Rome is one of the most historical cities in Europe. This once capital of the Roman Empire is not called The Eternal City for nothing, with every step you take, you’ll be met with incredible architecture, epic monuments, and fascinating Rennaisance artwork.
Any trip to Rome would be incomplete without admiring the historic buildings of Ancient Rome, especially the seventh wonder of the world, the Colosseum.
But Rome has more than that, it has delicious food, buzzing nightlife, and a laid-back atmosphere that makes it feel ok to sit in Piazza Navona all day drinking espressos. There is something in Rome for everyone.
However, the truth is, Rome can also be overrun with tourists. It is the second most-visited city in Europe (after Paris) and because of its popularity, you will find there is a price tag to match.
So when it comes to deciding on where to stay in Rome, it’s important to find a quiet and affordable neighborhood so your trip isn’t spoiled by vast quantities of people.
That is why I have created this epic neighborhood guide to Rome that will cover everything you need to know, from the best areas to stay in Rome to all the top things to see and do within each neighborhood.
As well as this, I’ve selected my favorite accommodation in Rome too, so you don’t have to waste time looking for the best places to stay in Rome and focus on putting your itinerary together.
So, when you’re ready, let’s look at where to stay in Rome!
- Where to Stay in Rome
- Rome Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in Rome
- 5 Best Neighborhoods in Rome to Stay in
- BONUS! Castelli Romani – Best Place to Stay Outside of Rome
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Rome
- What To Pack For Rome
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Rome
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Rome
Where to Stay in Rome
Looking for a specific place to stay but don’t have much time? These are my highest recommendations for the best places to stay in Rome!
Modern Compound with basic amenities | Best Airbnb in Rome
For 2 to 4 people visiting the Eternal City for the first time, there is nowhere better to stay than in the heart of Ancient Rome. This 35sqm, second-floor apartment is within a walking distance from the Angelo Castle, Vatican Museum, and the Colosseum. With all the amenities you would need such as a mini-fridge, stove, you can prepare meals in the apartment or walk to the open-air market nearby.
The RomeHello Hostel | Best Hostel in Rome
Lively and vibrant, this is without a doubt one of the best of Rome’s budget accommodations and an excellent option considering Rome can be quite expensive. Located in the Esquilino neighborhood, this hostel is close to public transport, including the city’s main train station, Termini Train Station, and is just a short walk to Rome’s top attractions and great restaurants. You can enjoy clean, classy, and comfortable accommodations in Rome’s beating heart, and save money by doing so. Its great location near the train station also makes it ideal for taking a day trip from Rome too.
Italia Hotel Rome | Best Hotel in Rome
This charming modern hotel is located at the center of Rome’s Monti district. Perfect for families, couples and friends, this hotel is close to the city’s best tourist attractions such as Del Corso shopping street, Villa Borghese Park, the Trevi Fountain, and of course the Colosseum. This makes it my top pick for the best modern hotel in Rome.
Comprised of 35 modern rooms, Italia Hotel Rome is a two-star stylish hotel that features a relaxing rooftop bar and terrace and chic coffee bar.
Centro Storico
Centro Storico is one of the best areas to stay in Rome if you’re visiting the city for the first time. Enjoy world-renowned attractions, like the Pantheon, pleasant piazzas and delicious restaurants all at your doorstep in the city’s center.
Esquilino
This central Rome neighborhood is where classic charm and modern magnetism meet. It’s a melting pot of diversity and is home to great cuisines from around the world. Often overlooked by tourists, this charming neighborhood is one of Rome’s best-kept secrets.
Trastevere
Located on the west side of the Tiber River, Trastevere is one of the best areas to stay in Rome. If not, then it’s the most charismatic one, at least. Whimsical and charming, this district is made up of twisting alleys, local markets, artisan boutiques and quaint cafes.
Testaccio
Once a grungy industrial area, Testaccio has undergone a revamp in recent years. Upgrades to the local market and the old city slaughterhouse have helped turn this area from grimy location into one of Rome’s newest up-and-coming neighborhoods.
Monti
Monti is one of the most central neighborhoods in Rome but feels like a whole different world. A charming district made up of winding streets, intricate architecture and grand piazzas, Monti feels like an oasis of calm at the center of chaos.
