So huge and diverse, deciding where to stay in Rome can truly be overwhelming. With so much to see and do, if you are not familiar with the city, booking a hotel in Rome can definitely take you more time than you expect.
I have been living in Rome for nearly 30 years so trust me when I say that I know the city like the back of my hand and can suggest what are the best areas to stay in.
Some of the best neighborhoods to book your hotel in Rome are Prati because it’s close to the Vatican, it’s well served by metro and buses, and the city center is easy to reach, Monti because it’s a cool area next to all the relics of Ancient Rome, and obviously the Centro Storico to be in the pulsing heart of all the vibe!
As one of Europe’s most popular and cherished mainstream tourism destinations, all Rome neighborhoods have their own appeal. There are several factors that can impact your hotel booking decision.
Below, I cover the most convenient areas for sightseeing and some of the best hotels in Rome’s city center, while in my eBook I suggest five itineraries to eat your way around five different Rome neighborhoods. For each of them, I mention the best restaurants and what to see and do. This can be very inspiring if you are still deciding where to stay in Rome.
Find out here what is the best area to stay in Rome for you and your family.
Centro Storico (Historic Centre) – The best place to stay in Rome for first-time visitors
If you are wondering where to stay in Rome, keep in mind that the Centro Storico is where most major attractions are. Including two of Rome’s most famous squares, Piazza Navona with its baroque charm and fountains, and Campo de’ Fiori, the piazza symbol of the florist profession as it was in the past. This is considered the very heart of Rome and quite predictably, it’s always packed with tourists.
This Rome neighborhood is very safe as all around are the government and Parliament palaces, making it always full of police, Carabinieri and Army.
This is definitely the best area to stay in Rome for first-time visitors as all landmarks are within easy walking reach. Impossible to miss a visit to the Pantheon, a walk along Via del Corso, a stop in the Capitoline Museums and a visit to Campo de’ Fiori and the Jewish Quarter.
I would probably avoid the restaurants offering tourist deal menus right in Piazza Navona and the Pantheon, but even here you can find some nice eateries and gelaterias.
If you are wondering where to stay in Rome with kids, this is a great option for all the landmarks to visit, the restaurants to try and the several pedestrian areas.
Top hotels in the city center for every budget:
- Luxury: Rocco Forte Hotel De Russie
- Mid-range: Hotel Indigo Rome – St. George
- Mid-range: D.O.M. Hotel Roma
- Mid-range: Hotel Lunetta
- Budget: Minerva Monks Inn
- Apartment (Suite/Luxury): Propaganda Suites
- Apartment (Budget): Glory House Navona
Rome’s Centro Storico Map
Need help crafting a perfect Roman holiday? Check out my custom itineraries!
The Spanish Steps – The best location to stay in Rome near famous attractions
Check out the hotels near the Spanish Steps if you are looking for one of the most luxurious areas to stay in Rome. The Spanish Steps are extremely touristy and Via Veneto is the historical street where celebrities liked to hang out in Rome’s golden era, namely the ’50s and ’60s. Via Veneto is in the quarter called Rione Ludovisi and it borders the historical Rome area Campo Marzio.
Just to be clear, the vibe here is largely exclusive boutiques, opulent hotels, semi-hidden gems for the in-the-know traveler, and elegant restaurants. With all the main landmarks within a pleasant strolling reach and well connected via public transport, this is definitely one of the most exclusive places to stay in Rome.
Top hotels near the Spanish Steps and Piazza di Spagna
- Luxury: Hotel Vilòn
- Luxury: Elizabeth Unique Hotel
- Luxury: Hotel Eden – Dorchester Collection
- Mid-range: Hotel Splendid Royal
- Mid-range: Margutta 19
- Mid-range: Hotel Degli Artisti
- Budget: Il Corso
- Budget: Rifugio degli Artisti
- Apartment (Luxury/Suites): Fendi Private Suites
Spanish Steps/Piazza di Spagna area map
Trastevere – Best neighborhood to stay in Rome for tourists and nightlife
Famous for its nightlife, Trastevere is a bustling neighborhood at any time of the day. Popular among American students for the presence of John Cabbott University, this is a young area of Rome.
