Where To Stay In Rome In 2024? – Trendy & Budget Areas

Are you travelling soon and wondering where to stay in Rome?

Are you planning your first trip to the Eternal City of Rome? With all its centuries-old monuments, charming piazzas and iconic culture, it’s easy to see why so many travellers choose Rome over any other places in Italy.

But with that comes the daunting question: where should I stay in Rome? We’ve been coming to Rome for years and have stayed in various neighbourhoods.

We’ve put together this ultimate guide to the best neighbourhoods to stay in Rome to make deciding on the best area effortless. So, no matter if you’re a couple on a romantic trip, a family or a pair of besties, in this article, you will find the best place to stay in Rome that is right for you.

We also compiled a list of the best hotels in Rome divided by area and suitable for any budget. From apartments right by the Colosseum to boutique hotels and luxurious hotels boasting pools set in scenic courtyards just steps away from Piazza di Spagna, these choices are sure to provide an unforgettable experience during your stay in Rome!

Let’s get started!

Where To Stay In Rome: At A Glance

If you’re looking for a quick answer to where is the best place to stay in Rome, check out the summary below:

#1 Historic Centre – Best Place To Stay In Rome First Time.

The historic centre of Rome, also known as the Centro Storico, is situated in the heart of the city, on the eastern bank of the River Tiber. To the west, across the river, there is the Vatican, and to the southeast, the Colosseum. And for its perfectly central location, Centro Storico is the best area to stay in Rome for first time visitors.

If you’re asking yourself, “Where should I stay in Rome?” to be able to get everywhere on foot, look no further than Centro Storico.

Walking through the cobblestone streets of the Centro Storico will transport you back in time to the days of ancient Rome. Here you will find the Instagram-famous Trevi Fountain, immortalised by the film by Frederico Fellini, La Dolce Vita. It is a must-visit sight, but be aware that the square around the fountain is packed with tourists wanting to take a photo with the famous fountain pretty much all year long.

The historic centre is also home to the exquisite Piazza Navona. The square has an oval shape, based on the shape of an old gymnastic stadium, which was built here by an emperor in the year 86.

Today, walking through the square, you will be enchanted by the sight of three exquisite fountains, each with its own unique story and symbolism. On top of that, you can witness street artists showcasing their talents, vendors selling their wares, and painters creating their masterpieces.

And once December rolls around, Piazza Navona transforms into a winter wonderland as it hosts its annual Christmas market.

Another icon of the historic centre is the Pantheon. Originally built as a temple in ancient times, the Pantheon has undergone numerous transformations throughout the centuries, eventually becoming a church.

One of the most striking aspects of the Pantheon is its massive dome, which was revolutionary for its time and remains a marvel of engineering to this day. The square, which houses the Pantheon, is super lively and lined with trattorias and cafes, and the surrounding area is one of the best places to stay in Rome.

In terms of safety, Centro Storico is generally safe for tourists but may suffer from incidents of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas. Make sure to keep an eye on your belongings when taking pictures at the Trevi Fountain and other landmarks in the area.

There are also plenty of high-end restaurants in this part of town if you’re looking for an upscale dining experience, such as Casa Bleve or PER ME – Giulio Terrinoni. But also plenty of affordable eateries, such as Pizzeria Romana Bio or La Fraschetta di Castel Sant’Angelo, which was our favourite.

The nearest metro station to the historic centre is Barberini, which can be a fair walk if your hotel is closer to the river. Also, many streets are pedestrianised, so be prepared that the taxi won’t be able to drop you off right by the door of your accommodation.

The historic centre is the best area to stay in Rome for first timers, but only if you have a healthy accommodation budget. Due to its popularity, the hotel rates are one of the highest in Rome, averaging €250 per night for a modest double room.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CENTRO STORICO

#2 Piazza di Spagna (Spanish Steps) – Where To Stay In Rome Italy For Luxury.

This neighbourhood is also much quieter compared with the historic centre, but at the same time, only a 15-minute walk to the Piazza Navona. And, since it’s an upscale neighbourhood, it is the best location to stay in Rome if you’re concerned about safety.

The area surrounding Piazza di Spagna is also one of the best areas to stay in Rome for public transportation links. The nearest metro station – Spagna (Red Line), is located right on the square and has a connection with Termini, where you can catch a train or change to the Green Line to go to the airport. There are also various bus lines that stop in this area.

