A trip to the Eternal City is an unforgettable experience. One of the most beautiful cities on Earth, Rome is on practically everyone’s bucket list.
But where should you stay? Do you want to be close to the main attractions or somewhere quiet and peaceful?
In this article, I will look at where to stay in Rome by drawing on my visits to several different areas and what they have to offer.
Best Places to Stay in Rome
Just need a quick recommendation on the best accommodations in Rome. Here are our quick picks for the best places to stay.
- Best Overall Hotel – Umiltà 36
- Best Luxury Hotel – Rocco Forte Hotel De Russie
- Best Budget Hotel – Little Aurelius
- ? Best Hostel – Sandy Hostel
- Best Boutique Hotel – Condominio Monti Boutique Hotel
- Best Hotel For Families – Tula Inn
- Best Hotel for Couples – Barberini Dream
Now let us look closer at where to stay in Rome by checking out the best areas and neighborhoods and what they offer visitors.
8 Best Neighborhoods & Areas to Stay in Rome
1. Close to Ancient Rome
Trendy and laid-back
Best Hotels Close to Ancient Rome – The Inn At The Roman Forum • Condominio Monti Boutique Hotel • Hotel Hiberia
The hippest neighborhood in Rome was considered to be the slums of the city for centuries. Today, it has a reputation as a laid-back boho district, popular with creative types and known for vintage boutiques, eclectic cafes, and excellent nightlife.
The neighborhood is one of the coolest in Rome, a favorite of the young and old. Like most of Rome, it has several archaeological treasures and culturally significant sites. It blends the beauty of classical architecture and trendy new attractions perfectly.
You won’t struggle to find things to do in Monti – the art galleries, boutiques, and hip wine bars will keep you busy from dawn to dusk.
With the neighborhood skirting around the Colosseum, Monti is also near Ancient Rome – perfect for sightseeing. Wandering the expansive Roman Forum and discovering the Colosseum for the first time is an unmissable experience.
Though Monti is only a stone’s throw from the most iconic sights in Rome, it is often overlooked by the waves of tourists ticking off their Roman itineraries. Hiding in plain sight, Monti manages to be central and bustling but off the beaten track.
Close to Ancient Rome Mini Guide
Best Area to Stay for Casual Exploration
- Best Hotels – The Inn At The Roman Forum • Condominio Monti Boutique Hotel • Hotel Hiberia
- Best Hostels – Paolina Rooms • Sandy Hostel • Palladini Hostel Rome
- Best Apartments – Mecanate Charme Apartment, Rione Monti • LU.NI. Guesthouse Roma, Rione Monti • Colosseo Sunset Apartment, Rione Monti
- Where to Eat – Ristoro Della Salute – $$, Contrario. Vineria con Cucina – $$, Il Bocconcino – $$
- Where to Drink – Al Vino Al Vino Enoteca, Camden Town
- Top Attractions – Colosseum, Arch of Constantine, Roman Forum, Base of the Statue of Nero, Capitoline Hill, Basilica di San Pietro in Vincoli, Bocca della Verità, Circus Maximus
2. Campo de’ Fiori & Piazza Farnese
For shopping and food
Best Hotels in Campo de’ Fiori & Piazza Farnese – Hotel De’ Ricci • Boutique Hotel Campo de’ Fiori • MZ HOTEL
The vibrant Campo de’ Fiori is famous for its morning market, which transforms into a place for evening revelry later in the day.
Campo de’ Fiori means ‘field of flowers’ in Italian – and though the square may not be filled with wildflowers as it was in the Middle Ages, it is still just as colorful. You can buy flowers, food, and trinkets in the authentic morning market, which attracts tourists and locals alike.
Piazza Farnese is a quieter square than the nearby Navona and is dominated by the Palazzo Farnese, one of Italy’s most important High Renaissance palaces. The piazza has a relaxed feel, ideal for those wanting to avoid the most intensely packed parts of Rome.
Close to Campo de’ Fiori is the city’s Jewish Ghetto, one of Rome’s best-kept secrets. The neighborhood is overflowing with culture and charm.
