Where To Stay In Rome – A Neighborhood Guide With BEST Areas!

Rome is among the most recognizable cities in the world. Italy has many other touristy areas, such as Florence and Lake Como, but in Rome there are some iconic symbols of the country. 

Nicknamed the Eternal City, Rome is a true open-air museum with an astonishing number of monuments, palaces and religious buildings. Rome is one of the most incredible cities you will ever visit. 

The city’s long history, which spans over 2500 years, can be seen in every corner, so choosing where to stay in Rome is of fundamental importance to have an unforgettable time. 

Rome is a huge city with a plethora of hotels all around. We prepared this guide to help you narrow down the best places to stay in Rome for your holiday. We will also share the neighborhoods’ top sights and useful tips for a stress-free getaway.

Where To Stay In Rome

Rome is Italy’s biggest city compared to Florence and Lake Como, with many neighborhoods boasting incredible attractions. The Eternal City is divided into 22 rioni (or districts), all with unique characteristics. Whether you love being surrounded by ancient buildings or Renaissance and Baroque monuments, Rome has the perfect spot for every traveler. 

This guide is a detailed breakdown of Rome’s best neighborhoods so you can choose the best suited to your travel needs.  

The main neighborhoods of Rome

Here’s an overview of the best places to stay in Rome for an unforgettable vacation.

1. Colosseo / Rione Monti – Revolving around the Colosseo, the neighborhood is where to be for discovering the archeological sites and the history of ancient Rome.

2. Centro Storico – Boasting iconic monuments like the Fontana di Trevi and the Pantheon, it is Rome’s most touristic area. 

3. Villa Borghese – An elegant area in the north of the city, Villa Borghese has wonderful art galleries and many green spaces for relaxing walks and picnics.

4. Trastevere – Ideal to live a local experience, Trastevere is full of charming streets to take pictures of and boasts restaurants serving authentic Roman cuisine. 

5. Vaticano / Rione Borghi – The Vaticano is a separate State within the territory of Rome, but it has among the best spots to visit in the Italian capital, like the Basilica di San Pietro and the Musei Vaticani. 

6. Termini – This neighborhood is where the train station is located and is the ideal area to stay for travelers on a budget. 

Rome travel tips

How to get around

Rome is a huge city, but it’s incredibly easy to get around on foot if you are not afraid of walking kilometers. The various neighborhoods are jam-packed with monuments, historical buildings, restaurants, charming streets, and shops, so you will have something to see and do at every step. 

If you are not much of a walker, Rome has a large network of buses and trams that you can use to make longer inner-city journeys. However, you need to assess that buses are usually incredibly busy and are hardly on time. 

Trams are usually less busy, so they are a good transfer option if your accommodation is along the tram line.

Another transfer option is the metro. Rome has three metro lines, and only the lines A and B pass through neighborhoods with tourist landmarks. However, Rome’s metro system is all but flawless with erratic times, old trains, and stations poorly or not at all accessible with strollers or wheelchairs. So unless you just need to take the metro for a few stops, you should opt for another method of transport.

If you want to explore the city from another perspective, why don’t you rent a Vespa scooter and drive around? It’s a fun way to discover Rome. However, you must consider that Rome has lots of traffic and roads have holes and potentially slippery cobbles. So you need to be a great motorbiker to drive in Rome’s center in safety.

Neighbourhood map

Here’s a map of Rome’s main neighborhoods to help you navigate this big city without getting lost and always finding its many incredible sights.

Plan your trip

Book tickets in advance – Rome is always packed with tourists, even in the winter. So it’s necessary to pre-book entrance tickets to your favorite attractions to make sure you will be able to visit them. In particular, the Colosseo and the Musei Vaticani sell out incredibly fast, so you will need to book the tickets even months in advance. 

Get a city pass – The Roma Pass will allow you to skip-the-line to countless museums and archeological sites, including the Colosseo. The city pass also features free entrance to a certain number of sites, and discounted ticket prices for others. You can get your city pass at the RomaPass official website and then retrieve it at the Tourist Infopoint di Roma Capitale nearby the Foro Romano.

