I’ve written a comprehensive guide to the best places to stay in Rome to help you choose the perfect place to suit your travels.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Rome
- 💎 Luxury: Umiltà 36
- 📍 In Eternal City center: Hotel Vilòn
- 🏛 Near the Colosseum: Hotel Palazzo Manfredi
- 👀 Best views of the city: Hassler Roma
- 💸 Budget-friendly: Trastevere's Friends
Each neighborhood of Rome has its own unique features and attractions. In the city center you can see monuments of antiquity, Renaissance and Baroque. Districts outside the historic center are also interesting – there are many modern buildings, parks and museums.
In this article we will review the main districts of Rome, their history, architecture, and cultural objects. This will help you get an idea of the unique originality of the “eternal city”, admire its beauty and choose places to visit according to your interests.
Remember: Rome is a very touristy city and accommodation prices can be high, especially in high season. My advice is to always book accommodation in advance to have more options to choose from and, most importantly, to find the best deals.
7 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Rome: Quick Overview
- 👀 For first-time visitors: Centro Storico
- 🌃 To see Eternal City from two angles: Monti
- 🏛 To enjoy Italian culture: Trastevere
- 🌲 Out of the hustle and bustle: Prati
- 🛒 For shopping: Spanish Steps
- 💸 Rome on a budget: Termini
- 🍕 To feel like a local: Esquilino
1. Centro Storico – Best Area to Stay in Rome for the First Time
👀 Must visit: Nestled in the heart of Rome, the Centro Storico (Historic Center) is a must-see for any first-time visitor to the Eternal City. This labyrinth of narrow streets and piazzas transports you back in time to when the area was the thriving center of ancient Rome.
🕍 Step away from the main attractions: The neighborhood radiates out from Piazza Navona, one of Rome’s most renowned public squares, renowned for its three lavish fountains including Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers. From there, it’s just a short stroll to the Pantheon, the best preserved temple from ancient Rome with its iconic dome and oculus. Art lovers can also view Caravaggio’s breathtaking religious paintings at the church of San Luigi dei Francesi.
🚶🏻♀️ Very walkable: The neighborhood is extremely walkable given its compact size. However, be sure to wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be traversing over cobblestone streets. Public buses and the metro are also convenient options to zip around to top sites like the Trevi Fountain or Spanish Steps, which are about a 30 minute walk away.
🧇 Suit every taste: Given its central location, there is no shortage of dining options. From casual trattorias and pizza al taglio joints to upscale restaurants, you’ll find places to suit every taste and budget. The area stays lively late into the night as storefronts illuminate and street performers entertain.
With its walkability, abundance of attractions, and proximity to transit links, staying in Rome’s Centro Storico neighborhood lets you fully immerse yourself in the excitement of the Eternal City.
All hotels in Centro Storico →
Recommended hotels:
Expensive hotels:
- Hotel Vilòn – a small luxury hotel with exquisite interior design and upscale service in the heart of the Historic Center.
- Umiltà 36 – an elegant classic-style boutique hotel with panoramic views of Rome, located near the Pantheon.
- Maalot Roma – a luxury hotel in a historic building with chic interiors and excellent service.
Medium price range:
- Trevi Beau Boutique Hotel – a cozy boutique hotel with trendy room design near the Trevi Fountain.
- Terrace Pantheon Relais – a comfortable hotel with a terrace and views of the Pantheon at affordable prices.
- Hotel Navona – a hotel in the Historic Center with good value for money.
Inexpensive hotels:
- Hotel Barrett – a simple and inexpensive hotel with basic amenities in the Historic Center.
- Hotel Hiberia – an economical accommodation option with clean and comfortable rooms at a reasonable price.
- Locanda Parlamento – a modest hotel with standard facilities at an affordable price in the heart of Rome.
2. Monti – Combination of Ancient Sights and Bohemian Atmosphere
✨ Old-world charm: The Monti neighborhood is centrally located in the historic Rione Monti district of Rome, just north of major landmarks like the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. This picturesque area retains its old-world village charm with narrow cobblestone streets, tucked-away piazzas, and sleepy corners waiting to be explored.