The Synagogue is one of the most memorable sights in the quarter, and you will find several other important archaeological sites and ancient buildings in the area. The ghetto is also a great spot for trying Jewish cuisine – many restaurants have a reputation for culinary excellence.
Campo de’ Fiori & Piazza Farnese Mini Guide
Best Area to Stay for Shopping
- Best Hotels – Hotel De’ Ricci • Boutique Hotel Campo de’ Fiori • MZ HOTEL
- Best Apartments – Nel Cuore di Roma, Navona • Al Ghetto da Suffì, Pantheon
- Where to Eat – Ar Galletto Roma – $$, Virgilio a Campo De’ Fiori – $$, Ristorante Camponeschi – $$$
- Where to Drink – Antica Latteria, VyTA Farnese, Coda di Gallo
- Top Attractions – Campo de’ Fiori, Piazza Farnese, Galleria Spada, Monumento a Vittorio Emanuele II
3. Tridente & the Spanish Steps
Upmarket area for shopping and fine dining
Best Hotels in Tridente & the Spanish Steps – Rocco Forte Hotel De Russie • Hotel Del Corso • La Maison D’Art Spagna
For those looking for a vacation of elegance and sophistication, the Tridente area is an excellent fit. With the Spanish Steps right in the center and the Trevi Fountain, a little to the south, the district is unsurprisingly the most exclusive in Rome.
If high-end brands and boutiques are your bread and butter, you will absolutely adore the Tridente neighborhood. Famous Italian designers and luxury independent retailers all tend to congregate in the area.
You will find many of the most upmarket designer stores and boutiques down Via dei Condotti – one of Rome’s finest streets for shopping.
Piazza del Popolo, or ‘the people’s square’, is one of the city’s largest – and most famous – squares. It is where you will find the Egyptian Obelisk, twin churches, and the northern gate.
For a peaceful escape from the city, head to Villa Borghese. The grandiose park is a typical Italianate landscape garden filled with beautiful fountains, classical buildings, and immaculate borders. The park, one of Europe’s most extensive urban gardens, is sometimes described as the ‘green lungs’ of Rome.
It is a refreshing change of pace from the bustle of the city and is free to enter. You do have to pay to explore the Borghese Gallery in the park, which contains paintings from esteemed artists such as Raphael and Botticelli.
Tridente & the Spanish Steps Mini Guide
Best Area to Stay for Luxury
- Best Hotels – Rocco Forte Hotel De Russie • Hotel Del Corso • La Maison D’Art Spagna
- Best Apartments – Belsiana, Spagna • iFlat The Centrality Apartment, Spagna • The Babuino Spagna
- Where to Eat – Alla Rampa $$, Il Gabriello $$, Prosciutteria Cantina dei Papi $$
- Where to Drink – Chez Moi Rome, Cielo Terrace, Julep Herbal & Vermouth Bar
- Top Attractions – Spanish Steps, Piazza di Spagna, Sallustiano Obelisk, Trinità dei Monti, Column of the Immaculate Conception, Trevi Fountain, Piazza del Popolo
4. Trastevere
A picturesque maze of Medieval streets, gorgeous piazzas, and ancient churches
Best Hotels in Trastevere – Horti 14 Borgo Trastevere • Residenza San Calisto • Hotel Carmel
Rome isn’t a small city, but many corners of it feel as intimate as the villages of the Amalfi Coast: every neighborhood has its own personality and allure. Even the capital is susceptible to that old Italian charm – no city is too large for tiny cobbled side streets and colorful gelaterias.
This is never truer than in Trastevere, the always-trendy neighborhood on the left bank of the Tiber. Trastevere is a picturesque maze of Medieval streets, gorgeous piazzas, and ancient churches. It’s oh-so-bohemian and chic, with leafy streets leading to some of Rome’s most popular bars and restaurants.
The lively neighborhood has some of the best nightlife in the city, as well as some of the best food. The island between Trastevere and Testaccio, L’Isola Tiberina, often hosts food festivals and other events – including an open-air classic cinema festival every summer.
