Where to stay in Rome
Rome is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations, so choosing the right area to stay in can make a big difference. Ideally, you should find accommodation close to the main attractions to save time travelling to and from them.
The capital of Italy is very large and its neighbourhoods are all different: some are perfect for reaching the Colosseum on foot, others are ideal for evening entertainment, and others still are perfect for those travelling on a budget or looking for quieter, more residential areas.
The good news is that Rome offers accommodation to suit all needs and budgets, ranging from budget apartments and youth hostels to boutique hotels and luxury hotels with stunning views of the city's monuments.
The best areas to stay in Rome
The Colosseum and the Imperial Forums
By staying near the Colosseum, you can experience the grandeur of ancient Rome. The Colosseum, Palatine Hill, the Roman Forum, the Circus Maximus and the Domus Aurea are all within walking distance.
The area has good transport links and offers a wide choice of authentic restaurants, but accommodation and food are more expensive than average, as it is a popular tourist destination. The Vatican is about an hour's walk from the Colosseum.
Accommodation in the Colosseum area
Monti
Monti is one of the most popular neighbourhoods for visitors to Rome who want to stay close to the Colosseum but away from the crowds of tourists.
This charming area boasts cobbled streets, small artisan shops, trendy cafés and traditional restaurants. In the evening, the atmosphere is lively yet relaxed, making it perfect for those who want to eat well, take a stroll and enjoy a drink without having to take public transport or a taxi.
The Monti neighbourhood has a distinctive artistic and vintage style: markets, record shops, fashion studios and art galleries make it one of the most typical districts of Rome.
Accommodation in the Monti area
Historic Centre
Staying in Rome's historic centre is the ideal choice for those who want a comfortable base from which to explore the city on foot. The main attractions, such as the Colosseum, Piazza Navona, the Pantheon and Campo de' Fiori - the beating heart of Roman life with its bustling markets, historic cafés and lively evening scene - are all within easy reach.
Just a few minutes from the city centre lies the picturesque neighbourhood of Trastevere, which offers an authentic and lively atmosphere with its cobbled streets, traditional trattorias and vibrant nightlife. This popular area is perfect for those seeking a more authentic experience while remaining close to the main attractions.
Vatican and Prati areas
If you want to be close to Vatican City, you can look for accommodation in the surrounding area, despite the high prices.
The Prati district is located on the left bank of the Tiber, to the north of the Vatican. As well as being close to Vatican City attractions, this area offers quick access to Piazza del Popolo, Castel Sant'Angelo, Ponte Sant'Angelo and Piazza Navona.
However, this area is quite far from both Termini Station and the Colosseum.
Accommodation in the Vatican area
Testaccio
This authentic neighbourhood is famous for its traditional Roman cuisine. If you are looking for an original atmosphere away from the tourists, Testaccio is the ideal choice. In recent years, the area has become trendy, with lots of new bars and restaurants, and Testaccio's working-class character has changed as a result.
This area is convenient for staying in and is well connected by public transport. The Colosseum is just two stops from Piramide metro station on line B.
Accommodation in the Testaccio area
Types of accommodation
Apartments
If you want a more homely experience, rent an entire apartment. This option is ideal for those who want to experience life like a true Roman, complete with the opportunity to cook and immerse themselves in the neighbourhood's daily life.
Bed and Breakfast
B&Bs offer a blend of comfort and family hospitality. Many of these establishments are located in tranquil neighbourhoods, offering guests an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Hostels
Hostels are an economical and social choice if you are a budget traveller or want a more youthful atmosphere. Many of them offer private rooms for greater privacy.
Luxury and boutique hotels
Rome is home to some of the world's most luxurious hotels. If you want to treat yourself, choose a five-star hotel offering exclusive services and panoramic city views.
For a more intimate experience, opt for a boutique hotel. These charming facilities often boast unique designs and personalised service.
How much does accommodation in Rome cost?
- Colosseum / Historic Centre area: prices are high, especially in the high season.
- Prati and Vatican: medium to high range.
- Monti and Testaccio: excellent value for money.
- More peripheral areas: cheap, but often less convenient if you want to get around on foot.
Staying near the Colosseum is a good idea if…
- you want to walk to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum or the Capitoline Hill;
- you don't like travelling around by public transport;
- you want to experience the most historic and scenic part of the city.
Practical Tips
- Plan ahead: Rome is crowded with tourists all year round. Book your stay well in advance to secure the best options.
- Consider the location: If you want to explore on foot, look for a central area. If you want to save money, choose a neighbourhood further from the centre but close to the underground.
- Check the actual distance to the Colosseum and any other attractions you want to visit, as many properties that are advertised as being 'close to the centre' are actually several kilometres away.
- Read reviews: Read online reviews before booking to get an idea of what other travellers experienced.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you want to be able to reach the Colosseum on foot, the best neighbourhoods are Colosseo – Fori Imperiali and Monti. These areas are safe, central and close to the underground. Monti is ideal for those looking for restaurants, bars and an authentic Roman atmosphere.
As it is a popular tourist area, hotels tend to be more expensive than average. To save money while still staying close by, consider San Giovanni, Testaccio or Esquilino. These areas are well connected by the underground and are 10–15 minutes from the Colosseum.
The most affordable areas are Esquilino, Tiburtina, San Lorenzo and Ostiense. These areas offer budget accommodation in the form of hostels and apartments, and are well connected to the city centre by underground or bus.
The central districts of Colosseo, Monti, Trastevere and Prati are generally safe, even in the evening. As in any large city, it is best to avoid isolated areas and be cautious around stations.
Staying in the city centre means more walking and experiencing the historic areas. Termini, on the other hand, is better suited to those on a budget or who need to use public transport frequently. It is convenient, but lacks character.
The recommended neighbourhoods are Monti, Prati and Testaccio, which are quiet and well served by public transport, with plenty of family-friendly restaurants. Many hotels in these areas offer family rooms and cots.
The area is a restricted traffic zone and parking is difficult. If you are arriving by car, it's better to stay in the Piramide, Ostiense, Garbatella or San Giovanni areas and travel by underground.
While there are no "dangerous" neighbourhoods in the strict sense of the word, some areas may be less convenient for tourists, particularly in the evening or if you are walking around. Although the areas around Termini Station offer many cheap hotels, they can be chaotic and poorly maintained at night.
Even neighbourhoods on the outskirts can be inconvenient if you want to visit the historic centre, as you may need to change transport several times, get back late, or spend a lot of time travelling. To experience Rome without stress, it is best to choose an area close to a metro line (A or B) or the centre.
- Areas that are too far out of the city centre and do not have a nearby metro stop;
- Areas around small suburban stations;
- Neighbourhoods far from attractions if you only have a few days to visit.
To avoid transport problems, it is best to focus on well-connected areas such as Colosseo, Monti, Prati, Trastevere, Testaccio, San Giovanni, Esquilino, Vatican City and the historic centre, all of which are busy even in the evening.