Where To Roam in Rome
Red wine. Spaghetti. Romance.
These are some typical things that come to mind when thinking of Rome. One thing you might not normally think about, however:
Behind London, Rome is the largest municipality in Europe, stretching for about 496 square miles. To put that into perspective, New York is about 300 square miles.
That means there’s a whole lot of exploring to do.
And like any large city, the neighborhoods where you can stay are varied and quite different from one another.
Choosing which one is best suited for your needs is never easy, especially if it’s your first time in Rome. But whether you’re looking for options on a budget, or expecting royalty in a penthouse, this article will provide some of the best places to stay in Rome for any traveler.
San Lorenzo — Best Place To Stay For Night Life
The San Lorenzo area is an area full of college students, thanks to its proximity to the “Sapienza” — The University of Rome.
During the day, it is a popular area with a lively market and infamous Roman monuments. At night, it becomes the go-to destination for Roman nightlife and entertainment.
Born at the end of the 19th century as a district of workers and artisans, San Lorenzo has transformed over time. Now, the district is known as a meeting point for artists and students.
This area offers several affordable solutions, such Hotel Villa San Lorenzo. This property which runs less than $50 a night for very comfortable accommodations.
If you’re searching for a bed and breakfast, then look towards the Interno 2 Rome guesthouse. It’s a highly rated stay with spacious rooms and thoughtful hosts.
Ultimately, if you’re looking for a lively stay, with a balanced budget to match, then San Lorenzo offers one of the best places to stay in Rome.
Where To Stay:
Rione Monti — Best Place To Stay For Site Seeing
Rione Monti is one of the most touristy areas of Rome — and for good reason.
Here, you’ll find storied monuments, such as the Colosseum, the Domus Aurea, and wonderful Forums. In addition, there are tons of beautiful eateries to enjoy excellent food and artfully made cocktails.
If you’re on holiday in Rome, and you like lively neighborhoods, Rione Monti is one of the must-go places.
In this small piece of Rome, you can find an intensely varied amount of venues. From bakeries to beer gardens, from street food to bistro sandwiches, and from pastries to ice cream parlors, this area boasts an incredible mix of cultures and cuisines.
Best of all, Rione Monti offers selections with a variety of prices suitable for any budget.
Our top recommendation for this area is Palazzo Manfredi. This property is a charming, five-star hotel owned and operated by the hotel’s namesake, the Manfredi family.
Here, you’ll discover one of the most premier sights in all of Rome: a direct, line-eye view towards the Colosseum. You’re literally steps away from one of the world’s most storied masterpieces.
Not able to stay here?
No problem, the rooftop restaurant at Palazzo Manfredi is open to the public. Come for a cocktail and enjoy the Colosseum.
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Ostiense District — Best Place To Stay For Counter Culture
Almost every major city has an arts district. An area formerly occupied by warehouses and industry, but now reclaimed by art and imagination.
In Rome, this is the Ostiense district, an area mixing an industrial past with a newfound modernity.
One of the most important symbols for the identity of the area is the Gasomentro, a structure that was once used to store the city’s gas supply. It’s a large cylinder-like structure that conspicuously juts into the Roman skyline.
You’ll know you’re in the Ostiense district when you can see it.
Other interesting spots to visit include the magnificent Papal Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls, and the museum housed inside Rome’s first public power plant, the Giovanni Montemartini Thermoelectric Centre.
In this area there are numerous places to explore, all adapted from former industrial uses — which make the district fascinating and unique in its kind. While walking around, you’ll also find many murals and paintings, which cover entire buildings with imaginative and colorful displays.
The living transformation of the Ostiense district makes it one of the best places to stay in Rome.
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Coppede — Best Place To Stay For Obscurity
Although not officially a district, the Coppede quarter was named after the same architect who designed it and from which it takes its name, Gino Coppedè.
The “district” is made up of palaces and buildings arranged around the central core of Piazza Mincio. The main entrance is represented by a large arch that connects two buildings. Under this arch hangs a large, wrought iron chandelier.
This quarter is known for its unique mix of Mannerist, Medieval, Roman Baroque, and Ancient Greek influencers. It’s truly a rather obscure square, especially when contrasted against the rest of Rome.
To add even more intrigue, The Beatles made this square famous. After a concert in Rome, the band allegedly jumped fully clothed into the The Fountain of Frogs — an iconic water feature in the center of the square.
Beautiful Art Nouveau buildings are located throughout the area and it is definitely worth taking a walk. Stroll around, let yourself be fascinated by the whimsical facades, and enamored by the beauty of the unique square.
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Prati District — Best Place To Stay For Luxury
The Prati District, which is close to the Vatican, is also a strategic area for visiting the city thanks to its proximity to Castel Sant’Angelo. This neighborhood is known for being an upperclass enclave of Rome and feature architecture more reminiscent of Paris.
Prati’s proximity to The Vatican, high end shopping, and wonderful restaurants define it as one of Rome’s best kept secrets.
In addition, this area offers close proximity to the Olympic Stadium and the Foro Italic.
If you’re keen on staying near this area, then we highly recommend you visit Rome Cavalieri — a Waldorf Astoria hotel.
During your stay, take advantage of the numerous amenities offered. Such as the three pools (two outdoors, one indoors), Rome’s only 3-star Michelin restaurant, and a rooftop terrace. It is consistently rated one of the best places to stay in Rome.
The hotel itself is surrounded by a peaceful and lush Mediterranean parkland, leaving you to believe you’re removed from the city, while still being close to all the amenities.
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Centro Storico (Historic Center) — Best Place To Stay For Location
Strolling along the alleys of the Centro Storico (Historic Center) is pure magic.
This area is a tangled web of narrow streets, with some of the highest concentrations of monuments and works of art in the world. Within this center you’ll find famous attractions like the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, and so much more.
Centro Historico is the beating heart of Rome.
Walk through the narrow streets and alleys, with the famous cobblestones under your footsteps, to truly appreciate all the magnificence of the Eternal City.
With all of the amenities and storied monuments to offer — especially within such a small area — Centro Storico is arguably the best place to stay in Rome.
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Where Have You Stayed?
Let us know favorite places to stay when you’re in Rome.
