If you're looking for the best neighborhoods in Rome, you've come to the right place.
My love affair with Rome began when Will and I spent three days exploring the Eternal City during our honeymoon. We were so captivated by the laid-back locals, colorful streets, and historic sites that we've made it a habit to return almost every year since.
In total, we visited Rome six times before deciding to move to the city for a three-month stay last summer. I made it a point to base myself in different parts of Rome whenever I visited. I've collected some of my favorite places. Let's jump in!
Are you visiting Rome? If you haven't decided where to stay (yet), check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in Rome for First-Time Visitors (and 2 Areas to Avoid). No time? Here are some of my favorite hotels in Rome.
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Areas around Rome (table of contents)
Trastevere (Rome's most charming neighborhood)
If you ask visitors what their favorite neighborhood in Rome is, there is an 80% chance that Trastevere will top the list. A typical Roman neighborhood with its winding cobblestone streets and ivy-covered facades!
Trastevere sticks to its working-class roots while maintaining a relaxed bohemian atmosphere, attracting artists and talented musicians to the area. Thanks to its relaxed atmosphere, it is popular among young people and brings a young and fun atmosphere to the neighborhood. atmosphere (Take a stroll through Piazza San Callisto at sunset to get all the proof you need).
The area is also known for its great nightlife, trendy bars and top-notch restaurants that are worth the trip. No matter how often we visit Rome, Trastevere is always the first place that comes to mind. We find ourselves in that area often. It never disappoints, especially when you feel like exploring aimlessly around the neighborhood!
Trastevere Hotels
Trastevere Travel Forum
Explore Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere: This picturesque square in the heart of the neighborhood is home to the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere, one of Rome's oldest churches. According to legend, the church was built in 38 BC after oil miraculously burst out at the site, which was interpreted to announce the birth of Jesus.
Take a walk along the Tiber River at sunset: The Tiber River borders Trastevere, providing a beautiful setting for an evening stroll. The path along the river is especially fascinating at sunset and offers great views of the city bathed in golden light. During the summer months, the riverside comes alive with bars, restaurants and market stalls, making it the perfect place to enjoy Rome's nightlife.
Enjoy the view from Janiculum Hill. Belvedere del Gianicolo (Gianiculum Hill) is the second highest hill in the Eternal City and offers some of the best views of Rome.
Campus Martius (Near Spanish Steps)
Lively and upscale Campo Marzio is best known for its endless people-watching opportunities, iconic landmarks (such as the Spanish Steps), and stylishly dressed Italians waltzing through designer shops and luxury boutiques.
This area has been the home of noble families since ancient times. Today, Campo Marzio is still considered one of the wealthiest districts in Rome, making it the perfect choice for those who love the finer things in life.
This area teams up with tourists and locals alike, but not without reason. Campo Marzio's combination of historic sites, cultural landmarks, and great amenities makes it a must-explore area for first-time visitors to Rome.
Where to stay in Campo Marzio?
Campo Marzio Travel Forum
Via del Corso and surrounding shopping areas: Campo Marzio is a shopper's paradise with Via del Corso running through its centre. This busy street is lined with designer stores and cute boutiques.
Climb to the top of the (iconic) Spanish Steps: The Spanish Steps are a series of 135 monumental steps that lead to the beautiful Trinita dei Monti church at the top. This iconic landmark is a popular gathering spot and offers great views of the city (pictured above).
Check out Piazza del Popolo. People's Square is located just inside the Aurelian Walls of ancient Rome. The area's main attraction is the jaw-dropping church of Santa Maria del Popolo, which houses masterpieces by Caravaggio, Raphael and Bernini.
Villa Borghese Gardens: A short walk from the Spanish Steps, the gardens of Villa Borghese offer a peaceful escape from the city. These stunning gardens are ideal for leisurely walks and include the Borghese Gallery, which houses impressive works by Caravaggio, Raphael and Bernini.
Monty (near the Colosseum)
Rome's first district (Rione), Monti, is a charming and diverse neighborhood that combines the quaint charm of historic buildings and cobblestone streets with a modern feel that's fun to explore.
Nestled between the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, the vibe of this neighborhood is best described as bohemian and electric. It features art galleries, artisan shops, vintage boutiques, trendy restaurants, and lively bars filled with locals and visitors alike.
Whether you're interested in history, shopping, dining, or simply strolling its picturesque streets, Monti is one of the most interesting areas to explore in Rome.
Where to stay in Monti?
Things to do in the Monti area of Rome
Explore the Roman Forum and Colosseum: Seeing the Colosseum every day is one of the biggest reasons why Monti is one of the best neighborhoods in Rome.
Visit the Church of San Pietro in Vincoli.: This church, home to Michelangelo's famous Moses statue, is a must-visit for art and history lovers. The church is also famous for housing the chains with which Saint Peter was said to have been bound while imprisoned in Jerusalem.