Rome is an ancient and majestic city; one of the most popular travel destinations in Europe as well as Italy’s capital, it’s no wonder it attracts more than 4.2 million tourists each year.
Rome has a rich and diverse history that spans millennia. The Historic Center of Rome is one of two UNESCO World Heritage Sites that welcomes visitors to explore its fascinating story, see its romantic palaces, relax in its spacious piazzas, and indulge in its delicious foods.
Divided into 15 administrative districts, Rome’s neighborhoods are each home to a variety of unique and captivating places to visit. I recommend that you explore three or four neighborhoods on each visit to Rome depending on the purpose of your visit to help you find the best area to stay in Rome for you.
To help you find the best areas to stay in Rome, I have broken down each of the best Rome neighborhoods by the top activities and attractions in the area, so you can easily decide on where to stay in Rome for your interests.
At the heart of the city center, you have the Centro Storico. One of the oldest parts of Rome, this historic center is where you’ll find beautiful squares, ornate churches, the famous Pantheon, Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps, as well as a number of delicious Italian restaurants. With so much to see and do, this is in my opinion one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Rome for your first time. If you’re backpacking Italy, this is where you’ll want to be!
This is the ideal place to stay if you’re interested in heading over to Vatican City to explore the Vatican Museums, St Peter’s Square and of course the Sistine Chapel, home to Michael Angelo’s best works including The Hand of God.
Southeast of the city center is the modern district of Esquilino. As a mosaic of styles and cultures, this vibrant neighborhood boasts a number of Rome’s great accommodation options for travelers of all ages, styles, and budgets.
Being located out of the historic center, it is much quieter at night and here you will find luxury Rome hotels with modern rooms and usually a restaurant on site. However, it’s still within walking distance to some of the top attractions including the ornate Trevi Fountain.
Monti is a charming neighborhood to the west of Esquilino and is in my opinion one of the best neighborhoods to stay in because of its location. Located just close enough to the city, Monti has its own unique and rebellious vibe. Home to the iconic Coliseum and The Forum, Monti is an ideal base and one of the best locations to stay in Rome for families. Here you will find plenty of boutique hotels with family rooms, providing you with plenty of space in this busy city.
Continue traveling southwest and you’ll pass through the local neighborhoods of Trastevere and Testaccio. Two of the hippest parts of the city, these districts attract the young and fabulous to their trendy bars, bustling clubs, and stylish independent boutiques. Either district is a fantastic place to stay for the younger crowd. Here you will find plenty of vacation rentals and apartments to rent, which is ideal for digital nomads or those looking to stay a while.
Still not sure where to stay in Rome? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered below.
5 Best Neighborhoods in Rome to Stay in
Home to more than 3.7 million people, Rome is a sprawling and massive city. Thankfully, it boasts a robust public transit system that can take you throughout the city with relative ease.
But Rome is a city best explored on foot. To make the most of your time in the Italian capital, choose an area that will cater to your interests. Do you want to enjoy the cultural and historic side of the city? Or maybe you want to explore Rome after dark? Perhaps you want to indulge in la dolce vita?
All of these things are possible but will be easier if you stay in the right area Rome. Here are the best areas in Rome to stay in, broken down by what they offer.
1. Centro Storico Neighborhood – Best Area to Stay in Rome for First Time Visitor
If you don’t know where to stay in Rome, Centro Storico a good pick. Most of Rome’s most famous attractions reside in this historic center and cultural heart of Rome.
This part of the city is a maze of winding cobblestone lanes and picturesque piazzas. Built-in the Renaissance-style, this area of Rome is packed with romantic cafes, authentic restaurants, stylish boutiques, and iconic sights around every turn.
Centro Storico is the best location to stay in Rome if you’re visiting the city for the first time because it is also close to Vatican City, where you can easily spend a day exploring all the sites there (and tick off another country on your countries list!).
From this neighborhood, you can enjoy world-renowned attractions, like the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps, pleasant piazzas and delicious fine dining restaurants all at your doorstep by staying in the city center.
