The Best Area to Stay in Rome

You have booked your flight, but where is the best area to stay in Rome? Rome is a big place. The city centre is divided into smaller neighbourhoods that each has its own character. And even the locals don’t agree completely where one area starts and another finishes! So, a good starting point is to think about what you want to get out of your trip and what you are hoping to see. As well as consult this guide, brought to you by the OMNIA Vatican & Rome Pass team. Centro storico Think of Rome, and you probably picture the ancient centre: winding medieval streets, beautiful Baroque fountains, atmosphere and romance. Indeed, if you stay in this district, many of the main attractions (including the Pantheon and the Piazza Navona) are in walking distance. You can also stroll a little further to Campo de’ Fiori and the Ghetto, both particularly picturesque parts of this area - slightly quieter and further away from the big-ticket attractions. Being able to easily return to your hotel during the day to get changed or ‘re-charge’ is important, especially when the weather is very hot. So please note, the nearest metro station is around 20 minutes away and, because the area is so popular, it’s important to look carefully for a good deal on food or accommodation. Tridente and the Spanish steps Extending from the Piazza del Popolo, the area of Tridente is in the northern part of central Rome. With plenty of designer boutiques, chic hotels and luxury accommodation, this is one of the more exclusive parts of Rome to stay... and to shop. Many people come to visit the Piazza di Spagna just to sit on the famous Spanish steps and watch the world go by. The steps were built in the 1720s to connect the Piazza to the Trinità dei Monti church and have been a famous meeting point ever since. The Trevi fountain is also close by and legend has it that if you throw a coin into the fountain, you are sure to return to Rome in the future. Colosseum If you love history, archeology or dressing up, the area around the Colosseum is perfect for you. The most ancient part of the city, it’s also close to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. You’ll be walking in the footsteps of Romus and Remulus, the city’s founders - as well as Roman emperors (and lots of people in gladiator costumes). This neighbourhood is one of the busiest and, as you might guess, it can be quite noisy. It does however offer a great choice of accommodation. Termini Stazione Termini is a major transport hub, where railway, metro and most bus routes intersect. It’s super-convenient for early morning departures and hop-on hop-off bus tours, but not the most charming of Rome’s neighbourhoods. There are usually plenty of affordable hotel options here, but it’s too far from the main attractions to make a good base for exploring the city on foot. Prati Prati is perfect for visiting the sights of the Vatican, as it is just outside the enclave’s walls. A quieter area, away from the bustle of the main tourist thoroughfares, it is nevertheless well connected in terms of transport and its wide, tree-lined boulevards and fine eateries make for a pleasant stay. Since it’s not directly in the city centre, prices are often reasonable. Trastevere Trastevere could be considered the best area to stay in Rome – for people who enjoy nightlife. Located on the western river bank, it’s a working-class neighbourhood (up-and-coming), in easy walking distance of the Vatican and central attractions. You’ll find photo ops at the corner of pretty much every ivy-covered cobbled lane or tiny piazza. Trastevere is also known for its excellent restaurants, and good atmosphere that lasts well into the night. Regardless of where you decide to stay, bear in mind that Rome’s hotel prices fluctuate heavily. Booking well in advance and reading hotel reviews carefully are always a good idea in order to get value for money. Alternatively, why not rent an apartment and live like a local for a few days? With a bit of forethought you are sure to find the best area to stay in Rome - or rather, the best area for you. Wishing you a good trip!