Be aware of pickpocketing – Unfortunately, pickpocketing is widespread in Rome, and people doing it are extremely skilled at it. Be especially careful when visiting popular attractions and taking public transport. You should also watch out for your bags at restaurants and bars.  

Buy bus tickets before boarding – You cannot buy bus and tram tickets onboard. So you will have to purchase them at any tabacchi (a tobacco shop) or newsstands around the city. 

Eat in Trastevere – The best area in town to eat authentic Roman cuisine and avoid tourist traps is Trastevere. The neighborhood has many traditional trattorias mainly visited by locals, so the food you can taste there is 100% Italian and won’t be overpriced.   

Bring a reusable water bottle – As everywhere else in Italy, tap water is safe to drink. In Rome, you will find drinking fountains spilling fresh and cold water everywhere to fill your reusable water bottle.

1. Colosseo / Rione Monti

What’s there and why visit

The Colosseo / Rione Monti area is where you will find all the major historical sites of ancient Rome. This is the best area to stay in Rome if you want to be surrounded by incredible archeological sites and buildings!

The perk of the neighborhood is that aren’t many hotels around, so it’s quieter than in other parts of the city. However, it’s always crowded with tourists during the day, and accommodation here is fairly expensive. 

The area is also perfect for strolling around and getting lost in charming streets to discover hidden shops and not-touristy restaurants.

Suggested hotels near Colosseo / Rione Monti

Things to see near Colosseo / Rione Monti

Colosseo – Among the world’s most iconic landmarks, the Colosseo is officially named the Anfiteatro Flavio. Built between 70-80 BC, the arena could hold 80,000 spectators, and it was used to host gladiator tournaments and other forms of entertainment. The Colosseo has an impressive structure, and you really need to visit it on the inside! 

Foro Romano – This ancient site was the main social, economic, and political hub during Rome’s Republican period. People visited the Foro Romano for their daily shopping, to pray, and to attend political assemblies. The archeological site has many well-conserved ruins, so you can still visit the temples, various buildings, arches, and columns.

Terme di Caracalla – The gorgeous Terme di Caracalla are located at the foot of the Aventine Hill. This monumental complex was made up of baths and an array of facilities such as a gym, art galleries, gardens, and shops. These public baths were used from the 2nd to 6th century BC, and walking among its tall walls and mosaic floors is among the unmissable things to do in Rome. 

Musei Capitolini – Opened in 1734 under Pope Clement XII, the Musei Capitolini is the world’s oldest public museum. Displaying a large collection of art and antiquities, it’s a must-see for anyone interested in Roman history and art. The highlight of the museum? The famous statue of the she-wolf nursing the twins Romulus and Remus!

Getting there

Colosseo – From Roma Termini Station, take metro line B and get off at Colosseo stop. The Colosseo will be right in front of you as soon as you exit the station. 

Foro Romano – With the Colosseo at your back, walk on Via die Fori Imperiali for a minute to reach the Foro Romano entrance gate. 

Terme di Caracalla – From the Colosseo, pass by the Arco di Costantino and walk on Via di S. Gregorio. After 500 meters, at the corner of the Circo Massimo, turn left on Viale delle Terme di Caracalla, and the destination will be on your left, right behind the Stadio Nando Martellini.

Musei Capitolini – From the Colosseo walk straight on Via dei Fori Imperiali. After 650 meters, turn left on Via di S. Pietro in Carcere and follow it to the end. Climb the stairs on your right to arrive at Piazza del Campidoglio, where the museum is.

Suggested activities in Colosseo / Rione Monti

Colosseum, Palatine, & Forum Skip the Line Small Group Tour – This guided tour will lead you to the very heart of ancient Rome to explore its most iconic monuments. From the Colosseo to the Foro Romano, enjoy VIP skip-the-line access and explanations from the best guides. 

Rome: Caracalla Baths & Circus Maximus – Step back in time with this guided tour at the discovery of the Terme di Caracalla and the Circo Massimo, ancient Romans’ favorite leisure places.

