Best Areas to Stay in Rome: A Complete Guide
When planning your Roman holiday, one of the most important questions to answer is: what are the best areas to stay in Rome? As a frequent traveler to Rome, we selected the best neighborhoods in Rome to ease up the trip for you!
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I still remember our first visit to Rome. While we stayed at a decent hotel near the train station, the area wasn’t ideal — we witnessed pickpocketing almost daily. That’s exactly why we don’t want you to have the same experience — choosing the right area to stay in Rome can make all the difference in how much you enjoy your trip.
Rom is a big city and has different neighborhoods like any other big city. From the historic heart of Centro Storico to the bohemian vibes of Trastevere, Rome offers diverse neighborhoods to suit every traveler’s style, budget, and interest.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best neighborhoods to stay in Rome, what makes them special, where to find the top accommodations—including Hotel Manfredi Rome—and what to do nearby.
Best Areas to Stay in Rome at a Glance
If you don’t have time for the details, here is a cheatsheet for your trip with the best areas to stay in Rome:
Area | Best For | Vibe | Best Choice Hotel |
Centro Storico | First-timers, sightseeing, walking everywhere | Classic, charming, historical | |
Trastevere | Couples, nightlife, local feel | Romantic, bohemian, lively | |
Monti | Trendy travelers, solo trips, foodies | Hip, creative, ancient meets modern | |
Prati | Families, shopping, near the Vatican | Elegant, residential, clean | |
Testaccio | Food lovers, local life | Authentic, laid-back, underrated | |
Termini / Esquilino | Budget travel, transport connections | Convenient, diverse, less picturesque |
Below you’ll find a complete guide to the best areas to stay in Rome, tailored to help you choose the perfect neighborhood for your visit
Best Areas to Stay in Rome
Each neighborhood in Rome has its own charm, from ancient ruins to Renaissance palaces, lively piazzas to quiet cobblestone lanes. Here are the best areas to stay in Rome, based on your travel style and interests.
1. Centro Storico (Historic Center)
Ideal for: First-time visitors, sightseeing, and walking access to major attractions
If it’s the first time for you to visit this stunning city, it’s better to stay in the historical part. Rome has so much to offer and even if you stay 10 days, there is still more to see.
So if you’re wondering where to stay in Rome first time, Centro Storico is the best choice. You’ll be surrounded by landmarks like the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Campo de’ Fiori, and Trevi Fountain.
Pro tip: For a 3-5 day itinerary, also check our Guide to Rome’s must-visit places.
Although we are traveling to Rome frequently, but we still love to stay in this area sometimes to enjoy the historic views and vibes. Staying in the heart of Rome means you’re steps away from iconic spots.
Pros:
- Walking distance to major attractions and enjoying the historical hotel views
- Charming cobblestone streets and piazzas with a roman charm
- Great restaurants and cafes
Cons:
- It can be very Expensive and touristy from April to October. Although you can sometimes find good deals if you book early.
- Can get crowded and noisy during the night, so you have to pic a good-located hotel.
Hotel Picks:
Luxury: Hotel de Russie – 5★ Spa & Gardens Near Piazza del Popolo
Mid-Range: Hotel Manfredi Rome – Boutique Charm by Spanish Steps
Budget: Hotel Panda – Affordable Stay in a Prime Location
2. Trastevere
We love this area for it’s romantic flair and cozy restaurants. In summer you can truly enjoy sitting outside in the beautiful narrow streets and enjoy a glass of wine.
Across the Tiber River, Trastevere is full of character. Known for its ivy-clad buildings, artisan shops, and buzzing piazzas, this area offers a more local feel with lively evenings and excellent trattorias.
We love to wander its maze-like streets by day, and enjoy the nightlife by night. It’s also a short walk (20-30 min) to Vatican City and Centro Storico. (which counts as a very short walk in Rome)
Pro Tip: We recommend to take the scenic route from Tiber River via bridges like Ponte Sisto or Ponte Principe Amedeo. It’s stunning.
Pros:
- Amazing nightlife and local restaurants.
- Beautiful, cobbled streets and ivy-covered buildings
- Vibrant but less touristy than the center. You will feel the local life in this part of the city.
Pro tip: For a 3-5 day itinerary, also check our Guide to Rome’s must-visit places.
Cons:
- Not all streets are well-connected by metro, so might need to walk, but it’s just 20 min from Centro . there is a Tram Line 8 which is frequent and reliable. There are several bus lines that connect you to the other parts of Rome. B44 will take you to Vatican City and Bus 75 to Termini Station.
