Once the capital of the Roman Empire, Rome is one of the most historically rich cities in the world. As the second most-visited city in Europe (falling just behind Paris), anyone backpacking Europe will likely land in Rome at some point in their journey.
I’ve been coming to Rome since I was a child, and have been lucky enough to experience the city from the perspective of a family holiday, a backpacker and as of recently as a local.
You can experience Rome as a first-timer and fall in love with the history and the architecture, but the reason I kept coming back was the culture, the food, and the strangely laid-back atmosphere of a city that, from the outside, seems wildly chaotic.
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.
In this guide, I’m going to take you through each of my favourite areas to stay in the city – some are better for first-timers, others for nightlife and others for enjoying a more local, slower pace of Rome-life. So, let’s figure out which area suits you best 🙂
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
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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.
A Guide to Rome’s Best Neighbourhoods
Home to more than 3.7 million people, Rome is a sprawling and massive city. It is kinda a given that anyone backpacking in Italy will end up in this fascinating ancient 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 it will be easier if you stay in the right area of Rome. Here are the best areas to stay when visiting Rome, broken down by what they offer.
1. Centro Storico Neighbourhood – Best Area to Stay for First-Time Visitors
If you don’t know where to stay in Rome, the Centro Storico is a good pick. Most of Rome’s most famous attractions reside in this historic centre and cultural heart of the city. It’s where everyone is fighting to have their Lizzie McGuire moment! You’ll find most of the best places to visit in Rome.
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 neighbourhood, 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 centre.
- Best For: First-timers, culture, Italian food, and people who like to explore on foot.
- The Vibe: Iconic, ancient, with cobblestone lanes, piazzas, and centuries of history.
- Proximity to Airport: Around 40-50 minutes by taxi or 45-60 minutes by train + metro.
- Transport Level: Rome is excellent for walking. The buses and taxis are also very easy, and depending on which street you stay on, you’ll have access to the metro.
- Budget: Higher. You’re definitely paying for the location, but the convenience is unbeatable.
- Crowds: Busy year-round, especially around the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Piazza Navona.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Top Things to Do in Centro Storico
- A former Roman temple, the Pantheon is now a church. Pop in and take a look at the stunning marble interior of this iconic location.
- Walk the elegant, colourful Spanish Steps between the Piazza di Spagna and Piazza Trinità 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 aperitivo and watch 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 a former papal summer home, 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 Gesù, an elaborately 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 and the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel, home to Michelangelo’s most famous frescoes.
Best Airbnb: Casa Minerva
For couples travelling to Rome, or anyone else in a single or pair, there is nowhere better to stay than this charming condo. Located in the historical heart of the city, opposite the Pantheon, there’s a fully equipped kitchen if you want to cook your own meals. However, there are a plethora of cute cafes around the corner and the Fontana di Trevi to toss your spare change in.
Best Hostel: JO&JOE
This is one of the best hostels in Rome for backpackers. It’s super close to the centre, so you can walk to most of the big sights without too much prior planning. The place has a chill, social vibe, comfy beds, a modern interior and enough space to relax after a day of wandering Rome.
Best Hotel: Argentina Residenza Style Hotel
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 in Rome.
The prices of hotels in Centro Storico are not very friendly to us backpackers, but if you want to splash out on comfort during your stay, this one is luuuurvey!
2. Esquilino Neighbourhood – Where to Stay on a Budget
This central Rome neighbourhood 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. Esquilino is also the best place to stay in Rome on a budget.
Being a short walk to the city centre, 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 travellers of all styles and budgets in Esquilino.
It’s located just to the East of the city in a quiet neighbourhood near the Colosseum. Here you will find luxury hotels with a rooftop bar, as well as being within walking distance of Termini Train Station, for when you want to go on day trips from Rome.
- Best For: Travellers who want a central, multicultural base near Termini (the train station) with easy transport links, but also cheaper than the Centro Storico.
- The Vibe: Diverse, busy, lived-in, and full of character. Home to a mix of grand 19th-century boulevards, historic churches, and plenty of international food stalls!
- Proximity to Airport: Very easy, Termini is here, so trains and buses to both airports are straightforward.
- Transport Level: Really good! You’re on top of Rome’s main station, metro lines A & B, and buses.
- Budget: Generally more affordable than the historic centre, with good mid-range and budget options.
- Crowds: Busy around Termini and Piazza Vittorio, but much quieter on side streets.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Top Things to Do in Esquilino
- Sip and sample your way through the bustling Mercato Esquilino.