🏛 Close to attractions: Staying in Monti allows visitors to easily access many top attractions in Rome. You’re within walking distance to sights like the Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, and Pantheon. The neighborhood also has quick metro and bus connections to landmarks like St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums. Monti’s central location makes it convenient to visit all corners of Rome.
🛒 Shopping time: Wander through Monti and discover quaint shops selling artisanal crafts, funky boutiques, and foodie havens. The neighborhood has become a happening dining spot with trattorias, wine bars, and restaurants offering everything from traditional Roman fare to ethnic cuisines. Coffee drinkers will love the abundance of charming cafes serving espresso.
💃🏻 Various crowd: While Monti retains its ancient ambiance, it has also emerged as one of Rome’s coolest up-and-coming districts. Its picturesque streets attract a bohemian crowd of hipsters, artists, students, and young professionals. Lovely artistic details like ivy-covered buildings, pretty balconies overflowing with flowers, and little courtyards allow visitors to enjoy the romance of the past while soaking up today’s lively atmosphere.
One of the best ways to experience Monti is simply by strolling its pretty streets and letting yourself get a bit lost among the lanes and alleys. This neighborhood is perfect for those who want to see Eternal City from two angles at once.
Recommended hotels:
Expensive hotels:
- Hotel Palazzo Manfredi – a small luxury boutique hotel with panoramic views of the Colosseum and personalized service.
- Roma Luxus Hotel – a modern premium hotel in a historic building with a luxurious interior.
- Villa Spalletti Trivelli – an elegant boutique hotel in a historic mansion with exquisite design and personalized service.
Medium price range:
- Roman Holiday Colosseo – a cozy retro-style hotel, perfect for a romantic getaway.
- Top Floor Colosseo Guesthouse – guesthouse overlooking the Colosseum, offers spacious rooms at a reasonable price.
- Domus Aurea B&B and Suites – a comfortable mini-hotel with a friendly atmosphere and good value for money.
Inexpensive hotels:
- DANY GUEST HOUSE – a simple and inexpensive guesthouse with a warm welcome and good location.
- Residenza Roma Imperiale – economical apartment with basic amenities, a good budget accommodation option.
- B&B Domus Aurea – small homely B&B with friendly atmosphere and affordable prices.
3. Trastevere – Best Area in Rome to Enjoy Italian Culture
🔮 Meet traditional rome: Tucked away on the west bank of the Tiber River, Trastevere is one of Rome’s most charming and vibrant neighborhoods. With its cobblestone streets lined with ivy-covered buildings, Trastevere has an old-world, rustic feel that provides a delightful contrast to the bustling city center. Yet despite its quaint atmosphere, Trastevere remains authentically Roman at its core.
🗺 Convenient location: For visitors, Trastevere’s location across the Tiber but just steps away from landmarks like the Pantheon and Campo de’ Fiori makes it wonderfully convenient. From the neighborhood’s northern edge, the pedestrian Ponte Sisto bridge provides a quick connection to the historic center. Heading southwest, visitors can cross the Ponte Garibaldi to easily reach the Trastevere train station, or walk further to admire the city views from the Gianicolo hilltop.
🍸 Nightlife: Come nightfall, Trastevere transforms into a buzzing hive of activity as locals and visitors alike pour into its piazzas and winding lanes to enjoy drinks al fresco or indulge in Roman cuisine. Whether sitting for an aperitivo at a lively bar or indulging in cacio e pepe at a cozy restaurant, Trastevere offers an abundance of ways to eat, drink, and live like a true Roman.
🚸 Walkable: With limited traffic and flat terrain, Trastevere is extremely walkable. Most of the main sights can be seen on foot in just a few hours. The neighborhood is easily accessible from downtown Rome and the Vatican by tram #8 or several buses which stop right in Piazza Sonnino.
👨👩👦 Special atmosphere: Yet the true magic of Trastevere lies not just in its atmosphere and location, but in its residents. The neighborhood has a strong community identity, with multi-generational families that take pride in maintaining its character.
This diversity and vibrancy manifests itself in Trastevere’s piazzas, restaurants, boutiques, and festive street life – giving visitors a glimpse into Rome at its most authentic.
