Where to stay in Rome? 5 Best Areas & Places to Stay (+Avoid!) ๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡น

I've been coming to the Italian Capital almost every year since 2015; here is my guide on the best areas & places to stay in Rome.

where to stay rome

Are you planning a trip to the Italian capital and need help determining where to stay in Rome?

Planning a last minute trip to Rome? ๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡น
Here are my favourite places to stay & things to do in The Eternal City.

๐Ÿ›Œ Places to Stay:
1. H10 Palazzo Galla (an excellent hotel in walking-distance of everything)
2. Mercure Roma Centro (hotel with a rooftop pool overlooking the Colosseum!)
3. Colosseum Corner (cosy place around the corner from Colosseum, I really enjoyed staying here)

๐ŸŸ๏ธ Top Activities & Tours:
1. Colosseum is a must, of course - I recommend this Underground Tour
2. Skip-The-Line Tickets to The Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel (this will save you hours!)
3. If you've got 4-5 days, consider going on a day trip to Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius, The Amalfi Coast or Tuscany

In this travel guide, I go through the five best areas to stay and give recommendations for the best hotels in the mentioned neighborhoods.

where to stay in rome guide
Yours truly in front of the Vatican City in Rome

Rome was the wealthiest city in the world for over a thousand years and is full of astonishing history, impressive buildings, and what almost feels like endless gastronomic possibilities.

Where to stay in Rome? Below I will tell you about the best areas and places to stay in Rome.

The best areas in Rome

If you want a quick rundown, here it is:

  • Centro Storico – best area to stay in the city centre ๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡น
  • Trastevere โ€“ the best area in Rome? ๐Ÿ•
  • Monti โ€“ trendy area close to the Colosseum ๐ŸŸ
  • Prati โ€“ stay close to the Vatican โ›ช๏ธ
  • Testaccio – best area for a local vibe ๐Ÿ

You can click on the area above and go directly to the best hotels in this area of Rome.

The guide on where to stay in Rome continues below.

1. Centro Storico – stay in the historic centre ๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡น

The historic center of Rome is located in the city center and is where to stay in Rome if it’s your first time visiting the Italian capital.

pantheon in centro storico, best place to stay in Rome city centre

I’d suggest looking for hotels close to The Pantheon and Piazza Navona as both are places of interest in the historic center.

This indeed is the best area to stay in Rome for most tourists.

Street in Rome city center, Centro Storico
Even though it’s Rome’s city center, there are plenty of cozy and quiet alleys.

It doesn’t matter too much exactly where you stay in the historic centre.

However, Piazza Navona and the Pantheon are suitable landmarks – if you are within walking distance of these, you will be staying in the center of Rome and in walking distance of most of the best things to do in Rome.

See the best hotels in the city centre here.

rome city centre
The City Centre of Rome is incredibly cosy

If you choose to stay in the historic centre of Rome, you are close to everything.

The beautiful Piazzas, churches, Roman ruins, small exciting and unique shops and, of course, a wide selection of cafes and restaurants

You will also find the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain in this area of Rome.

All sights that make Rome’s historic centre part of the UNESCO World Heritage List.

piazza navona, good area to stay in Rome city centre

I recommend having a pair of good walking shoes on your packing list when you travel to Rome because the historic centre is very compact even though it is a big city.

You can, therefore, quickly get around on foot and see it all.

In addition to all the well-known things to see and do, there are plenty of free experiences in and around Rome.

rome city centre, best area to stay for first-timers

When you choose to stay in the centre of Rome, the disadvantage is that the nearest metro may be some distance away depending on where you stay.

There are, however, buses and trams. At the same time, you will be within walking distance of most things here.

However, staying in the centre of Rome can be an expensive affair.

But if you are only in Rome for a few days, staying in the centre or reasonably close is recommended so that you have all the sights on your doorstep.

Places to stay in Centro Storico

There are almost always many tourists in Rome, especially in the centre. If you want to stay right in the historic centre itself, there are only a few hotels to choose from.