Take a walk through Piazza della Madonna dei Monti.: This square, the center of the neighborhood, is perfect for looking around the fountain, a place where many people gather. The area is surrounded by cafes, bars and gelato shops, making it an ideal place to relax and absorb the energy of the city.
trevi
Rome's Trevi neighborhood is named after the famous Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi), one of the most popular areas of the city. Trevi, with its long history, offers a mix of cultural landmarks, shopping and dining.
This neighborhood embodies the essence of Rome, combining majestic historical sites with the vitality of everyday Roman life. Whether admiring the Trevi Fountain, leisurely dining or experiencing the local culture, Trevi offers an unforgettable experience to any first-time visitor.
The only problem is that this popular part of Rome is filled with claustrophobia-inducing crowds. We recommend visiting around sunrise to avoid the crowds. This area is packed with people from morning until night, so it's a good idea to wake up early!
Best hotels in Trevi
Things to do in Rome's Trevi area
trevi fountain: The heart of the neighborhood, the Trevi Fountain is an architectural marvel and one of the most famous fountains in the world. Designed by Nicola Salvi, the building was completed in 1762. Tradition dictates that visitors can return to Rome by tossing a coin over their shoulder into the fountain (let's say I left a lot of coins).
Quirinale Palace: This historic building is the official residence of the Italian president and was once the papal palace. Palazzo del Quirinale is located on one of Rome's seven hills and offers great views of the city. The gardens and some rooms are open to the public and showcase exquisite art and architecture.
Sant'Eustachio (near the Pantheon)
Sant'Eustachio is located between Piazza Navona and the Pantheon, two of Rome's most visited attractions. Be prepared to find hordes of tourists moving between the two locations.
The biggest attraction is the ancient architectural wonder called the Pantheon. Dedicated to all the pagan Roman gods, this Roman temple is wonderfully preserved and a testament to the architectural ingenuity of the Romans.
Due to the inevitable crowds, I think this is one of the best neighborhoods in Rome to explore in the early morning hours.
Where to stay in Sant'Eustachio?
Sant'Eustaccio Travel Forum
Visit the Pantheon: The Pantheon, the center of the neighborhood and home to a huge dome and oculus, is a must-visit place. The interior displays a captivating play of light and architecture and serves as the final resting place of notable figures such as the artist Raphael and several Italian kings.
Explore Piazza Rotonda: The plaza in front of the Pantheon is a lively area filled with cafes, gelato, and restaurants. It's the perfect place to enjoy a coffee or meal al fresco while admiring the bustling activity of the Pantheon and the square.
Visit the Church of San Luigi dei Francesi: This church, home to three Caravaggio masterpieces, is a pilgrimage site for art lovers. The paintings in the Contarelli Chapel depict scenes from the life of Saint Matthew and are considered some of Caravaggio's finest works.
At Antico Vinaio: All'Antico Vinaio creates expertly crafted works of art that are unlike any other typical sandwich you'll find in the state. The simple combination of crunchy vegetables, savory meat, and fresh cheese has made this sandwich shop famous.
Visit Piazza Navona: Rome is a city full of public squares, but few are more famous than Piazza Navona. Built on the ruins of an ancient Roman stadium, this square is huge and home to three magnificent fountains.
Prati (Near Vatican City)
Bordered by the Vatican to the east, the River Tiber to the west, and Castel Sant'Angelo to the south, Prati is one of Rome's most underrated districts.
Prati is known for its elegant boulevards, beautiful Belle Epoque buildings, and a more organized layout compared to the winding alleys of the historic centre. Developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Prati was one of Rome's new districts planned after the unification of Italy in 1870.
It was designed to accommodate the growing needs of a more modern Italy. Streets are named after old Italian cities and famous jurists, reflecting its origins as an area targeting the middle and upper classes.
Bordering the Vatican, Prati occupies a unique position close to the heart of the Catholic world. It offers a less crowded experience of Rome while still being within walking distance of major attractions such as St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums.
Where to stay in Prati?
Things to Do near Prati
Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica: Although not in Prati, these iconic religious and cultural sites are on the edge of the neighborhood, making Prati an ideal base for exploring without the hustle and bustle of the Vatican area.
Climb to the top of Castel Sant'Angelo: Castel Sant'Angelo, also known as Hadrian's Mausoleum, is the final resting place of several Roman emperors (including Marcus Aurelius). Aside from the museum, you can enjoy some of the best views of Rome from the top. Tickets can be purchased online.
Shop at Via Cola di Rienzo: This main thoroughfare is perfect for those who want to get away from Rome's touristy areas and do some shopping. From high-street brands to local boutiques and gourmet food stores, you'll have plenty of options.
Best neighborhoods in Rome (Post Summary)
For those who like simple lists, here are the best neighborhoods in Rome:
- Campus Martius
- trevi
- wash
- Monty
- Trastevere
- st eustace
Map of Rome's best areas
When I came to Rome I thought I knew everything, but I soon discovered that I had more to learn.
Edmonia Lewis
And while we're at it, we've outlined 10 of Rome's best neighborhoods for first-time visitors. I hope you enjoyed the post. As always, if we missed your favorite piece, please let us know in the comments.
Until next time, cheers!