Modern Compound with basic amenities | Best Airbnb in Centro Storico
For 2 to 4 people visiting for the first time, there is nowhere better to stay than in the heart of the historic center of Ancient Rome. The 35m2, second-floor apartment is within a walking distance from the Angelo Castle, Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona and the Colosseum.
It’s also within easy reach of the Vatican City, with the Vatican Museums, St Peter’s Square and the Sistine Chapel all being top attractions to see nearby. With basic amenities like a mini-fridge, stove, you can prepare meals in the apartment or walk to the open-air market nearby.
Sandy Hostel | Best Hostel in Centro Storico
Sandy Hostel is the closest hostel to the Centro Storico neighborhood. Located in a central location, this hostel is a short walk to Rome’s most popular tourist attractions. Nestled on the 4th floor of a townhouse, this charming hostel features dorms and private rooms and has a welcoming and cozy atmosphere. For those traveling on a budget, this is the best hostel in Rome for first time visitors.
Hotel Caravita | Best Hotel in Centro Storico
Hotel Caravita is situated at the heart of Rome’s historic center. Just steps from the city’s most iconic sites including the Pantheon and Piazza Navona, this is one of the best hotels for exploring Rome.
Hotel Caravita’s rooms are comfortable and spacious, and the luxury hotel also boasts a relaxing sauna and an onsite café. You will feel refreshed and rejuvenated ahead of a fun day of exploring at this delightful three-star hotel.
Argentina Residenza Style Hotel | Best Hotel in Centro Storico
Argentina Residenza Style Hotel is a chic and modern boutique hotel at the heart of the city. Though it’s not big in size, it is certainly a grand hotel because of its features. Made up of nine rooms, this cosy hotel provides guests with comfortable rooms and contemporary amenities including air conditioning and LCD TV’s in every room. Enjoy free WiFi and an on-site bar and lounge at this stylish four-star boutique hotel.
Top Things to Do and See in Centro Storico
- A former Roman temple, the Pantheon is now a church dedicated to the seven planetary divinities. Pop in and take a look at the stunning marble interior of this iconic location.
- Walk the elegant and colorful Spanish Steps between the Piazza di Spagna and Piazza Trinita Dei Monti.
- Walk up to Piazza del Popolo to see Rome’s oldest obelisk and the northern city gate.
- Make a wish as you toss a coin into the magnificent Trevi Fountain.
- Enjoy an apertivo and watching the world go by in Piazza Navona, one of the most beautiful Baroque squares in the city.
- Visit the Palazzo del Quirinale, the residence of the Italian president and former summer home of Gregory XIII, which was built in the late 16th-century.
- Be amazed at the ornately decorated Palazzo Doria Pamphilj, a stunning palace that is home to galleries of amazing works of art.
- Enjoy a moment of peace at Chiesa del Gesu, an elaborated decorated church.
- Explore the rich history of the Roman Empire at the Museo Nazionale Romano.
- Take a day trip to Vatican City and explore St Peter’s Square, the Vatican Museums including the Sistine Chapel, home to Michael Angelo’s best original paintings.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Esquilino Neighborhood – Where to Stay in Rome on a Budget
This central Rome neighborhood is where classic charm and modern magnetism meet. It’s a melting pot of diversity and is home to great cuisines from around the world.
Often overlooked by tourists, this charming neighborhood is one of Rome’s best-kept secrets. It’s located just to the East of the city in a quiet neighborhood near the Colosseum. Here you will find luxury hotels with a rooftop bar, as well as be within walking distance of Termini Train Station for when you want to visit other parts of Italy.
Esquilino is also the best place to stay in Rome on a budget. Being a short walk to the city center, here you can enjoy all the perks of downtown at a fraction of the price. Packed with inexpensive hotels and backpacker hostels, there’s something for travelers of all styles and budgets in Esquilino.
Cabin Chic Retreat | Best Airbnb in Esquilino
Stay in a charming room close to the Colosseum. This apartment has four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a spacious kitchen that will leave home cooks pleasantly surprised by the generous amount of counter space.