The pretty Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere is one of Rome’s oldest churches and has been restored to its former glory with a recent restoration. You can visit any time between 7.30 am and 9 pm, except during mass.
The Piazza Trilussa is the central square of Trastevere, where people usually gather around the fountain and steps. The neighboring streets are filled with cute cafes and pizzerias – you can dine al fresco under a canopy of balconies and greenery in a winding alleyway in one of Rome’s most scenic districts.
Trastevere Mini Guide
Best Area to Stay for Exploring City Streets
- Best Hotels – Horti 14 Borgo Trastevere • Residenza San Calisto • Hotel Carmel
- Best Hostel – Hostel Trastevere
- Best Apartments – Nannì Vatican House, Trastevere • Romantic Jacuzzi Suite, Trastevere • Il Mulino di Trastevere – My Extra Home, Trastevere
- Where to Eat – Food Factory Trastevere $, Da Vittorio a Trastevere $$, Nannarella Osteria Roma Trastevere $$
- Where to Drink – Big Hilda Public Bar, Almalu Trastevere, Bar San Calisto
- Top Attractions – Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere, Basilica di Santa Cecilia in Trastevere, Fontana Dell’Aqua Paola, Villa Farnesina, Museo di Roma in Trastevere
5. Testaccio
For foodies and couples
Best Hotels in Testaccio – Hotel Aventino • Hotel Santa Prisca • Hotel Major Aventinus
Skip across the Tiber River from Trastevere, and you will land in Testaccio, the undisputed foodie capital of Rome. It’s been that way since ancient times when trade entered through the Emporio river port and flooded the city’s markets with fresh goods.
The trade was so plentiful that the amount of discarded amphorae – the terracotta pots used for storage – formed an artificial hill, Monte dei Cocci. You can see the hill from many of the bars and restaurants that now surround it.
Other ancient ruins include the Porta San Paolo city gate and the Testaccio Pyramid. The somewhat out-of-place Pyramid of Cestius was built in 12BC as a tomb for a Roman praetor, Caius Cestius.
Despite the actual pyramid, its food culture sets Testaccio apart from the rest of Rome. The food markets in the neighborhood are renowned, as are its many restaurants, eateries, and street vendors – you won’t find anywhere better in the city.
Stroll through the Orange Garden, a little green oasis in the middle of Rome, for a romantic date.
Testaccio Mini Guide
Best Area to Stay for couples
- Best Hotels – Hotel Aventino • Hotel Santa Prisca • Hotel Major Aventinus
- Best Apartments – Terazzo San Saba, Aventino • Circus Maximum n.2, Aventino • Aventino 2A, Aventino
- Where to Eat – Pizzeria Remo a Testaccio $, Felice a Testaccio $$, Trattoria Perilli $$
- Where to Drink – L’Oasi Della Birra, Bar Bellone, Il Testaccino
- Top Attractions – Villa Celimontana, Pyramid of Cestius, Terme di Caracalla, Monte Testaccio, Mattatoio di Roma
6. Prati & the Vatican
Safe and quiet area great for families
Best Hotels in Prati & the Vatican – Hotel Isa • Infinity Hotel St. Peter • Little Aurelius
Prati has a more residential feel than most central districts – the streets are wider, the pace is slower, and nightlife is more of an afterthought here. It’s a great base for families, as the neighborhood is safe and relaxed, and disturbances from late-night revelers are few and far between.
One of the most fascinating attractions in Prati is Castel Sant’Angelo, or the Mausoleum of Hadrian, a tomb once used as a fortress by the pope, which is now a museum.
While most of Rome’s main attractions are within walking distance of Prati, it is the obvious choice for exploring the Vatican, as it is the city state’s closest district.
A state within a state, Vatican City is technically the smallest country in the world. The central institution of the Catholic Church is famous for its iconic cultural sites. If exploring the Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica is your priority in Rome, it makes sense to stay in Prati.
