Where to Stay in Rome 2024 // BEST Hotels & Neighborhoods

You’ve booked your tickets and planned your itinerary, but still have no clue where to stay in Rome? Don’t worry. Whether you are in the Eternal City on business or for pleasure, I’ve got you covered. In this guide, you’ll find all the best places to stay in Rome for both first-time visitors and seasoned travellers, hotel recommendations for each of them and top tips for visiting Rome.

As with any big city, choosing the best area to stay in Rome can be one of the most stressful parts of planning your trip. The city is broken up into 22 neighbourhoods – or rioni as they’re called in Italian – each with its own unique identity, making it hard to decide where you want to stay.

Some neighbourhoods are well established on tourist trails, while others might not be so obvious but are just as enjoyable. Choosing where to stay in Rome totally depends on what’s important to you. Do you want to wake up to an epic view of the Colosseum? Or do you prefer something with a bit more “local vibes”? And what about nightlife?

So, let’s get started! From the iconic Spanish Steps to the culinary delights of Testaccio, here’s my guide to the best places to stay in Rome. Make sure you bookmark or pin this guide for future reference so you can get back to it while planning!

Map of the Neighborhoods in Rome

To help you a better idea of where each of the major tourist attractions are in relation to each other, here is a map of the centre of Rome with the names of each neighbourhood.

Now let’s take a look at the best neighbourhoods to stay in in Rome, and why!

Pigna
Parione
Regola
Campo Marzio
Trastevere
Monti and Celio
Borgo & Prati
Castro Pretorio & Esquilino
Testaccio
Want to escape the heat? Here are 17 beautiful hotels in Rome with a pool

Pigna District: Home of the oldest Roman temple, the Pantheon

The best area to stay in Rome for first-time visitors planning to see as much as possible

The Pantheon is the best area to stay in Rome if it’s your first time in the city as you’ll have all the major sights within walking distance, from the Trevi Fountain (5 minutes) to the Colosseum (20 minutes).

In addition to hosting the best-preserved Roman temple in the world, this area has everything you would expect from a Roman neighborhood: cobbled alleyways, ancient monuments, churches filled with artistic treasures, and vibrant street life.

However, this popularity comes at a price since the Pantheon is one of Rome’s busiest and most expensive areas in Rome. It is also worth keeping in mind that there is no metro nearby. The closest train stations are Barberini (line A) and Colosseum (line B).

Where to stay near the Pantheon

Luxury Hotel: The Pantheon Iconic Rome Hotel – An elegant five-star hotel in a period building right around the corner from the city’s famous Roman temple. The on-site restaurant offers Michelin-starred cuisine and there is a panoramic rooftop terrace.
Mid-range Hotel: Le Clarisse al Pantheon – A charming boutique hotel on a quiet street only steps from the Pantheon, with a lovely terrace for al fresco breakfast in the warmer months. They can arrange transfers from both Rome’s airports and the Port of Civitavecchia.
Budget Hotel: Little Queen Pantheon– A cozy hideaway on the fourth floor of a noble palace dating from the 17th century. You’ll find spacious, stylishly furnished rooms that come with Smart TVs with Netflix access and pretty views over the rooftops of Rome.

Apartments near the Pantheon

Want to stay in an apartment? Browse the best apartments and B&Bs near the Pantheon – click here to check availability and book your perfect stay.

Click here for my complete guide to the top hotels near the Pantheon.

Parione District: Home to Piazza Navona – A Baroque Masterpiece

The best area to stay in Rome for strolling and indulging in some people watching

Located in the heart of the historical center, Piazza Navona is a popular place when choosing where to stay in Rome. The square is a spectacle of Baroque art and architecture showcasing the genius of artists like Bernini, Borromini and Jacopo Della Porta, who left a trio of wonderful fountains and a glorious church.

It was a favourite gathering place in ancient Rome when it hosted a stadium – as its shape suggests – and it’s still the center of Roman life today. The whole area is packed with cafés and restaurants and there are plenty of street performers that keep passersby entertained.

Top sights like the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps and Trastevere are within easy strolling distance, making Piazza Navona one of the best areas to stay in Rome.

Where to stay near Piazza Navona

Luxury Hotel: Lifestyle Suites Rome – A boutique property offering adult-only accommodation right in Piazza Navona. You can choose from a number of luxurious suites, all boasting exclusive views of the famous square.
Mid-range Hotel: Boutique Relais Barozzi– A boutique hotel down a little cobbled street only a few metres from Piazza Navona. The spa is a must to switch off after a day out exploring the Eternal City.
Budget Hotel: Navona Residenza de Charme – A cute bed and breakfast located in a typical Roman alley right by Piazza Navona. You can choose from a variety of rooms and suites and there’s a large terrace overlooking the dome of Bernini’s Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone.

