Where to Stay in Rome (Best Areas & Places)

👉 Jump to: Best Places to Stay in Rome | Neighborhoods & Areas | Tips | FAQs | Get Printable Version

I fell in love with Rome the first time I visited, and I’m certain you will too. But first, let me help you find the best place to stay in Italy’s magnificent capital.

If it’s your first visit to the Eternal City, the best area to stay is the Centro Storico. You’ll be a stone’s throw from the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona and the Pantheon. Plus, there are great restaurants, shops, and gelato everywhere.

In this area, I’d recommend the Hotel De’ Ricci, which offers luxurious suites with private wine tastings near all the top attractions. Or, at more mid-range pricing, check out Cloud 7 Roma Hotel (walkable to the Trevi Fountain).

Rome is a big city with many beautiful neighborhoods and options for all kinds of travelers. You’ll be spoiled for choice! Keep reading, and I’ll honestly discuss the pros and cons of each area. 

But first, let’s start with a quick summary of my favorite hotels.

Affiliate Disclosure: Travel Lemming is an independent reader-supported blog. You can support us by purchasing via the affiliate links on this page, which may earn us commissions. See our Advertising Policy for further explanation. Thank you!

Best Places to Stay in Rome

If you’re short on time, these are my top picks: 

• 🏆 Best Overall Hotel – Hotel De’ Ricci
• 🗺️ Best Location – Otivm Hotel
• 💎 Best Luxury Hotel – The St. Regis Rome  
• 👨‍👩‍👦 Best for Families – Hotel Locarno
• 🛎️ Best Boutique – Horti 14 Borgo
• 🛬 Best Near Leonardo da Vinci (Fiumicino) Airport – Porto di Claudio, Fiumicino
• 🛏️ Best Budget – The Beehive

Ok, now scroll down for a deep dive into the pros (and cons) of each area of Rome: 

7 Best Neighborhoods & Areas to Stay in Rome

Centro Storico

👉 Best Area For First-Timers | ✨ Best Centro Storico Hotels: Hotel De’ Ricci • Chapter Roma • Cloud 7 Roma Hotel

The Centro Storico is the absolute best place to stay if it’s your first visit to Rome. Here, you’ll be right in the thick of things – the famous sights will be at your doorstep! I love exploring the winding streets, each full of hidden treasures.

One of the top sights in the area is the breathtaking Pantheon. The Trevi Fountain is the Centro Storico’s other big highlight. Arrive early to beat the crowds, and throw a coin into the fountain to ensure your return to Rome!

Campo di Fiori is the city’s most famous market, and Galleria Doria Pamphilj is a treat for art lovers. But if you’re done with the historical sights, the shops along Via del Corso will bring you back to the 21st Century.

Hotel De’ Ricci is my #1 hotel pick and a luxurious splurge within walking distance of Campo de Fiori. And Cloud 7 Roma Hotel gets my vote for a more affordable option near the Trevi Fountain.

The neighbourhood’s Piazza Navona is my go-to spot in Rome to sit and enjoy a gelato. Tourists and locals converge in this former stadium, making it one of the city’s most vibrant places. I love to cool off next to Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers and admire one of my favorite churches in the world, Sant’ Agnese in Agone. 

Pros of Staying in the Centro Storico:

• Near the famous sights
• Lots of great restaurants and gelato shops
• Safe and walkable
• Vibrant, lively, and fun

Cons of Staying in the Centro Storico:

• Hotels can be expensive
• Crowded and noisy
• Minimal public transportation in the vicinity

Trastevere

👉 Best Area For Foodies | ✨ Best Trastevere Hotels: Hotel Santa Maria • Horti 14 Borgo • B&B Hotel Roma Trastevere

To me, Trastevere is quintessential Rome. While the neighbourhood is well-known, it still feels like a hidden gem. I love exploring the enchanting streets, having a coffee in a quiet plaza, and listening to the locals banter. Plus, it’s the most famous neighbourhood in the city for authentic food and drinks!

Trastevere is located south of Vatican City, making it convenient to St. Peter’s. But don’t overlook the beautiful sights here for its famous neighbours. 

The Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere is one of Rome’s oldest churches. Mosaics are one of my favourite art forms, and this is my favourite church to see them. 

The 16th-century Villa Farnesina is another must-see in Trastevere. It’s most known for its exquisite garden and Raphael frescoes, including the famous Triumph of Galatea. If you’re tired of the Sistine Chapel crowds, you can still get your art fix at this peaceful gallery. You can also escape the evening crowds and watch the sunset from the Janiculum Hill.

Trastevere is quiet during the day but lights up at night. If you want to stay amid this beautiful energy, Horti 14 Borgo is a superb choice. Its gorgeous terrace overlooks Rome’s botanical garden!