In the heart of this area sits the Piazza di Spagna with its iconic Spanish Steps, which were built to connect the French-owned Trinità dei Monti Church with the Piazza di Spagna below. The steps were immortalised by many famous movies, including “Roman Holiday” and countless fashion shows by designers such as Valentino.

(*For the best location, stay in one of the hotels near the Spanish Steps.)

At the foot of the stairs, you’ll find the historic Babington’s tea room, which was founded by two English women who popularised drinking tea in Rome, and today you can enjoy a typical British afternoon tea there.

If you love historical places, don’t miss out on the richly ornated, 18th century Antico Caffè Greco, where Keats and Lord Byron drank their coffee and talked about literature. And for cocktail and jazz enthusiasts, Gregory’s Jazz Club is a place to visit.

Piazza di Spagna is also the best neighborhood to stay in Rome for high-fashion shopping. Head to Via Condotti, where you will find designer shops such as Valentino, Chanel, Prada and Louis Vuitton.

Nestled away on a peaceful cobblestone street, tucked between Spanish Square and Piazza del Popolo, Via Margutta is a captivating escape from the bustling city. Its picturesque setting is enhanced by the abundance of green ivy that elegantly drapes the walls of the buildings lining the street. Art enthusiasts are sure to appreciate the painter’s studios and art galleries that call this street home. 

While Via Margutta is famous for its artisanal shops, Via del Babuino is known for its antique shops. And, if you continue walking south, you’ll get to the expansive Piazza del Popolo, used for public events and concerts.

If you decide on staying here, you will also have the beautiful Villa Borghese gardens a short distance away, where you can hire a bicycle and cycle its expansive grounds or rent a boat and row around its picturesque lake. You will also have Villa Medici, an exquisite 16th-century mansion home to the French Academy.

The only drawback of choosing this fantastic neighbourhood is the accommodation prices, averaging at €300 per night.

BEST PLACES TO STAY NEAR PIAZZA DI SPAGNA

#3 Prati (near the Vatican) – Best Area In Rome To Stay For Families & Affordability.

Nestled just outside the historic centre, on the western bank of the River Tiber and neighbouring the Vatican, Prati boasts a peaceful and residential atmosphere that is often overlooked by tourists. However, what it lacks in fame, it makes up for in grandeur. This neighbourhood is home to stunning Belle Epoque villas and stately buildings, as well as expansive boulevards that make for a charming stroll.

Prati offers a glimpse into daily life in the Eternal City. This elegant area is favoured by local professionals, lawyers and architects as the property prices and rent are pretty steep.

One of the main streets, Via Cola Di Rienzo, is a bustling shopping destination with both international and local brands. And when it comes to local flavour, Mercato Trionfale is the place to be. Here, you can find a colourful array of fresh fruits, veggies, meats, cheeses, and wine. 

After careful research, Prati is normally where we stay when we visit Rome. Our favourite pastime here in the afternoons was watching people going on about their daily lives from a local trattoria while eating a delicious pizza and sipping on Aperol Spritz.

We also like how close the historic centre is and the fact that we can come back to our apartment for a midday nap before heading back out for more sightseeing in the afternoon. It is also handy to have a few good grocery stores nearby, which are hard to find in the historic centre. The last thing which we find useful is being able to park our rental car near the accommodation.

Prati is well-linked with the rest of the city with buses, trams and metro. The two nearest metro stations are Lepanto and Ottaviano of the Orange Line, which links Prati with the Termini train station and the Green Line, which goes to the Da Vinci Airport.

The main drawback of staying in Prati, which wasn’t a big deal for us, is the Vatican crowds. Every Wednesday and Sunday, thousands of people head to St Peter’s Square in the Vatican for a catholic mass and to see the Pope. For us, it was fascinating to watch the crowds, but we appreciate that long-term it can get tiring.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN PRATI

#4 Trastevere – One Of The Best Neighborhoods In Rome For Charm, Nightlife & Couples.

This charming neighbourhood is located on the western bank of the River Tiber, around a 20-minute walk to the historic centre of Rome with all its iconic monuments. This area doesn’t have any nearby metro station, but multiple buses and a tram line provide a good connection with other touristy attractions and the Termini central station.

Trastevere is a delight for anyone who loves to explore the streets on foot. The cobblestone alleys lead to picturesque squares, each one with its own distinct flavour, with the bustling Piazza di Santa Maria, home to the quaint church of Santa Maria, at its heart.

And then there are the coloured buildings that line the alleys in shades of orange and yellow, adding to the cheery character of the neighbourhood. 