Apartments near the Piazza Navona

Want to stay in an apartment? Browse the best apartments and B&Bs near Piazza Navona – click here to check availability and book your perfect stay.

Regola District: Market stalls and nightlife in the heart of Campo de’ fiori

The best area to stay in Rome for foodies and night owls

Campo de’ Fiori is a lovely historic square in the centre of Rome. Peaceful and quiet in the daytime, when it hosts a picturesque open-air market, after dark it turns into an outdoor party hub, with lots of trendy bars and restaurants spilling out onto the square.

In the past, this area was an important centre of arts and crafts, as evidenced by the names of the streets branching out from the square, each referring to a specific trade. Even today, they continue to host some great artisanal shops and bakeries, which attract tourists and locals alike.

Campo de’ Fiori is one of the best places to stay in Rome for those looking for an authentic local experience while being close to everything. It’s within walking distance to major sights like Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, Castel Sant’Angelo and the Roman Forum.

Where to stay near Campo de’ Fiori

Luxury Hotel: Hotel Lunetta – A four-star boutique hotel occupying an old palace. It has a rooftop bar and an evocative wellness spa scenically located within the walls of the ancient Theatre of Pompeius dating from 55 B.C.
Mid-range Hotel: Hotel Damaso – A superior three-star hotel offering elegant rooms in contemporary style, some opening onto a private terrace. The rooftop cocktail bar is a great spot to sip an aperitivo while watching a Roman sunset.
Budget Hotel: Casa de’ Fiori – Nine bright, spacious rooms in a refurbished 18th-century building only steps from the lively market and busy nightlife of the Campo De’ Fiori square.

Apartments near the Campo de’ Fiori

Want to stay in an apartment? Browse the best apartments and B&Bs near Campo de’ Fiori – click here to check availability and book your perfect stay.

Campo Marzio District: Home to Rome’s iconic stairway, the Spanish Steps

The best area to stay in Rome for sightseeing

No other neighbourhood in Rome exudes romantic glamour like Piazza di Spagna. It’s Rome the way you’ve always imagined it. The star of the show is the celebrated rococo stairway leading to the Trinità dei Monti church, known as the Spanish Steps (Italian: la scalinata di Trinità dei Monti)

This is another convenient location to consider when planning where to stay in Rome city center. You can get around on foot to the most popular tourist attractions, such as the Trevi Fountain, Piazza del Popolo and the gardens of Villa Borghese where you’ll see some of the best views in Rome.

Piazza di Spagna is the ideal choice for those who are brought to the city by the allure of luxury shopping. Here you’ll find a heady mix of designer boutiques, upscale hotels and exclusive restaurants.

The Rape of Proserpina at Galleria Borghese

Where to stay near the Spanish Step (Piazza di Spagna)

Luxury Hotel: Portrait Rome – A chic retreat on Via Condotti with 14 suites inspired by the world of Italian fashion designer Salvatore Ferragamo. The rooftop terrace is a haven of peace and quiet with stunning views of the Spanish Steps.
Mid-range Hotel: Casa Fabbrini boutique B&B – A cozy townhouse on a quiet alleyway close to the Spanish Steps and Rome’s luxury shopping district. Rooms have beautiful wood-beamed ceilings and the continental breakfast served in the lovely kitchen is fresh and plentiful.
Budget Hotel: B&B All’Obelisco – A small bed & breakfast housed in an elegant building at the top of the famous stairway of the Trinità dei Monti Church, with comfortable rooms and wonderful views over Piazza di Spagna.

Apartments near the Spanish Steps

Want to stay in an apartment? Browse the best apartments and B&Bs near the Spanish Steps – click here to check availability and book your perfect stay.

Click here for my complete guide to the top hotels near the Spanish Steps.

Trastevere District: A cosy neighbourhood where the locals live la dolce vita

The best area to stay in Rome for small-town vibes and curious travellers

Nestled on the western bank of the Tiber river, Trastevere has retained that village feel of its early days as the home of fishermen and traders. The sightseeing list includes historical churches, atmospheric alleyways with clothes hanging outside, and lazy squares where the elderly meet up for a chat and to play cards.

