15-minute walk from the Trevi Fountain.

Mid-range: Martis Palace Hotel Rome, an elegant 4-star hotel housed in an impressive neoclassical building surrounded by shops and restaurants and is only a 3-minute walk from Piazza Navona.

Mid-range: Rhea Silvia Luxury Navona, fantastic 3-star boutique hotel with spacious rooms overlooking Piazza Navona’s Fountain of the Four Rivers.

Budget: Navona Rooms, an elegant guesthouse housed in a 17th-century building on a cobblestone street lined with shops and cafes, is a 3-minute walk from Piazza Navona and a 7-minute walk from the Pantheon.

Check for availability and lodging options in Campo de’ Fiori.

Testaccio/Ostiense – For a taste of Rome’s food culture

There’s a good chance you’ll come across Testaccio or Ostiense when looking for a place to stay near Rome’s city centre.

And if you do choose this area, then you won’t regret it. 

This residential area is located just outside of Rome’s central historic district, behind Aventine Hill, and provides a viable alternative for experiencing the most authentic, liveliest, and vibrant Rome; this is where Romans go for drinks and food.

Testaccio is one of Rome’s most historic neighbourhoods, with a food culture to match. 

This neighbourhood is home to some of Rome’s best restaurants serving traditional dishes like carbonara and amatriciana. 

It’s also home to one of Rome’s largest food markets, where you can stock up on fresh produce and meats.

While the sites of Ancient Rome are within walking distance from this area, you will need to take buses or the Metro to get to the majority of the city’s other attractions.

However, the whole area is served by the Piramide metro station (MEB blue line and MEB1) and is also served by numerous buses, so it may be the best option for a place to stay in Rome.

BEST FOR: Nightlife enthusiasts and those who prefer to eat and explore an authentic Roman neighbourhood over seeing the sights.

Hotels in Testaccio / Ostiense

Mid-range: Gasometer Urban Suites, elegant all-suite hotel in a former factory with a gym and a rooftop terrace with views of the city.

Mid-range: Hotel Abitart, a 4-star hotel near Ostiense train station and Eataly, with parking spots.

Budget: Verrazzano 37 Guest House offers large rooms, free wifi, and a shared kitchen, making it ideal for all travellers.

Budget: Le Tre Sorelle a Testaccio, an elegant and warm Bed and Breakfast in Testaccio, a Rome neighbourhood near Trastevere, ideal for families.

Apartments: First Class Apartments is located on the Aventine Hill, one of the city’s most beautiful hills, and offers luxurious apartments ideal for families and small groups.

Check for availability and lodging options in Testaccio / Ostiense district.

Via Veneto and Villa Borghese: the most exclusive area

Via Vittorio Veneto, commonly called Via Veneto, is a street in the historic centre of Rome that leads uphill from Piazza Barberini to Porta Pinciana in the Ludovisi neighbourhood.

This street was the beating heart of Rome as well as an extremely fashionable location during “La Dolce Vita” era (1950s).

Nowadays, it’s one of the most exclusive neighbourhoods in Rome, located northeast of the city centre and very close to it.

In this area, you’ll find plenty of bars, restaurants, luxury hotels, and luxury stores.

The grand hotels here have uniformed doormen, marble floors, and luxurious spas.

Via Veneto also leads up to Villa Borghese, which is Rome’s Central Park.

This green haven is a great place to unwind and is home to several fantastic art museums.

It’s also close to both commercial areas and major tourist attractions, making it a great place to stay in Rome if you want to be pampered and stay in luxury.

BEST FOR: nature and green space enthusiasts, as well as those looking to discover Rome in a unique way.

Hotels in Villa Borghese area, North of Rome

Luxury: Hotel Eden, located in the heart of Rome, just steps from the Villa Borghese park; celebrities from all over the world stay here when in Rome.

Luxury: Sofitel Roma Villa Borghese Hotel, 5-star hotel in the heart of the Eternal City, overlooking the Villa Borghese gardens.

Luxury: Baglioni Hotel Regina Rome, located on Via Veneto, just a short distance from Villa Borghese and the famous fashion street Via Condotti, a popular hangout for the international jet set.

Mid-range: Hotel Savoy Roma, a 4-star hotel located in a prestigious late-19th-century building halfway between Villa Borghese and the Spanish Steps, both of which are within walking distance. The ideal starting point for exploring Rome

Mid-range: Hotel Barocco, a 4-star hotel located on the magnificent Piazza Barberini, where Bernini’s magnificent Fontana del Tritone in baroque style is located.

Budget: B&B Five, quiet and relaxing B&B located between Villa Ada and Villa Borghese parks, ideal for couples and families.

Check for availability and lodging options near Villa Borghese and Via Veneto.

San Lorenzo & Pigneto – For their student atmosphere and diverse population

The area around Stazione Termini has a lot of budget accommodation, some of which is very good value.

This isn’t the most appealing part of town, but it’s also not as bad as it’s sometimes portrayed to be.

There are several excellent museums and churches in the area, as well as numerous cool restaurants and bars.

The area’s nightlife is concentrated in two areas east of Termini:

the young San Lorenzo neighbourhood, an area mostly frequented by university students due to its proximity to the University of La Sapienza;

And Pigneto, a shabby-hip quarter filled with bars and trendy restaurants, is admired for its modern atmosphere, which sets it apart from other areas of the city.

This is a great area to stay in Rome if you enjoy connecting with locals and getting a behind-the-scenes look at Roman life.

BEST FOR: budget travellers who want to immerse themselves in local culture. 

My lodging selection in San Lorenzo / Pigneto area

Budget: Villa San Lorenzo Maria Hotel, located in Rome’s San Lorenzo district, is ideal for exploring the city’s main attractions. Guests have access to free WiFi.

Budget: B&B Hotel Roma San Lorenzo Termini is in San Lorenzo district, just ten minutes by metro (line B) from the Colosseum, the Imperial Forum, and the Arch of Constantine.

Check for availability and lodging options in San Lorenzo / Pignato area.

Where to stay in Rome: In a nutshell

Rione Monti and Rione Trastevere are, in my opinion, the best places to stay in Rome because of their liveliness and picturesque views.

Rione Parione is also a great area, thanks to its central location and wide range of services.

The Rione Trevi is ideal for those who like to be right in the heart of everything, while the Rione Prati is ideal for those looking for a more affordable option that is still close to the city centre.

So there you have it: the best areas and places to stay in Rome, whether you’re looking for luxury or comfort on a budget.

Now all that’s left is to book your trip and enjoy all that this amazing city has to offer.

Ciao and safe travel planning!

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