It can be difficult to choose where to stay when visiting Rome. There are 22 different rioni (or districts) in Rome. As if that weren’t enough, each rione has different neighborhoods which will affect the price and feel of your stay. It is important to understand the key characteristics of each rione before you decide where to stay in Rome. There are many places to stay in Rome, from the trendy Trastevere area to the charming Jewish quarter. There are many ways to see Rome’s neighborhoods. Our guide will help you choose the best one.
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Centro Storico
The beautiful Trevi fountain in Rome.
The historical center of Rome is the Centro Storico. Although the exact division lines can be interpreted, we consider it to include Piazza Navona and the Trevi fountain. It is distinguished from the Spanish Steps (also technically part of the Centro Storico), by its style and price. It is the heart of most major tourist attractions that first-timer to Rome will want to see. It’s also the most touristy and crowded district in Rome, not to mention it’s expensive. It’s still a great location, right in the heart of Rome.
If you are looking for a Roman holiday that includes walking from your hotel to the heart of Piazza Navona, you will love staying here.
If you have limited time but want to see the most important sites of Rome, the Centro Storico is the place to stay. We must mention the Trevi fountain’s beauty at night. Enjoy it with Piazza Navona and the Pantheon on our Twilight City Stroll. This tour is led by local experts and ends with a delicious gelato to greet you in Rome.
Tridente e Via Veneto
Although technically located in Rome’s historic center, Tridente is a neighborhood that is very upscale. Tridente is home to designer boutiques, 4/5-star hotels, and also the stunning Spanish Steps and Trinita dei Monti churches. Via Veneto, another luxurious place to stay in Rome is nearby. In the 1950s and 1960s it was a hotspot, attracting celebrities, politicians and film stars. Although it has lost some of its appeal, more businessmen now own the hotel, you will still find exquisite restaurants and luxurious hotels.
If you are looking for a luxurious hotel in central Rome, you will be here.
Jewish Ghetto
The mosaic that is the old Jewish Ghetto is made up of ancient gems and modern nuances is called the Old Jewish Ghetto. Photo by Anthony Majanlahti
Although the Jewish Quarter was initially created to preserve the Jewish community, it is now a vibrant testament to the influence and history of Europe’s oldest Jewish community. The old Ghetto, located in the heart of the city right next to Centro Storico is a charming neighborhood that feels authentic to its roots.
The Jewish Ghetto is a charming old town with beautiful, narrow streets and an amazing atmosphere. It runs from Piazza Venezia up to the Tiber River. It is home to the Campo De’ Fiorimarket and Piazza Farnese. There are also ancient ruins such as the Teatro Marcello or the “Jewish Colosseum”. Make sure you see the Great Synagogue as well as the Bocca della Verita (or the Mouth of Truth). The stone mouth is said to bite anyone who lies. For more suggestions, see our Visitors Guide to Rome’s Jewish Ghetto.
If you are looking for a central location, great food and authentic Roman experiences, you will love staying here.
*The Old Jewish Ghetto is a culinary treasure in Europe. It’s a great place for Gastronomic Travelers to stay in Rome. To get an idea about the delicious delicacies from the Ghetto, read our guide to Rome’s Jewish food.
Stazione Termini and Esquilino
The Stazione Termini is home to hundreds of visitors every day. This makes it a hub of immigrants and tourists. Photo by hakzelf, flickr
It’s easy to find affordable hotels in the vicinity of Rome’s Termini Station. Although the area is not particularly beautiful, there aren’t many tourist attractions. However, it’s safe, affordable, and relatively peaceful. For those who travel frequently and/or quickly, it’s the best place to stay in Rome.
Esquilino is Rome’s best-known immigrant neighborhood. It can be found around Termini. You’ll find hawkers and food shops selling delicacies all over the globe, as well as the Esquilino large market.
If you’re looking for quality accommodation at a reasonable price and you don’t mind spending a bit of time outside the city’s center, you should consider staying here.
This area is filled with B&B’s and low-cost hotels. Budget travelers will love this place for Rome.
Monti
Santa Maria Maggiore is beautiful. It also houses amazing 5th-century mosaics. Photo by Gary Ullah
Monti, the oldest rione in Rome, was once the red-light area of the ancient city. It’s a beautiful place, but it’s very different today. Monti is a charming little community just outside of the more grittier Termini. You’ll find traditional mom-and pop-style restaurants and high-end clothing boutiques here. You’ll find here the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, which is one of the most stunning churches in Rome, as well as the National Museum of Rome and the Colle Oppio Park. Also, on the same hill, you will find the luxurious Domus Aurea.
Our Major Basilicas of Rome tour is a great way to see some of Rome’s most beautiful churches. It includes private transport and an expert guide. This trip will be a highlight for any art-lover or pilgrim.
If you are interested in Roman history, shopping for handbags, shoes, and clothing in unique boutiques, you will love this area. You can also explore the Appian Way nearby (our complete guide to the Appian Way will help you). You want to have a little bit of fun, but not too much; you are looking for a village-like atmosphere.
Celio
Although the Colosseum is a must-see, it is also worth mentioning that the Colosseum at night can make your life more interesting.