Prati & the Vatican Mini Guide
Best Area to Stay for Families and Introverted Travelers
- Best Hotels – Hotel Isa • Infinity Hotel St. Peter • Little Aurelius
- Best Hostels – Vatican Rome • 1 Step from St Peter
- Best Apartments – Amor Vatican Domus, Trionfale • Vatican Inside Apartment, Vaticano Prati • St Peter Regal Apartment, Vaticano Prati
- Where to Eat – Pastasciutta $, Hostaria San Pietro $$, Ristorante Arlù $$
- Where to Drink – Wine Bar De’ Penitenzieri, Terrazza 1919, Saxophone Live Pub
- Top Attractions – St Peter’s Square, St Peter’s Basilica, Gardens of Vatican City, Pio-Clementino Museum, Vatican Necropolis, Sistine Chapel, Chiaramonti Museum, Castel’Sant Angelo
7. The Pantheon & Piazza Navona
An ideal place for exploration and shopping
Best Hotels in The Pantheon & Piazza Navona – Eitch Borromini Palazzo Pamphilj • Hotel Teatro Pace • Hotel Mimosa Pantheon
Many people look to the Colosseum as the heart of Rome, but I think there’s an argument that it is here, in the Pantheon and its neighboring streets and piazzas.
The Pantheon is one of the most intact ancient structures in the world. The former Roman temple was built in 126AD, and while little has altered the building, you can imagine that the surroundings have changed a dozen times.
Much of the neighborhood settled in the Renaissance era, reflected in the architecture. The more ornate structures are mostly baroque – Piazza Navona is filled with masterpieces of the period; you could spend hours admiring the gorgeous fountains and churches of the square.
Venture out from the piazza and Pantheon, and you will find cobbled streets, romantic restaurants, and several luxury boutique stores – it’s one of Rome’s best shopping areas. The alleyways and side streets have an intimate, distinctly Italian feel, perfect for dining al fresco.
The area is also perfectly located to explore the rest of Rome. The Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, and the Vatican are easy to reach on foot.
The Colosseum is a little further, but still easily accessible – the Pantheon & Piazza Navona are right in the center of Rome, so make a fantastic base for sightseeing.
The Pantheon & Piazza Navona Mini Guide
Best Area to Stay for Seeing the Pantheon
- Best Hotels – Eitch Borromini Palazzo Pamphilj • Hotel Teatro Pace • Hotel Mimosa Pantheon
- Best Apartments – Splendid Home, Pantheon • Residenza Roma Centro, Pantheon • Torre Argentina Apartment, Pantheon
- Where to Eat – Bernini $$, Il Tagliere Toscano Navona $$, Ponte e Parione – Ristorante Piazza Navona $$
- Where to Drink – Ai Tre Tartufi, La Botticella, Cybo Roma
- Top Attractions – Piazza Navona, Pantheon, Stadium of Domitian, Sant’Agnese in Agone, Fiumi Fountain, Neptune Fountain, Palazzo Madama
8. Termini & Esquilino
For those traveling on a budget
Best Hotels in Termini & Esquilino – Hotel St. Martin • Hotel California • Albergo Enrica
The area surrounding Rome’s busy Termini Station has a – slightly unfair – reputation for being a little bit seedy. While not as beautiful as the other districts’ ancient sites and classical architecture, the neighborhood has its charm.
You should, of course, be vigilant for pick-pockets and scam artists – but that is true for all major transport hubs, and Termini certainly isn’t the only district with this issue.
The often disregarded side of the Termini & Esquilino district is its rich culture. Churches, museums, and art galleries can all be found in the area; the National Roman Museum is fantastic and includes the Baths of Diocletian.
There are several bars, restaurants, and nightclubs in this part of Rome; it’s one of the better districts if you’re looking for nightlife.
The benefit of being less sought-after than other districts is that it is far cheaper in Termini & Esquilino. The amount of affordable accommodation is unmatched.
You can walk to all the main sights of Rome from here – or use public transport – so it is an excellent base to explore the city without spending huge amounts of money.