Trastevere is also a popular spot on the nightlife scene in Rome, just as it is for dining. You will find anything from traditional Roman trattorias and colourful markets to hipster bars to ethnic eateries. Trastevere is also a wonderful place explore on foot and see the prettiest streets in Rome.

What makes Trastevere one of the best places to stay in Rome is that although it’s not exactly in the center, it’s close enough so you don’t feel cut off from the main sights. You can walk to the Vatican museums and Colosseum in 30 minutes, and in 10 minutes you’ll get to Campo de’ Fiori. There is also a tram which takes you across the bridge over the Tiber river ad terminates at Piazza Venezia where you’ll find a bus terminal.

Where to stay in Trastevere

Luxury Hotel: Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá – A five-star urban resort immersed in a beautiful Mediterranean garden on Gianicolo Hill. You’ll find a fine-dining restaurant, an exclusive Clarins-branded spa, a fully equipped 24h gym, and a seasonal pool, which is a real bonus.
Midrange Hotel: Hotel San Francesco – A small, charming hotel that occupies a former seminary close to Viale Trastevere and the Porta Portese market. The rooftop terrace is a great spot to catch the last rays of sun after a day of sightseeing.
Budget Hotel: Tolomeo B&B – A lovely retreat in a period building in the heart of Trastevere, near the Great Synagogue of Rome. The spaces are decked out in a cool contemporary design and a typical Italian breakfast is included in the price.

Apartments in Trastevere

Want to stay in an apartment? Browse the best apartments and B&Bs in Trastevere – click here to check availability and book your perfect stay.

Click here for my complete guide to the top hotels in Trastevere

Monti and Celio District: See Ancient Rome in all her glory

The best area to stay in Rome for history buffs and boho vibes

Monti is the oldest neighborhood in Rome, where Julius Cesar was born and Emperor Vespasian built his grand amphitheatre. It’s also home to the Baths of Caracalla and the hidden underground golden palace, Domus Aurea – both of which are two unique things to do in Rome. Nowadays, Monti is a charming residential area with a unique combination of archaeology and bohemian vibes that attracts a mixed crowd of locals and tourists..

While the rockstars are undoubtedly the Colosseum and the archaeological marvels of the Imperial Forum, Monti hides a wealth of independent boutiques, small businesses, art galleries and even a popular urban market that animates the weekends.

When deciding where to stay in Rome, choosing Monti certainly has its advantages. Along with easy access to the city’s top tourist attractions, the area offers excellent public transport with the metro train stations Colosseo and Cavour (Line B) and easy walking distance to the historic center.

Where to stay in the Colosseum / Monti district

Luxury: Palazzo Manfredi – A glamorous hotel located in a 17th-century building right in the heart of ancient Rome. You can wake up to views of the Colosseum, enjoy Michelin-starred dining and relax on the fabulous rooftop terrace.
Midrange Hotel: Nerva Boutique Hotel – There’s a boutique hotel in front of the Imperial Forums that prides itself on offering an authentic Italian experience. Rooms feature beautiful Made in Italy pieces and breakfast is supplied by the famous Roscioli bakery.
Budget Hotel: B&B Santi Quattro Al Colosseo – A brand new bed & breakfast offering a selection of modern rooms and apartments (for up to six people) conveniently located only a 5-minute walk from the Colosseum.

Apartments near the Colosseum

Want to stay in an apartment? Browse the best apartments and B&Bs near the Colosseum – click here to check availability and book your perfect stay.

Click here for my complete guide to the top hotels near the Colosseum

Borgo & Prati District: On the doorstep of Vatican City

The best area to stay in Rome for a break from the classic tourist trails

Prati is a classy residential district that offers an ideal base for anyone visiting Rome primarily for the Vatican City. It’s conveniently located only a few steps from the Pope’s residence and boasts a distinctive urban layout since it’s the only Roman neighborhood built after the unification of Italy

Via Cola di Rienzo, the main street, is a popular spot for retail therapy, with a great mix of large chains and local businesses. Along the way, there are also many trattorias and elegant restaurants to fuel up.

Due to its central location, many sights like the Colosseum or the Spanish Steps feel a bit more out of reach. Nonetheless, the neighborhood is conveniently connected to the historic center via the Lepanto and Ottaviano metro lines (both on Line A).