This also means that they get booked quickly, so it’s best to book as far in advance as possible.

Hotel Indigo Rome is a cosy hotel that is very centrally located and, among other things, has a fantastic outdoor terrace with a view and an indoor swimming pool.

hotel indigo rome city centre

This is, of course, also reflected in the price, but look at the link below and enter your travel dates – prices change, and if you travel in the “low season”, there are often good deals on hotels in Rome.

One of the advantages of this hotel is that it is only about 15 minutes walk from the Vatican and cosy Trastevere, which is the next area on the list of where to stay in Rome ๐Ÿ˜‰

See more about the hotel and book here.

Hotel Nazionale is a traveller’s haven right in the pulsing heart of Rome.

Hotel Nazionale Rome Centro

With its prime location, you’re never far from the city’s top attractions and things to do. But it’s the inside that beckons with a promise of comfort.

The rooms blend modern comfort and timeless elegance, providing a serene retreat. Its range of amenities that ensure a cosy stay sets it apart.

Hotel Nazionale room
The location is one of the best in Rome.

Every detail is crafted for comfort, from air conditioning to keep you cool after a day in the Roman sun to the delightful breakfast.

Plus, the little luxuries like a minibar and room service add a touch of indulgence to your Roman holiday.

See more photos & book here.

Hotel Regno is located in the heart of Rome in the historic centre, with an excellent location that makes exploring the city’s many attractions easy.

Hotel Regno rome city centre

With transportation options nearby, guests can quickly get around the city, and there are also many excellent dining options within walking distance of the hotel.

The staff at Hotel Regno are known for being friendly and helpful, always ready to assist guests with advice and guidance.

Nice place to stay in Rome City Centre

The rooms are highlighted for being almost new, very clean, and functional, adding to the pleasant experience.

The breakfast at the hotel could be improved a bit, but it still functions as a solid meal to start the day.

See more photos and book here.

Suite Art Navona, located directly on the iconic Piazza Navona in Rome, is a surprising oasis of calm in the city centre.

Suite Art Navona, stay at Piazza Navona

This hotel is known for its spacious, large rooms by European standards and equipped with big, comfortable beds. Cleanliness is also a highly prioritised focus at this place.

Although the hotel’s entrance and hallway may seem worn down and not give the best first impression, you’ll quickly be pleasantly surprised by the rooms and the staff’s helpfulness.

Suite Art Navona Hotel in Rome's Centro Storico

Some rooms even offer views over the charming street.

Suite Art Navona is a place that many would choose to stay at again when returning to Rome.

See more photos and book here.

Hotel Hiberia is an excellent small hotel in the heart of Rome, perfect for travellers who want to stay close to the city’s main attractions without spending a fortune.

Hotel Hiberia, cheap place to stay in Rome city centre

The hotel offers clean, comfortable, simple rooms with everything you need for a comfortable stay.

The location is one of the most significant advantages, as you can walk to places like the Trevi Fountain and the Colosseum in minutes.

Previous guests highlight the friendly service and good value for money, especially considering the hotel’s central location.

See more photos and book here.

2. Trastevere – best area for nightlife ๐Ÿป

Trastevere is one of the oldest and most authentic neighborhoods in Rome and it’s definitely where to stay in Rome for nightlife.

trastevere, where to stay in rome for nightlife
Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere

Trastevere is located just across the river Tiber. This means you can stay relatively close to the centre and within walking distance of most things, but cheaper.

In this district, there are fewer tourists, and a large part of Italians themselves live here.

See the best hotels in Trastevere here.

So if you’re looking for an authentic area to stay in on your trip to Rome, Trastevere is a great area to stay.

Italian food in Trastevere
A lot of the best restaurants in Rome are located here in Trastevere.

However, it must also be said that Trastevere has been described in guidebooks as a “slightly hidden gem” for many years, so there will also be other tourists.

But the area is still less touristy than the historic center.

trastevere street

If you have studied Italian for beginners, this is probably not where you should start trying it out, as a large part of the local population doesn’t speak “modern Italian” but the local Romanesque dialect.

