If you are looking for the best neighborhoods in Rome, you have come to the right place.
My love affair with Rome began during my honeymoon, when Will and I spent three days exploring the Eternal City. We were enchanted by the easy-going locals, colorful streets and historical sites and have been back almost every year since.
All in all, we visited Rome 6 times before we decided to move there for 3 months last summer. During each visit, I made a point of basing myself in different neighborhoods in Rome. Here’s a roundup of my favorite spots. Let’s dive in!
Visiting Rome? If you haven't decided where to live yet, check out our helpful guide Where to Stay in Rome for First-Time Travelers (+2 Areas to Avoid). there is no time? This is My favorite hotel in Romehands down.
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Rome Neighborhoods (Table of Contents)
Trastevere (the most charming neighborhood in Rome)
Ask any tourist about their favorite neighborhood in Rome, and there's an 80% chance that Trastevere will be at the top. With its winding cobbled streets and ivy-covered facades, this is a quintessential Roman neighborhood!
Trastevere sticks to its working-class roots while maintaining a relaxed, bohemian atmosphere that attracts artists and talented musicians to the area. The relaxed atmosphere is also popular with the young crowd, bringing youth and fun to the neighborhood atmosphere (Wander Piazza San Callisto at sunset to find all the evidence you need).
The area is also known for its exciting nightlife, trendy bars and top restaurants worth a visit. All in all, no matter how often we visit Rome, Trastevere is always at the top of our minds. We often find ourselves in the area, especially when the mood to aimlessly explore the neighborhood strikes, and it never disappoints!
Hotels in Trastevere
Trastevere Attractions
Explore Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere: This picturesque square in the heart of the neighborhood is home to the Basilica of Santa Maria of Trastevere, home to the Basilica of Santa Maria of Trastevere. oldest church in rome. Legend has it that in 38 BC, oil miraculously gushes out of the ground, and this church was built. This was interpreted as the announcement of the birth of Jesus.
Stroll along the Tiber River at sunset: The Tiber River borders Trastevere, providing a beautiful setting for evening walks. The path along the river is especially charming at sunset, offering stunning views of the city bathed in golden light. During the summer, the riverside bars, restaurants and market stalls come alive, making it the perfect place to enjoy Rome's nightlife.
Admire the beauty of Janiculum Mountain: Belvedere del Gianicolo (Janiculum Hill) is the second highest hill in the Eternal City and offers some Best views in Rome.
Campomarzio (near the Spanish Steps)
Lively and upscale Campo Marzio is known for endless people-watching opportunities, iconic landmarks like the Spanish Steps, and well-dressed Italians wandering into designer shops and luxury boutiques.
The area's history dates back to ancient times, when it was used as a base for noble families. Today, Campo Marzio is still considered one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in Rome, making it perfect for those who love the finer things in life.
There are tourists and locals in the area, but not without reason. Campo Marzio's blend of historical monuments, cultural landmarks and first-class facilities make it a must-see for first-time visitors to Rome.
Where to stay in Campomarzio
Campomazio Attractions
Via del Corso and surrounding shopping streets: Campo Marzio is a shopper's paradise, with Via del Corso running through the city centre. This bustling street is lined with designer shops and cute boutiques.
Climb to the top of the (iconic) Spanish Steps: The Spanish Steps are a giant staircase with 135 steps that lead to the beautiful Mount Trinity Church at the top. This iconic landmark is a popular gathering place with stunning views of the city (above).
Take a look at People’s Square: The Piazza del Popolo is located within the Aurelian Walls of ancient Rome. The area's top attraction is the stunning Santa Maria del Popolo church, which houses masterpieces by Caravaggio, Raphael and Bernini.
Gardens of Villa Borghese: The gardens of Villa Borghese are just steps away from the Spanish Steps, offering a peaceful escape from the city. These stunning gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll, and the Galleria Borghese features impressive works by Caravaggio, Raphael and Bernini.
Monti (near the Colosseum)
Monti, Rome's first arrondissement (rione), is a charming and eclectic neighborhood that combines the old-world charm of historic buildings and cobbled streets with a modern twist that makes exploring a pleasure.
Nestled between the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, the neighborhood's vibe can best be described as bohemian and vibrant. It features art galleries, craft shops, vintage boutiques, trendy restaurants and lively bars packed with locals and tourists alike.
Whether you are interested in history, shopping, dining, or just strolling through its picturesque streets, Monti is one of the most interesting neighborhoods in Rome to explore.
Monty's place to stay
Attractions in Rome's Monti neighborhood
Explore the Roman Forum and Colosseum: Visiting the Colosseum every day is one of the biggest reasons why Monti is one of the best neighborhoods in Rome.
Visit St. Peter's Church in Vincoli: Home to Michelangelo's famous statue of Moses, this church is a must-visit for art and history lovers. The church is also famous for housing the chains by which St. Peter was bound during his imprisonment in Jerusalem.