Pros of Staying in Trastevere:

• Close to the city center
• Lots of authentic food & drink
• Vibrant and lively 
• Has an authentic feel 

Cons of Staying in Trastevere:

• Noisy at night
• Hotels can be expensive
• Limited public transportation

Vatican City (Area)

👉 Best Area For Catholic Pilgrims | ✨ Best Vatican City Hotels: • Villa Alberici • Eccelso Hotel • San Pietro Boutique Rooms

Rome is Italy’s magnificent capital city, but you can also visit the world’s smallest country while you’re here: Vatican City. 

Vatican City is home to St. Peter’s Square and Basilica. Whether you’re Catholic or not, they are sure to mesmerize. Marvel at Michelangelo’s Pieta and Bernini’s Baldacchino inside the Basilica. Climb to the top of the dome for spectacular views. And relax in the Vatican Gardens. 

The Vatican Museums should be at the top of your list in Vatican City. Here, you’ll see the breathtaking Sistine Chapel. As well as works by famous masters like Da Vinci, Caravaggio, and Raphael. Crowded is an understatement for the sights of Vatican City. Book tickets in advance and go early in the morning. 

Villa Alberici is a gorgeous hotel right outside the Vatican walls. Stay here to feel like you’ve stepped back in time. And you’ll be close enough to hit the museums early and beat the modern-day crowds. 

For a unique experience in Rome, consider staying in one of the many convents in this area. They are especially great options for solo female travelers or those with a strong faith. I had two fantastic experiences at the convents I booked through Monastery Stays. But be aware that, as working convents, these places have curfews and adhere to Catholic principles. 

Pros of Staying in Vatican City (Area):

• St. Peter’s and the Vatican Museums are outside your front door
• Easy walk to the city center
• Near public transportation
• Great food and drink in neighbouring Prati

Cons of Staying in Vatican City (Area):

• Large crowds and long lines at St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums
• Religious-based accommodations will have curfews and stricter rules
• Pickpockets operate in crowded tourist areas 

Esquilino

👉 Best Area For Budget Travelers | ✨ Best Esquilino Hotels: Fifteen Keys Hotel • Hotel Emona Aquaeductus • The Beehive

The Esquiline Hill, or Esquilino, is a central neighborhood near Termini Station. Although it’s a main transport hub, you can still find many hotels and attractions. The center is easily reached by foot or metro. 

Two of Rome’s most important churches are in this area. Fans of the artist Gian Lorenzo Bernini shouldn’t miss a visit to Santa Maria della Vittoria to see his magnificent Ecstasy of St. Teresa. Then, you can pay respects at Santa Maria Maggiore, where he is buried. 

Some notable museums in the neighborhood are the National Roman Museum and the Infantry Historical Museum. For a market that reflects Esquilino’s multicultural vibe, head to the Nuovo Mercato Esquilino. 

The Beehive will always be my top choice for a budget stay in Rome. I spent two weeks at their hostel, and it was perfect. The outdoor patio is my favourite spot! It’s so peaceful that you won’t realize you’re around the corner from the train station. And it’s a great place to connect with other travellers. 

Be aware that the area around Termini Station can be sketchy, particularly at night, so keep to yourself and don’t linger. Pickpocketing is rampant in this area, so mind your belongings and don’t wear anything flashy. If anyone approaches you, even a child, walk away. 

Pros of Staying in Esquilino:

• Well-connected by public transportation
• Vibrant and multicultural 
• Central and near major attractions

Cons of Staying in Esquilino:

• The area around Termini station can be unsettling at night
• Pickpockets operate around the station
• Further away from the Centro Storico

Monti

👉 Best Area For Roman History | ✨ Best Monti Hotels: Otivm Hotel • citizenM Roma Isola Tiberina • Sentho Roma

Rome’s Monti neighbourhood is where it’s at for Roman History nerds. I know because I am one! 

This is the epicenter of ancient Rome. Wannabe gladiators and Roman emperors will love visiting the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Circus Maximus. A visit to the Capitoline Museums will enrich the experience of these sights. Don’t miss a trip here for a comprehensive history lesson.

Amazing terrace views make Otivm Hotel a beautiful place to stay in Monti. This hotel is also highly rated for its comfy rooms and exceptional service. 

While staying in Monti, climb one of Rome’s seven hills, the Aventine, for breathtaking city views. Then, peer through the keyhole at the Priory of the Knights of Malta. I recommend not Googling this beforehand; let it be a surprise! Afterward, place your hand in the mouth of the Bocca della Verità. If you’re a liar, it will bite off your hand. If you leave unscathed, you can be trusted. 

As a cat lady, I always stop by Largo di Torre Argentina. It’s a cat sanctuary nestled among the Roman ruins. 

