Where to stay in Rome: the best areas for your trip

In short: for a first visit, stay in the Centro Storico (Pantheon, Piazza Navona). Near the Colosseum, pick Monti; near the Vatican, Prati. As a couple, Trastevere; on a tight budget, the area around Termini. Rome is a walking city: a central place saves you precious time.

Understanding Rome in two minutes

The heart of Rome sits in a wide bend of the Tiber. On the left bank, the Centro Storico brings together the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Campo de’ Fiori and the Trevi Fountain; to the north lies the Spanish Steps area. To the east, Monti leads to the Colosseum and the Forum; further on is Termini station, the transport hub. On the right bank are Trastevere to the south and Prati, next to the Vatican, to the north.

The metro has only three lines and barely touches the historic centre: you mostly get around on foot, by bus or by tram.

The right area for your trip

First visit: the Centro Storico

Around the Pantheon, Piazza Navona and Campo de’ Fiori, the Trevi Fountain, the Forum and even the Vatican (about twenty minutes) are within walking distance. Lanes, squares and terraces: this is postcard Rome. Accommodation is often in old buildings, on upper floors, with small lifts.

Near the Colosseum: Monti

A former working-class area turned trendy, Monti has boutiques, wine bars and trattorias, between the Colosseum, the Forum and Cavour metro station. Ideal for couples and solo travellers.

As a couple: Trastevere

Cobbled lanes, ivy-covered façades, restaurants and bars: Trastevere is the most picturesque area, very lively at night. If you are a light sleeper, pick a street slightly away from the main squares.

With kids or for peace and quiet: Prati

Next to the Vatican, Prati is residential, elegant and quieter, with wide avenues and Ottaviano metro station. Handy for visiting St Peter’s and the Vatican Museums early in the morning.

Upscale and shopping: the Spanish Steps

Around the Spanish Steps and Via Condotti, the Tridente area is elegant and central, with upscale hotels and luxury boutiques.

On a budget: Termini and Esquilino

Around Termini station (trains, metro, airport shuttles), accommodation is more affordable and handy for a short stay or day trips. The immediate surroundings of the station are less pleasant at night; Esquilino, around Santa Maria Maggiore, is a good compromise.

Local life: Testaccio

A covered market, traditional Roman cooking and a real neighbourhood feel: Testaccio is less touristy and well connected by metro (Piramide).

Getting to Rome

From Fiumicino airport, the Leonardo Express train runs non-stop to Termini, and regional trains serve other stations in the city. From Ciampino, buses run to Termini. For timetables and fares, check the official websites. A private transfer takes you straight to your accommodation, handy if you arrive late.

Our booking tips

1. Don’t come by car: the historic centre is a limited traffic zone (ZTL) monitored by cameras, and parking is difficult.
2. Book early for spring, autumn and major religious holidays, which are in high demand.
3. Allow for the tourist tax, per person per night, often paid on site.
4. Check the floor and the lift: many places are in old buildings.
5. Check for air conditioning for a summer stay, when the heat is intense.

Once you’re there

To plan your days, see our guide Things to do in Rome. The areas, practical information and useful services are on our Rome page.