For those seeking a trendy evening out, Trastevere’s aperitivo bars provide the perfect setting for an Italian-style happy hour.

When you find yourself exploring the winding streets and alleys of this neighbourhood, you’ll quickly discover that Trastevere is also heaven for foodies.

One must-visit spot for pizza lovers is Sesamo Trastevere, located near the main square. Their crispy, thin crusts with fresh, mouth-watering toppings make it easy to see why it’s considered the best pizza in town. But don’t stop there – Alice Pizza Trastevere offers its own take on the classic dish and is also definitely worth a visit.

For those seeking a more traditional Roman meal, Cave Canem is a charming trattoria that serves up delicious plates of pasta and hearty meat dishes.

In between meals, make sure to check out the quaint boutique shops that pepper the neighbourhood, showcasing stylish and unique finds.

Apart from eating and shopping, Trastevere is home to Belvedere del Gianicolo, which boasts one of the best viewpoints in Rome and in its southern edge Botanical Garden of Rome, with thousands of species of plants and a picturesque Japanese tea garden.

The only disadvantage of staying in this neighbourhood is that it takes around 20 minutes on foot to get to the historic centre. If you’re okay with having to walk or having to take a bus, you’ll be rewarded with an authentic, lively vibe but not too lively or crowded like the historic centre.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN TRASTEVERE

#5 Monti (Colosseum) – Affordable, Bohemian & A Foodie Paradise.

Monti is tucked between the historic centre and Termini and is home to the most iconic landmark of Rome – the Colosseum. This neighbourhood has fantastic metro links with its own station – Cavour (Blue Line), right in its centre, from where you can get to other points of interest in the city, Termini train station and airports.

Monti is also the best neighborhood in Rome to stay in for travellers wanting to avoid the hefty hotel rates of the historic centre but still be within walking distance. Trevi Fountain is only around 14 minutes walk, Pantheon 21 minutes and Piazza Navona 24 minutes.

This old residential neighbourhood used to be known as Suburra, a little shady area once filled with craftsmen, petty criminals and sex workers. In fact, there used to be a wall dividing it from the heart of Roman power to prevent spreading fires, which were notorious here.

Nowadays, tourists tend to overlook Monti while on their way to the Colosseum. But if you take a closer look and wander around, you’ll find a bohemian vibe that’s hard to resist.

All roads lead to Piazza della Madonna dei Monti, the hub of this vibrant community. Foodies, in particular, will find themselves in heaven here, with an array of eateries and hip street food joints offering gourmet bites at every corner.

A standout favourite is al42 by Pasta Chef Rione Monti, which boasts some of the best pasta we’ve ever tasted – and conveniently, it’s located right by the square. Try their veggie lasagna; you won’t regret it!

For a cosy breakfast, head to La Casetta a Monti, a hidden gem tucked away in a charming ivy-covered building. You won’t be disappointed by the delicious pancakes and latte served from a jar. Of course, no visit to Monti is complete without picking up a slice of pizza from Forno da Milvio.

But food aside, Monti also offers a unique shopping experience with vintage clothing stores and local Roman designers lining Via del Boschetto – be sure to check out boutiques like Blue Goose, Le Gallinelle, and Tina Sondergaard.

I stayed in Monti on my first-ever visit to Rome, and I remember how cool it was to have the view of the Colosseum right on the doorstep of my accommodation! Coming back to Monti recently, I definitely appreciated all the food joints and its authentic, bohemian vibe.

Stay in Monti if you’re looking for a cool, authentic neighbourhood to really savour the local life, its yummy food without the hefty tourist price tag, and to be close to Rome’s most iconic monument – The Colosseum. Stay in one of the hotels with the Colosseum view for an ultimate experience!

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN MONTI

#6 Testaccio – Best Neighbourhood To Stay In Rome For Foodies.

The Testaccio neighbourhood in Rome is known for its humble history as a working-class district responsible for looking after the slaughterhouses in the city.

However, today, Testaccio is a non-touristy, real-life destination that has garnered attention as a growing foodist hotspot. It’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in authentic Italian culture and enjoy some delicious cuisine. Whether you’re a foodie or simply looking to experience life like a true Roman, Testaccio is a neighbourhood that’s not to be missed.

This neighbourhood is home to a bustling market – Mercato Testaccio, where locals gather to purchase fresh produce, meats, and cheeses. If you enjoy going off the beaten track, also check out the former slaughterhouse today, home to the Città dell’Altra Economia, which hosts various events and an organic market.

