Let’s dive into the heart of Rome – the ultimate place to stay when visiting this timeless city! Now, Rome’s center is quite expansive, consisting of various unique neighborhoods. The beauty of Rome is that it’s a walker’s paradise; you can stroll through its history-laden streets with ease.
Centro Storico in Rome, where charm and history meet, lies the most sought-after area for accommodation. But, it’s also on the pricier side. Fear not, though! There are excellent alternatives like Monti, Vatican, Trastevere, or Termini. These neighborhoods offer more budget-friendly options and are still a stone’s throw away from the city’s bustling tourist spots.
To save you from endless hours of searching, I’ve put together a guide featuring the best areas to stay in Rome. It includes top-notch hotel recommendations that won’t disappoint. Stay tuned for the ultimate Rome accommodation guide!
1. Centro Storico (Pantheon, Navona, Trevi), best area to stay in Rome for first time
If you’re planning your first trip to Rome, Centro Storico is where you want to be. Imagine an area so vast it could be split into several zones. Think of the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and the spellbinding Fontana di Trevi – that’s the historical heart we’re talking about.
This part of Rome is like a medieval labyrinth, with narrow streets leading to majestic squares, churches, and buildings from the Renaissance and Baroque periods. Trust me, exploring this area on foot is an experience you don’t want to miss.
Beyond the landmarks, Centro Storico is bustling with restaurants, cafes, and bars. Here, you can dive into Rome’s vibrant nightlife with some of the best food and drinks the city has to offer.
This neighborhood is not just romantic in the typical sense; it’s the kind of place where the city’s history and charm will sweep you off your feet. And if you’re in Rome for Christmas, Piazza Navona hosts the city’s most famous market – a sight to behold!
Centro Storico is perfect if you want to be in the heart of the action, close to the main attractions. However, be aware that it’s a lively and noisy area, often crowded and very touristy.
As for hotels, they can be pricey in this part of town. You might need to do a bit of digging to find something more affordable, but it’s totally worth the effort for the experience you get in return.
Best Hotels in Centro Storico
2. Piazza di Spagna και Tridente, best area in Rome for shopping
The northern part of Rome’s historic center is a fantastic choice for your stay in the Eternal City. This area stretches from the iconic Spanish Steps at Piazza di Spagna to Piazza del Popolo. And guess what? You’re only a 10-minute walk from the bustling Piazza Navona.
Piazza di Spagna is home to the famous Spanish Steps, known as the Scalinata, leading up to the Trinita dei Monti church. This spot is a true Roman postcard scene.
Then there’s the Tridente area, formed by three main streets: Via di Ripetta, Via del Corso, and Via del Babuino. These roads meet at Piazza del Popolo, a gateway to the city’s heart.
This district is one of Rome’s most elegant and commercial hotspots. Here, you’ll find high-end boutiques like Chanel and Roberto Cavalli, luxury restaurants, chic cafés, and opulent hotels. It’s a shopper’s paradise and a haven for those who love the finer things in life.
Personally, I have a soft spot for this area over other parts of the historic center. The ambiance here is unparalleled, and in terms of cost, it’s not too different from staying in the central historic area. If you’re looking to soak up Rome in style, this is the place to be.
Best Hotels in Piazza di Spagna
- (€€€) Hotel Locarno
- (€€) Hotel dei Borgognoni
- (€) Hotel Croce di Malta
3. Via Veneto και Piazza Barberini, an elegant neighborhood to stay in Rome
Here’s another fabulous area to consider for your stay in Rome. This elegant neighborhood is peppered with quaint cafes, restaurants, and luxurious hotels, all conveniently close to the city’s tourist attractions and shopping districts.
Nestled in a prime location, this area lies between the lush Villa Borghese, the charming Monti neighborhood, and the iconic Spanish Steps at Piazza di Spagna.
One of the highlights here is the Museum and Crypt of the Capuchin Friars, a truly unique sight. And let’s not forget Piazza Barberini, dating back to the 16th century, with the stunning 17th-century Fontana del Tritone.