- 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.
- If you’re staying a while in Rome, take a weekend trip from Termini Station to Pompeii.
- Learn to cook your favourite 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.
- 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.
Best Airbnb: Mi Amor Apartment
This apartment is one you could stay in for a while if you so choose, with a fully equipped kitchen and washing machine to stay on top of home things.
You’ll be in a wonderful central location for walking to major attractions like the Colosseum and the Basilica of San Giovanni.
Best Hostel: The RomeHello Hostel
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 Esquinillo neighbourhood, 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.
Best Hotel: Auditorium Mecenate
In a perfect location, close to Rome Termini Station and the metro, this hotel is in a great, central location. There’s a kettle and coffee in each room, so you can start your day right with a cuppa joe. But just know… that will be low-key offensive to the wonderful Italian espresso that’s waiting for you on every corner.
3. Trastevere Neighbourhood – Where to Stay 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 neighbourhood 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.
- Best For: Food, nightlife, lively vibes and a more local feel.
- The Vibe: Bohemian and historic. The cobbled lanes, ivycovered buildings, and piazzas are busy all day and all night.
- Proximity to Airport: Around 45-60 minutes by taxi. Or, there are easy tram/bus links to Trastevere Station, where you can take the train to Fiumicino.
- Transport Level: Good. Trams and buses run through the area, and Trastevere Station connects you to the wider city.
- Budget: I’d say it’s mid-range, with plenty of trattorias, wine bars, and small guesthouses. Cute, huh!
- Crowds: Busy in the evenings, especially around Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Top Things to 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.
- 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.
Best Airbnb: The Black Swan BR
This room is a solid pick if you want to be close to the action without paying historic centre prices. You’ll have a private room and access to funky shared spaces. It’s simple, clean, and in a great spot for backpackers who want nightlife on their doorstep. Because of its fabulous location, this is one of the best Airbnbs in Rome.
Best Bed & Breakfast: B&B Casetta Roma
As far as budget accommodation goes in the heart of Rome, this packs a punch for value, from airport shuttles to exceptional free breakfasts. Plus, of course, all the expected mod con amenities like free wifi, daily housekeeping and air conditioning. There is a selection of rooms to choose from, so whether you’re travelling solo or with the family, there’s room for everyone!
Best Hotel: Residenza San Calisto
This rustic and funky hotel is located in 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.
4. Testaccio Neighbourhood – 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 a grimy location into one of Rome’s newest up-and-coming neighbourhoods.
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 neighbourhood, which means there are plenty of apartments for long-stay travellers, digital nomads and budget backpackers visiting Rome needing a cheap place with a washing machine for a few days.
- Best For: Local neighbourhood, great food, a slower pace, and easy access to Rome’s major sights.
- The Vibe: Authentic, down-to-earth, and very proudly Roman! There is a mix of traditional trattorias, street markets, and local streets with a strong community feel.
- Proximity to Airport: Around 45-60 minutes by taxi, or it has quick access to Piramide Station for trains to Ostia and metro links across the city.
- Transport Level: Very good. It’s close to Metro Line B, buses, and easy walking to Aventine Hill and the river.
- Budget: More affordable than Trastevere or the historic centre. It has great value food and stay options.
- Crowds: Much quieter than central Rome. It’s busiest around the market and dining streets.
Top Things to 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!
- Browse works of art by local and international artists at Mattatoio, the Museum of Contemporary Art.
- Explore the Pyramid of Cestius, a 2,000yearold Roman pyramid beside Testaccio.
- Visit the peaceful Non-Catholic Cemetery next door, where poets like Keats and Shelley are buried.
Best Airbnb: Atelier Testaccio Apartment
This gorgeous, bright, quirky apartment is in the beating heart of Rome. Testaccio is one of the most authentic neighbourhoods to stay in. The beauty of the ancient city is prominent, but modernity has had its way with the place and made it comfortable, too. This apartment sleeps up to four people with a comfy double sofa bed as well as a large double bedroom.
Best Hotel: Seven Suites
Seven Suites is a quaint hotel on the outskirts of the city centre 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 is styled in a contemporary fashion and is quiet and clean. Each room features air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, an electric kettle, and a minibar.
Another Great Hotel: Hotel Santa Prisca
Budget hotel may be slightly misleading, but that’s the buzz in this quiet, central corner of Rome. You can’t put a price on peace, and damn, it’s peaceful here; there are huge old trees and parks all around. No hostels as far as the eye can see, but you can’t always have it all, and there’s a complimentary breakfast, so that’s something.