- Can be noisy at night, but you can find hotels which are quiet. But still one of the best areas to stay in Rome for solo travelers.
Hotel Picks:
Luxury: VOI Donna Camilla Savelli – Historic Monastery Turned Luxury Hotel
Mid-Range: Horti 14 Borgo Trastevere – Stylish & Quiet
Budget: Trastevere Dream House – Cozy B&B with Local Vibes
3. Monti
Monti is on of the the best areas to stay in Rome for travelers who want to stay close to major landmarks like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Piazza Venezia, while still enjoying a local, authentic vibe. It’s known for its independent boutiques, vintage shops, artisanal gelato, and a buzzing food and wine scene.
We really enjoyed our stay at Nerva Boutique hotel with it’s modern charm and the Fifteen Keys Hotel with it’s luxury note. Monti is a delightful blend of ancient history and modern Roman lifestyle. It was once a working-class district, but now it’s a trendy, bohemian neighborhood filled with narrow cobblestone streets.
Pro Tip: The main square, Piazza della Madonna dei Monti, is a favorite gathering spot for both locals and visitors — especially at sunset.
With its mix of old and new, Monti is ideal for those who love history but want to experience Rome beyond the tourist trail.
Don’t Miss: A Rome Colosseum night tour is a must-do for an unforgettable view of this ancient marvel illuminated after dark.
Pros:
- Walking distance to Colosseum and Roman Forum (10 min)
- Boutique shops, artisan studios, wine bars
- Hip yet peaceful and quiet
Cons:
- Can be a little hilly, but not much
- Hotels can be pricey, so you need to book early
Our Favorite Hotel Picks:
Luxury: The Fifteen Keys Hotel – Contemporary Luxury in a Cool Area
Mid-Range: Nerva Boutique Hotel – Modern Charm Near the Forum
Budget: Hotel Grifo – Budget-Friendly with a Rooftop Terrace
4. Prati
Prati is one of the the best areas to stay in Rome for travelers who prefer a quiter, more refined atmosphere- we normally stay there if we’re traveling to Rome in Summer to avoid the touristic areas. It’s also perfect for families with kids and business travelers who want to stay close to Vatican.
Located near the Vatican, Prati is clean, orderly, and less touristy. Plus, it’s home to Via Cola di Rienzo, one of the best shopping streets in Rome. It’s a shopping haven and favorite place for food lovers with plenty of traditional trattorias, upscale restaurants and chic cafés.
Why Prati:
Prati is one of Rome’s most elegant and orderly neighborhoods. With its wide, tree-lined boulevards, stylish architecture, and sophisticated atmosphere, it’s just a short walk from St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums.
If you stay longer in Rome and want to do day trips from Rome, there are many good options within an hour from Rome. Get our full guide for best Day trips from Rome.
It has an easy access to public transportation and accommodation prices here are more reasonable, and it’s well connected by metro.
Pros:
- Close to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums
- Less touristy, feels more local
- Great for families and longer stays.
- Very good metro connection and public transportation
Cons:
- A bit far from ancient Rome sights, so if you like to be in the historic part or if it’s the first time visiting Rome, this area might not be the best choice for you.
Hotel Picks:
Luxury: Hotel NH Collection Roma Centro – Modern & Elegant
Mid-Range: Hotel Della Conciliazione – Steps from Vatican City
Budget: Fabio Massimo Design Hotel – Style Meets Affordability
5. Testaccio
Testaccio is also one of the best areas to stay in Rome and it’s ideal for foodies, adventurous travelers, and return visitors to Rome who want a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience. It’s also great for younger travelers and creative types looking to explore the city’s local culture, nightlife, and lesser-known treasures.
We love to explore the authentic Roman cuisine at the Testaccio Market and local osterias. It’s not as central, but public transport makes it easy to get around.
Pro Tip: This district is famous for its deep culinary roots — it’s the birthplace of many classic Roman dishes, and home to the Testaccio Market, which is a must-visit.
Testaccio is a hidden gem that’s slowly gaining popularity, especially with foodies.