Many students live in this area, which contributes to colourful nightlife, so staying here is also recommended if you enjoy being part of this.

If you choose to stay a little further north in the area, there are several green areas that you can also enjoy.

Among other things, here is the Botanical Garden, which contains more than 7,000 plant species from all over the world. Pull the plug and enjoy the little green oasis for a few hours if you need a break from the pulsating city life.

Do you want to see one of Rome’s oldest churches?

It is also located in this district. The Santa Maria in Trastevere dates back to the 3rd century and is said to have been founded by Pope Callixtus I.

From the Terrazza del Gianicolo, you have a beautiful panoramic view of the historic centre of Rome.

trastevere restaurants
There are almost too many restaurants to choose from in Trastevere ๐Ÿ˜€

The area has many restaurants and cafes, but you have to be careful where you eat. Many places are tourist traps, but you get local and delicious food if you move away from the most touristy streets.

Researching and looking at various reviews online before eating out is also recommended.

The only real disadvantage of Trastevere is that the public transport does not cover very well here, so it is an advantage that you don’t mind moving around on foot.

However, it is easy to get here from Fiumicino Airport.

Places to stay in Trastevere

Let’s look at some of Trastevere’s best places to stay, starting with a real luxury hotel.

Donna Camilla Savelli is a luxurious retreat that evokes the grandeur of Italy’s famed southern coasts – at least that’s what I’m thinking when I look at the hotel.

Donna Camilla Savelli Rome Trastevere

Housed in a 17th-century building with a storied past, this hotel offers a unique blend of historical architecture and modern indulgence.

The rooms exude elegance, with touches of Sicilian and Amalfi charm, while the peaceful courtyards and panoramic terraces provide a serene escape from the city’s energetic pulse.

Donna Camilla Savelli, luxury hotel in Trastevere
I’m getting White Lotus Sicily vibes – and I mean that in the best way!

From the rich textiles to the classic woodwork, every aspect of Donna Camilla Savelli is crafted to immerse guests in an atmosphere of sophisticated comfort.

See more photos & book here.

hotel in trastevere, one of the best places to stay in rome

One of the best hotels in Trastevere is the 4-star Unahotels Trastevere Roma.

This is perhaps the hotel with the best location in the entire Trastevere area, so if you want to be sure to stay within walking distance of the area’s cosy restaurants and cafes, then you can book here.

The hotel is also suitable for families with children, as you can book family rooms that have a double bed as well as two single beds.

See more about Unahotels Trastevere Roma here.

Sonder Trastevere is a popular apartment hotel in the northern part of the area, so you’ll stay close to central Rome and the Vatican.

Sonder Trastevere, aparthotel in Rome

Here, you’ll enjoy modern facilities, and the place stands out as one of the area’s cleanest and nicest accommodation options.

The apartments at Sonder Trastevere are equipped with complete kitchens, including all the necessary utensils for cooking, cleaning, and coffee making.

Bedroom at the aparthotel in Trastevere in Rome
There are also delightful bedrooms at the apartment hotel.

So if you’re travelling to Rome as a family wanting a bit of extra space or prefer staying somewhere different from a regular hotel room, consider Sonder Trastevere.

See more photos and book here.

The following hotel in Trastevere is a bit of a hidden gem.

Residenza San Calisto offers a blend of historic charm and modern conveniences.

Residenza San Calisto Trastevere Rome

Set in a renovated 17th-century building, its six rooms provide a cosy and relaxed atmosphere equipped with modern-day essentials.

Guests appreciate its clean, friendly ambience, often comparing it to a 4.5-star establishment.

Residenza San Calisto Trastevere room

Its prime location near the picturesque square of Santa Maria in Trastevere allows easy access to iconic Roman landmarks, while the local streets offer a variety of restaurants and markets.

See more photos & book here.

