Few cities rival Rome’s incredible mix of history, art, landmarks and lively neighbourhoods – which is exactly why figuring out the best area to stay in can feel so overwhelming. Do you want to wake up beside ancient ruins and grand piazzas, or unwind each night in a quieter part of the city? Do you prefer being in the heart of the action or staying in a calmer, more local neighbourhood?
Rome is divided into 15 municipalities, themselves made up of different neighbourhoods with their own unique charms, characteristics and attractions. Some are steeped in antiquity – with crumbling façades, hidden courtyards, and awe-inspiring monuments at every turn – while others are more modern and residential.
When deciding where to stay in Rome, you should also consider transport connections, cost of accommodation, restaurant costs and noise levels. Staying close to the major landmarks can cost more, but saves you time (and sometimes stress) on transport. Choosing a more local area may mean cheaper meals and a more authentic feel, but more time walking or in transit.
Over the years I’ve been lucky enough to live in Rome, revisit often and stay in a wide range of places – from my apartment in Ostiense to visits in friends’ apartments scattered across the city. To help you decide, here are eight of Rome’s best neighbourhoods – each with their own advantages and disadvantages – so you can pick the place that fits your needs, travel style and budget.
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Centro Storico
We’ll start with the most obvious area to stay in Rome, Centro Storico (the historic centre). With a history spanning roughly 3,000 years, this area of the city feels like a sprawling outdoor museum. Everywhere you look you will find something that takes your breath away. You’ll find famous landmarks here like the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and the Trevi fountain. There are also dozens of pretty piazzas to relax in and a seemingly endless number of photogenic streets, lined with beautiful medieval buildings and Baroque churches.
With so much to see and do here, it is really no surprise that this is the most popular area to stay for first-time visitors to Rome. That being said, Centro Storico’s mass appeal can come with several downsides. It can unsurprisingly get incredibly busy (especially in the spring and summer) with its quaint narrow streets becoming clogged with crowds. It is also a hotspot for some unsavoury establishments trying to rip-off visitors, with stories of unsuspecting tourists getting charged ludicrous hidden fees at cafes and bars (always check the menu prices and pay attention to online reviews!) It is also likely to be far more expensive than other areas on this list for both accommodation and dining.
There is also limited transportation in the historic centre. The closest metro stations – Spagna and Barberini on the A Line – are on the edge of the historic centre, meaning you may need to take buses or walk to your destination. Luckily it is a very walkable area, but it can obviously be tiring when the hot sun is shining down on you.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Centro Storico:
| Pros | Cons |
| Right in the heart of the action | Expensive accommodation and restaurants |
| Hundreds of restaurants and bars | Not well-connected by public transport |
| Compact and walkable | A large concentration of tourist-trap restaurants |
| Near the most famous sights | Can be very crowded |
Where to Stay in Centro Storico
- Suite Art Navona (£) — Just across the road from one of the city’s most beautiful squares, Piazza Navona, this hotel offers modern, minimalist rooms with AC and free Wi-Fi. Ideal for travellers who want comfort and convenience in a central location.
- Aldrovandi Residence City Suites (££) — Located in Rome’s elegant Parioli district near Villa Borghese, Aldrovandi Residence offers upscale residences with a kitchen or kitchenette, 24-hour concierge; daily maid service and a free swimming pool.
- TB Place Roma (£££) – A short walk from Piazza di Spagna and Trevi fountain, TB Place Roma offers family rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and modern amenities. Perfect for travellers seeking comfort and sophistication within walking distance of Rome’s historic sites.
Trastevere
Although no longer the “hidden gem” it was decades ago, Trastevere remains a great option for a stay in Rome. Situated west of the River Tiber, Trastevere is one of the most picturesque places in the city. Filled with ivy-covered buildings in various shades of pink, red and orange, narrow cobblestone streets, and quaint cafes and bars, it is basically a postcard image of Rome.
Trastevere covers quite a large area, stretching from just below the Vatican walls in the north to Porta Portese to the south, but the most popular part is the area just west of Tiber Island. Here you will find excellent restaurants, pretty piazzas and beautiful churches like Basilica di Santa Cecilia and Basilica of Santa Maria. Another must-visit sight is Janiculum Hill, where you will be treated to some utterly spectacular views out over Rome.