5. Monti Neighbourhood – Where to Stay for Families
Monti is one of the most central neighbourhoods in Rome, but it 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 centre 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.
- Best For: Central access, food and wine, independent shops, culture and history, walkability, nightlife
- The Vibe: Funky, creative, and village-like vibes. It has narrow cobbled streets, arty boutiques, and a mix of locals, students, and visitors.
- Proximity to Airport: Around 45-60 minutes by taxi, with Termini close by for trains and airport buses.
- Transport Level: Excellent! Metro Lines A and B, and easy walking to the Colosseum and Roman Forum.
- Budget: Mid-range to upper, with boutique hotels, stylish apartments, and semi-affordable trattorias.
- Crowds: Busy around Via dei Serpenti and Piazza della Madonna dei Monti, but quieter on side streets.
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
Top Things to 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 the impressive ruins of the magnificent Roman Colosseum.
- 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 Fontana dei Catecumeni or Fontana della Madonna dei Monti.
- 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.
Best Airbnb: Cozy Modern Colosseum Flat
You guessed it, this sweet Airbnb in Rome is near the Colosseum and even feels a bit like you’re there with the pillars inside. The nearest tube station is a few steps away, so you’re in a great location for exploring the city of Rome and all the sights. It feels a bit hotel-like, too, with fluffy white towels and shampoo in the bathroom, but there’s a full kitchen, too.
Best Bed & Breakfast: Blue Hostel
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 B&B is close to Rome and Monti’s top tourist attractions.
Best Budget Hotel: Italia Hotel Rome
This charming hotel is located in the centre 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.
Best Hotel: FH55 Grand Hotel Palatino
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 Colosseum. 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 on-site restaurant, Le Spighe, which specialises in Roman dishes and classic Italian cooking.
6. 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.
The Castelli Romani is a volcanic region that is mostly defined by hilltop 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).
Reaching Castelli Romani is easy. Trains from Rome Termini run frequently to Frascati and Castel Gandolfo, and buses connect the smaller villages. By car, it’s a 30-45 minute drive into the hills, making it perfect for a split stay – a few nights in Rome, then a few nights unwinding by the lakes!
- Best For: Nature, value stays, food and wine, hilltop villages, lakes and scenic views, easy access to Rome.
- The Vibe: Peaceful, rural, and deeply local. A slower pace that feels worlds away from Rome’s intensity. Proximity to Airport: Castelli Romani is 15-30 minutes from Ciampino Airport and around 45-60 minutes from Fiumicino, depending on which hill town you’re staying in.
- Transport Level: Good for the main towns (Frascati, Castel Gandolfo, Albano). A car will give you more freedom for exploring lakes, wineries, and hilltop villages, but it is not essential.
- Budget: Way better value compared to Rome! You’ll get larger rooms, agriturismos, and scenic stays at much lower prices. Most of the food and wine are also more affordable.
- Crowds: Mostly locals and weekenders from Rome. It’s quiet during the week and in the colder seasons.
Photo: Simone Ramella (Flickr)
Top Things to Do in 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!
- Take in the medieval atmosphere of Palazzo Ruspoli in Nemi, a historic clifftop castle.
Best Airbnb: Fourth Floor Relaxation
With two double bedrooms, this spacious apartment is light and full of vibey art that will make you feel at home. There are all the local amenities like supermarkets, restaurants, bars and even banks within walking distance of this apartment. The host’s dad has done the interior craftsmanship, and local artists have made a lot of the sculptures and art that decorate this home.
Best Hostel: Wiki Hostel and Green Village
This is a great hostel for those who want to escape the craziness of Rome and just chill out with fellow travellers. That means that Wiki Hostel and Green Village have 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!
Best Hotel in the Castelli Romani: Villalbert
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.
FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Rome
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Rome and where to stay.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Rome
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Which Part of Rome Should You Choose?
Choosing where to stay isn’t just logistics here; it shapes the version of Rome you meet. From the Rome of early morning espressos in Monti to sunset walks along the Tiber in Trastevere to slow evenings in the Castelli Romani hills.
What I’ve learned about Rome is that there’s no single “right” area. Rome will meet you where you are, depending on what mood and pace you’re bringing with you. Wherever you decide to base yourself, the city will no doubt reward you with a perfect plate of pasta, a view that stops you in your tracks, a moment of quiet in a place that shouldn’t feel quiet at all.
I hope you fall in love with Rome as much as I have, fellow traveller! <3
- 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.