3. Monti – best area to stay for couples (near Colosseum) ๐ŸŸ

Monti hasn’t always had the best reputation – it’s a shame as it’s a fantastic place. Monti has historically been a poor area, but today has been renewed.

monti, where to stay in rome close to the colosseum

This is where many wealthy foreigners and successful business people have settled. So now Monti is one of the best areas in Rome to stay in.

I stayed in the summer of 2022 in a good hotel in Monti, right by the Colosseum.

hotel with rooftop colosseum view

They even had a rooftop terrace with an incredible view of the Colosseum.

See more about this hotel here.

Monti is like a small village in the city. There are many atmospheric streets, small workshops, local butchers, and unique shops with goods you won’t find anywhere else.

Stay near the Colosseum in Monti
I like staying in Monti because it’s so close to the Colosseum.

You will also experience completely different prices than in all the big shops on the tourist-filled streets.

This is where you can find something that all the others don’t have.

See the best hotels in Monti here.

Monti is a convenient place to stay as it is close to the main train station (Termini ), so you can quickly get around to the whole city of Rome.

It is also close to the Colosseum.

cafe with colosseum view in Monti
Breakfast with Colosseum-view in Monti

The evening atmosphere in Monti’s only Piazza, Piazza della Madonna dei Monti, is fantastic.

Here, all the locals meet and chat while enjoying a good glass of wine, and the children run around and play.

Places to stay in Monti

Let’s explore some of my favourite hotels in Monti. Let’s start off with a very luxurious hotel.

The NH Collection Roma Fori Imperiali, in Rome’s city centre on the fringes of the charming Monti area, offers a luxurious retreat amid historical grandeur.

NH Collection Roma Fori Imperiali, best hotel in Monti

The hotel is literally right next to the Imperial Forums, select rooms provide stunning views of ancient ruins.

Previous guests commend the attentive staff and appreciate the hotel’s modern, comfortable amenities and rich architectural beauty.

NH Collection Roma Fori Imperiali room

With easy access to iconic landmarks and the quaint ambience of Monti’s restaurants and bars, it’s one of the best places to stay in Rome.

The hotelโ€™s high ratings on various platforms attest to its quality, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a blend of Romeโ€™s historical essence and contemporary luxury.

See more photos & book here.

As well as being a great place to stay, Monti is also cheap, at least compared to the centre and other popular areas.

One of Monti’s better but cheaper hotels is the Salotto Monti.

cheap hotel in monti

This is a 3-star hotel that scores excellent reviews from previous guests and is a great example of a budget-friendly hotel in Monti.

As previously mentioned, I recently stayed at Colosseum Corners, which is literally just around the corner from the Colosseum – a great place to stay in the Monti area of Rome.

colosseum corner hotel in monti

The hotel is in an ordinary building that might not look special on the surface but contains many surprising details.

One of the most notable features of Colosseum Corners is the opportunity to go up to the building’s roof.

Rooftop hotel with Colosseum views

From here, a breathtaking view opens up directly over to the Colosseum, offering a unique feeling of being in the heart of Rome’s historical centre.

The location in the Monti area provides easy access to other attractions, restaurants, and shops, making it a convenient base for those who wish to explore the city on foot.

They don’t have a restaurant, but we were given breakfast vouchers that could be used at a cafรฉ around the corner – from where you can sit outside and look directly at the Colosseum in front of the cafรฉ.

See more and book the hotel here.

4. Prati – nice area close to the Vatican โ›ช๏ธ

Prati might not be the obvious choice if you visit Rome for the first time.

As I said, it’s all about what kind of trip you want, but if you’ve either been to Rome before, or if you want to experience Rome, but with the opportunity to retreat from the big city’s many tourists in the evening, then Prati is an excellent area to stay in.

prati, where to stay in Rome near the vatican
The Vatican City is right next to the Prati area

This is also where you should stay if you want luxurious shopping experiences, or mainly come to see the Vatican and all the sights there.

See the best hotels in Prati here.