Recommended hotels:
Expensive hotels:
- Donna Camilla Savelli – a luxury hotel in a historic building with exquisite design and beautiful views of the city.
- UNAHOTELS Trastevere Roma – an elegant premium hotel with a high level of service and modern design.
- Nikis Collection Trastevere – a stylish boutique hotel with individual design and excellent location.
Medium price range:
- Hotel Santa Maria – cozy family hotel in a typical Trastevere building with warm hospitality.
- Tolomeo B&b – a charming small hotel with a homely atmosphere and friendly staff.
- Luxury Trastevere – a modern boutique hotel with elegant interior design.
Inexpensive hotels:
- Domus Corsini – a compact guesthouse with a homely atmosphere and affordable prices.
- A Trastevere da M.E. – a simple hotel with minimalist design at a reasonable price.
- Magenta Collection Del Grande 51 – a budget hotel with basic amenities for budget travelers.
4. Prati (near Vatican City) – Best Place to Stay in Rome Away from the Crowds
🌳 Very quiet: Nestled just north of the Vatican, Prati is one of Rome’s most charming neighborhoods. With its tree-lined streets, stately buildings, and air of refinement, Prati has a peaceful ambiance that makes it a delightful area to stay during your visit to the Eternal City.
🏘 Away from the crowd: Despite its proximity to popular sights like St. Peter’s Basilica and Castel Sant’Angelo, Prati retains a local flavor and has not been overrun by tourism. The neighborhood centers around Piazza Cavour, a lovely square framed by early 20th-century buildings. From there, the small streets and alleyways open up to reveal shops, cafes, trattorias, and bars frequented by Romans.
🚇 Well-connected: Prati’s location right across the Tiber River from the historic center makes getting around quite convenient. The metro station sits near the square, providing direct access to the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain in just minutes. Stroll just 10 minutes north to find yourself standing before the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica.
💃🏻 Streets come alive: You’ll notice the streets come alive at aperitivo hour as hip Romans sip on vibrantly-colored cocktails and nibble on olives and bruschetta. The atmosphere is lively yet relaxed – picture yourself joining in as you perch atop a barstool overlooking the piazza!
When you’re ready for a break from the crowds, Prati’s peaceful vibe and local flavor are there waiting.
Recommended hotels:
Expensive hotels:
- The First Musica – an elegant boutique hotel in a historic building with luxurious rooms and personalized service.
- Vatica B&B Roma – a sophisticated Vatican-style hotel with gorgeous interiors and attentive staff.
- Capricci Romani – a chic hotel in the center, offers luxurious suites and SPA.
Medium price range:
- Orazio Palace Hotel – cozy hotel in a historical building with good value for money.
- 126 Gracchi Suites – comfortable apartments with all amenities and good location.
- SM Vatican Relais B&B – a welcoming hotel with modern rooms.
Inexpensive hotels:
- Domus Alberico – simple and inexpensive guesthouse with friendly staff, great for budget travelers.
- Residenza Alexander Guest House – modest rooms at a reasonable price, a good option for short trips.
- AngelicaHome Roma – cozy budget hotel with basic amenities, ideal for young people.
5. Spanish Steps – Summary of the Best Shops and Famous Landmarks
🔥 Very popular: Located in central Rome, the iconic Spanish Steps neighborhood is one of the city’s most popular areas to visit, especially for those seeing Rome for the first time. The elegant Spanish Steps themselves are a famous landmark, connecting the Piazza di Spagna at the base with the church Trinità dei Monti at the top.
🕌 There’s a lot to see: Despite the name, the Spanish Steps area has a distinctly Roman atmosphere. As you wander the cobbled lanes you’ll discover tiny piazzas, flowering balconies, and classic Italian architecture around every corner. It’s a very walkable area, located close to major attractions like the Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and Piazza Navona. The central location also makes it convenient for getting around to other parts of the city.
👛 Shopping paradise: The heart of the neighborhood is Piazza di Spagna, a beautiful square filled with high-end shopping and surrounded by cafés with outdoor seating. The dazzling display of high fashion brands along Via dei Condotti has earned it the nickname “Rome’s Fifth Avenue”. However, don’t let the exclusive shops intimidate you – the area offers fun for all budgets.