If you’re a foodie, prepare yourself for a feast. Don’t miss out on tasty triangle sandwiches, which we loved and craft beer at Trapizzino | Testaccio and for authentic Roman cuisine, head to Piatto Romano, where you’ll have the chance to mingle with the locals and taste some mouth-watering non-touristy dishes.

Testaccio also has some quirky sites, which you don’t want to miss, so make sure you give this neighbourhood a proper stroll before heading out for the more obvious Rome monuments.

Monte Testaccio is probably the most recognisable landmark in this area. Rising up to 35 meters high, this man-made hill is a testament to the history of the Roman Empire. What makes it even more fascinating is that it’s made up entirely of broken pottery used to store wine and oil.

With over 53 million pieces of pottery, Monte Testaccio is the largest spoil heap of the ancient world. It’s hard to fathom just how much wine and oil was stored in all of these jars! As you stand at the base of the hill, you can’t help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at the countless stories that these broken pieces of pottery hold.

Other points of interest in this neighbourhood include the Pyramid of Cestius, which is a burial tomb of Caius Cestius, dating back to 12 BC, and the Non-catholic Cementary, where you can find graves of the two English writers – Keats and Shelley. And, for an afternoon stroll with panoramic city views, head to Giardino degli Aranci, lined with fragrant orange trees.

The only disadvantage of staying in Testaccio is its more remote location, from where you won’t be able to walk to the historic centre and the Colosseum, which is about a 26-minute walk if you’re feeling energetic.

Having said that, Testaccio has its own metro station in the centre of the neighbourhood – Piramide (Blue Line), where you can easily get to other Rome attractions.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN TESTACCIO

#7 Termini  – Best Budget Place To Stay In Rome.

Termini is the best area to stay in Rome for travellers on a budget. Whether you arrive in Rome by plane or train, you will end up at Termini, and having your hotel within walking distance will save you money on taxis.

It also makes sense to base yourself here if you’re staying in Rome just for a day, this way you will also save yourself the hassle of having to take a metro or bus to where your hotel is located.

Depending on which hotel you choose (our top pick hotel, for example), you will have the historic centre within a 17-20 minute walk, which is not bad for a more budget-friendly area.

As for the accommodation, Termini has some really affordable choices. The area is also packed with cheap eats and grocery stores, handy on days when you prefer to eat in.

Our favourite part of Termin neighbourhood is Piazza di Santa María Maggiore, home to the magnificent basilica of the same name. The area around the square is super lively and lined with traditional Roman cafes, which are perfect for grabbing a morning cappuccino and a fresh pastry!

Other interesting points of interest in this area include the grand 19th-century building of the opera house – Teatro dell’Opera di Roma, the National Museum of Rome and the Baths of Diocletian.

The only thing to keep in mind is that the proximity of the central station makes this area less safe, especially at night. It’s a common thing in big cities that the neighbourhoods around the central station suffer from pickpocketers and opportunists, as well as a higher concentration of homeless people than elsewhere. For that reason, if you’re a solo female traveller, we don’t recommend staying near Termini.

In our opinion, the best area to stay in Rome for solo travellers is Monti packed with good hostels and hip vibes.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN TERMINI

Where To Stay In Rome First Time: FAQ

Is Rome, Italy, walkable?

Walking is a great way to explore Rome, and it’s also an easy way to get from one place to another. The city is compact, and most of the popular sights, such as the historic centre and the Vatican, are clustered together. The only attraction that is a little further away is the Colosseum.

While it is possible to walk everywhere, prepare yourself for a lot of walking! A good pair of shoes is a must. Another thing to keep in mind is Rome’s narrow cobbled streets that, while adding to the charm, may be difficult to navigate for those in wheelchairs or who use strollers.

Is 3 full days in Rome enough?

Rome is filled with historic monuments and iconic places to visit, so only 3 days is definitely a little bit of a push. However, with some careful planning and prioritizing, you can get a taste of what this magnificent city has to offer. Start with the obvious, such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Vatican City, and the historic centre home to the Trevi Fountain.

But don’t forget to also wander through the charming streets of Trastevere or stop for a gelato at one of the city’s many renowned gelaterias. With only 3 days, it’s important to focus on quality over quantity and truly take in the sights and sounds of the Eternal City.