The charm of this gentrified district stems from its old buildings, narrow alleys, and traditional shops and restaurants. Its quaint alleys and trendy nightlife are what make it one of the best Rome neighborhoods for first-time visitors. And the wide range of Trastevere accommodation makes it easy to stay here overnight.
Trastevere has it all. Here, you can lead the typical tourist life in the heart of the city as well as witness the local life of residents working and going about their daily lives and chores.
Among the landmarks to visit, don’t miss Santa Maria in Trastevere Basilica, Santa Cecilia in Trastevere Basilica, and Santa Maria della Scala ancient pharmacy.
READ MORE: The ultimate guide to the best gelato in Rome
Top hotels in Trastevere:
- Luxury: Gran Melia Rome
- Mid-range: San Cosimato House
- Mid-range: Nikis Collection Trastevere
- Budget: Hotel Domus Tiberina
- Apartment: Casa in Trastevere
Trastevere neighborhood easy map
READ MORE: For affordable accommodation in the city center and other neighborhoods, check out our guide to the cheaper hotels in Rome.
Don’t miss our extensive guide to the best restaurants in Trastevere.
Trevi – The best area to stay in Rome close to most attractions
Trevi neighborhood is all about tourist places. This small quarter turns around its claim to fame, the gorgeous Baroque Trevi Fountain.
A central historical hub, this quarter was ruled by the Colonna family during the Middle Ages. In the Renaissance, it was dominated by the presence of the papal “royal mansion” that today is the Quirinale presidential palace. A notable resident of this upscale Rome neighborhood was Michelangelo Buonarroti, who died here very old and alone.
With some great hotels, this is probably the best location to stay in Rome if you want to be in the heart of tourist life. Major attractions, restaurants, shops, cafes and all you can think of are here. Plus, with an easy walk, you reach Via del Corso, one of the most store-packed streets in Rome, and from there you will easily reach the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, the Spanish Steps and the rest of the city’s attractions.
This is one of the best areas where to stay in Rome for 3 days if you are visiting for sightseeing and exploring the city center.
Top Hotels in the Trevi neighborhood:
- Luxury: Harry’s Bar Trevi Hotel & Restaurant
- Mid-range: Brumble Luxury Suites
- Mid-range: Trevi QQ Rooms
- Budget: Residenza Ki
- Apartment: Penthouse Suite Rome
Map of the Trevi neighborhood in Rome
For more options, check out our guide to the best hotels near the Trevi Fountain.
Monti and Celio – The best areas in Rome for nightlife and visiting Ancient Rome
Trendy and historic neighborhoods in Rome, Monti and Celio are a stone’s throw from Termini train station yet it has lost the shabby feel the station around the area still has.
This is the area right next to the Colosseum, so one of the most touristy in Rome. This is why you need to choose the restaurant carefully otherwise you will end up in a touristy one.
Is Monti a good area to stay in Rome?
This is a great neighborhood where to stay in Rome for first-time visitors who want to discover the relics of the imperial times such as the Coliseum, the Roman Forum, the Circus Maximus, and the Baths of Caracalla.
By booking one of the best hotels near the Colosseum, you won’t only be close to the main archaeological site in Rome, but you will also be able to enjoy great views from your own room.
READ MORE: Check out my best tips for visiting the Colosseum.
Top hotels in Rione Monti and Celio:
- Luxury: Hotel Palazzo Manfredi – Relais & Chateaux
- Mid-range: Villa Spalletti Trivelli
- Mid-range: Rome Glam Hotel
- Budget: Hotel Borromeo
Map of the Monti/Celio neighborhood of Rome
Do you need help choosing the best area to stay in?