Where to stay near Vatican City and Prati district

Luxury Hotel: Hotel della Conciliazione – An elegant hotel located on a pedestrianised street in Borgo Pio, one of Rome’s oldest and most atmospheric areas, only steps from St Peter’s square.
Mid-range Hotel: Residenza Paolo VI – An old Augustinian monastery converted into a charming hotel, with a privileged position only metres from Saint Peter’s. There’s a terrace that offers great views and a unique vantage point for watching the Pope’s Angelus on Sundays.
Budget Hotel:Fabio Massimo Guest House – A good-value bed & breakfast in the heart of the Prati district, with spacious rooms and a shared kitchen for those who want to rustle up meals themselves.

Apartments near Vatican City

Want to stay in an apartment? Browse the best apartments and B&Bs near the Vatican City – click here to check availability and book your perfect stay.

Click here for my complete guide to the top hotels near the Vatican.

Castro Pretorio & Esquilino District: Rome’s central transportation hub

The best area to stay in Rome for business travellers, budget tourists and day-trippers

This is a prime option for where to stay in Rome if you’re in town only for a night or plan to explore the city’s surroundings. This bustling multicultural neighbourhood is home to Termini station, which offers easy access to a variety of trains, buses and the shuttle to Fiumicino airport.

Although the areas around train stations tend to lack charm, Roma Termini/Esquilino has found its major draw in food. The artisanal stalls of Mercato Centrale Roma sell all sorts of delicacies, while the Esquilino Market is one of Rome’s most fascinating markets.

This area is generally quieter (and cheaper) than the historic center, but all the best sights are within walking distance or easy to reach by metro.

Where to stay in the Termini / Esquilino district

Luxury Hotel: Anantara Palazzo Naiadi – A five-star hotel set in a stunning white-marble palace overlooking Piazza della Repubblica. Amenities include a spa with a range of soothing treatments and a panoramic rooftop terrace with seasonal pool.
Midrange Hotel: Bettoja Hotel Mediterraneo – A beautiful hotel occupying a listed Art Déco building close to Termini train station. Its location on Esquilino Hill ensures fantastic views from its rooftop terrace overlooking Rome.
Budget Hotel: The Beehive – A friendly hostel is a short walk (five minutes) from the station, with both dormitory rooms and private rooms and a lovely courtyard garden where the hosts usually throw events, from aperitivo nights to family-style dinners.

Apartments near the Termini Station

Want to stay in an apartment? Browse the best apartments and B&Bs near Termini station – click here to check availability and book your perfect stay.

Click here for my complete guide to the best hotels near Termini Station

Testaccio District: Home of authentic Roman cuisine

The best area to stay in Rome for foodies in search of Rome’s culinary roots

Just outside the Rome historic center, Testaccio is one of Rome’s most interesting neighborhoods. It served as the city’s slaughterhouse up until the 1970s and that’s where some of Rome’s traditional recipes like trippa and coda vaccinara have their roots.

These days, ‘the slaughterhouse’ is used for exhibitions and cultural events and Testaccio is still the go-to place for authentic Roman cuisine. The area is filled with traditional eateries and the Testaccio Market is a must for foodies who want to find out more about the local food culture. Also here is Eataly, which stretches over four floors and is the 2nd largest gastronomic center on the planet. Only Eataly World in Bologna, the new theme park in Bologna is bigger.

Testaccio is one of the best places to stay in Rome for a taste of authentic local life. It’s also within stone’s throw is the Roman Era Pyramid of Cestius, built as a tomb for Gaius Cestius, a member of the Epulones religious corporation. Testaccio is generally more affordable and the Colosseum is only a couple of metro stops away.

Where to stay in Testaccio

Luxury Hotel: San Anselmo – A 19th-century villa with a lush garden perfectly located on the Aventine Hill, only steps from the famous keyhole through which you can see Saint Peter’s Dome.
Midrange Hotel: Hotel Abitart – A design boutique hotel that celebrates contemporary art, close to Eataly and the Ostiense metro station. Rooms are decked out in bright colours and there are a number of themed suites.
Budget: B&B A Casa di Barbara – A friendly accommodation near the Gasometer, Rome’s industrial landmark. The area is full of trendy bars and restaurants, but there’s a fully equipped shared kitchen if you prefer to dine in.

Apartments in Testaccio

Want to stay in an apartment? Browse the best apartments and B&Bs in Testaccio – click here to check availability and book your perfect stay.

Allora, Eccoci qua! (So, there we have it!) My complete guide to the best areas to stay in Rome. Do you have any questions? Let me know in the comments below.

Don’t miss my guide to unique things to do in Rome and watch my video guide.

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