Stroll around Piazza della Madonna dei Monti: Located in the heart of the neighborhood, this square is great for people-watching, especially around the fountain, which is a popular gathering place. Surrounded by cafés, bars and ice cream parlours, the area is the ideal place to relax and soak up the energy of the city.
Trevi
Rome's Trevi neighborhood, named after the famous Fontana di Trevi, is one of the city's most popular areas. Trevi is rich in history and offers cultural landmarks, shopping and dining.
The neighborhood embodies the essence of Rome, blending spectacular historical monuments with vibrant Roman daily life. Whether you're marveling at the Trevi Fountain, enjoying a leisurely meal, or exploring the area's cultural attractions, the Trevi offers an unforgettable experience for every first-time visitor.
The only problem is that this popular neighborhood in Rome is packed with claustrophobia-inducing crowds and I recommend visiting around sunrise to avoid the crowds. The place is packed with people from morning to night, so it’s worth getting up early!
Best hotels in Trevi
Attractions in Trevi neighborhood of Rome
Trevi Fountain: The Trevi Fountain is the centerpiece of the neighborhood, an architectural marvel and one of the most famous fountains in the world. It was designed by Nicola Salvi and completed in 1762. According to tradition, if visitors throw a coin over their shoulder into the fountain, they are guaranteed a return to Rome (assuming I left a lot of coins behind).
Quirinal Palace: This historic building is the official residence of the President of Italy and was once the papal palace. The Quirinal Palace is situated on one of Rome's seven hills and offers stunning views of the city. Its gardens and some rooms are open to the public and showcase fine art and architecture.
Sant'Eustachio (near the Pantheon)
Sant'Eustachio is sandwiched between two of Rome's most popular attractions, Piazza Navona and the Pantheon. Be prepared for hordes of tourists migrating between the two attractions.
The biggest attraction is the Pantheon, an ancient architectural wonder. This Roman temple, dedicated to all the gods of Roman paganism, is so well preserved that it is a testament to the architectural ingenuity of the Romans.
Due to the inevitable crowds, I think this is one of the best neighborhoods to explore in Rome early in the morning.
Where to stay in San Eustachio
San Eustagio Attractions
Visit the Pantheon: The Pantheon, the neighborhood's central building with its massive dome and oculus, is a must-see. Its interior showcases mesmerizing light and architecture and is the final resting place of famous figures such as the artist Raphael and several Italian kings.
Explore Piazza della Rotonda: The square in front of the Pantheon is a lively area filled with cafes, ice cream parlors and restaurants. This is the perfect place to enjoy a coffee or meal outdoors while watching the bustling activity of the Pantheon and Piazza.
Visit the Church of San Luigi de France: Home to three masterpieces by Caravaggio, this church is a pilgrimage site for art lovers. The painting in the Cantarelli Chapel depicts scenes from the life of St. Matthew and is considered one of Caravaggio's finest works.
All 'Antico Vinaio: Far from the typical sandwich you get in the state, All'Antico Vinaio is a carefully crafted work of art. The simple combination of crunchy veggies, flavorful meats, and fresh cheese is what this sandwich shop is famous for.
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, the square is large and has three magnificent fountains.
Prati (near Vatican City)
Bordered by the Vatican to the east, the Tiber River to the west, and Castel Sant'Angelo to the south, Prati is one of Rome's most underrated neighborhoods.
Prati is famous for its elegant tree-lined boulevards, beautiful Belle Époque architecture and a more orderly layout than the winding alleys of the historic centre. Developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Prati was one of the new communities in Rome planned after the unification of Italy in 1870.
It was designed to meet the growing needs of a more modern Italy. The streets are named after ancient Italian cities and famous jurists, reflecting its origins as an area for the middle and upper classes.
Prati is uniquely located next to the Vatican, close to the center of the Catholic world. It offers a less crowded Rome experience while being within walking distance of major attractions such as St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums.
Where to stay in Prati
Attractions near Prati
Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica: Although not located in Prati, these iconic religious and cultural sites are right on the edge of the community, making Prati an ideal base for exploring these sights away from the crowds 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. In addition to the museum, you can also visit some Best views in Rome from the top. Tickets are available Purchased online.
Shopping in Via Cora di Rienzo: This main thoroughfare is ideal for those who want to shop away from the tourist areas of Rome. There's a range of options here, from high street brands to local boutiques and gourmet eateries.
Best Neighborhoods in Rome (Post Summary)
For those who prefer a simple list, these are the best neighborhoods in Rome.
- Campomazio
- Trevi
- Prati
- Monty
- Trastevere
- san eustacio
Rome best neighborhoods map
When I came to Rome I thought I knew everything, but soon I discovered that I had everything to learn.
Edmonia Lewis
That’s a quick roundup of 10 of Rome’s best neighborhoods for first-time visitors. I hope you enjoyed this article. As always, if I missed your favorite, please let me know in the comments.
Until next time, cheers!