The residential area of Celio is located just southwest of Monti. It has the imposing Colosseum at its center. While the area surrounding the Colosseum or Constantine’s Arch can be chaotic and touristy during the day, nighttime provides one of the best views of the ancient amphitheater. There aren’t many hotels in Monti and Celio. However, it only adds to the residential atmosphere. The Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hills are the main attractions in this area. However, you should also make sure to visit the Basilica of Saint John the Lateran ( the official Cathedral of Rome) while you’re here. You can have a guided tour of ancient Rome by local experts (that is, the Colosseum, Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill) using our Premium Colosseum Tour.
If you are interested in a quieter Rome, you can stay here.
Aventine
It was the second-largest public bath in ancient Rome. According to some, the Caracalla Baths were even the inspiration for the original Pennsylvania Station in New York City. Photo by Teldridge
It can be difficult to tell where Celio ends from Aventine, as the two cities are so close and so similar. Aventine is located a little further from the “major” sights (about a 15-minute walking distance), and the area’s size and location means there are few options for hotels. However, the district is full of greenery and hidden gems that make it one the most beautiful districts in Rome. Visit the Caracalla baths, the Rose Garden and the “Knights of Malta Keyhole,” a keyhole that is hidden behind a gate, which offers a stunning view to anyone who looks through it. Aventine is home to some of Rome’s most luxurious houses, so this is an excellent spot to do some real estate gazing.
On our Rome Local Tour, you can discover some of the most surprising local attractions in Aventine.
If you are looking for something quieter than Celio’s suburban neighborhood; you prefer to be “off the beaten track”; you don’t need much nightlife. You hope the romance of Rome will inspire a civil marriage at Santa Maria in Tempulo. You’d like to jog along the tree-lined Caracalla road; you don’t mind being a little outside the action.
Testaccio
Visit John Keats’ grave at the Protestant Cemetery in Testaccio for a different view of Catholic Rome. Photo by Steve Browne & John Verkleir
Testaccio is located in the outskirts Rome and is moderner, more urban, and far more lively than any other Rome rioni. It’s a lively district with a vibrant nightlife and is also one of the most touristy in Rome. Although the neighborhood was built on top of an ancient Romans landfill hill, it is one of the best glimpses into the real-life Rome. You can also connect to Rome’s major attractions via bus or metro.
If you are looking for something more relaxed than the touristy side of Rome, you will be here.
It is just 5-15 minutes by bus or metro from Testaccio to reach the Centro Storico and Colosseum. This is depending on the traffic and where you are going. For visitors looking to experience authentic Roman nightlife at its best, this is the place to stay in Rome.
Trastevere
A night out is a must when visiting hip Trastevere. Photo by Michiel Jelijs
The hip Trastevere is located on the opposite bank of the Tiber River. Its name comes from its location at the Tiber’s other side (or Tevere in Italian). Trastevere, one of Rome’s most visited rioni, is home to many great shops and restaurants. It also offers a spot for an evening aperitivo. The neighborhood is known for its vibrant nightlife. You can spend the day in the neighborhood and visit the Basilica di Santa Maria, Trastevere or the Museo di Roma.
If: You are looking for a quiet, bohemian neighborhood; you don’t mind hipsters and some noise at night; and you love to wander the streets and alleyways of small towns in a vibrant atmosphere.
Flaminio e Parioli
Villa Borghese Gardens are the perfect spot to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Photo by Son Of Groucho (flickr).
Despite not being centrally situated, Flaminio and Parioli are among the most elegant areas of Rome. Both are filled with beautiful villas, museums, fancy restaurants, and other residential areas. The MAXXI Art Gallery and Flaminio Stadium are two of the highlights in Flaminio. They were designed by Zaha Hadid, a late architect. Parioli is located around the magnificent (and huge) Villa Borghese Gardens. This area, which is home to politicians, wealthy Romans and other high-ranking citizens, is also considered one of the most safest areas in the city. You can visit the Villa Borghese and Villa Ada. Also, Ponte Milvio and National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art, GNAM. You can find out more about Italy’s modern arts scene by reading our blog.
While most people only visit the Borghese Garden for a short time, art enthusiasts will enjoy a glimpse inside to view masterpieces by Bernini, Raphael and Caravaggio on our Borghese gallery tour. You’ll be able to explore the Borghese Gallery’s masterpieces with a guide and pre-booked tickets.
If you are looking for a peaceful atmosphere, you will be here. You love the tranquility of this area.
Vatican City and Prati
St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City
Although technically the Vatican City is a separate city-state from Rome it’s located just across the Tiber from Rome. It’s the best place to stay in Rome if your goal is to split your time between visiting Rome and the Vatican. Borgo, which is the area around St. Peter’s Cathedral, and the Vatican Museums can be too touristy. But The Prati district to east is quite different. The city’s narrow streets and straight roads were built late in its history. They are more well-organized than the chaotic, small streets of Rome. Prati also has reasonable hotel rates, as there are fewer souvenir shops than there is dining.
Visitors who visit this area of Rome will find St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. They can also find Vatican gardens, Castel San’Angelo and Cortile del Belvedere, as well as hundreds of beautiful, historic churches and basilicas.
If you are looking for a cheap hotel, this is the place to stay.
If you’re traveling with children or are short on time, we offer an early entry ticket to Sistine Chapel as well as an express entrance to St. Peter’s Basilica.
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