Despite its growth in popularity, Trastevere has retained an authentic feel. During the day it is nice and calm, even quiet at times, while in the evening it comes alive with locals and tourists alike, spilling out of bars or chilling in piazzas creating a fun, lively atmosphere.
There is no metro in Trastevere, but buses and trams can take you across the river to the main sights. You can take the regional train to and from Trastevere station, including direct trains to Fiumicino airport. You can also walk across the river and be in the historic centre within 30 minutes or less.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Trastevere:
| Pros | Cons |
| Unbelievably pretty | Can feel a bit touristy |
| Fantastic restaurants | Not connected to Rome’s metro system |
| Easy to explore by foot | Reliant on buses and trams (which aren’t always reliable in Rome!) |
| Great atmosphere, especially at night | Accommodation can be pricey |
Where to Stay in Trastevere
- JO&JOE ROMA – (£)— A vibrant, design-focused hotel with colourful shared spaces, a garden, and an energetic social atmosphere. Excellent mid-range choice for those who enjoy creativity and community vibes.
- B&B HOTEL Roma Trastevere (££) – A modern, great-value hotel close to Trastevere train station, with simple, comfortable rooms and easy access to public transport. Ideal for travellers who want convenience and clean design.
- Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá (£££) – A luxurious 5-star hotel near the Vatican, perched on a hill with stunning city views, stylish modern rooms, an on-site spa, an outdoor pool, and excellent amenities. It’s close to the historic centre and Trastevere, with several on-site bars and restaurants. I’ve personally enjoyed delicious cocktails at their Amaro Lobby Bar & Lounge Roma.
Prati
Elegant Prati is a popular choice for those wanting to be near major attractions, while staying in a less chaotic environment. Situated on the west bank of the Tiber River, Prati is not as bustling as the historic centre or as picture-perfect as Trastevere but it is peaceful, quiet, and safe. Its layout is also very different, with wide, grid-like streets flanked by trees and modern buildings, a world away from the maze of narrow, winding streets found elsewhere.
While the calm atmosphere is a key reason people stay here, the biggest draw is its proximity to the Vatican. This makes Prati the perfect place to stay if a visit to Saint Peters and the Vatican Museum are high on your list. This can obviously come with some negatives though, with certain areas closer to these sights becoming incredibly busy, with lots of stalls selling identical souvenirs and restaurants vying for your attention.
Prati is walking distance from the historic centre, while the two nearby metro stops (Levanto and Ottaviano) on the A Line. This is particularly useful if you arrive at Termini station, which is on the same metro line.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Prati:
| Pros | Cons |
| Right by the Vatican and Castel Sant’Angelo | More residential than lively |
| Good public transport links | Can be very touristy near the Vatican |
| Walking distance to historic centre | Accommodation and dining can be expensive |
| Lots of shopping and dining options | Not as atmospheric as other neighbourhoods |
Where to Stay in Prati
- Domus Iulius (£) — A stylish guesthouse in the heart of Prati, offering modern, clean rooms just steps away from the Vatican and excellent transport links.
- WE LOVE ROMA Guest House (££) — A cosy, well-reviewed guesthouse with friendly service and comfortable simplicity; perfect if you want value and charm without sacrificing location in Prati.
- New Prati Luxury Apartment (£££) — A spacious, beautifully furnished apartment with multiple bedrooms, a terrace, and modern amenities. A great option for families or groups seeking comfort and style in one of Rome’s most elegant neighbourhoods.
Testaccio
Located just below Trastevere to the east of the Tiber River, Testaccio is possibly my favourite neighbourhood in Rome. I used to live just minutes away and would go there often. It’s a very local neighbourhood with fantastic, family-run restaurants and a large piazza that’s buzzing day and night. In fact, some of the best restaurants in Rome can be found here. The famous Mercato di Testaccio is also located here, which is a great place to try Roman street food and other local specialities.
Testaccio is a little far away from the historic centre, but this neighbourhood has good transport links that connect you with other parts of the city by bus, metro, or tram. It is also close to Roma Porta S. Paolo, the train station that takes you to Ostia beach and Ostia Antica (one of my favourite lesser-known sights near Rome!)
There isn’t a huge amount here in terms of sightseeing compared to the historic centre, but there are still some interesting things to check out. These include the Pyramid of Caius Cestius, Porta San Paolo (ancient city gate), and Monte Testaccio, an artificial mound made up almost entirely of broken ancient Roman pottery!