2. Centro Storico

What’s there and why visit

Rome’s Centro Storico is the most touristic area of the city. Almost all the main monuments are located here, from the Fontana di Trevi to the Pantheon. The neighborhood is also Rome’s shopping paradise, as here you will find the famous Via Condotti and Via del Corso. 

The Centro Storico boasts baroque and classical buildings and it is the liveliest neighborhood in Rome. The area is incredibly touristic, so it’s quite crowded and features rather expensive accommodations. But if you are looking for the best hotels in Rome, the Centro Storico is definitely where to be!

Suggested hotels near Centro Storico

Things to see near Centro Storico

Fontana di Trevi – As famous as the Colosseo, the Fontana di Trevi is a must-see. Lavishly decorated, the fountain was constructed in 1762 by Nicola Salvi and it is a true work of art. The fountain’s statue depicts the Roman God Oceanus riding his chariot pulled by tritons while taming several hippocamps.

Tradition says that visitors should throw coins into the water over their shoulders for good luck.

Pantheon – One of the best preserved ancient Roman buildings in the world, the Pantheon is among Rome’s most famous attractions. With a rectangular porch lined with huge columns on the outside, the building is particularly spectacular from the inside. The central dome features an opening, or oculus, of 8.92 meters in diameter, creating incredible light shows.

Piazza Navona – Built in the 15th century, Piazza Navona is a beloved tourist attraction and about right. Elegant buildings, a church, cafès, and restaurants line this large square. However, Piazza Nanova’s main characteristic is the three gorgeous fountains, all with breathtaking sculptures. The most famous one is Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, sculpted by the legendary Bernini, depicting the four river gods and featuring a large Egyptian Obelisk in the center.

Chiesa di Sant’ Ignazio di Loyola – One of the countless churches in Rome, the Chiesa di Sant’ Ignazio di Loyola, has a characteristic that no other has: a false dome located at the crossroads of the transept. Surrounded by sumptuous marbles and stuccoes, this dome is actually a 13-meters canvas that creates the perspective effect of the fake architecture. At the center of the church, you will also find a big mirror that reflects its ceiling so visitors can better admire its incredible details. 

Getting there

Fontana di Trevi – From Termini station, take the metro line A towards Battistini and get off at Barberini stop. Once out, take the left street Via del Tritone for around 350 meters, and turn left on Via della Panetteria. Walk for a couple of minutes to reach the destination.

Pantheon – From Fontana di Trevi, take Via delle Muratte and keep walking straight for about 150 meters before turning right on Via della Guglia. Then take the first turn left (Via in Aquiro) and proceed straight for 150 meters until you meet Via del Pantheon on your left. Take it to reach your destination.

Piazza Navona – Follow the same road as the Pantheon but take the next left on Via del Pantheon instead of turning on Via della Rosetta. Then turn to the first street on the right and walk on Via Giustiniani. Finally, cross Corso del Rinascimento, and your destination is right before you. 

Chiesa di Sant’ Ignazio di Loyola – From Fontana di Trevi, walk on Via delle Muratte for 250 meters and turn left on Vicolo de’ Burrò. Once in Piazza Sant’Ignazio turn left on Piazza di S. Macuto to arrive at your destination.

Suggested activities in Centro Storico

Rome: Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps & Pantheon – This two and a half hour afternoon walking tour will make you discover Rome’s famous monuments, fountains, and piazzas, including the picture-perfect Spanish Steps. 

Rome: Immersive Underground and Piazzas Tour – Join a fascinating journey into the past as you explore the most important sites of underground Rome, like the Vicus Caprarius, also known as the City of Water, accompanied by a professional tour guide.

3. Villa Borghese

What’s there and why visit

An elegant and green area, Villa Borghese is a neighborhood in the north of the city. Loved by locals and tourists alike, the area boasts many museums and art galleries. Although quite busy, the atmosphere here is relaxing thanks to the numerous green spaces, including the stunning Parco di Villa Borghese. 

The neighborhood is where to stay in Rome to explore a lesser-known area while enjoying the city’s green side.  