Pros:
- Amazing local food scene and the testaccio market with home-made dishes
- Less crowded and more affordable
- True Roman atmosphere with authentic cuisine
Cons:
- Fewer traditional tourist attractions
- A bit far from some major sights
Hotel Picks:
Luxury: Hotel San Anselmo – Hidden Gem with Classical Design
Mid-Range: Seven Suites – Chic Guesthouse with Local Flavour
Budget: Hotel Re di Roma – Modern & Budget-Friendly in the Heart of Testaccio
Best Areas to Stay in Rome
6. Esquilino / Termini Station
Ideal for: Budget travelers and quick airport access
Esquilino is one of the the best areas to stay in Rome if you like a multicultural and dynamic neighborhoods. Centered around Termini Station, Termini is the city’s main transportation hub. Last year we stayed there in July and for the price we paid, we quite enjoyed it.
Pro Tip: The only thing is that there are many pick picketers in that area around Termini Station, so you have to be very careful with your wallet and luggage. Specially at night.
It offers direct access to metro lines A and B, trains to the airport, and buses to nearly every corner of the city — making it one of the most convenient places to stay in Rome. We wanted to do day trips from Rome, so it was ideal for us.
A Must-Visit in Termini Area
The area has a mix of 19th-century architecture, historic churches, and a vibrant international food scene. While parts of Esquilino can feel busy and a bit gritty, it’s packed with local character and offers some of the most affordable accommodation options in central Rome.
You’re within a walking distance of the most beautiful basilica in Rome : Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, Piazza della Repubblica, and even the Colosseum if you’re up for a 20–30 minute stroll.
his area gets a bad rep, but Termini is extremely convenient for transport and budget options.
Pros:
- Great hotel deals and more budget options with high quality
- Central train and metro hub of Rome. Perfect for Day Trip lovers like us.
- Easy airport connections, every 15-30 minutes, cost 14 Euro and also you can get the airport bus for around 7Euro that takes 45-60 min.
Cons:
- Lacks charm
- Can feel unsafe at night in some parts
Hotel Picks:
Luxury: Palazzo Montemartini Rome, A Radisson Collection Hotel
Budget: The Beehive – Eco-Friendly Hostel with a Soul
Activities in Rome: What to Do Nearby
No matter where you stay, you’re never far from incredible activities in Rome. Here is a list of Must-do activities and sightseeing during your stay in Rome, if you don’t want to go through our ultimate Guide to Rome:
- Toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain
- Explore the Roman Forum
- Visit the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
- Climb to the top of St. Peter’s Basilica
- Stroll through Villa Borghese gardens
- Try carbonara in a traditional trattoria
- Take a Rome Colosseum night tour
- Visit Piazza Venezia and the Altar of the Fatherland
Rome Vacation Planning Tips
We love to go to Rome frequently. You can never get enough from this vibrant historical city. It’s an excellent base for both exploration and relaxation. Whether you’re booking luxury suites at Marriott Rome Italy or grabbing a budget bed in a hostel, it’s essential to plan how long to stay, what to see, and when to go.
FAQs: Rome Travel Guide
Where to Stay in Rome First Time?
Centro Storico is ideal for first-time visitors. It offers walking access to major sites and historical beauty at every turn. Best Area to stay in Rome for History-lovers.
How Many Days Do You Need in Rome?
To experience Rome properly, 3 to 5 days is ideal. This allows time for sightseeing, relaxing, and enjoying the local lifestyle. Rome offers much more, and believe me you will want to go back there. We suggest 4-5 Days.
How Many Days to Spend in Rome?
If you’re like us and love to do few day trips from Rome, we do suggest 7 days. You’ll need around 5 days for Rome itself. Please visit our Guide to Rome for a full Itinerary.
What to See in Rome in 2 Days?
If you don’t have time for a full detailed itinerary, and want to stay only 2 days in Rome, here is a Must-Visit list for you.
- Day 1: Take a tour for Colosseum and Forum during the day and spend the night walking around the city to visit the Trevi Fountain, Pantheon and Piazza Navona
- Day 2: Take a tour for Vatican Museum, Castel Sant’Angelo and St. Peter’s Basilia during the day and enjoy the night life at Trastevere.
How Far is Rome from Amalfi Coast?
Rome is about 275 km (170 miles) from the Amalfi Coast. Driving takes around 3–4 hours. You can also take a train to Salerno and then a bus or ferry. But it’s a heaven on earth and if you have that time, it’s absolutely worth a visit.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Rome?
April to June and September to October are the best months. The weather is pleasant, and crowds are thinner than peak summer. Spring also brings festivals and blooming gardens.