Pros & Cons of Staying in Testaccio:
| Pros | Cons |
| Very local, non-touristy atmosphere | More travel time needed to see the ancient sights |
| Authentic restaurants | Further from the historic centre |
| Legendary food market | Not as picture-perfect as other neighbourhoods |
| Good public transport links | Fewer local attractions than other areas |
Where to Stay in Testaccio
- Le Tre Sorelle a Testaccio (£) – A charming boutique-style hotel with modern rooms and thoughtful design touches. Great for travellers seeking style and comfort without the high-end price tag.
- Testaccio Hotel, Sonder Hotel by Marriott Bonvoy (££) – An upscale, full-service hotel offering elegant rooms and the quality and service of a premium property.
- Testaccio B45 Full Guesthouse (£££) – A spacious two-bedroom apartment with modern amenities and high-end comfort.
Monti
Another gorgeous neighbourhood popular with visitors is Monti. Known for its picturesque cobblestoned streets, ivy-covered medieval buildings, and bohemian vibes, Monti is a truly wonderful place to explore. It also isn’t as busy as the historic centre, despite its popularity and convenient location.
Situated just north of the Roman Forum, Trajan’s Forum, and the Colosseum, Monti is an ideal place to stay if you want to be near Rome’s famous landmarks. It is also a great spot to do some shopping, with many small boutiques found along its pretty streets.
Due to its picture-perfect aesthetics, accommodation and dining in Monti can be high. While there are many excellent restaurants here, there are also a handful of tourist traps around too.
There is a metro stop (Cavour) in Monti which connects with various parts of the city, and is only one stop from Termini station. If you’re planning to go on some day trips from Rome, this could be a really handy area to base yourself in.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Monti:
| Pros | Cons |
| Pretty and quaint | Can get very busy due to its narrow streets |
| Many high-end hotels, shops and boutiques | Only has one metro station |
| Easy to explore by foot | Can feel quite touristy |
| Close to major landmarks | A long walk from the Tiber river and west side of the city |
Where to Stay in Monti
- Relais Forus Inn (£) – A stylish guesthouse in Rome’s Monti district, just a short walk from the Colosseum, offering elegant rooms with modern amenities and in-room continental breakfast.
- Condominio Monti Boutique Hotel (££) – A chic, well-located hotel within walking distance of the Colosseum and close to Cavour Metro. Features elegant rooms and a lovely rooftop garden – ideal for travellers seeking mid-range comfort with flair.
- Princeps Boutique Hotel (£££) – A stylish boutique hotel, perfectly positioned between the historic centre and Termini. A great balance of comfort, quality, and location.
Aventino
Perched atop the ancient Aventine Hill, the tranquil, residential neighbourhood of Aventino is for those of you looking for a more secluded stay in the Eternal City. It’s lovely and leafy – the perfect escape from the chaos found below.
The Aventino Hill is the location of the Giardino degli Aranci, a peaceful oasis that treats you to some of the nicest views of Rome. This sits beside Basilica di Santa Sabina all’Aventino, which dates back to the 6th-century, and the Villa del Priorato di Malta, where you will find the famous Aventine keyhole. The beautiful Rose Garden is also nearby, while attractions like Circo Massimo and the Baths of Carracalla are a short walk away.
While staying on Aventino Hill can be nice and quiet, there are some downsides that you should take into account. Unless you use taxis regularly or have your own vehicle, you will need to walk up and down Aventine Hill for meals out, grocery shopping or to use public transport, which might be challenging for those with mobility issues or travelling with young children. In terms of public transport, the nearest metro stations are Circo Massimo and Piramide metro stops (both Line B), and there are also bus and tram stops.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Aventino:
| Pros | Cons |
| Pretty and peaceful | Requires walking up and down Aventine Hill (a car or taxi may be required) |
| Very green | No real nightlife or restaurant scene |
| Amazing view out over the city | Expensive accommodation |
| Close to some metro stations | May be too isolated and quiet for some |
Where to Stay in Aventino
- Hotel Aventino (£) – An elegant, great-value hotel in a peaceful location on Aventine Hill. Guests can enjoy breakfast in the garden – a lovely way to start the day in one of Rome’s quietest corners.