As described in the post about sights in Rome, it can take a lot of time to visit Peter’s Church, as there are many people and often long queues.

st peter's church

Therefore, if you really want to experience the Vatican and take it all in, then you can easily spend more than one day here.

If you are shopping, you must visit the two km. long street Via Cola di Rienzo.

The street starts at the Ponte Regina Margherita bridge and stretches to Piazza del Risorgimento, right next to the Vatican.

Places to stay in Prati

The NH Collection Roma Giustiniano, boasting a sleek faรงade, is just a stone’s throw away from the Vatican Museums and Castel Sant’Angelo.

NH Collection Roma Giustiniano room

A haven for those eager to immerse in Rome’s storied past while indulging in contemporary luxury. The rooms blend comfort with Italian elegance, perfect for days you want to step from the bustling city into a serene retreat.

NH Collection Roma Giustiniano view of Castel Sant Angelo
View of Castel Sant Angelo from one of the rooms.

The breakfast buffet is a true celebration โ€“ imagine freshly baked cornetti and cappuccinos that would earn a nod from the most discerning baristas.

NH Collection Roma Giustiniano is a smart choice for an authentic Roman respite where elegance meets convenience.

See more photos & book here.

Residenza Alexander is, in more ways than one, the perfect place to stay in Prati. The hotel is modern but with a good mix of traditional elements.

hotel in prati

Here you stay with direct access to the beautiful streets full of shopping opportunities and halfway between the Vatican and Castel Sant’Angelo.

Considering the location, you can hardly say that the price is high and also be lucky to book at a slightly lower price on dates outside the high season.

See more photos and book online here

Best Western Plus Hotel Spring House in the Prati area is a superbly delightful hotel, offering comfort and convenience close to the Vatican.

Best Western in the Prati area of Rome

The hotel’s location, just a stone’s throw from the metro station, makes it easy to get around the city, and many of Rome’s iconic sights can be reached on foot within 35 minutes if you want to walk to Centro Storico.

The Vatican is literally just around the corner, so if you want to experience the Vatican without tourists, get up early and head over to St. Peter’s Square before breakfast.

Best Western in Prati, stay near the Vatican City in Rome

Best Western Plus Hotel Spring House is an excellent choice for those seeking a comfortable and central base in Rome.

Its combination of comfort, service, and location makes it an oasis in the city’s heart, although it might be a bit more expensive than other options.

See more photos and book here.

5. Testaccio – best area for a local vibe ๐Ÿ

Testaccio is a unique district in Rome, standing out with its blend of history, culture, and vibrant everyday life.

It’s located just south of the Aventine Hill and is renowned for its lively local atmosphere, combining traditional Roman lifestyle with a touch of modern charm.

Historically, Testaccio became known as “Rome’s food bowl” due to its role in the city’s food trade.

Monte Testaccio, the district’s namesake hill, is created from broken earthenware jars for transporting olive oil and other goods.

Porticus Aemilia in Testaccio
The Porticus Aemilia ruin in Testaccio

Today, this hill is a treasure trove of archaeological evidence, providing insight into ancient Rome, so there’s plenty to do for history enthusiasts โ€“ but that’s true everywhere in Rome.

Although Testaccio was once known as a working-class neighbourhood, it has undergone significant gentrification and is now a trendy area boasting some of Rome’s best restaurants, shops, and nightlife.

See the best hotels in Testaccio here.

Testaccio Market in Rome
The food market in Testaccio is a must-see in this part of Rome.

Testaccio market is a must-visit spot to buy fresh produce and taste authentic Roman street food.

I recommend grabbing a sandwich from the iconic Mordi & Vai there โ€“ you won’t regret it.

The area is also known as the cradle of A.S. Roma, one of Rome’s two major football clubs (Lazio is the other), which gives it a special place in the hearts of many local football fans.

Testaccio Pyramid
The pyramid in the Testaccio area.

With its proximity to the historical centre of Rome and easy access to public transport, including Piramide Metro Station (named after a small pyramid called Piramide di Caio Cestio which you should also experience), Testaccio is an excellent place to stay for tourists.

