Being such a popular destination, the capital city of Italy boasts many different areas and accommodations to stay in.
Home to the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Trevi Fountain, there is so much to do in Rome, so you want to be staying in an area close to all of the places you want to visit.
Whether you want to be right in the middle of the action or away from the crowds, there are plenty of districts to stay suited for all different types of travelers.
To make the decision easier for you, this article will discuss five of the best areas to stay in Rome, depending on what you want to see and do and your budget!
1. Pantheon/Piazza Navona
If you’re visiting Rome for its history and iconic monuments, the best place to stay is Pantheon/Piazza Navona.
In this area, you’ll be right in the city centre, close to Piazza Navona, the bustling Campo de Fiori market, and the magnificent Pantheon, which has stood proudly for 2,000 years.
What’s even better about staying in this area? You’re within walking distance of the major attractions. The Colosseum, St Peter’s Square and Trevi Fountain are only 20-minutes away on foot, so getting around is super easy.
The Pantheon area is also a fantastic place to eat, and what better place to enjoy authentic Italian food than in the centre of its capital city? Here you’ll find classic gelato bars, such as Giolitti, and some of the best restaurants to get pasta – Roscioli is definitely one to try!
Because this area is in central Rome, it’s one of the most expensive places to stay. However, if you can afford it, it’s definitely worth splashing out the money on luxury hotels or apartments!
2. Piazza di Spagna
Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Rome, Piazza di Spagna is one of the best areas to stay in Italy’s capital.
If you’re looking for a luxury hotel or apartment, fine dining restaurants, and one of the best designer shopping streets in the world on your doorstep, Piazza di Spagna is it.
Piazza di Spagna is a great area to stay for exploring on foot, as many of the famous attractions are within walking distance. Within close proximity to the Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, and Villa Borghese, there’s a reason why this is one of the best areas to stay in Rome.
If you’re looking to explore the rest of the city, Piazza di Spagna has the advantage of having two metro stops – Spagna and Barberini.
Also, if you’re a food lover and want to splash out, be sure to book dinner reservations at the Michelin-starred La Terrazza for spectacular food and jaw-dropping views of the city.
3. Trastevere
If you’re looking to stay in a quiet neighborhood, Trastevere is the place for you!
Located on the west bank of the Tiber River, Trastevere is home to tiny bars and restaurants, quirky churches and museums, and small piazzas.
Some of the best local restaurants to check out in this neighborhood include Dar Poeta – a famous Roman pizzeria – and Da Enzo al 29 – a classic trattoria.
Although this neighborhood isn’t right in the city, everywhere you’ll want to go is still within a 30-minute walking distance. There is also a tram that can take you to the Colosseum and Monti districts.
Being further out of the city centre, you’ll find fewer hotels but an abundance of Airbnbs at an affordable price. Trastevere is also a great place to stay if you want a bit of peace and quiet away from the crowds.
4. Colosseum/Monti
If your dream is to wake up in Rome with views of the Colosseum, then the best area for you to stay in is Monti.
Southeast of the historic centre, Monti is an up-and-coming neighborhood known for unique shops and cafes and, of course, one of the most famous landmarks in Rome, the Colosseum.
While the Colosseum is the main monument in this area, the rest of the city’s sights are reachable by foot.
There are plenty of restaurants for you to dine at in the Monti neighborhood. Visit the traditional La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali for a classic carbonara, or head to Aroma at the Palazzo Manfredi Hotel for fine dining with stunning views of the Colosseum.
5. Vatican/Prati
Finally, the elegant Prati neighborhood next to Vatican City is one of the best areas to stay in Rome if you want to spend most of your time exploring the Vatican Museums, St Peter’s Basilica, and attending a Papal audience.
Known for its wide boulevards and gorgeous shopping streets, fewer tourists visit Prati, making it a great place to stay if you want to avoid crowds.
If you want to get out and about from Vatican City, a 30-minute walk over the Tiber River will take you to many of the sights in Rome (however, the Colosseum isn’t reachable on foot).
For some of the best food in Prati, head to Pizzarium (found behind the Vatican Museums) to get a taste of fantastic Roman pizza. Or head to Hostaria Dino e Toni for a big plate of warm carbonara. After dinner, head to Fatamorgana for traditional Italian gelato before a nighttime stroll along the river.
Conclusion
Being one of the most famous cities in the world, you aren’t short on choice when it comes to choosing where to stay in Rome.
Whether you want to stay right in the city centre, on the river or further out, away from tourists, there are so many fantastic areas to choose from.
From budget to luxury, every type of traveler can enjoy the magic and wonder that is Rome.