- San Anselmo Hotel (££) – A refined former villa offering classic charm and a serene atmosphere. Perfect for travellers seeking an elegant, tranquil escape while being in reach of the city centre.
- Il Monastero Collection (£££) – A luxurious boutique hotel full of character and atmosphere, combining historic elegance with modern comfort in the heart of Aventino.
Ostiense
The Ostiense neighbourhood was my old stomping grounds when I lived in Rome, and a place that I think new and returning visitors will enjoy staying in. It might not be the prettiest part of the city, but it’s a true local spot full of great restaurants, excellent nightlife, and cool bars. It is also close to Testaccio and has interesting attractions nearby like Centrale Montemartini and the Pyramid of Caius Cestius. It’s a very local, untouristy neighbourhood so don’t expect everyone to speak English (a great opportunity to practise your Italian!)
Prices here are also much more reasonable than other areas listed here, which may appeal to those of you on a budget. There are excellent transport links here, including Piramide metro stop (Line B), Roma Ostiense train station (which you can get to directly from Fiumincino airport), several trams and lots of buses. It’s also possible to walk to areas like Trastevere and the historic centre, though this may be too long a walk for some. I always enjoyed this stroll though as I would take the peaceful walk along the River Tiber.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Ostiense:
| Pros | Cons |
| Very local and authentic | Not the prettiest area (a bit grubby!) |
| Cheaper accommodation options | Noisy if you’re staying near the train tracks |
| Really great restaurants and bars | A bit far from the main sights |
| Excellent transport links around Rome and further afield | Fewer local attractions than other areas |
Where to Stay in Ostiense
- BNB Ostiense (£) – A clean, comfortable boutique B&B with thoughtful decor, offering a touch of luxury without the full hotel price.
- Siria’s home (££) – A warm, homely guesthouse in Ostiense, well suited to people looking for a more local, relaxed stay.
- Porto Fluviale House (£££) – A modern, attractive option near the Porto Fluviale area, offering clean, nicely furnished rooms.
Esquilino
If you are on a budget then you may want to consider Esquilino, the area in which Termini station is located. Being close to a major transport hub makes Esquilino a convenient location for arriving from the airport and offers excellent transport links to other parts of Rome and other parts of the country. This is especially useful if you are planning to visit other Italian cities like Florence or Naples, before or after your stay in Rome.
It isn’t just the excellent transport links that make Esquilino a good choice for a stay. It is also near some excellent attractions, including Museo Nazionale Romano Palazzo Massimo and Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore, one of the impressive churches in Rome. Esquilino is also only a short walk from beautiful Monti, which is a perfect place for evening drinks and dinner.
With the train station nearby, there is a high density of hotels that typically offer cheaper prices than other areas of Rome. But while prices are often better here, it isn’t exactly the nicest area to stay. Like in many cities, the area around the main train station is often dirty, noisy and crowded. Some people may feel uncomfortable here too, especially at night. I’ve stayed in this area myself when I was younger and on more of a budget, and I never had any issues. Still, it’s certainly something to keep in mind.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Esquilino:
| Pros | Cons |
| Cheaper accommodation options | Can be noisy and crowded, especially at the main station |
| Central, convenient location | Potentially unsafe at night due to pickpocketing and petty crime |
| Excellent transport links from Termini station | Not the prettiest part of Rome – some areas are not well-maintained |
| Lots of affordable restaurants – including non-Italian options | Further from the ancient sights |
Where to Stay in Esquilino
- The Beehive (£) – A friendly, community-minded hostel with shared kitchen facilities.. Regular group activities like walking tours and quiz nights make it a great choice for solo travellers.
- Roman Residence (££) – A well-kept hotel in the Esquilino area, offering a convenient location, modern rooms and friendly service.
- Sophie Terrace Hotel (£££) – A stylish mid-range hotel with a lovely terrace and modern rooms, ideally located near Santa Maria Maggiore.
I hope this Rome neighbourhood guide helps you choose the perfect area and accommodation – whether that’s a cozy B&B or a luxurious five-star stay. Deciding where to stay in Rome can feel overwhelming, but the truth is there’s no wrong choice – it all depends on what kind of trip you want. No matter where you base yourself, you’ll get to experience the magic of Rome. Buona vacanza!
Ciao for now
Izzie, the Curious Sparrow