Suggested hotels near Villa Borghese

Things to see near Villa Borghese

Galleria Borghese – An important art museum established in 1903, Villa Borghese is part of the namesake complex. The villa itself has beautiful architecture with an ornate front façade. The museum displays a myriad of fine paintings, sculptures, and antiques across twenty different rooms. Among the masterpieces you can admire are works by Raphael and Caravaggio.

Parco di Villa Borghese – The Villa Borghese complex also features a huge park, among the largest ones in Rome. The 200 acres garden contains various sections, including the Casino Borghese with sculptures by Bernini, and features different walking paths and trails crossing landscaped areas with fountains and ponds.

Villa Medici – On the panoramic Pincio Hill is Villa Medici, a mid-16th century villa commissioned in 1576 by Cardinal Ferdinando de Medici to house his collection of artworks. The external façade is rather simple, but once inside, the villa displays statues, ancient bas-reliefs, and beautiful gardens with sculptures, fountains, and an obelisk. Since the beginning of the 19th century, Villa Medici has been the seat of the French Academy. 

Piazza del Popolo – Among the finest squares in the world, Piazza del Popolo is a must-see. At the center of the piazza stands a huge Egypt Obelisk, while on one side, you will see the magnificent churches of Chiesa di Santa Maria dei Miracoli and Basilica Parrocchiale. On another side of the square starts the road to reach the Terrazza del Pincio for breathtaking views over the city. 

Getting there

Parco di Villa Borghese – From Roma Termini station, take the metro line A towards Battistini and get off at Flaminio stop. From the metro, proceed south on Via Flaminia toward Piazzale Flaminio. Walk to Piazza del Popolo and take the uphill street on the left (Viale Gabriele D’Annunzio). Your destination is at its end.  

Galleria Borghese – Galleria Borghese is inside the Parco di Villa Borghese, at its far end. 

Villa Medici – Villa Medici is located at the beginning of the Parco di Villa Borghese, at the end of the uphill street from Piazza del Popolo.

Piazza del Popolo – From Roma Termini station, take the metro line A towards Battistini and get off at Flaminio stop. Proceed south on Via Flaminia toward Piazzale Flaminio, cross the street, and you will be in Piazza del Popolo. 

Suggested activities in Villa Borghese

Borghese Gallery Masterpieces & Gardens: Skip-the-Line Tour – With this fully-guided tour of the Galleria Borghese and its Giardini, you can learn about the story behind each piece of the art collection. The tour also includes a stop at the Terrazza del Pincio to admire the panorama of Rome. 

Rome: Villa Borghese Private E-Bike Tour & Optional Picnic – Discover the wonders of the Villa Borghese complex on this private e-bike tour with 11 stops. The tour ends with a lovely picnic with Italian delicacies inside the Giardini di Villa Borghese. 

4. Trastevere

What’s there and why visit

Trastevere is one of Rome’s coolest neighborhoods. However, if you ask a Roman, they will tell you that “Trastevere is not Rome”. In fact, the area is on the other side of the Tiber River from the city’s historic center and ancient area, which are the ones that everyone associates with Rome itself. 

Trastevere might not have iconic monuments, but it where to stay in Rome for foodies as it boasts countless cheap trattorias serving authentic Roman cuisine. Another reason to stay in Trastevere is that accommodation in the neighborhood is way more affordable than in the city center. Last but not least, Trastevere is the most charming area of Rome, so if you love taking photos, you won’t do a step without shooting a pic!

Suggested hotels near Trastevere

Things to see near Trastevere

Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere – This is one of the oldest churches in Rome, dating back to the 4th century CE. The church is famous for its unique features, such as the stunning golden coffered ceiling. The church also boasts a 12th-century mosaics adorned with gold behind the main altar.

Basilica di Santa Cecilia in Trastevere – A unassuming church from the outside, this basilica hides a breathtaking inside. The highlight of the church is the incredible statue of Saint Cecilia. The church also has a crypt that can be visited and a courtyard with a central fountain lined by rose bushes.