Termini & Esquilino Mini Guide
Best Area to Stay for Traveling on a Budget
- Best Hotels – Hotel St. Martin • Hotel California • Albergo Enrica
- Best Hostels – Ad Hoc Guest House • My Maison 109 • Villa Luzzatti Hostel
- Best Apartments – Sanctuary Home 32, Central Station • Casa Cattaneo, Central Station • Buonarroti Art Home, Central Station
- Where to Eat – Sfizio Pizzeria $, Antonello Colonna $$, Trattoria Dell’Omo $$
- Where to Drink – Twin’s Bar, Apotheke Cocktail Bar
- Top Attractions – Fountain of the Naiads, Palazzo Massimo, Chiostro di Michelangelo, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore
FAQs About Where to Stay in Rome
What are the best places to stay in Rome for tourists?
The Eternal City has things to see and do in every corner, so no matter where you stay, there will be something interesting at your doorstep.
Additionally, the public transport system is easy to use, with buses, trains, trams, and the metro or subway making it simple and affordable to travel all over the city.
That said, some are more convenient than others to base yourself in, particularly if you’re a first-time visitor or you have a specific schedule. One of the neighborhoods in the heart of the city will give you the closest access to the majority of the famous sights.
Staying in Monti will have you just steps away from the wonders of ancient Rome, from the Forum to the Colosseum. Meanwhile, staying in Tridente gives you close access to the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps.
You could also stay across the Tiber in Trastevere or Prati, where you’ll be within walking distance to Vatican City.
Another great place to stay in Rome for tourists is Termini, where you can enter and leave the city via the Termini train station.
What hotels in Rome are best for families?
Typically, European hotel rooms are smaller than what Americans are used to, so you’ll want to plan carefully before choosing a hotel in Rome for your family.
One of the highest rated is H10 Palazzo Galla in Trevi, which offers a selection of larger rooms. Here, you’ll find suites and rooms with balconies, in addition to your typical twin and double rooms.
Also, the hotel is just 500 meters from the Trevi Fountain and the Piazza della Madonna dei Monti.
Another family friendly hotel in Rome is Sophie Terrace Hotel, which is located beside Roma Termini station. They offer suites and family rooms, catering to more people with extra beds.
Additionally, the central location means that young kids won’t have to walk too far to get to restaurants and attractions.
Horti 14 Borgo Trastevere is another family friendly option in Trastevere, where you can also stay in more spacious suites and superior or deluxe double rooms.
This hotel offers American buffet breakfast as well as Italian continental breakfast—perfect for kids who want pancakes rather than salami and pastries—and private parking for those who have rented a car.
Where are the best beaches in Rome?
Rome is many things, but a beach destination is not one of them. The closest beach is Ostia, which is just 30 minutes from the heart of Rome, and could easily be incorporated into your Roman vacation.
Ostia beach has its own surf school and is steeped in history, once serving as a seaport for the ancient city. There are also places to eat, drink, and party by the beach, which is easily accessible by public transport.
Ostia is less known among international tourists than other coastal destinations in Italy, which means you’re less likely to face huge crowds and exploitative prices (sorry, Positano).
However, being the closest beach to Rome, arguably the most famous destination in Italy, it does still get busy in summer. Get there early to secure a place on the beach!
What are the best hotels in Rome?
Being a major tourist destination, Rome has plenty of hotels that make return guests out of international tourists, and also plenty that miss the mark.
Note that more expensive hotels are always going to have more amenities and luxury, but these don’t always make the best hotels.
When choosing the best hotels, we should take into account value for money, location, and staff (hospitality in Europe is, again, a little different from what Americans may be used to), as well as hotel facilities.
Considering all of this, the highest-rated hotels in Rome, and therefore the best, as decided by guests, include:
What is the best hotel to stay in near the Colosseum in Rome?
One of the most famous sights in Rome is the Colosseum, so basing yourself near this ancient world wonder is a good idea. Hotels in this area will also place you a short distance from other attractions in Rome, such as the Roman Forum and Capitoline Hill.
