(4% Off) Where to Stay in Rome → 6 Areas & Hotels

Wondering where to stay in Rome? Well, I lived in the city for 2 years, so I’ve got lots of tips for you, including the 6 best areas in town and the most amazing hotels you’ll ever find!

Centro Storico is by far the best place to stay in Rome, as it’s home to the city’s main attractions! That’s just for starters, though! I’ll cover 5 more areas and give you the insider’s scoop for each place! 

On top of that you are going to find hotels for each of those areas handpicked by me – all have amazing reviews and are sorted by price so you can choose your ideal accommodation and book it in minutes. 

Everything in this town books out months in advance, so definitely secure your room early, or you might miss it or pay much more!

Quick Picks for Your Stay

Don’t have the time to read the whole post? Then check out this short list with the best hotels, all set in Centro Storico:

• Best luxury hotel – Trevi Ab Aeterno
• Best mid-range hotel – Navona Gallery & Garden Suites
• Best budget hotel – Al Centro di Roma

Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:

Which area should you choose?

First of all, here is a map of all the areas I’m recommending so you can visualize them:

Rome has plenty of different areas and districts that you can choose from, but below, you’ll find my list of personalized recommendations depending on your interests and itinerary:

1. Where to stay in Rome for first time – Centro Storico
2. Best area for nightlife – Trastevere
3. Best place to stay for shopping – Spanish Steps
4. Where to stay near Vatican – Prati
5. Where to stay near the Colosseum – Monti
6. Best area to stay on budget – Esquilino (Termini Station)

1. Centro Storico – best place for first-time visitors

Honestly, Centro Storico (Historical Center) is a personal favorite of mine!

One of the main reasons is that it’s so close to all those epic city attractions like Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, and Trevi Fountain!

So many instagrammable spots, and since I lived there, I got to know some hidden gems, which I’ve included in this post with 6 secret spots that only locals know!

Who’s already picturing themselves on a rooftop bar (Trevi Rooftop Bar is a great one) sipping on some Italian wine or on a terrace drinking espresso? I bet everyone! 

By the way, if you’re looking for some fab places to eat in town, I’ve made a list of the top ones in this post with the best restaurants in Rome!

Although staying in central Rome is such a thrill (especially for first-time visitors), it can get a bit pricey, which is why I’d recommend booking your hotels here in advance!

Luxury (€300 and up)

• Trevi Ab Aeterno – this hotel is so close to Trevi Fountain that you could probably throw your coin in right from the window! It also has a stunning design and rooms with wood-beamed ceilings.
• Hotel Raphael – this is a 5-star hotel in Rome that is pure luxury. Set near Piazza Navona the hotel has a rooftop terrace where you can have drinks at sunset and enjoy the view and rooms with marble bathrooms!

Mid-range (from €150 to €300)

• Navona Gallery & Garden Suites – one of the best central hotels set in a beautiful garden with apartment-style suites! The hotel offers a daily breakfast and a shared terrace where you can relax.
• The Vista Rooms & Terrace – set in one of the best neighborhoods, just a 5-minute walk away from Piazza Navona, this chic hotel offers stylish rooms and a rooftop terrace with breathtaking views!

Budget (up to €150)

• Al centro di Roma – affordable but oh so nice! Set in the Historic Center, this hotel features rooms with a seating area, a free airport shuttle, and a daily breakfast!
• Holidays Suites Navona – want to save money? Then book a room at this budget hotel in Rome with spacious rooms with a flat-screen Tv and a small kitchen!

2. Trastevere – where to stay in Rome for nightlife

Set on the west bank of the Tiber River, this neighborhood is bohemian and gives off a vibrant and lively feel.

Keep in mind that Trastevere is connected to the rest of the city by tram (there’s no metro stop in this area). But fear not, as there are many bus stations and you’re just a 30-minute walk from the main attractions. 

Everyone loves this area as it’s so authentic! Its charming cobbled streets and piazzas look straight out of movies like Roman Holiday, and you’ll find countless boutique shops and cafes at every corner! 

Plus, if you’re into nightlife, this is the perfect place for you. There are tons of bars and restaurants nearby filled with young adults!

Luxury (€260 and up)

• UnaHotels Trastevere Roma – elegant, fancy, and oh so cool! This accommodation not only has all the amenities you need, but it also features some incredible views and a restaurant on-site. Their rooms are bright and come with a flat-screen TV and large windows.
• Villa Matissa – although set right in the middle of Trastevere, this home gives you all the peace and quiet as if you were staying on a lonely Italian street and it has a garden and a terrace for you to enjoy.