The RomeHello Hostel | Best Hostel in Esquilino
Lively, colorful and vibrant, you won’t find a better hostel in Rome than the RomeHello Hostel. Located in the Esquinillo neighborhood, this hostel is close to public transit, the city’s main train station, Termini Station, and just a short walk to Rome’s top attractions and best bars. Enjoy clean, classy, and comfortable accommodation in Rome.
Hotel Gabriella Rome | Best Hotel in Esquilino
This quaint three-star B&B in Rome is one of the best hotels for budget travelers visiting Rome. It is surrounded by shops, restaurants and bars, and is well connected via public transport.
Each room is has been styled in modern furnishings, features air conditioning and a mini-bar. You can enjoy a delicious breakfast or evening drinks at the onsite restaurant and lounge.
Hotel Tito Rome | Best Hotel in Esquilino
This three-star luxury hotel is centrally located in Rome. It is a short walk to both the main train station, Termini Station, and the city’s top tourist attractions such as the Spanish Steps and Piazza di Spagna.
Each of the hotels 17 rooms is tastefully decorated and features modern amenities. Guests can enjoy a relaxing glass of wine on the outdoor terrace after a long day of sightseeing.
Top Things to See and Do in Esquilino
- Sip and sample your way through the bustling Mercato Centre.
- See the stunning architecture at the Basilica di Santa Maria Degli Angeli e Dei Martiri.
- Quench your thirst and hunger at Bred Bottega Gourmet, where the sandwiches are to die for!
- Take a stroll around Piazza del Spagna and sit on the Spanish Steps.
- Take in the panoramic views of Rome from the rooftop of the Radisson Blu Es Hotel, where you can enjoy cocktails and DJ sets as you watch the sun go down.
- Walk up to Piazza del Popolo to see the oldest obleisk in the city.
- If you’re staying a while in Rome, take a weekend trip from Termini Station to Pompeii.
- Learn to cook your favorite Italian fare by taking a cooking class with a local.
- Rent a Vespa and explore the city on two wheels. You know, like they do in the movies!
- Grab a seat and spend an afternoon people-watching over a cup of espresso at eBar.
- Take a food tour of Rome and explore its culinary secrets.
- Explore the ancient baths of Diocletian, the largest of the imperial baths that were built between 298 and 306.
- Indulge in Italian pastries and savour a cup of cappuccino at D’Angelo – Gatronomia Caffe.
3. Trastevere Neighborhood – Where to Stay in Rome for Nightlife
Located on the west side of the Tiber River, Trastevere is one of the best areas to stay in Rome, or, if not, then at least the most charismatic one.
Whimsical and charming, this district is made up of twisting alleys, local markets, artisan boutiques and quaint cafes. Going out for a few drinks is an integral part of many-a Roman itinerary.
By day, Trastevere is a quiet Italian village, but by night, this neighborhood of Rome comes alive. One of the hottest and liveliest districts, Trastevere is where you’ll find trendy bars and hip nightclubs and it’s easily where to stay in Rome for a night of skullduggery.
This is the area to stay in Rome if you want to dance the night away and experience a slice of Roman nightlife.
Picturesque 16th Century Home | Best Airbnb in Trastevere
This 16th-century building is located just 350 meters from the Pantheon and 700 meters from Piazza Navona. Perfect for two couples or a family of four, the Pantheon 2 offers a great check-in experience, two sparkling clean rooms and air conditioning in a fabulous location right near to many popular restaurants, clubs, and bars. Because of its fabulous location, this is one of the best Airbnbs in Rome.
Hostel Trastevere | Best Hostel in Trastevere
Hostel Trastevere is a great mix of vintage and modern. Vibrant and eclectic, this hostel is ideal for travelers looking to experience Trastevere’s nightlife scene.
Boasting a bar, restaurant, spacious rooms and a relaxing garden, this hostel has everything you could possibly need for a great vacation in Rome.
Hotel San Francesco Rome | Best Hotel in Trastevere
This three-star hotel is a great mix of modern and rustic. Featuring spacious rooms, guests can enjoy free-wifi and daily breakfast throughout their stay.
Hotel San Francesco Rome is surrounded by restaurants and bars and is just a short walk from the center of Trastevere and Rome’s most popular clubs.
