Rome Hotels

Best places to stay in Rome

Rome is a sprawling city, and your accommodation options range from quiet residential backstreets to modern high-rise towers and centuries-old inns nestled among ancient ruins. In the south, Ostiense and Garbatella are trendy and youthful, while Testaccio and Trastevere are pretty and offer great nightlife. Prati lies to the west of the city centre and gives easy access to the myriad treasures of the Vatican City, while to the east, edgy and gentrifying Pigneto is often described as Rome’s coolest neighbourhood. Up north, Quartiere Flaminio is home to modern masterpieces like the Olympic Stadium and the must-visit MAXXI Museum, which showcases contemporary art.

Where to stay to be near the popular attractions

For those heading to Rome with the aim of ticking off the big-name attractions, a hotel near the centre of the city is your best bet. Monti is super-central yet charmingly laidback, offering bohemian boutiques and gourmet street food just steps from the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. West of here, stay near Piazza Navona to marvel at the square’s dazzling fountain – you’ll also be within sauntering distance of the awe-inspiring Pantheon and the popular market held at Campo de Fiori. If your visit is all about the Vatican, consider a stay in neighbouring Prati to be a stone’s throw from the “border”.

Where to stay with your family in Rome

Families looking for a Rome hotel will love the area towards the northern end of Via del Corso, around Piazza di Spagna and Piazza del Popolo. You’ll be right near the Spanish Steps and close enough to walk to attractions like the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon, but you also have the vast green space of Villa Borghese next door. The gardens are home to several playgrounds as well as the Bioparco di Roma, where kids can get up close and personal with giraffes, rhinos, tigers and more. Hotel Valadier is a classy 4-star affair with triples and family rooms available.

Where to find cheap hotels in Rome

There’s no denying that Rome is a pricey city when it comes to accommodation, but there are still some bargains to be found. The area around Termini Station has plenty of options and is particularly handy if you’re travelling by train, as this is the city’s biggest rail hub. Hotel Tempio di Pallade is a 3-star hotel with amenities including a breakfast room, free wifi and free luggage storage, with double rooms available for under £100. If you prefer the personal touch of a guest house, Veneto Suite Rome has very reasonably priced rooms with room service breakfast included.

Where to stay as a solo traveller

Teeming with visitors from all over the world and packed with homely restaurants and welcoming bars, Trastevere is the perfect place for a solo traveller in Rome. Hostel Trastevere ticks all the boxes, offering both private and dorm rooms, each with its own bathroom. There’s also the all-important communal lounge and garden to hang out and meet fellow travellers. If you’re all about having the main attractions on your doorstep, check out Ostello Bello Roma, which has amazing amenities like a 24/7 bar with free tea and coffee, plus a BBQ terrace and loads of games. Best of all, you’re just 10 minutes on foot from the Colosseum.

Essential tips for a perfect stay in Rome

When staying in hotels in Rome, here are some essential tips to enhance your experience and make your stay smoother:

• Explore with Local Guides: To truly uncover the layers of Rome's rich history and culture, consider guided tours. The Eternal City is dense with stories best shared by locals who know its secrets.

• Dining Like a Local: To get a real taste of Roman cuisine, venture away from the tourist hubs. Look for osterias or restaurants in neighbourhoods like Trastevere, where locals dine. The food here is not only more authentic but often better priced and of higher quality than what you'll find near major attractions.

• Managing Crowds: Rome attracts visitors year-round, but for a more pleasant experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons—spring and autumn. Attractions are less crowded, and the weather is more comfortable. Visiting popular sites early in the morning or just before they close can also help you avoid the masses.

• Staying Safe: While Rome is generally safe, like any major city, it has areas more prone to petty crimes such as pickpocketing. Be vigilant in crowded places and tourist hotspots. Keeping your belongings secure and being cautious with street vendors can help you stay safe.

• Dress Code for Churches: When planning to visit Rome's many churches, remember to dress modestly. Shoulders and knees should be covered to respect the sacred sites' dress codes. Carrying a scarf or shawl can be a practical solution for quickly adapting to these requirements.

• Enjoying Gelato: In Rome, indulging in gelato is a must, regardless of the time of day. Gelaterias change their flavours seasonally, offering a delightful variety of choices that you can enjoy anytime.

These tips can significantly enhance your Roman holiday, offering a smoother, more authentic experience while staying in the city. Remember, Rome is not just a destination but an experience, rich in history, culture, and culinary delights waiting to be discovered.

The 10 must-sees of Rome

• Colosseum and Roman Forum: Perhaps Rome’s best-known monument, and the evocative ruins of the neighbouring Forum are no less impressive.

• Pantheon: This former Roman temple boasts the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome.

• St Peter’s Basilica: The largest church in the world is an incredibly ornate Renaissance jewel.

• Vatican Museums: An immense collection of artistic masterpieces including the legendary Sistine Chapel.

• Trevi Fountain: This impossibly romantic fountain was recently restored to its former glory.

• Piazza di Spagna/Spanish Steps: A monumental staircase leads up from the square with its beautiful fountain.

• Villa Borghese and Borghese Gallery: A sprawling garden home to a sensational gallery of art and sculpture.

• Pyramid of Cestius: A lesser-known Roman gem, this glistening monument dates back to 12 BC.

• Circus Maximus: This enormous former chariot racing track offers an immersive VR experience.

• Largo di Torre Argentina: Home to several ruined temples, this sunken square is where Julius Caesar met his end.