Mid-range (from €150 to €260)

• Orti 14 – an oasis of peace and relaxation, Horti 14 is modern and offers a delicious breakfast and a terrace overlooking the lush garden!
• Donna Camilla Savelli – designed by Baroque architect Borromini, this beautiful antique hotel dates back to the 17th century and features an inner garden with a private patio, elegant rooms, and a terrace with unforgettable views of the Eternal City.

Budget (up to €150)

• Hotel Trastevere – looking to save money and leave more for sightseeing? Then have a look at this hotel, which is housed in a historic building and features rooms with views of St. Cosimato Church and a complimentary breakfast.
• Trastevere’s Friends – this bed and breakfast has spacious rooms and a shared lounge. There’s also breakfast every morning with a wide variety of options.

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3. Near the Spanish Steps – for shopping lovers

The area around the Spanish Steps, close to the Trevi fountain and Villa Borghese, is perfect if you are looking for luxury accommodation, fine dining restaurants, and the best shopping streets in the world. 

Via dei Condotti or Via del Corso are just packed with high-end stores! 

The Spanish Steps start in Piazza di Spagna and go up to Piazza Trinità dei Monti. There are lots of great hotels in this area and plenty to do, from exploring Pincio Hill to people-watching in Piazza di Spagna.

But you’ll probably have the best time, just exploring the streets and admiring the neoclassical buildings! One stunning spot you shouldn’t miss is Galleria Borghese, which is set in Villa Borghese Park. And don’t worry, I’ve got a post for you on how to avoid the lines there, too (since it’s one of the most visited museums in town!

Luxury (€250 and up)

• Hotel Eden – if you’re looking to stay somewhere luxurious and lavish, this is the place! The hotel boasts rooms with classic Italian furnishings, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and a rooftop terrace with views over ancient Rome!
• Hassler Roma – this place is right at the top of the Spanish Steps, so you can’t do much better in terms of location. I love its beautiful décor and wellness center that includes a sauna and a Turkish bath.

Mid-range (from €150 to €250)

• Charme & Chic – housed in a historic building, this hotel offers a beautiful terrace view and comfy rooms that are beautifully decorated. You’ll also be super close to the city center – what more can you wish for?
• Hotel Manfredi Suite In Rome – this is a great boutique accommodation set just a short walk away from the Spanish Steps! It offers a buffet-style breakfast every morning, and there is also a bar if you need a place for a quiet evening drink.

Budget (up to €150)

• Hotel Piazza Di Spagna – art is everywhere in Rome, especially in its hotels! This place near the Spanish Steps has such beautiful rooms with painted walls and a rooftop terrace. The family-run accommodation also comes with a bar and laundry facilities.
• Rhona’s Rooms – you’re right in the center of the action here, just a quick walk to the Spanish Steps! The guesthouse is so beautiful, and it features comfortable rooms with wooden-beamed ceilings!

4. Prati – where to stay in Rome near the Vatican

Prati is a Rome district with the river on one side and the Vatican on the other. It’s pretty big, so make sure you choose accommodation within walking distance of the Vatican and, ideally, a metro stop as well. 

The last time I went to Rome, I stayed in Prati, which was pretty convenient! It is about a 20 min metro ride to anywhere in the city center, so, not so bad! Known for big boulevards and sophisticated shopping streets, Prati is not as touristy as other areas, so it’s perfect if you’re looking for quietness and a more residential feel.

Please note that Prati can be a bit far from all the rest of the attractions in Rome, but it is great for those visiting the Vatican and it is generally a bit cheaper than the historical center.

By the way, make sure to check out my posts on St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums for cool tricks on how to skip the line to both attractions!

Luxury (€300 and up)

• Cesare ai Cavalieri Suites – you’re going to love this super modern hotel that’s set near the Vatican City! Their private rooms are simple, yet super chic, and all come with a flat-screen TV and a seating area. After a day of exploring the town, you can relax in the hotel’s hot tub!
• Colonna Luxury Suites – a cozy place near the Vatican City that has rooms with modern furnishings! It’s also a great option for anyone traveling with children as they offer a babysitting service if you’d like to have a night out without the kids!

Mid-range (from €150 to €300)

• CdR Guest House – feel at home in this fab guesthouse that has rooms with a lot of space and a small kitchen. The hotel is located a short walk away from Saint Angelo Castle and is perfectly situated for you to hit all the sights nearby.
• Vatication B&B – a bed and breakfast just a 10-minute walk from the Vatican Museums! The comfortable rooms also include air conditioning, a TV, and Wi-Fi.