As you might expect, this blend of convenience and elegance makes accommodation here among the pricier options in Rome. But for those seeking a blend of luxury and accessibility, it’s hard to beat this area.
Best Hotels in Via Veneto και Piazza Barberini
4. Villa Borghese, a green area close to centro in Rome
The Villa Borghese area and the streets north of Piazza del Popolo offer a fascinating choice for accommodation in Rome. This neighborhood is conveniently close to the city center and well-connected by the metro, making it a practical yet charming place to stay.
When you’re here, you can meander through the shopping streets of Tridente, wander around Piazza di Spagna and Piazza Navona, and then escape to the lush greenery of Villa Borghese. This park is one of the largest in Rome, offering panoramic views of the city – a sight that never fails to impress.
Villa Borghese isn’t just about the great outdoors. It houses the Borghese Museum and Gallery, set in the former residence of a cardinal. If you’re traveling with kids, the park’s lake offers delightful boat rides, or you can simply enjoy a leisurely stroll through its well-kept gardens.
Other nearby attractions include the National Etruscan Museum of Villa Giulia, the Astronomical Museum, and the Museum of Modern Art. Each offers a unique glimpse into different facets of art and history, making this area not just a place to stay, but a destination in itself.
Best Hotels in Villa Borghese
5. The area around the Colosseum and the Roman Forum
This area is a treasure trove of monumental landmarks, including the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and Circus Maximus. Its proximity to these ancient Roman sights makes it an outstanding choice for those who want to immerse themselves in history.
Well-connected by metro, it offers easy access to other parts of the city. However, be prepared for the crowds, especially near the Colosseum, as it’s a major tourist hotspot.
In terms of accommodation, while there may be fewer options compared to other areas, there’s still a decent variety of hotels, ranging from budget-friendly to mid-priced options.
Personally, I tend to gravitate towards areas with a more vibrant nightlife. But I wouldn’t rule out staying near the Colosseum, especially if I found a hotel offering great value for money. It’s all about balancing the allure of ancient Rome with the comforts of modern accommodations.
Best Hotels near the Colosseum
6. Monti, one of the best areas to stay in Rome
Monti is a charming neighborhood nestled between the iconic Colosseum and the bustling Termini Station. It’s an incredibly convenient spot for exploring Rome on foot, placing you right in the heart of the city’s splendor.
While Monti might not be overflowing with tourist attractions, it’s home to the magnificent Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, one of Rome’s most important churches.
This area really captures the modern pulse of Rome, boasting a vibrant array of restaurants and bars that keep the streets lively both day and night. Sure, it can get a bit noisy on weekends, but that’s part of its enchanting allure. Monti has won a special place in my heart, and I can’t wait to stay there on my next visit.
The neighborhood is well-connected by metro, though many of Rome’s central attractions are just a stroll away. The only downside? Its popularity among tourists can drive up hotel prices, but the experience of staying in such a dynamic area is often worth the extra cost.
- (€€€) Roma Luxus Hotel
- (€€) Rome Glam Hotel
- (€) Dnb House Hotel
- (Hostel) New Generation Hostel Santa Maria Maggiore
7. Termini, best area to stay in Rome on a budget
Termini, Rome’s central train station, is a hub for travelers seeking budget-friendly accommodations. This area boasts the highest concentration of economical hotels in the Italian capital.
Admittedly, the station’s immediate surroundings can feel a bit neglected and grimy, and the area has a somewhat mixed reputation. However, I’ve noticed significant improvements over the years, making it much more welcoming than it used to be.
Just a five-minute walk away, you can find the majestic Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. During the day, it’s a safe area, though you should keep an eye out for the occasional pickpocket. At night, the atmosphere near the station becomes slightly more ominous, but with a bit of caution, you shouldn’t encounter any issues – at least I never have.