👨🏻🎨 For art lovers: In addition to retail therapy, art lovers will appreciate the Keats-Shelley Memorial House museum dedicated to the Romantic poets who once lived in the neighborhood. The charming backstreets also lead to gems like the Babington’s Tea Room, which has been an elegant haunt since 1893. For beautiful city views, climb the Spanish Steps or take the elevator up to the Trinità dei Monti church.
No visit to Rome would be complete without spending time soaking up la dolce vita in the Spanish Steps district.
All hotels near Spanish Steps →
Recommended hotels:
Expensive hotels:
- Rocco Forte Hotel De La Ville – a luxury hotel with exquisite interior design and panoramic views of the Spanish Steps.
- Fellini Design Suites – stylish apartments with elegant Fellini-inspired design.
- The Inn at the Spanish Steps – an elegant boutique hotel in an 18th century building, offering personalized service and comfort.
Medium price range:
- Royal Suite Trinità Dei Monti – apartments with stylish design, convenient location and good value for money.
- Internazionale Domus – simple and comfortable rooms at a reasonable price.
- Garibaldi Suites Piazza Di Spagna – classic style apartments with a convenient location at a reasonable price.
Inexpensive hotels:
- Elysium Suites collection – simple rooms with modest design but a good location near the Spanish Steps.
- Ingrami Suites and Spa – rooms with basic amenities within a minute’s walk of the Spanish Steps, offers spa facilities at reasonable prices.
- All'obelisco – simple hotel with a convenient location and friendly staff, excellent value for money.
6. Termini – Best Area to Stay on a Budget
🚅 Main hub: Termini is anchored by Rome’s central train station, the Stazione Termini, which serves as the main public transportation hub for the entirety of Rome. Whether you’re arriving from the airport or traveling to other cities in Italy, chances are you’ll pass through Termini Station during your time in Rome.
🥞 Suit every taste: Surrounding the station is a vibrant commercial district crammed full of shops, restaurants, hotels, and services. You can find everything from fast food to fine Italian dining, budget hotels to luxurious 5-star accommodation, and stores selling cheap souvenirs to high-end Italian fashion brands.
🗺 Convenient location: While it lacks the quaint charm of Rome’s older neighborhoods, Termini offers accessibility and convenience that is hard to beat. Even several major sights like the Baths of Diocletian and the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore are within walking distance.
🚶🏻♀️🚶🏻♂️ Very busy: Getting around Termini is a breeze, with the metro, buses, taxis, and trams all readily available right outside the station. The area can get very busy during rush hours with commuters hustling to work, so be prepared to navigate thick crowds if walking in the morning or evening. However, during midday the streets are more relaxed and navigable. The roads around the station tend to be more congested with traffic too.
While Termini has a reputation for being a little seedy or dangerous at night, it’s largely an exaggerated stereotype. All in all, Termini’s accessibility, abundance of amenities, and proximity to major landmarks make it a strategically valuable home base to explore Rome from.
All hotels near Termini Station →
Recommended hotels:
Medium price range:
- Gemme Di Roma Accomodation – a cozy small hotel offering comfortable rooms with all amenities at reasonable prices.
- Leonardo Boutique Hotel – a modern boutique hotel with a sophisticated design and excellent location near Termini Station.
- Augusta Lucilla Palace – a comfortable, classic-style hotel with courteous staff and good value for money.
Inexpensive hotels:
- Manin Suites LT – a simple and inexpensive aparthotel with minimal amenities, suitable for budget travelers.
- Roman Terrace – a modest hostel with basic amenities and friendly staff, great for young people.
- Leone – an economical no-frills hotel with clean and tidy rooms at a reasonable price.
7. Esquilino – To Live Like a Local
💎 Combination of the best: The lively Esquilino neighborhood is located just east of Rome’s historic center, making it a convenient home base for first-time visitors eager to explore the city’s top attractions. Situated on the Esquiline Hill between the rail hub of Termini Station and the inspiring ruins of the Imperial Forums, Esquilino combines authentic local character with walkable proximity to iconic sights.