Budget (up to €150)

• A Peace Of Rome – perfect for budget travelers, this hotel has elegant and modern furnishings and comfortable rooms. The location is also great, just a 7-minute walk to the Vatican Museum!
• Domus Terenzio – here’s a stylish hotel set a 10-minute walk from St. Peter’s Square in Rome! The accommodation offers family rooms, a free breakfast and an amazing garden. All their spacious rooms come with a private bathroom and some even have a balcony!

5. Monti – where to stay in Rome near the Colosseum

Want to wake up to a view of the famous Roman Colosseum and feel like you’ve time-traveled to ancient Rome? Then Monti is the area for you!

We actually have a whole post with the best hotels in Rome near the Colosseum if you want to be super close to it!

This cool neighborhood has a bohemian flair and is known for its trendy bars! Yep, it’s at night that Monti becomes alive and filled with people, especially in spots like Blackmarket Hall, a cozy bar!

It’s also close to almost all major attractions like the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and Piazza Venezia.

Another great thing about Monti is that it’s just a 15-minute walk from Termini Station or one stop away on the Line B metro!

Luxury (€250 and up)

• The Inn At The Roman Forum – enjoy the Colosseum views from the rooftop bar of this fabulous hotel, which offers stylish apartments, a hot tub, and a rich buffet breakfast.
• B&B Colosseo Panoramic Rooms – wake up to a sight of the Colosseum while staying in the rooms of this hotel, which offers a delicious (free) breakfast and has a bar.

Mid-range (from €150 to €250)

• Kosmo Rome – sleep like a baby in the comfortable rooms of this hotel that come with a flat-screen TV, modern furnishings, and a minibar.
• Condominio Monti Boutique – you’re going to love this charming boutique hotel and its gorgeous furnishings! The accommodation comes with 2 restaurants on-site and a roof garden overlooking the Colosseum.

Budget (up to €150)

• Nazionale 51 Group – this is a great hotel with modern and elegant air-conditioned rooms featuring designer furniture, a coffee machine, and a city view!
• Relais de l’Opera – housed in a 19th-century building, this recently renovated hotel offers a daily breakfast in the comfort of your room, with traditional local products, for a full Italian experience!

6. Esquilino (Termini Station) – where to stay on a budget

Whether you’re coming to Rome by plane or train, most people pass through Termini Station!

 It’s a very convenient area to stay in, as 2 metro lines connect there, and there are also tons of other public transportation options. From here, you can easily reach the Trevi Fountain and the Colosseum in 15 to 20 min. 

This area is also great if you’re planning to visit other towns near Rome or if you’re staying here only for a short time. 

One downside is that it’s not the cleanest area of the city, but you can find some great cheap hotels in the area and lots of fab restaurants like Osteria La Sol Fa.

Plus, you can always explore nearby areas like Pigneto (map), a former working-class district with beautiful streets, trendy cafes and bars, and cute pizzerias!

Luxury (€200 and up)

• The St. Regis Rome – this hotel was the first deluxe accommodation in Rome, and it continues to be one of the top luxury hotels in the city. The rooms are beautiful, and you’ll also find a spa center and a restaurant!
• Hotel Diocleziano – an amazing place that’s directly opposite Termini Station! It has a free gym with a sauna that you can use, so you don’t have to miss your workout just because you’re on vacation!

 Mid-range (from €100 to €200)

• Gemme Di Roma Accommodation – set just a short walk from the train station, this hotel has rooms that are colorfully decorated and comfortable, and it also offers a free breakfast.
• The Guardian – a gorgeous hotel in a historical building that boasts modern rooms with access to a sweet and savory continental breakfast every morning!

Budget (up to €100)

• La Casa Di Amy – a beautiful hotel with all the comforts, located near Termini Station that features stone walls from the nineteenth century, parquet floors, and a delicious breakfast!
• Velvet Rooms – perfect for budget travelers, this hotel is super cozy and it comes with modern rooms that have a private bathroom and a flat-screen TV.

👑 Luxury price:	€300
💵 Mid-range:	€200
🛏️ Budget:	€100
📍 Best neighborhood:	Centro Storico
🛎️ Best luxury hotel:	Trevi Ab Aeterno
💵 Mid-range hotel:	Navona Gallery & Garden Suites
👛 Best budget hotel:	Al Centro di Roma

BONUS 1: Rome hotels in stunning, lesser-known areas

Looking for off-the-beaten-track areas to stay in Rome? You can stay in either of these 2 places for a more local experience and avoid all the touristy crowds of Rome!

1. Testaccio – best place to stay in Rome for foodies

This authentic (less-touristy) neighborhood is located southwest of the Colosseum, near the Piramide metro stop, and is known as the birthplace of Roman cuisine! 