Residenza San Calisto | Best Hotel in Trastevere
This rustic and funky hotel is located at the heart of Rome. A short walk to the city’s top attractions, this hotel is close to restaurants, bars and the city’s hottest nightclubs. Comprised of 6 rooms, this delightful hotel has an on-site restaurant and bar and offers free bike rental to guests.
Trastevere is also one of the best towns for VRBOs in Rome!
Top Things to See and Do in Trastevere
- Watch the world go by over an apertivo (or two) at Bar San Calisto.
- Excite your senses at Cioccolata e Vino, an inventive cocktail bar where shots are served in tiny chocolate cups, which are both delectable and delicious!
- Down a pint at Ma Che Siete Venuti a Fà, a cosy pub offering up 15 craft beers on tap and countless more by the bottle.
- Enjoy a lively night of cocktails and fun at Freni e Frizioni.
- Serving up more than just coffee, Coffee Pot is a great place to spend a night drinking exciting cocktails and sampling exotic eats.
- Spend a night savouring glasses of wine and stellar food at Enoteca Ferrara.
- Good drinks and a great atmosphere await you at Big Hilda Pub, the perfect stop for afternoon pints.
- Dance the night away to alternative tunes at Big Star Pub, the hottest spot in town for the young, hip and trendy.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Testaccio Neighborhood – Coolest Place to Stay in Rome
Once a grungy industrial area, Testaccio has undergone a revamp in recent years. Upgrades to the local market and the old city slaughterhouse have helped turn this area from grimy location into one of Rome’s newest up-and-coming neighborhoods.
Testaccio is a hub for foodies, artists and fashionistas alike. Here you’ll find a myriad of things to excite your senses, from independent boutiques and jaw-dropping galleries to trendy street food stalls and eclectic restaurants. Explore Testaccio and discover a hidden gem in the Eternal City.
This is more of a local neighborhood, which means there are plenty of apartments for long-stay travellers, digital nomads and budget backpackers visiting Rome needing a cheap place with a washig machine for a few days.
Architectural Rome Dream House | Best Airbnb in Testaccio
Want Rome grandeur? This gorgeous Casina Testaccio apartment has every modern amenity you can think of. It’s one of the most spacious and highest rated vacation rentals in Rome and at its current price – it’s a steal, especially when comparing it to similarly priced hotel rooms in the area.
Seven Suites | Best Hotel in Testaccio
Seven Suites is a quaint hotel on the outskirts of the city center in the quiet Testaccio district. Close to some cute cafes and restaurants and the nearby metro station, this hotel is well connected to Rome’s most famous historic and cultural sites.
Each of the hotel’s rooms are styled in a contemporary fashion and are quiet and clean. Each room features air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, an electric kettle, and minibar. There are also free toiletries in the private bathroom.
Dreaming Rome Hostel | Best Hostel in Testaccio
You won’t find a better hostel in Testaccio. Located in the center of the neighborhood, this hostel is close to restaurants, bars, galleries and the city’s top tourist attractions. Offering private and shared rooms, this hostel also provides guests with a great breakfast and modern facilities. Because of its location out of the center of the city, you’ll find this is one of the cheapest hostels in Rome, too!
Dreaming Rome Hostel is one of our favourites in Rome but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Re Testa | Best Hotel in Testaccio
This contemporary and minimalist hotel is ideal for couples and solo travelers visiting Testaccio. Situated in the middle of the neighborhood, this hotel is within walking distance of Testaccio’s trendiest bars and world-class restaurants.
Comprised of 35 stylishly refurbished rooms, it is clean, comfortable, and well-equipped for your stay in Rome.
Re Testa is one of our favourites in Rome but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Top Things to See and Do in Testaccio
- Climb to the top of Monte Testaccio, an artificial mountain made of broken Roman pottery, and enjoy the view.
- Take in the sights, sounds and smells of Rome in Piazza Testaccio, the perfect spot for an afternoon of people watching.
- Shop like a local at the Mercato Testaccio and enjoy sampling as many of the delicious treats and eats as you can!
- Dance the night away at Alpheus, where you have three rooms of great music to choose from.