Pros of Staying in Monti:

• Near Termini Station and the major Roman sights
• Lots of great restaurants and bars
• Convenient metro access
• Amazing views from the Aventine Hill 

Cons of Staying in Monti:

• Can be noisy at night
• Pickpockets operate near the busy sights
• Tourist crowds and higher prices
• The narrow, cobbled streets can be challenging with luggage

Prati

👉 Best Area For Art Lovers |   Best Prati Hotels: Hotel Vilòn  • Hotel Locarno • Relais Roma Vaticano

Prati is a great place to stay if you want to experience art and local life in Rome. It’s more low-key than the Centro Storico or Monti, making it perfect for families or anyone who wants to stay away from the tourist throngs.

I’ve stayed in Prati twice, and it’s a neighbourhood I am very fond of. It’s not only beautiful, but it’s a little more relaxed than the rest of Rome. It’s also close to one of my favourite galleries, the Galleria Borghese.

Hotel Vilòn is a stylish choice in Prati, just over the bridge from Piazza Cavour. Its convenient location and elegant rooms make this a luxurious place to escape the city’s chaos. 

Prati borders Vatican City, making it a convenient spot to beat the St. Peter’s crowds. It’s home to the Castel Sant’ Angelo, an ancient fortress of Emperor Hadrian. 

A quick jaunt over Queen Margherita’s Bridge will get you to Piazza del Popolo. Fans of Caravaggio will want to beeline for the Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo to see some of his most famous works. 

Spend some time at the gorgeous Villa Borghese. Stroll around the park, then see some of Rome’s best art at the Galleria Borghese. Bernini’s astonishing sculptures keep me visiting over and over again. Then have your Roman Holiday moment at the Spanish Steps before continuing to the Centro Storico. 

Pros of Staying in Prati:

• Quiet and relaxed, away from the tourist crowds
• Near the Villa Borghese
• Walking distance to Vatican City
• Good access to the Metro

Cons of Staying in Prati:

• Fewer hotel options
• Further away from Monti and the Roman sights

Testaccio

👉 Best Area For Local Vibes | ✨ Best Testaccio Hotels: San Anselmo • Seven Suites • Sonder Testaccio 

Testaccio is a great option to immerse yourself in Roman culture if it’s not your first visit to Rome. You’ll be further from the major sights, but locals will surround you. Plus, accommodation is a little cheaper here, which is always a bonus for budget travellers. 

Everyone flocks to Trastevere for authentic Roman eats, but don’t overlook Testaccio, which is also one of the city’s top food destinations. In addition to all the great bars and restaurants, the neighbourhood is home to the marvellous Mercato Testaccio. Here, you can pick up fresh meats, cheeses, fruits, and vegetables. 

There are a handful of interesting sights in this area. See the 2000-year-old Pyramid of Cestius. Visit Monte Testaccio, which was built from the remnants of millions of ancient Roman jars. And tour the Ostiense Museum to see antiquities from Ostia Antica. This museum is located in the Porta de San Paolo, which dates back to the 3rd century. 

Fans of Romantic English literature will want to visit the Non-Catholic Cemetery as this is the burial place of John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley. 

Testaccio doesn’t have tons of hotel options. But San Anselmo is a top-rated choice. Guests love its quiet location and unique decor. 

Pros of Staying in Testaccio:

• You’ll be mixing with the Romans
• Top foodie destination
• Good access to public transportation
• Quiet, safe, and affordable

Cons of Staying in Testaccio:

• Not as photogenic as other parts of Rome
• Further away from the main tourist sights 

Tips for Staying in Rome

Watch your belongings

Rome is generally a safe city, and it’s unlikely that you’ll be the victim of any violent crime. But pickpocketing is rampant, and it’s not uncommon to hear of tourists getting items stolen without even realizing it. These people are pros!

Avoid carrying all of your valuables in one place, like a handbag. Wear a money belt with your passport, cash, and credit cards safely tucked under your clothing. It’s not the most comfortable in the heat, but better than having your passport or money go missing. 

Be vigilant in crowds, especially in popular tourist areas. Carry your day pack on your front. And if anyone approaches you, just say no and walk away. Many times, beggars and pickpockets will be small children. 

Also, if you rent a car, never leave any belongings visible. You’d be amazed at what people will break into a vehicle to steal.

Book Attraction Tickets in Advance

Popular sights like the Colosseum, the Vatican Museums, and the Capitoline Museums fill up fast. To avoid the long lines, purchase your ticket in advance. This will allow you to skip the line and walk right in at your reserved time. If you plan to visit the Borghese Gallery, making a reservation is mandatory.

Consider taking a guided tour of the popular attractions to save time, money, and hassle. You can take this guided Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine tour to visit these sights with ease. And I loved skipping the line and learning from an expert on my Vatican City tour. Plus, it’s always best to learn from the experts rather than aimlessly walking around. 