Isola Tiberina – A tiny island in the middle of the Tiber River, in antiquity, it housed the temple of Aesculapius, the Greek god of healing. Nowadays, the Isola Tiberina features one of Rome’s hospitals and a gelateria. The island is connected to the mainland by two bridges: Ponte Fabricio and Ponte Sisto, Rome’s oldest functioning bridges. 

Belvedere del Gianicolo – The Giancolo Hill is the unmissable spot in Trastevere as it is where you will find the “belvedere”. With this word, Italians denote scenic viewpoints. To reach the Belvedere del Gianicolo, you can walk the Passeggiata del Gianicolo up the hill. The place is also perfect for a picnic and mingling with locals. 

Getting there

Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere – From the Colosseo, pass by the Arco di Costantino and walk on Via di S. Gregorio. After 500 meters, at the corner of the Circo Massimo, turn right on Via dei Cerchi. Proceed straight on Piazza della Bocca della Verità and walk along Lungotevere dei Tebaldi. Take the second big bridge (Ponte Garibaldi), and after about 300 meters, turn right on Via della Lungaretta. Walk straight for around 250 meters, and the destination is on your left. 

Basilica di Santa Cecilia in Trastevere – Following the road to the Basilica, follow Lungotevere degli Anguillara on the left once you cross Ponte Garibaldi. Then turn right on Via dei Vascellari, and walk straight for around 220 meters, and your destination is on the right.

Isola Tiberina – Following the Lungotevere dei Tebaldi, cross Ponte Fabricio (located before the Ponte Garibaldi), and you will be on the island.

Belvedere del Gianicolo – Walking on Lungotevere dei Tebaldi, cross the famous Ponte Sisto (the one after Ponte Garibaldi) and take Via Di Ponte Sisto. Cross P.za di S. Giovanni della Malva and take Via Garibaldi. Walk for 300 meters and climb the stairs on the right (the Salita del Bosco Parrasio). After that, you will need to climb another set of stairs. Then you can begin the Passeggiata del Gianicolo to reach the Belvedere.

Suggested activities In Trastevere

Rome: Pasta-Making Class Cook and Dine with a Local Chef – With the help of a professional chef, you will learn how to make two fresh pastas while enjoying a classic aperitivo with prosecco and finishing the meal with homemade gelato. 

Rome: Trastevere Food & Wine Tour at Sunset – Explore and taste authentic Roman cuisine and sip delicious wine with this sunset tour leading you through the restaurants and bars locals love best in Trastevere.

5. Vaticano / Rione Borgo

What’s there and why visit

The Vatican is indeed a state, but being inside Rome’s city, it can almost be considered a neighborhood. The district is full of wonders, from the stunning Basilica di San Pietro to the unmissable Musei Vaticani. Staying in Vaticano is the best idea as you would be amongst the first to visit its tourist places without crowds. Besides the Musei Vaticani, the tiny area boasts 11 other museums, so it’s jatpock for art lovers. 

The neighborhood is extremely touristic, and the hotels’ rates are pretty high, so it’s not ideal if you are traveling on a budget. For more affordable accommodation, head to the adjacent neighborhood Rione Borgo, a quiet and residential area.

Suggested hotels near Vaticano / Rione Borgo

Things to see near Vaticano / Rione Borgo

Basilica di San Pietro – Standing at the far end of Piazza San Pietro stands the almighty namesake Basilica. This iconic church has a beautiful front façade and is crowned with statues. The Basilica is even more impressive on the inside, with its marble, sculptures, and frescoes everywhere. Both Michelangelo and Bernini contributed to the church’s design with the immense dome you can climb to admire the panoramic views of Rome.

Musei Vaticani – The unmissable museum in Rome is actually located in the Vatican State. The Musei Vaticani holds over 70,000 pieces of artwork, among which are some of the world’s most important pieces of the world. 

The museum is split into several different sections. Inside, you can also visit the breathtaking Cappella Sistina, with Michelangelo’s incredible Last Judgement fresco.