You’ll really get a taste of the local life and spot at every corner old ladies on their terraces and elderly gentlemen reading the newspaper on a piazza bench. Everything screams Italy here!

Luxury (€200 and up):

• Hotel Santa Prisca – small, chic, and cozy! Set in a quiet area, this hotel features rooms with a TV and a daily breakfast!
• Seven Suites – can’t say no to a hotel with modern rooms and an elegant design! This place offers that, plus a fab terrace!

Mid-range (€130 – €200):

• Tiber Rooms Testaccio – an amazing guesthouse that offers great city views and rooms with a flat-screen TV.
• Le Tre Sorelle a Testaccio – enjoy coffee with a view at this hotel that comes with spacious rooms and a kitchen.

Budget (up to €130):

• Roma suite Piramide – looking for something affordable? Then check out this hotel, which offers rooms with balconies and an airport shuttle.
• The Other’s Home – this Airbnb has everything you need for a comfortable stay! It can accommodate up to 2 people and there’s a gorgeous little balcony where you can enjoy your morning coffee!

2. Near the Jewish Ghetto – for a different cultural experience

Located just south of the historic center, between the Tiber River and Campo de’ Fiori, you’ll find The Jewish Ghetto, the oldest in Europe!

This vibrant neighborhood has several boutiques, restaurants, pastry shops, and important buildings like the city’s Synagogue and the Jewish Museum of Rome.

Luxury (€200 and up):

• Lea Luxury Rooms – a great place in the Jewish Quarter that offers a free airport shuttle and beautifully decorated rooms!
• Chapter Roma – this gorgeous 19th-century building has such stylish rooms and a roof terrace!

Mid-range (€130 – €200):

• BB Il Re Alla Reginella – you’ll love this cozy guest house that has family rooms and a terrace.
• Xenia Guest House – relax in the modern rooms of this guest house that offers breakfast after a day of exploring!

Budget (up to €130):

• Guest House Al Conservatorio – here’s a great budget place that provides a free breakfast and family rooms.
• Tula Inn – clean, safe and so comfy! This place is pet-friendly and it has rooms with a private bathroom.

BONUS 2: Where NOT to stay in Rome

So I’ve told you about all the best places to stay, but here are some areas to avoid staying:

• Colosseo Quadrato, Villa Ada, Villa Doria Pamphili, Cinecitta: These are all just a bit too far outside the city center. There’s no convenient transportation unless you rent a car or motorbike.
• Near Vittorio Emmanuele: This area is close to Termini Station. Honestly, it’s just not my favorite area. I used to go there for my Italian lessons, and I always had to hold my breath because of the smell of urine.

BONUS 3: The best family hotels in Rome

Heading to Rome with the whole family? Then, you’ll need some kid-friendly hotels that offer maximum comfort! 

Luxury (€250 and up):

• Hotel Manfredi Suite In Rome – located just around the corner from the Spanish Steps, this hotel offers a yummy breakfast that will give the whole family energy to visit Rome’s attractions!
• Rome Plaza Suites – this hotel offers some amazing family rooms, equipped with all necessary facilities and a great location near Piazza di Spagna.

Mid-range (€150 – €250):

• Le Terrazze del Duca San Pietro – the whole family will feel at home in this apartment in Prati that has a balcony and a TV for those fun movie nights!
• Ripetta 25 – this place in central Rome is perfect for families as it has a small kitchen, some toys, and a balcony.

Budget (up to €150):

• Domus Australia – housed in a former monastery near the train station, this hotel comes with free breakfast and spacious suites!
• The Cross Hotel – another great spot near the train station that offers a complimentary breakfast and a garden terrace where you can relax with the little ones!

FAQs about where to stay in Rome

Conclusion

Rome is my favorite city in the world, and considering I spent my student years there, it has a very special place in my heart!

Before we wrap it up, we should do a quick recap! But not before I tell you to book your hotels in advance! Rome is one of the most visited cities in the world, and hotels sell out fast!

The post has all the information you need on where to stay in Rome! You have all the best neighborhoods, hotels, and 3 bonuses with more hotels in lesser known areas, areas to avoid in Rome, and the top family hotels.

I know there are many hotels, so if you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed, here are my top 2 favorite ones as a reference:

• Trevi Ab Aeterno – a gorgeous hotel in the city center that has rooms with classic Italian furnishings and a Trevi Fountain views
• Navona Gallery & Garden Suites – set near Piazza Navona, this hotel features apartments with a terrace and a garden!

Which area did you decide on in the end and why? Let me know in the comments!

Happy exploring, 

Yulia

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