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Aventine Hill – The Roman neighborhood to stay for history and great views
Close to the Celio area, Aventine Hill is the best place to stay in Rome for tourists who are not afraid of walking and want to explore ancient and medieval history. If you are wondering about the perks of this area of Rome, think romantic views and off-the-beaten-path landmarks.
This is definitely the best hotel location in Rome to be close to the city’s pulsing heart but not right among the crowds. This Roman quarter is all uphill and downhill and even though elegant and residential, you won’t really find opulent 5-start hotels. The Aventine Hill is more a place for cozy mid-range hotels and handy budget accommodation.
Where to stay in Aventine Hill:
- Mid-range: Hotel Villa San Pio
- Mid-range: San Anselmo
- Mid-range: Hotel Santa Prisca
- Budget: Althea Inn Roof Terrace
- Budget: BePlace Aventino
- Budget: Hotel Major Aventinus
Map of Aventine Hill in Rome
Prati and Trionfale – Where to stay in Rome near the Vatican
If you are still wondering what is the best area to stay in Rome, this is one of my favorites. Great restaurants, nice pubs and bistros, enticing shopping streets, and close to major tourist landmarks yet, it conveys a more residential type of vibe.
It’s well connected with public transport such as buses and the metro and has also a large daily market where you can do your own grocery shopping, Mercato Trionfale.
If you are looking for a hotel near the Vatican, this is the right area. You will definitely see a lot of tourists, but in the evening you can relax with a more “local” feel. This is one of the best neighborhoods in Rome for first-time visitors, sightseeing, and experiencing local life.
Top hotels in Prati and Trionfale neighborhoods:
- Luxury: The First Musica
- Midrange: Growel Exclusive Suites San Pietro
- Midrange: Hotel dei Mellini
- Budget: St. Peter’s Luxury Rooms
- Budget: Domus Terenzio
- Apartment: Popologrande Apartment
- Apartment: Stars Luxury Apartments 1
Prati and Trionfale easy map
Don’t miss our guide to the best restaurants in Prati.
Testaccio – One of the best areas in Rome to mingle with locals
With the diverse range of things to do and places to eat it has, I love this district. If you ask me, this is one of the best places to stay in Rome. It’s well-connected with the other areas via public transport including tram, bus, train, and metro and has a lovely, traditional vibe.
Testaccio is one of the best neighborhoods in Rome to experience genuine, traditional life, perfect if you are staying longer, 3 or 4 days in Rome. Between the lively Mercato Testaccio selling fresh local produce as well as hearty sandwiches and tempting Sicilian pastries, and the non-Catholic cemetery, here you can totally spend half a day or even a whole day.
If you are wondering what are the best neighborhoods to stay in Rome, Testaccio is a good choice for an authentic experience close to the most touristy piazzas. In Testaccio, you are likely to find budget accommodation rather than sumptuous palace hotels, but the genuine traditional vibe is guaranteed.
Top hotels in Testaccio:
- Mid-range: Seven Suites
- Budget: Le Tre Sorelle a Testaccio
Map of Testaccio
Ostiense – Where to stay in Rome for modern history and street art
Former industrial district, in Ostiense you can see the relics of Rome’s industrial archaeology in the old Gasometer, the general warehouses, and the old power plant now turned into a fascinating museum, Centrale Montemartini. Even just a stroll around Ostiense will reveal its trendy and colorful side with a series of murals by international street artists along Via Ostiense, Via dei Magazzini Generali, and Via del Porto Fluviale.
With a short and pleasant walk, you can reach also the large and important Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls and the cobra-shaped bridge named after Settimia Spizzichino.
Top hotels in Ostiense
- Mid-range: Hotel Abitart
- Mid-range: Hotel Pulitzer
- Budget: Crossroad Hotel
- Budget: Roma Suite Piramide
- Apartment: Abbazia di San Paolo Appartamento Moderno
Map of Ostiense Rome neighborhood
Castro Pretorio and Esquilino – Rome neighborhoods near Termini train station
Very busy and lively area, Castro Pretorio and Stazione Termini are well-connected to all other neighborhoods and are close to pretty much anything you will be looking for, from restaurants to landmarks to different nightlife options.
