Find romance and history in Rome’s best neighborhoods

In Rome, a storied past and lively present live side by side, and each area showcases a unique chapter of the Eternal City. If you want to dive into the heart of Italy’s capital city beyond Rome’s top landmarks, exploring its neighborhoods is a must for a taste of local life. For an enriching experience and a closer look at the best things to do in Rome, each neighborhood offers its own charm and character.

Which parts of Rome you visit will depend on what you’re hoping to see, whether that’s the winding lanes and historic churches of Trastevere or Monti’s bohemian character and ancient ruins. From the green gardens of Prati to the charming cafes of Campo de' Fiori, here are the best neighborhoods in Rome.

1. Trastevere

Best for:

Nightlife, history enthusiasts, art lovers

Getting there:

Trastevere Station, Tram 8

Main sites:

Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere, Villa Farnesina, Basilica di Santa Cecilia

With its vibrant nightlife and historic charm, Trastevere is the place to be for a captivating Roman experience. Its narrow, winding lanes, lined with medieval houses, create a setting that feels straight out of a storybook. The heart of the neighborhood is Piazza di Santa Maria, home to one of Rome’s oldest churches, the Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere.

In Trastevere, you’ll find a unique fusion of history and modernity. Bustling cultural events and contemporary galleries contrast with the neighborhood’s historic squares and traditional trattorias, intimate Italian restaurants serving Rome’s must-try foods.

Numerous galleries and artisan shops lend to the neighborhood's artistic atmosphere, making it a haven for art enthusiasts. The Doria Pamphilj Gallery is a favorite for its elevated art experience and remarkably intricate interior design. Villa Farnesina, adorned with Renaissance frescoes by Raphael, offers an equally unique glimpse into Rome’s artistic heritage.

By night, Trastevere transforms into Rome’s nightlife hub. The evening air fills with the chatter of locals and the sounds of live music. After dark, you can really experience the city’s youth beyond its ancient architecture and history-rich landmarks.

2. Monti

Best for:

History buffs, shoppers, culture seekers

Getting there:

Cavour Metro Station, Termini Station

Main sites:

Piazza della Madonna dei Monti, Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, Forum of Augustus

In Monti, Roman ruins sit alongside hip establishments and boutique shopping destinations, making the neighborhood a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the full spectrum of Rome’s cultural richness.

Monti is just a stone's throw away from the Colosseum and the Arch of Constantine, both essential symbols of ancient Rome. Despite its proximity to these top Rome landmarks, Monti maintains a serene, village-like atmosphere, offering a peaceful retreat from the city's busier spots. The neighborhood’s streets are lined with charming boutiques, vintage stores, and cozy cafes, perfect for leisurely exploration on foot or by bike.

The Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, one of Rome’s largest churches, impresses with its breathtaking mosaics and historic significance. Nearby, the Forum of Augustus and the Forum of Nerva offer a deep dive into ancient Roman history, while the Domus Aurea reveals the luxury of Nero’s Golden House.

3. Prati

Best for:

Shopping, elegant dining, architecture enthusiasts

Getting there:

Lepanto Metro Station, Ottaviano Metro Station

Main sites:

Castel Sant'Angelo, Via Cola di Rienzo, Ponte Sant'Angelo

Prati, near Vatican City, has an air of elegance with its wide boulevards, sophisticated shops, and upscale dining. It is often called Rome’s most underrated neighborhood, renowned for its Art Nouveau architecture and home to the Castel Sant'Angelo.

Prati's refined atmosphere is perfect for those who appreciate the finer things in life, from gourmet restaurants to chic shops. A mix of designer boutiques and one-of-a-kind local shops line the renowned shopping street Via Cola di Rienzo. Here, you can find everything from high fashion to unique Italian crafts.

The neighborhood’s dining scene is equally impressive, with gourmet restaurants and traditional trattorias promising authentic Roman cuisine, whether you are on a fancy rooftop bar or sitting outside a cafe with a facade covered in lush green ivy.