- Enjoy amazing food and delicious drinks at On the Rox, a favorite haunt of tourists and locals alike.
- Sit back and relax while enjoying a lively atmosphere and urbane cocktails at Moonlight Café, the perfect place for drinks after a day of sightseeing.
- Rock out at Radio Londra, a fun club that caters to the punk rock and mohawked crowd.
- Browse works of art by local and international artists at Mattatoio, the Museum of Contemporary Art.
5. Monti Neighborhood – Where to Stay in Rome for Families
Monti is one of the most central neighborhoods in Rome but feels like a whole different world. A charming district made up of winding streets, intricate architecture and grand piazzas, Monti feels like an oasis of calm at the center of chaos.
A short walk from the city’s top attractions, including the Coliseum, Monti is a great base for families. Tucked away in Monti’s quaint cobbled streets are a myriad of restaurants, shops, and family-friendly activities. A great blend of alternative and arty, this is what part of Rome to stay in is where you and your family can truly experience la dolce vita.
Zen retreat with a hammock | Best Airbnb in Monti
This Japanese inspired apartment is perfect for a good night’s sleep after exploring the city. The modern furnishings are artistically designed to help you relax with a working space, hammock, gym, and hot tub.
Blue Hostel | Best Hostel in Monti
Built in a converted 17th-century convent, Blue Hostel combines historic charm with modern elegance. Providing double, triple and family-sized rooms, this hostel comes equipped with en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning and LCD TVs. Walking distance to the Colosseum, this hostel is close to Rome and Monti’s top tourist attractions.
Italia Hotel Rome | Best Hotel in Monti
This charming hotel is located at the center of Rome’s Monti district. Perfect for families, couples, and friends, this hotel is close to the city’s most famous cultural sights. Comprised of 35 modern and spacious rooms, this hotel two-star hotel features a relaxing rooftop terrace and chic coffee bar.
FH55 Grand Hotel Palatino | Best Hotel in Monti
Charming and traditional, this four-star hotel is perfect for families visiting Rome. Ideally located in Monte, FH55 Grand Hotel Palatino is just a few minutes walk from the Coliseum. Kitted out with spacious rooms, this hotel offers guests a wide range of features including some rooms with views of Rome’s stunning rooftops. There is also an onsite restaurant, Le Spighe, which specialises in Roman dishes and classic Italian cooking.
Top Things to See and Do in Monti
- See the monumental and elaborately decorated Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, the largest Catholic Marian church in Rome.
- Indulge in delicious and authentic Italian pizzas, pasta, and more at the family-friendly Taverna Romana Monti ’79.
- Marvel at impressive ruins of the magnificent Roman Colosseum.
- Visit the Arcibasilica di San Giovanni in Laterano, known to be the first church in Christendom.
- Explore the ruins of Domus Aurea, an imperial estate built in 64AD.
- Wish for good luck and prosperity as you toss a coin into the Fontane Di Roma.
- Wander the sprawling ruins of the Roman Forum, a massive district of temples and public spaces from the 7th-century BC.
- Buy everything from local handicrafts to delicious treats at the Mercato Rionale Monti. Kids will love sampling all the candies, treats and pastries on offer.
- Cool down on a hot day at Gelateria S.M.Maggiore, where you can sample some of the best gelatos in the city.
BONUS! Castelli Romani – Best Place to Stay Outside of Rome
If you’re sick of the chaos of the big city and want to get away, then head for the hills. Not the Tuscan hills though… the hills of Castelli Romani!
The Castelli Romani region is like a whole different world compared to Rome: slow, peaceful, bucolic, and agrarian. This region is perfect for those who need a breath of fresh air and is my choice for the best area to stay outside Rome’s intensity.
Photo: Simone Ramella (Flickr)
The Castelli Romani is a volcanic region that is mostly defined by hilltops villages, gorgeous lakes, and wineries. The lakes themselves look miniature versions of the ones you see in the Azores and the wine ain’t too shabby either (try the whites).
B&B Vistalago – Casa Fragola | Best Airbnb in the Castelli Romani
This Airbnb is located next to Albano at Lago di Nemi. It’s a more traditional hilltop villa but is actually quite spacious (room for up to 6 guests). There’s a large terrace overlooking the lake and lots of strawberry-themed decorations around; hence the name fragola.