Bordering the Sallustiano area, here you can find some of the best gelato (Come Il Latte) and pizza by the slice (Pinsere) in Rome. While on the other side of the Termini train station is the lively Esquilino neighborhood, Rome’s multicultural district. Here, you will find shops, goods, and ingredients literally from all over the world.
Between the Castro Pretorio and the Esquilino neighborhoods, you will be close to some of the most famous churches in Rome including Michelangelo’s Santa Maria degli Angeli and one of the four papal basilicas, Santa Maria Maggiore.
Top hotels in Castro Pretorio near Termini Station:
- Luxury: The St. Regis Rome
- Mid-range: NH Collection Palazzo Cinquecento
- Mid-range: Palazzo Montemartini
- Budget: The Liberty Boutique Hotel
Map of Castro Pretorio and Esquilino neighborhoods
READ MORE: Are you on a short layover or on a business trip to Rome? Check out more hotels near Stazione Termini.
Parioli and Villa Borghese – Where to stay in Rome residential areas close to a park
The “posh” district in Rome, Parioli is very much a residential area and at night, apart from some bars and restaurants, pretty quiet.
The area includes two of the most important parks in Rome, Villa Borghese, and Villa Ada. So it’s ideal if you like to spend time in nature and you cherish your jogging/cycling routine.
There are also several lesser-known landmarks to visit if you are a fan of offbeat traveling. Parioli is one of Rome’s neighborhoods where you are more likely to find locals rather than tourists. This is the best area to stay in Rome if you like quiet nights, a residential area, and want to enjoy walks in the park.
Top hotels near Villa Borghese
- Luxury: Sofitel Villa Borghese
- Mid-range: The H’All Tailor Suite Roma
- Mid-range: Parioli Place
Map of Parioli/Villa Borghese areas
Nomentano/Trieste elegant neighborhood in Rome
This is hands-down one of my favorite neighborhoods in Rome. If you are still wondering where to stay in Rome, I suggest checking this out. Elegant and residential-style, it’s made of large streets such as Via Nomentana and Viale Regina Margherita, as well as more narrow alleys like Via Nizza or Via Mantova. Even though it’s not in the immediate city center, it’s very well connected via public transport through several buses and three metro stations of the B line.
Apart from being a residential neighborhood, this is a strong office area, so don’t worry about tourist menus, here you will only find good-quality restaurants. While it’s hardly included in any guided tour itinerary and is located out of the Aurelian Walls, the Trieste/Nomentano neighborhood doesn’t lack fascinating landmarks.
Between charming hidden gems to discover, great eateries, and quiet alleys, I think this is a fantastic neighborhood of Rome to book your hotel. You are not going to find much of 5-star flashy resorts but rather B&Bs, apartments, and smaller hotels, but I think here you can better decide your own pace.
Read our guide to know everything about driving in Rome.
Top hotels in the Trieste/Nomentano neighborhood of Rome
- Mid-range: Hotel La Ville
- Mid-range: Rome Garden Hotel
- Mid-range: Palm Gallery Hotel
- Budget: La Breccia a Porta Pia B&B
- Budget: Bbrothershouse B&B
Trieste/Nomentano map
What is the best part of Rome to stay in?
When deciding where to stay in Rome, you really need to consider your travel plans and how much time you can stay.
Some other things to keep in mind when deciding what is the best area to stay in Rome is whether you are willing to use public transport or not, and of course, what type of holiday you want.
Are you looking for a more authentic experience or do you prefer to stay in the middle of the crowds? For each need, Rome has its neighborhood!
If you don’t mind using buses, trains, and the metro, and also if you are staying longer, let’s say a week in Rome, then you can totally enjoy the authentic Roman spirit of neighborhoods such as Testaccio, Ostiense, and Garbatella.
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