Visit During the Shoulder Seasons

The best time to visit Italy is undoubtedly in the spring and fall shoulder seasons, and this is also true for Rome. October is my favourite! While prices can still be a little on the high side, it’s still more affordable than at the height of summer. And most places have not shortened their hours yet. 

During these months, the kids are in school, and Europeans are working, so the crowds are much more manageable. It’s easier to get hotel bookings and tour reservations. And you won’t be sweltering in long line-ups. 

Avoid Tourist Restaurants

Rome is a top foodie city with excellent restaurants everywhere. Unfortunately, where there are tourists, there are tourist traps, and Rome has many. To find the best authentic food in Rome, there are a few things you can look out for:

• 💰Be wary of restaurants with pictures and multiple languages on the menu. These cater to tourists and have subpar food and high prices. These restaurants are particularly prevalent near the main tourist sights. Go a few blocks away, and you’ll be dining in a local joint. 

• 🗣️ Smile and say “no, grazie” to anyone who tries to lure you into a restaurant. Good restaurants are too busy to be pulling customers in. And watch out for non-traditional Roman foods on the menu. Spaghetti and meatballs is NOT authentically Roman. 

• 📝 Find restaurants with handwritten menus and a crowd of local people. Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations from the Romans you encounter. They know where the good stuff is. 

Or, just take a cooking class and make some delicious Italian food yourself! I took one with Cooking Classes in Rome, and it was unforgettable! And there are so many other highly-rated cooking classes for making everything from fettuccine and tiramisu to pizza and gelato – you really can’t go wrong!

Beat the Crowds

Early risers always win in Rome! Get a head start on your day at sights like the Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, The Colosseum, and The Vatican. You don’t want to be battling tourist throngs in the summer heat. 

Evenings are also a great time to escape the crowds. While everyone is heading to dinner, you can enjoy the sights with fewer elbows in your face. 

Weekdays and rainy days will also see fewer crowds at the major attractions. Visit in winter to have Rome all to yourself. And always consider a guided tour that skips the line. When booking, try to reserve the first tour of the day. By the time you finish, the line-ups at the entrance will be out the door!

Pack Modest Clothing if You Plan to Visit Churches

Plan your wardrobe accordingly if you plan to visit St. Peter’s, smaller churches, and any other religious sites. Everyone will be expected to dress modestly, regardless of gender. Your midriff, knees, and shoulders must be covered. Leave the ripped jeans and sweatpants at home. Hats are not permitted. 

Water is Everywhere

Rome can be hot, especially in the summer months. But dehydration isn’t something you’ll need to worry about! Scattered all over the city are little fountains known as “nasones’, or big noses.  These provide free, clean drinking water all over town, 24 hours a day. You can fill a bottle or drink from them like a water fountain. There are over 300!

You will be awed by the Trevi Fountain or the Fountain of the Four Rivers. But the nasones will be the ones you come to appreciate most!

FAQs

What are the best areas to stay in Rome for first-timers?

The best areas to stay in Rome for first-timers are the Centro Storico, Trastevere, and Monti. These are central neighbourhoods near all of the major attractions. They are walkable with great access to public transportation. 

What are safe areas to stay in Rome?

Safe areas to stay in Rome are the Centro Storico, Prati, Monti, and Trastevere. These neighborhoods are vibrant throughout the day and night, and there are restaurants and hotels everywhere.

But keep in mind, where there are tourists, there are pickpockets. So, mind your belongings and call 112 if you need help. 

When is the best time to visit Rome? 

The best time to visit Rome is during spring and fall, the shoulder seasons. The kids are in school, and it’s warm and sunny. The shoulder seasons always bring fewer crowds and perfect sightseeing weather. 

If you dress for it, winter is also a great time to visit Rome. It’s the coldest and rainiest time of the year in the city. But you’ll enjoy the sights in peace and score a few discounts as prices will have dropped. 

Summers can be rough in Rome with hordes of tourists, high prices, and 30°C+ ( 86°F) temperatures. However, the tourist season also brings many fun festivals and a vibrant energy to the city. The days are long and perfect for enjoying al fresco dinners and late-night gelato.  

What is the best part of Rome to stay on a budget? 

Esquilino is the best part of Rome to stay on a budget. This area, which is home to Termini Station, has many hostels and budget accommodations. The immediate area around the station is generally safe but can be unsettling at night. Otherwise, it is a convenient, central neighbourhood. 

What are the best day trips from Rome?

The best day trips from Rome are Tivoli, Ostia Antica, Assisi, and Orvieto. These are all nearby and small enough to see everything in a day. Naples, Pompeii, and Florence are possible day trips, but those deserve more time. 

***

I hope this guide has given you some great ideas about where to stay in Rome! Traveling through more of Italy? Take a look at our other guides on where to stay in Florence, Naples, and Milan!