Party and nightlife in Rome

For those eager to experience the vibrant nightlife during their stay in Rome, the Eternal City offers a diverse array of options that cater to every taste. From hidden speakeasies to bustling nightclubs and intimate concert venues, here's your guide to making the most of Rome's night scene:

Night clubs in Rome

Rome is home to several standout nightclubs where locals and tourists alike dance the night away. Rashomon Club is renowned for hosting big names in the electronic music scene, offering a mix of techno and house beats. For a more eclectic night out, Lanificio 159, set in a former wool mill, features a range of music and events, including live gigs and club nights.

Concert halls

For live music enthusiasts, Alcazar Live in Trastevere transforms from an old cinema to a lively hub for concerts, exhibitions, and more, showcasing everything from jazz bands to funk and indie music. Another gem, MONK Roma, is a versatile venue offering everything from jazz and author music to experimental electronic sounds, making it a family-friendly choice with its inclusive vibe and variety of workshops and events.

Secret party spots

For those in search of a unique night out, Rome doesn't disappoint. Jerry Thomas Speakeasy, hidden behind an unassuming door in the Ponte neighbourhood, requires a secret code for entry, taking you back to the Prohibition era with its vintage decor and innovative cocktails.

Best neighbourhoods for going out

• Trastevere is the heart of bohemian Rome, bustling with bars and restaurants that offer a quality aperitif and a lively atmosphere, popular among both locals and internationals.

• Monte, Testaccio, and Ostiense areas are where Romans flock for late-night partying, known for hosting the trendiest clubs.

• For a less touristy experience, Pigneto is an up-and-coming neighbourhood known for its cool bars and alternative vibe.

Rome's nightlife truly has something for everyone, from quiet evenings sipping wine in historic squares to energetic nights dancing until dawn. Whether you're looking to mingle with the locals, enjoy live music, or explore Rome's club scene, these recommendations will ensure your nights are as unforgettable as your days exploring the city.

Going Shopping in Rome

Rome offers a shopping experience as diverse as its history, with areas catering to every style and budget.

• Trendy Shopping Area: Monti is your go-to for unique finds, boasting cobbled streets lined with vintage shops and boutiques. It's known for its hip vibe and is a great place to discover independent clothing brands and interior decor shops.

• Cheap Shopping Area: Via del Corso is Rome's central high street, offering a mix of international chains like Zara and H&M, alongside smaller Italian brands and boutiques. It's a bustling area, especially on weekends, making mid-week visits ideal for a more relaxed shopping experience.

• Craft Shops: For those seeking artisanal and handmade items, Via Urbana and Via del Boschetto in the Monti district are filled with shops offering everything from vintage sunglasses to unique bags and accessories.

Markets in Rome

• Traditional Markets: Campo de’ Fiori is a historic market known for its lively atmosphere and wide range of fresh produce, spices, and flowers, capturing the essence of traditional Roman life.

• Local Weekly Farmers Markets: Various neighbourhoods host weekly markets, such as the Mercato di Campagna Amica del Circo Massimo, offering fresh, local produce directly from farmers.

• Trendy Markets: Mercato Monti, also in the Monti district, is a weekend market that attracts vintage lovers and those looking for unique clothing and accessories.

• Flea Markets: Porta Portese is Rome’s largest flea market, held every Sunday. Here, you can find everything from antiques and vintage clothes to books and vinyl records.

Where to Buy Holiday Souvenirs

For unique Rome souvenirs, consider visiting Via dei Coronari for antique dealers and design shops. Close to Piazza Navona, this street is perfect for finding a special piece of jewellery or a little antique Roman bust to take home.

Shopping Malls

For a more conventional shopping experience, Rome's department stores like La Rinascente and Coin offer a wide selection of brands. La Rinascente, located near the Trevi Fountain, not only offers luxury goods and fashion but also features a terrace with stunning city views. Termini Forum, located below Rome Termini station, is a great option for a variety of shopping needs under one roof, making it convenient for those short on time or looking for many options in one place.

Whether you're searching for high fashion, unique vintage finds, or local artisanal crafts, Rome's shopping scene has something to offer for every visitor.

Hotels with rooftop bars

Rome has one of the most captivating skylines of any city in the world, and Hotel Colosseum is the place to admire it. Looking out over the charming neighbourhood of Monti, the cosily furnished rooftop bar is a romantic spot serving cocktails as well as nibbles and snacks.

Hotels with gourmet restaurants

La Pergola at Rome Cavalieri is legendary: to this day, it’s the only restaurant in Rome to be awarded three Michelin stars. From the classically sophisticated décor to the jaw-dropping terrace view, Heinz Beck’s flagship eatery is a must. The 10-course tasting menu takes diners on a journey of sumptuous flavours that will live long in the memory.

Spa hotels

Rome is a bustling capital city, and after a hard day’s sightseeing, you might find yourself craving some relaxation. Dharma Style Hotel & Spa has an intimate spa that guests can book out for exclusive use as a couple, featuring a sauna, Turkish bath, hot tub and chromotherapy shower.

Exceptional hotels

Even in a city where ancient buildings lurk on every corner, Antico Albergo del Sole al Pantheon still stands out. The oldest hotel in Rome, it boasts an incredible location facing the Pantheon. Following a renovation in 2020, the 28 rooms now boast on-trend décor that respects the hotel’s history.

Luxury hotels

A short stroll from the Trevi Fountain, Singer Palace Hotel is the epitome of luxury with its stunning marble staircase, speakeasy-style cocktail bar and rooftop terrace with epic views. The rooms themselves feature beautiful parquet floors, while the veined marble of the bathrooms is a particular highlight.