While it has a more locally flavoured atmosphere than more touristy areas like Trastevere, Testaccio offers a more authentic taste of Rome.

Places to stay in Testaccio

Let me recommend a really good place to stay in Testaccio โ€“ right in the heart of the area.

Seven Suites in the Testaccio district of Rome is a charming modern Bed & Breakfast with an excellent location close to fantastic dining spots.

Seven Suites, nice place to stay in Testaccio area of Rome

At first glance, the exterior of the building might seem ordinary, but inside awaits a surprising new, beautiful, and genuinely comfortable decor.

Hotel with terrace in Testaccio Rome
Some rooms have a small terrace, which is rare in Rome.

The rooms at Seven Suites are clean, nicely decorated, and spacious, with some offering balconies overlooking the peaceful inner courtyard. The bathrooms are especially highlighted as dreamy and generous.

The hotel’s guests often praise the friendly and service-minded reception staff, who do their best to meet the needs of everyone staying here.

See more photos and book here.

The next hotel is just outside the lively Testaccio area but closer to Rome’s city centre, San Anselmo offers a serene escape amidst romantic settings.

San Anselmo hotel rooftop

The proximity to Testaccio brings a trendy dining scene within reach, blending a quiet retreat with the vibrant Roman lifestyle.

An interesting place to stay in Rome if you’re looking for a hotel in a quiet area near a lot of local favourites.

See more photos & book here.

Where not to stay in Rome ๐Ÿšจ

I advise against staying in some areas of the city that may not be ideal for tourists.

One such area is Termini Station, which is the main railway station in Rome. While it may be convenient for transport, the area around Termini is known for being crowded, noisy, and unsafe, especially at night.

Another area to avoid is Esquilino, which is adjacent to Termini Station and has a reputation for being rough around the edges.

While there are a couple of decent hotels in these areas, it is generally better to stay in more tourist-friendly neighborhoods such as the historic center or the areas I’ve previously mentioned in this guide.

That was my guide on where to stay in Rome. I hope you found it helpful and found the right place to stay in the Italian capital.

If you have any questions about the different areas in Rome or are unsure where to stay, comment below, and I’ll do my best to help.

All that remains is to say, “Buon viaggio“.

Read all Rome travel guides here.

Frequently asked questions about Rome:

Which area in Rome is best to stay?

The best area in Rome is the historic centre of Rome (Centro Storico), where you’re staying close to the Trevi Fountain, Pantheon and Piazza Navona. It’s the best place to stay for first-timers and travellers who want to be close to the best things to do in Rome.

Where to stay in Rome with children?

Without a doubt, in the historic centre – Centro Storico. Look for places to stay close to the Trevi Fountain, Pantheon and Piazza Navona, and you will surely be within walking distance of the best things to do in Rome.

Where is the city centre of Rome?

The centre of Rome is called Centro Storico, which translates to the Historic Centre. You can use landmarks such as Piazza Navona, the Pantheon and the Trevi Fountain โ€“ all these sights are located in the Centro Storico.

How much are hotels in Rome?

Hotels in Rome typically cost from around 90 euros per night, which is on the cheap side for European cities. However, you should expect about 120 euros per night in 4 and 5-star hotels in Rome.

What are some areas in Rome to avoid?

Termini Station: While it’s the central railway station in Rome and may be convenient for transport, the area around Termini is known for being crowded, noisy, and unsafe, especially at night.
Esquilino: This area is adjacent to Termini Station and is known for being rough around the edges.

Travel ressources & websites I use all the time ๐Ÿ‘‡

โ€ข Booking.com has the best offers on hotels and unique places to stay
โ€ข GetYourGuide is the best place to book tours & activities with free cancellation
โ€ข NordVPN is the only VPN I've ever needed for travel (it just works, everywhere)
โ€ข Welcome Pickups is the best & safest place to pre-book airport transfers

Psst ๐Ÿ‘€ Have you subscribed to my Youtube channel and my Instagram where I provide more useful travel tips?