Since this Airbnb is run as a B&B, you’ll even have cleaning service most every day.
Wiki Hostel and Green Village | Best Hostel in the Castelli Romani
This is a great hostel for those who want to escape the craziness of Rome and just chill out with fellow travelers. That means that Wiki Hostel and Green Village has everything you could need to chill out i.e hammocks, gardens, sauna, pool, cafe, free breakfast, wine, and even weed! Yes, this hostel, reportedly, has a legal marijuana shop on site!
Wiki Hostel also organizes lots of social events including pasta & pizza nights, wine tastings, sauna parties (whatever that implies…) and walking tours. The staff is also very communicative when it comes to organizing transfers from the city so you don’t have to worry.
So, is Wiki Hostel too good to be true? Guess you just need to stay here and find out. 😉
Villalbert | Best Hotel in the Castelli Romani
Hell yeah, I want my own villa in the hills of Rome! And you should too.
Villalbert is a private residence in Castel Gandolfo, overlooking the waters of Lago Albano. It comes equipped with everything you could possibly want and, as an added bonus, a BBQ and terrace for overlooking the lake.
The design is a strange mix of rustic and bourgeois (not sure how I feel about the blue suede chairs…), the likes of which will make for great ambience if you have friends over. The villa sleeps up to 4 people and has free parking.
Top Things to See and Do in the Castelli Romani
- See where the popes go on vacation at Castel Gandolfo.
- Chill out at Lago Albano.
- Admire the azure waters of Lago di Nemi.
- Check out the multi-colored houses of Rocca di Papa.
- Go wine tasting in the hills of Lazio.
- Visit the opulent villas of Frascati.
- See the flower carpets of Genzano following Corpus Christi.
- Walk a bit of the Via Francigena.
- Gorge on the local delicacy – porchetta!
- Get lost in the labyrinth of Ruspoli Castle.
Areas to Avoid in Rome
Rome isn’t always whimsical – this is still, after all, a big city that suffers from big-city problems. While these problems are pretty minor compared to other cities, there are still some places to avoid and should be taken into account when choosing where to stay in Rome. Take note of the following:
- Busy areas, like tourists attractions and the metro, are where pickpockets like to work. Be aware of your things when you’re in crowded places.
- The rowdiest nightlife areas are Testaccio and San Lorenzo. There’s nothing particularly dangerous about them but their energy can be a little aggressive. If you’re looking for the best area to stay in Rome with a family, avoid these neighborhoods.
- If there are truly areas to avoid in Rome, then they are most likely on the edges of the city. Trullo is often considered one of the worst neighborhoods in Rome (again, relative quality) and the Eastern suburbs – e.g. Rebibbia, Tor Bella Monica – tend to be rundown as well. Thankfully, there’s no reason for tourists to come to these anyways.
- On a lighter note, try to avoid Rome’s ultra-touristy places during the day – these are usually overrun from shortly after sunup to sundown and can be a pain. Visit the Colosseum very early in the morning and/or see the Trevi in the middle of the night. (The Centro Storico is safe at night.)
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Rome
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Rome and where to stay.
What To Pack For Rome
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Rome
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Rome
With so much to see and do in Rome, you definitely want to pick the best place to stay in Rome for your vacation I’ve listed the best areas to stay in Rome based on your interests; whether you’re traveling as a group, family, or want to see the top sights and experience the nightlife, this guide will have you covered!
If you’re still not sure where to stay in Rome, I highly recommend The RomeHello Hostel for solo travelers and groups alike and Italia Hotel Rome for some more privacy. They are two of the best places to stay in Rome.
That’s it! Everything I feel you should know before choosing where to stay in Rome. It’s a spectacular city that still thrives through the chaos and inundated tourism and it’s well worth the adventure! Did I miss anything on the Eternal City?
Please let me know in the comments below. Buon viaggio!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Rome.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Rome.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Rome instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Rome to plan your trip.
- Planning out an itinerary for Rome is a great way to maximise your time.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Italy.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