July and August is too hot and full of tourists. Queues are also very long for both sight-seeing and restaurants.
How Far is Paris to Rome?
By train, the journey from Paris to Rome takes 10-12 hours, while flights are about 2 hours. There are normally budget flights available in Europe, if you book early. We normally check Skyscanner to get the best rate.
How to Get from Florence to Rome?
One of the best destinations in Italy (when not the best one in our opinion) is Florence. And it’s just 1.5 hours with high-speed train between Florence and Rome. Trains run frequently and offer comfortable seating. You can check the prices here.
Is the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Rome?
No, the Leaning Tower of Pisa is in the city of Pisa, in the Tuscany region—Which is about 3.5 hours from Rome. There are many day trips from Rome to Pisa and you can enjoy the ride. You can also get the train to Pisa.
Does Rome Have Uber?
Yes, Rome does have Uber, and we found it comfortable and convenient — we actually used it quite a bit during our stay. While local taxis are sometimes cheaper, you do need to be cautious. On one occasion, we were charged double the normal fare, so it’s a good idea to confirm the rate in advance or use official taxi stands when possible.
How Many Days in Rome?
A short trip should be at least 3 days, but for a more immersive Rome vacation, aim for 5-7 days.
If you want to spend more time in Italy and you’re heading to Florence, read our guides to:
Where to stay in Florence
Best Time to Visit Rome?
The best time to visit Rome is during the shoulder seasons: April–June and September–October, for mild weather and fewer tourists.
Day Trips from Rome
If you’re Looking to explore beyond the city, there are many good day trips from Rome. For a detailed guide and full details, please see our Guide for Day Trips from Rome. Here are our top favorites:
- Tivoli – Visit Villa d’Este and Villa Adriana.
- Orvieto – A medieval hill town with stunning views and history.
- Ostia Antica – Rome’s ancient port, like a smaller Pompeii.
- Naples & Pompeii – History and pizza in one trip!
- Florence – Easily reachable by high-speed train.
- Castelli Romani – Wine tasting and countryside charm. There are amazing tours from Rome and it’s much easier to go with a tour.
- Civita di Bagnoregio – A surreal clifftop village, which is unbelievably beautiful.
Best Areas to Stay in Rome
Rome Trips: Making the Most of Your Stay
When booking Rome trips, remember to:
- Reserve skip-the-line tickets in advance
- Include one or two day trips from Rome
- Mix major sights with time for wandering and exploring the different neighborhoods in Rome.
- Try local Roman dishes: amatriciana, cacio e pepe, and supplì. For a full guide to local restaurants in Rome, please see our latest post.
Final Thoughts: Best Neighborhood to Stay in Rome
So, here is an overview of what we discussed about the best neighborhood to stay in Rome? That depends on your goals:
- First-time visitor? Centro Storico is unbeatable.
- Looking for romance? Choose Trastevere.
- Want trendy and walkable? Head to Monti.
- Traveling with family? Try Prati.
- On a budget? Stay near Termini.
Rome is a city where ancient history meets vibrant modern life. With the right base, your Roman holiday will be one to remember.
Where Is Rome on the Map?
Rome, the capital of Italy, is located in the central-western portion of the Italian Peninsula, along the shores of the Tiber River. When looking at a map of Rome, you’ll notice it’s divided into several districts called “rioni,” many of which date back to ancient times.
Rome is not only the seat of the Italian government, but it’s also home to Vatican City—the smallest country in the world.
Where NOT to Stay in Rome
Rome is generally safe, although you always have to be careful about the pick-pocketers. But a few areas in Rome are less ideal for tourists:
1. Outer Suburbs (e.g., Tor Bella Monaca, Torre Angela)
- Far from the center
- Not well-connected by public transport
- Higher petty crime rates
2. Some parts of Esquilino / Piazza Vittorio
- Gritty feel at night
- Can feel unsafe for solo travelers
3. Near Fiumicino Airport (Unless flying out early)
- Too far from the city’s attractions
- Not much to see or do
Whether you’re visiting for history, food, or simply to soak in the Italian lifestyle, choosing the right neighborhood can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ve explored the best areas to stay in Rome, from charming Trastevere to elegant Prati and centrally located Monti.
No matter your travel style or budget, you’ll find that the best areas to stay in Rome combine convenience, character, and unforgettable local experiences — helping you make the most of your time in the Eternal City. If you still have more questions, feel free to reach out! We’re happy to help!
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