One of Termini’s greatest advantages is its connectivity. It’s the main junction where both of Rome’s metro lines meet, with direct links from the airport. Buses and trams from Termini spread out to all corners of the city, making it a convenient base for exploring.
While Termini is a popular spot for tourists, personally, I’ve never felt unsafe during my explorations of the area. And for those willing to venture a bit outside the city center, Termini offers a wide selection of mid-range and budget hotels, providing good value for your stay in Rome.
Best Hotels in Termini
- (€€) The Hive Hotel
- (€) Floris Hotel
- (€) Hotel Sonya
- (Hostel) The RomeHello
8. Vatican City - Prati, best area in Rome for families with kids
The Vatican area is a captivating alternative for staying in Rome. It’s a peaceful neighborhood, free from the hustle and bustle of the historical center, yet it’s just a stone’s throw from one of the city’s most magnificent attractions. You’ll definitely want to set aside a day to explore this marvel.
Predominantly residential, this area consists mainly of apartment buildings. The Cola di Rienzo street is a shopper’s delight, lined with various stores. The further you venture inward, the quieter it becomes.
Visiting the Vatican, you can’t miss the awe-inspiring St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel. And do make time for the nearby Castel Sant’Angelo. The whole area is well-connected by metro, plus, you can easily walk to the city center or Trastevere.
Of course, you can’t stay inside the Vatican, but the surrounding streets, especially in the Prati neighborhood, are fantastic. The central yet tranquil location makes it a great choice for families visiting Rome.
In this area, you’ll find a good selection of restaurants, cafes, and bars. As for accommodation, while hotels aren’t as plentiful due to its more residential nature, you’ll still find charming options that offer a serene escape from the city’s more touristy parts.
Best Hotels in Vatican - Prati
- (€€) Residenza Paolo VI
- (€€) Hotel della Conciliazione
- (€) Eccelso Hotel
9. Trastevere, best area in Rome for restaurants and bars
Trastevere holds a special place in my heart; it’s one of my favorite neighborhoods in Rome. Bursting with bohemian charm, this lively district is filled with street vendors, quirky shops, excellent restaurants, cozy cafés, and buzzing bars. It’s a magnet for both locals and visitors looking to indulge in delectable food and drinks.
Beyond its vibrant nightlife, Trastevere is rich in tourist attractions. The Piazza and Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere, the churches of Santa Cecilia and San Crisogono, Gianicolo Hill, and the Museo di Roma are just a few gems that make this area so culturally rich.
This neighborhood is incredibly romantic, offering a glimpse into the authentic side of Rome. Yes, tourists are everywhere in Rome, but Trastevere has managed to preserve its unique atmosphere. It’s about a 30-minute walk from the main attractions, but the journey is part of its charm.
Best Hotels in Trastevere
10. Testaccio – Ostiense
While they may not top the list of most sought-after areas to stay in Rome, Testaccio and its neighboring areas offer a charming alternative, especially when the more popular spots are all booked up.
Testaccio, an old working-class neighborhood, is undergoing a renaissance. Renowned for its culinary scene, this area is dotted with trattorias serving up mouth-watering traditional Roman cuisine. It’s also known for its lively nightlife, attracting a youthful crowd, especially on weekends, to its bars and clubs.
There’s more to Testaccio than just food and fun. It’s home to the Pyramid of Cestius, an ancient Roman pyramid built around 12 BC. The Centrale Montemartini Museum is another hidden gem. Housed in a former power plant, it displays an impressive collection of Roman and Greek sculptures. And within walking distance, you’ll find the awe-inspiring ruins of the Baths of Caracalla and the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls.
Accommodation options here might be limited, but what’s available often offers excellent value for money. So, if you’re looking for a slice of authentic Roman life with a side of history, Testaccio could be just the spot for you.
Best Hotels in Testaccio – Ostiense
- (€€) San Anselmo
- (€) Hotel Santa Prisca
- (€) Hotel Villa San Pio