A great hotel to check out near the Colosseum is HT No. 9 Colosseo. The best thing about staying here is the superb view of the Colosseum, which will complete any trip to Rome. The rooms also have free Wi-Fi, and a rarity in Rome, the hotel also has an elevator.
While it’s not the most affordable hotel in Rome, you can’t beat the location for exploring the ins and outs of the empire’s ruins. There is also a family suite with a view available if you’re traveling with kids.
What is the best hotel to stay in near the Trevi Fountain in Rome?
Wondering where to stay in Rome near the Trevi Fountain? There are several hotels near the Piazza di Trevi, ranging from the 3-star to the lavish. One of the most highly rated is Domus Fontus, which is just 50 meters from the fountain.
Despite its bustling location, this hotel is reported by guests to be quiet at night. It’s also been rated highly for attentive staff, big rooms, and a premium continental breakfast. Guests recommend it for longer stays, so it could be a great option if you’re planning on visiting Rome for more than one week.
What is the best hotel to stay in near Roma Termini in Rome?
A lot of travelers to Rome choose to stay as close to the Roma Termini train station as possible, to limit the amount of time they’re walking with bags and suitcases on the cobblestone. And luckily, there are many hotels to choose from in this central area.
A Roman Tale B&B in Esquilino received the exceptional rating of 9.8 stars on Booking.com and is just 300 meters from the station. In particular, guests commented on the super comfortable beds and responsive, friendly staff.
Being a bed and breakfast, this property has the feel of being a “home away from home,” so is a good choice if you want to avoid the less welcoming feel of chain hotels.
What is the most luxurious hotel in Rome?
If it’s luxury you want, Rome will have what you’re looking for. There are lots of hotels in the city that will treat you like Julius Caesar himself (before the Ides of March!).
Among the most luxurious and highly rated is the Portrait Roma – Lungarno Collection, which will set you back around 8,300 USD for seven nights in the shoulder season.
It’s located in Spagna, just 300 meters from the Spanish Steps, which also happens to be one of the most popular shopping districts in Rome. Continue the imperial treatment by indulging in some Italian luxury products.
Speaking of luxury products, the toiletries at the hotel are Salvatore Ferragamo, which is fitting considering the hotel sits on top of the boutique and is owned by the same family.
Every room comes with its own iPad to use along with chic designer décor. The lavish-factor continues with marble bathrooms, the highest-quality bathrobes, and a Lifestyle Assistant to wait on you during your stay.
There are many other extravagant and even more expensive hotels in Rome, but the Portrait has received the highest rating of 9.6 stars on Booking.com, alluding to a very high guest satisfaction rate.
Where is Rome’s hotel zone?
There isn’t a particular zone where you’ll find all the hotels in Rome, as the city has hotels, apartments, guesthouses, Airbnbs, and everything in between no matter which neighborhood you visit.
In 2021, there were 1,600 hotels in Rome altogether, which makes sense since Rome was in the top 20 most visited cities on the planet (via Dream Big Travel Far Blog). This Google Map of Rome illustrates just how many properties there are to choose from.
The highest concentration of hotels seems to be in the central neighborhoods of the city (which we’ll cover in the mini guides below), but you can also find plenty of options located toward the city borders and more rural areas outside Rome.
Is it better to stay in Centro Storico or Termini?
Often, visitors to Rome will choose between staying in the Centro Storico or Historic Center district, which encompasses several neighborhoods and multiple attractions in the heart of Rome, and the Termini area, which is to the east and holds the busy train station.
Termini is not far from the Centro Storico area, but still, travelers often can’t decide which of these destinations is better to base themselves in.
As a rule of thumb, Termini is ideal for those who aren’t staying in Rome for very long and don’t want to be too far from the train station. The airport is only 30 minutes away via shuttle, and it’s still considered a central location, so you won’t be too far from points of interest.
