best neighbourhoods to stay in Rome

the best neighbourhoods to visit in Rome (and why)

Rome isn’t short on iconic sights – but unless you fancy trekking across the city in gladiator sandals, you’ll want to stay close to the action. The big question: where?

Whether you're here to eat your bodyweight in pasta, walk through history, or just crash somewhere stylish after a long day, we’ve picked the best neighbourhoods to stay in Rome. Consider this your cheat sheet to the top rome neighbourhoods worth unpacking for.

Trastevere - charm and cobblestones

If you're after the kind of Rome that lives in your head (think cobbled streets, ivy-covered buildings and piazzas buzzing with street performers), the Trastevere neighbourhood is your match. It's one of the best neighbourhoods to stay in Rome, especially for first-timers who want the postcard-perfect vibe and easy access to the main sights.

Spend your days getting lost in the alleyways, your evenings hopping between local wine bars, and your nights sleeping like a Roman just across the river at citizenM Rome Isola Tiberina hotel, close enough to soak it all up, but just far enough for some peace and quiet.

Still wondering what to do in Trastevere Rome? Easy: eat, wander, sip, repeat. And if you're wondering, is Trastevere Rome safe? Absolutely! Just keep the usual city smarts switched on.

Centro Storico - Rome’s beating heart

This is the Rome of postcards and bucket lists. The Centro Storico is packed with ancient ruins, world-famous piazzas, and more jaw-dropping monuments than you can tick off in a weekend. It’s easily one of the best areas to stay in Rome for a first-time visit, especially if you want to roll out of bed and straight into sightseeing mode.

Everything’s walkable here. The Pantheon? Round the corner. Piazza Navona? Practically your backyard. Trevi Fountain? You’ll hear it before you see it. The energy is high and the crowds are part of the package – think tourist central with a walk-everywhere vibe. And right outside the neighborhood you'll find our citizenM Rome Isola Tiberina hotel, a short 13 min walk to the pantheon and right on the edge of all the action.

Compared to Trastevere’s quieter charm, Centro Storico is full-on – but if you want to be in the thick of it, this historic neighbourhood in Rome is where the magic happens.

Monti - vintage finds and local cool

Tucked between Termini station and the Colosseum, Monti is one of the coolest neighbourhoods in Rome. Think artsy street corners, indie boutiques and the kind of hip cafes that serve coffee with attitude. It’s a local favourite with just enough edge to keep things interesting. If you're a creative, a solo traveller or the kind of city-hopper who likes their base with a bit of flair, this is your spot. Monti blends old-school charm with modern cool – Roman ruins one minute, a vintage market or natural wine bar the next.

Of all the cool neighbourhoods in Rome, Monti might just be the sweet spot: walkable, photogenic and full of surprises. Definitely one of the best neighbourhoods in Rome to stay if you want a slice of local life without missing out on the big stuff.

Prati – posh, polished, and close to the pope

If you're wondering where to stay near the Vatican in Rome, Prati is your answer. Just a short stroll from St Peter’s Basilica, this elegant neighbourhood is known for its wide boulevards, sleek shopping streets and peaceful, residential feel.

Prati is perfect for those who want a quieter stay away from the buzzier parts of town – but still close enough to the action. It’s a favourite among locals who love its tidy charm, leafy streets and serious gelato game.

Is Prati Rome safe? Absolutely. It’s one of the city’s more refined spots, with a slower pace that suits families, couples, or anyone who’d rather sip espresso than dodge crowds. Of all the Rome neighbourhoods, Prati might just be the calm in the (beautiful) chaos.

Pigneto – Rome’s artsy rebel

Looking for something a little less Colosseum, a little more counterculture? Say hello to Pigneto – one of the coolest neighbourhoods in Rome and a favourite hangout for the city’s artists, musicians and night owls.

Covered in street art and packed with dive bars, indie cinemas and alternative cafés, Pigneto shows off a totally different side of Rome. It’s gritty in places, but full of character – and easily one of the best non-touristy neighbourhoods Rome has to offer.

Young travellers, creatives and nightlife lovers will feel right at home here. Pigneto isn’t polished, but that’s the point – it’s Rome with a rebellious streak (and a killer Negroni).

Testaccio – for the foodies

Less touristy than Trastevere, but just as tasty – welcome to Testaccio, the under-the-radar gem every food-lover should know about. This neighbourhood is all about proper Roman cooking, minus the queues and selfie sticks. From traditional trattorias serving up slow-cooked oxtail and carbonara the locals actually eat, to the legendary Testaccio market packed with street food and fresh produce – it’s no wonder this area ranks high among the best areas in Rome for food.

Testaccio has a proper local feel with just the right amount of grit and charm. If you're hungry for the real deal, this is one of the top Rome neighbourhoods for foodies. Come for the pasta, stay for the vibe – and maybe a bottle (or two) of local wine.

bonus picks: for the indecisive

best for couples One of the quietest neighbourhoods in Rome, Aventine Hill is all leafy streets, romantic viewpoints and a serious sense of calm. Ideal for lovebirds, it’s the best area to stay in Rome for couples who want peace, privacy and a peek through the famous keyhole.

best for nightlife Student-packed, slightly scruffy, and full of spirit – San Lorenzo is Rome’s answer to Berlin cool. Cheap drinks, buzzing nightlife and a laid-back vibe make it the best area to stay in Rome for nightlife (especially if you’re not into the mainstream party scene).

best for city-centre buzz Campo de’ Fiori flips from a lively market square by day to a wine-soaked social hub by night. If you want to be in the heart of it all – sights, snacks, and spritzes – this is your spot. Just don’t forget your earplugs.

best for solo travellers Tucked away in one of Rome’s most historic corners, the Roman Jewish Quarter is packed with culture, ancient ruins and seriously good food. It’s small, welcoming, and ideal for solo travellers who want an authentic local vibe without straying far from the action.

Still curious about Rome and everything it's got to offer? Check out our Rome city guide, full of easy tips to help you roam like a local.

where to stay in Rome

Looking for the perfect spot to crash in Rome? citizenM Rome Isola Tiberina puts you right where the action is – without the noise or hassle. You’re a short stroll from Trastevere’s buzzing piazzas, Centro Storico’s ancient icons, and Monti’s cool little shops. All the best bits of Rome, all walkable.

And the hotel? Stylish, smart, and made for modern travellers (like you). King-size beds, mood lighting, and speedy check-in mean more time exploring, less time waiting. And to top it all of? We've got a cozy and stylish rooftop bar with self-serve aperol spritz so you can relax above the city after a day of exploring.

Ready to roam around Rome?

check out our citizenM Rome hotel