🌹 Multi-cultural: Wandering the cobblestone streets of Esquilino reveals a multi-cultural slice of Rome, from the Indian eateries on Via Principe Amedeo to the Chinese shops and Italian trattorias dotting Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II. This expansive central piazza acts as Esquilino’s communal family room, ringed by stately buildings and vibrant outdoor cafés bustling late into the evening.
🚇 Well-connected: Public transportation options abound, making Esquilino a great base for efficient sightseeing. Metro lines A and B stop at Termini Station, connecting directly to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps. Several buses running along Via Cavour whisk you to the Vatican and Castel Sant’Angelo in about 20 minutes. And thanks to its central location, walkable destinations like the Baths of Diocletian, Teatro dell’Opera, and upscale shopping in Monti or on Via Nazionale are readily accessible as well.
🍕 Feel like a local: Visitors who want to experience Rome like a local will enjoy wandering Esquilino’s side streets to uncover hidden gems like the vintage shops on Via Merulana or the delicious pizza al taglio (Roman-style pizza by the slice) at Pizzeria Nuovo Mondo. Budget-conscious travelers will find many reasonably priced hotel and Airbnb options close to the city’s biggest attractions.
Whether you seek an authentic taste of local Roman life or just convenient proximity to the most famous ruins and piazzas, make Esquilino your home in the Eternal City.
Recommended hotels:
Expensive hotels:
- L&S Jacuzzi Home – a luxury boutique hotel with in-room Jacuzzi, located in a historic building.
- Central Domus Roma – an elegant hotel with excellent service, located next to Termini Station.
- Best Western Hotel President – a cozy hotel with classic design, located near the Colosseum and the Roman Forum.
Medium price range:
- At Home Townhouse - Filiberto – a small hotel in a historic building, offers apartments with a kitchen at a reasonable price.
- Dillo Suites – a simple hotel with a minimalist design, offers studio rooms at an affordable price.
- B&B Arco Di Gallieno – a small guesthouse with a warm welcome.
Inexpensive hotels:
- Kiss Inn – a hostel with shared rooms, suitable for young people and travelers on a tight budget.
- Rome To Stay – a hostel with affordable prices, offers shared rooms and basic amenities.
- Hostel Cosmos – a reasonably priced hostel with basic amenities, ideal for budget travelers.
What is the best neighborhood in rome for tourists?
For a tourist visiting Rome, I would recommend staying in the Centro Storico neighborhood. Located in the historic center of the city, it puts you within walking distance of many of the main attractions such as the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Spanish Steps. However, the narrow cobbled streets can be crowded and noisy, so this hotel may not be ideal if you’re looking for a quiet location.
Another central but quieter option is the Prati. It is located just north of the Vatican and has excellent metro and bus connections, making it easy to get around the city. Prati is a lovely residential neighborhood with elegant townhouses, tree-lined streets and local trattorias. While not as atmospheric as Centro Storico, this neighborhood offers an authentic glimpse of Roman life without being as hectic for visitors.
Best Areas in Rome on a Map
FAQs about Rome
How many days do I need in Rome?
I’d recommend at least 3 full days in Rome to see the main attractions at a comfortable pace. Rome is so packed with history and sights that any less than 3 days feels rushed. You’ll want adequate time to visit the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Pantheon, Vatican City, and other famous sites.
Which area is best for first time in Rome?
The most convenient and centrally located area for first-timers is around the Piazza Navona, Pantheon, or Campo de’ Fiori neighborhoods. Staying in the heart of the city means many sites are walkable and you’re close to great restaurants and nightlife.
What is the safest district to stay in Rome?
For safety, look for accommodations away from Termini train station, which can be sketchy at night. The Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain areas are also very touristy and prone to pickpockets. I’d stick to the centro storico districts like Piazza Navona for a balance of convenience and security.
Is Rome city Centre walkable?
Absolutely – Rome’s historic center is very compact and walkable once you get your bearings. Just be sure to wear comfortable shoes, stay hydrated, and take the occasional metro, taxi or bus if your feet need a break. A mix of walking and public transit is ideal.
What is the best month to visit Rome?
September and October are ideal times with comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, and more reasonable prices than peak summer. April/May and November are also lovely spring and fall months. Just avoid the hot and crowded months of July and August if possible.