So, while you may not be able to see everything Rome has to offer in just 3 days, it is definitely enough time to experience and appreciate the city’s unique charm and character. If you’re looking for where to stay in Rome, we recommend staying in Prati, Monti or the historic centre.

How many days is ideal for Rome?

While it can be tempting to pack in as much as possible into a short itinerary, we recommend giving yourself at least 4 days to explore the city.

This will give you enough time to see the major landmarks such as the Colosseum, Vatican City, and Trevi Fountain while also allowing for leisurely strolls through Rome’s charming neighbourhoods and savouring the delicious food and wine. 4 days in Rome will also allow you to add in a few lesser-known places, such as the Villa Borghese and Baths of Caracalla.

Take your time when visiting Rome and savour the experience instead of rushing through it.

Is Rome an expensive city?

The answer, like many things in life, is not a straightforward one. It all depends on what you compare Rome with, so let’s take a closer look at what exactly is making those euros slip through your fingers.

If you’re looking to stay in a hotel near the historic centre, be prepared to shell out at least €300 per night. However, if you’re willing to stay a bit further out, you’ll find more affordable accommodation.

As for dining, while a fancy dinner for two may run you upwards of €100, there are plenty of delicious and budget-friendly options, like grabbing a slice of pizza for just €2.

So, is Rome an expensive city? It depends on what you compare it to – but with a little bit of planning and some insider knowledge, you can still experience this stunning city without breaking the bank.

What areas of Rome to avoid staying in?

Where not to stay in Rome? While the city boasts an abundance of charming neighbourhoods, it’s best to steer clear of those that are farther away from the historic centre if you’re only visiting for a few days.

If you’re looking for where to stay in Rome, while it may be tempting to opt for cheaper accommodation in these areas, the inconvenience of having to travel long distances to see the city’s top sights simply isn’t worth it. 

What is the safest part of Rome to stay in?

The neighbourhoods around Vatican City and the adjacent Prati district are great options for those seeking a tranquil and secure place to stay. These areas are relatively peaceful and well-lit and offer a vast array of food options and public transportation choices. 

Of course, it’s always wise to exercise caution, no matter where you are travelling in the world. But if you’re looking for a safe and enjoyable stay in the eternal city, these neighbourhoods are certainly a good place to start.

What is the most charming neighbourhood in Rome?

When it comes to charming neighbourhoods, Rome has an abundance of them. However, if we had to pick just one, it would be Trastevere.

This bohemian area is located on the west bank of the Tiber River and is known for its picturesque cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and lively atmosphere. Here, you’ll find an eclectic mix of artisan shops, quaint cafes, and trendy bars. Trastevere also boasts several historic landmarks, such as the Basilica of Santa Maria and the Villa Farnesina.

As day turns into night, the neighbourhood comes alive with locals and tourists alike, making it the perfect spot for an Italian aperitif or a romantic dinner under the stars. Take a stroll through Trastevere’s winding alleys and let its charm and charisma sweep you off your feet.

What is the trendiest neighbourhood in Rome?

If you’re looking for an area of Rome that is buzzing with energy, culture and food, then look no further than either Trastevere or Monti. Both are super trendy neighbourhoods steeped in history and character.

Both are also good for artisanal markets, evenings spent on piazzas drinking wine and dining al fresco.

Is Uber available in Rome?

Yes, there is Uber in Rome, but not the service that you may be used to back home. The Uber available in Rome is the Uber Black, which is its premium service and Uber Taxi, which is similar to a standard taxi fair and operated by licenced taxi drivers.

Is Florence better than Rome?

When it comes to Italian destinations, Florence and Rome are both worthy contenders. But if you’re looking for a city that offers a more intimate and peaceful experience, Florence might just be the ticket.

The historic centre of Florence is small enough to navigate on foot, allowing you to truly sink into the city’s Renaissance charm. Plus, Florence is home to a wealth of world-renowned museums and galleries, including the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery.

Rome, on the other hand, is an epicentre of history and culture – and you definitely won’t run out of things to do and see in a short amount of time. It’s larger and busier than Florence but also has some jaw-dropping landmarks, such as the Colosseum and the Vatican City. 

Where To Stay In Rome: Final Word

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to deciding where to stay in Rome. It all depends on the type of experience you want to have and what kind of budget you have available.

We recommend going with an accommodation option near the historic centre, as this will give you easy access to many of Rome’s iconic sights and attractions. Areas such as Monti, Prati, and Trastevere all offer a wide range of options that will suit any type of traveller.

Happy travels!

G.