Castel Sant’Angelo – Also known as the Mausoleo di Adriano, Castle Sant’Angelo was built in 129 CE and served as a mausoleum for the emperors. The castle became part of the Vatican State and was connected to the Basilica di San Pietro. Today, Castle Sant’Angelo hosts a museum displaying wonderful exhibits. Make sure to climb to the top of the castle ramparts for fantastic views across Piazza San Pietro and Rome.

Getting there

Basilica di San Pietro – From Roma Termini station, take the metro line A and get off at the Ottaviano stop. Walk on Via Ottaviano for 10 minutes until you reach Piazza San Pietro, where the Basilica is located. 

Musei Vaticani – From the metro stop Ottaviano, walk west on Via Candia for around 380 meters, and turn left on Via Santamaura. Take the second street on the right, Viale Vaticano, and the destination is on your left.   

Castel Sant’Angelo – Take the metro line A and get off at Lepanto stop. Once out of the metro, walk on Via Marcantonio Colonna for 650 meters until you see the castle close by. At this point, you need to keep walking straight until you reach the Lungotevere Castello, where the castle’s entrance is located.

Suggested activities In Vaticano / Rione Borgo

Vatican: Early Access Tour of Museums with Sistine Chapel – Get early access to the Musei Vaticani to see its incredible artworks without crowds and with the help of an expert guide. 

Rome: St. Peter’s Basilica, Dome Climb, and Underground Tour – Explore the Basilica di San Pietro from a new perspective by climbing to the top of the dome and following your guide to the Vatican crypts. This tour is perfect for discovering every corner of the gorgeous Basilica!

6. Termini

What’s there and why visit

Termini neighborhood is where Rome train station is located, and the only spot in town where the metro lines A and B intersect. The train station area is very crowded but people are just passing by. If you are on a budget, the neighborhood is a great idea to stay in, and the ancient Rome area is within walking distance. 

Besides, around Termini you can find some wonderful sites, like the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore and Piazza della Repubblica.

Suggested hotels near Termini

Things to see near Termini 

Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore – One of the largest churches in Rome, the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore boasts a magnificent front façade, a central array of columns topped with statues, and a bell tower that rises above the surrounding buildings. Already stunning from the outside, inside you can admire a huge amount of gold decoration and beautiful frescoes and paintings.

Piazza della Repubblica – This is one of the most striking squares in Rome. With the characteristic arch shape, the square has a big and gorgeous fountain in its center called Fontana delle Naiadi. The square opens onto Via Nazionale, a street dotted with stores, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Make sure to visit Piazza della Repubblica right after sunset for a true spectacle!

Chiesa di Santa Maria della Vittoria – This church was built to celebrate the victory of a battle fought in 1620, which legend says was won thanks to the help of the Virgin Mary. But the reason to visit Chiesa di Santa Maria della Vittoria is the incredible Bernini statue titled “Estasi di santa Teresa d’Avila”.

Getting there

Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore – Once out of Roma Termini station, pass by the McDonald’s and turn right on Via Gioberti. Keep walking for 290 meters, and the Basilica is on your right. 

Piazza della Repubblica – From Roma Termini station, take Via Giovanni Giolitti on the right and walk straight for around 8 minutes until you reach the square. 

Santa Maria della Vittoria – From Roma Termini station, cross Piazza della Repubblica to take Via Vittorio Emanuele Orlando. Keep walking straight for 180 meters, and the destination is on your right. 

Suggested activities in Termini

Rome: Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica Guided Tour – Admire the mix of architectural styles of the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore while learning the history of the largest church in Rome. 

Rome: Private E-Bike Tour with Local Food – Have fun with this e-bike tour of Rome, starting from the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore and following your guide through the city’s best neighborhoods and stopping to taste some fantastic Italian food.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

Rome is a mesmerizing city with so much to see that locals say that a lifetime is not enough to see every corner. From perfectly-preserved ancient ruins to art-filled museums to stunning churches, finding accommodation in Rome is much a matter of personal preference than anything else. 

Whatever neighborhood you choose, incredible wonders will await you as soon as you exit your hotel’s doors!