Another must-see in Prati is the historic Ponte Sant'Angelo, a bridge adorned with angel sculptures leading to the Castel Sant'Angelo, one of the most romantic spots in Rome, especially at sunset. Opera lovers might know this site as the final dramatic setting for Puccini’s “Tosca.”

4. Testaccio

Best for:

Foodies, nightlife, history aficionados

Getting there:

Piramide Metro Station, Roma Ostiense Station

Main sites:

MACRO, Monte Testaccio, Non-Catholic Cemetery

Testaccio, historically a working-class neighborhood, offers a genuine taste of Roman life with its rich history of butchery and trade. The local market is a focal point of the neighborhood, busy with stalls selling fresh produce, meats, and traditional dishes.

Today, the neighborhood seamlessly blends its industrial past with a modern vibe, exemplified by the transformation of a former butchery into the Museum of Contemporary Art of Rome (MACRO).

Testaccio's down-to-earth vibe and gastronomic delights continue to make it a favorite among foodies and those seeking to experience Rome's lively local culture. The neighborhood's authenticity shines through in cozy eateries, where you can savor classic Roman dishes like cacio e pepe (cheese and pepper pasta) and bucatini all'amatriciana (tomato-based pasta from the comune of Amatrice).

Testaccio is home to the Non-Catholic Cemetery, the final resting place of poets Shelley and Keats. Also worth seeing is the Monte Testaccio, a hill made up of ancient pottery shards that whisper of Rome’s intriguing past.

5. Campo de’ Fiori

Best for:

Market lovers, food enthusiasts, night owls

Getting there:

Campo de' Fiori Bus Stop, Barberini Metro Station

Main sites:

Campo de' Fiori Market, Palazzo Farnese, Piazza Navona

Campo de' Fiori is synonymous with its lively market, making it one of the best places to visit in Rome. By day, people gather to shop for fresh produce, flowers, and artisan goods. By night, it transforms into a social gathering spot with bars and late-night restaurants. As the sun sets, terraces around the square fill with chatter as groups sit down to enjoy a drink in the evening air.

As you wander through Campo de' Fiori, be sure to visit the nearby Farnese Palace, an inspiring Renaissance palace that now houses the French Embassy. Another site to see is the Giordano Bruno Statue, which sits where the philosopher of the same name was executed.

Within walking distance, you can visit the Piazza Navona, known for its beautiful Baroque fountains and lively atmosphere. The Fountain of the Moor and the Fontana Dei Quattro Fiumi by the Church Sant'Agnese in Agone make for gorgeous photos.

Campo de' Fiori's central location makes it the perfect starting point for exploring Rome's historic center.

FAQs

What is the most walkable neighborhood in Rome?

Trastevere is widely regarded as Rome's most walkable neighborhood. Its narrow, cobblestone streets and pedestrian-friendly alleys are perfect for strolls. Other walkable areas include Monti, Campo Marzio, Pigneto, and Centro Storico.

What is the best Rome neighborhood to stay in?

For a well-rounded Roman experience, Monti is one of the best neighborhoods to stay in. Its central location offers easy access to major attractions without the bustle of the historic center. When choosing a neighborhood to stay in, remember that the most touristy places typically come with the biggest price tag for hotels.

What are the safest neighborhoods in Rome?

Prati has a residential area with a strong local presence, so it is considered one of the safest neighborhoods in Rome. Neighborhoods like Monti and Trastevere are also safe options. Touristy places like the city center can be a safe choice because it is where you will find the most tourists, just expect a busier atmosphere.

Which neighborhoods in Rome are the closest to major tourist attractions?

The historic center (Centro Storico) is the neighborhood closest to many of Rome’s major tourist attractions. Landmarks such as the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, and the Pantheon are all within this area. Additionally, the Vatican City area, including the Borgo and Prati neighborhoods, offers proximity to St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel.

What is the best neighborhood for first-time visitors to Rome?

Centro Storico is the ideal neighborhood for first-time visitors to Rome. It places you right in the heart of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and Piazza Navona. The area is compact and walkable, making it easy to navigate, and it’s filled with restaurants, cafes, and shops, so everything you need is all in one place.