Meanwhile, Centro Storico will give you closer access to more attractions and landmarks. As Wanted in Rome explains, this area generally extends from the eastern banks of the Tiber to Piazza di Spagna, and from Piazza del Popolo to Piazza Venezia.
Within this area, you’ll find Piazza Navona, the striking Pantheon, the Spanish Steps, and the Trevi Fountain.
What is the best way to get around Rome?
Rome is a walkable city in that many of the main attractions are close to each other in the center, and there are so many hidden gems to explore as you walk from landmark to landmark. However, the cobblestone streets may give your feet a run for their money.
The underground metro system is one of the best ways to get to the major attractions as it stops by all the most famous points (via Rome.net), and there are three lines to choose from so that more area is covered. Alternatively, you can take the bus to areas that the metro doesn’t travel to.
If you want a more guided way to get around Rome, you could join a bus tour. Several hop-on hop-off tours run in Rome, including the Rome: Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour. This will take you directly to famous sights like the Colosseum or the Vatican and get on and off the bus at your own pace to explore.
What are the most dangerous areas to avoid in Rome?
Like most major cities, Rome is generally safe as long as you keep your wits about you. The large number of tourists means that there’s more likely to be scammers and pickpockets than in less popular destinations, so it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and who is in them.
Some neighborhoods in Rome are more dangerous than others. Those to avoid are Tor Bella Monaca and Romanina to the south-east, San Basilio to the north-east, and Corviale to the south-west.
However, being residential areas with few tourist attractions, you probably won’t be venturing to these parts anyway.
One of the most likely places that you’ll be targeted for petty crime is on public transport, so always stay alert, particularly when traveling at night on buses or the metro.
If possible, travel in groups of two or more at night. As pickpocketing is one of the biggest problems in Rome, keep your belongings secure at all times. Avoid placing your phone, wallet, or passport in open pockets or in easily accessible bags.
Common scams to watch out for in Rome are the “gladiators” loitering outside the Colosseum. Actors dressed up in ancient clothing will approach you and encourage you to take a photo with them (sometimes giving you little choice) then try to bully you into paying for the photo. Firmly say no and walk away if they accost you. Conveniently, the Italian word for “no” is the same as the English word!
Similarly, you may also be approached near tourist hotspots by people who place a bracelet or a trinket on your wrist without asking. They will then demand payment and become aggressive if you don’t pay. Again, be firm as you say no.
Always ensure that your taxi driver has the meter on, and request to leave the vehicle if they don’t turn it on.
So, Where Should You Stay in Rome?
- Close to Ancient Rome — Once considered the slums, the area closest to Ancient Rome has been revamped and is now one of the trendiest areas. This area offers an ideal mix of old and new Rome and is great for first-time visitors.
- Campo de’ Fiori & Piazza Farnese — This unique area of Rome offers a unique one-of-a-kind market and access to authentic Jewish dining, perfect for those who want to explore other elements of Rome’s culture and history.
- Tridente & the Spanish Steps — An upscale area of Rome, Tridente & the Spanish Steps is ideal for those who want to indulge in shopping and fine dining while exploring attractions.
- Trastevere — Cobbled streets that lead to gorgeous piazzas and ancient churches make Trastevere the ideal home base for those wanting to spend their days exploring at their own pace and crafting unique memories of Rome.
- Testaccio —The small markets and boutique restaurants make Testaccio the ideal area to stay in for couples, especially those who love to wine and dine together.
- Prati & the Vatican — If you are traveling with a family, this area is ideal, given its vast spaces, quiet atmosphere, and safety.
- The Pantheon & Piazza Navona — While the world-famous Pantheon is an ideal draw, this area also offers up plenty of attractions and shopping opportunities.
- Termini & Esquilino — This area is ideal for budget travelers while offering easy transit access to other areas of Rome. However, travelers should also exercise more caution against pick-pocketers and scammers in this area.
Rome is rich in history and culture. You are bound to find unique and memorable experiences and sights in any area you stay in. Pick a location that best suits you, but be ready to check out other parts of Rome and make notes so you know where you want to stay on your next visit.
