A complete guide to where to stay in Rome (+ the best areas for first-timers and hotels near the Spanish Steps, Colosseum and with a pool).
Once the centre of the ancient Roman Empire, Rome is today the capital city of Italy. Although originally founded on seven hills, the city has grown and spread throughout its 3,000-year existence. If you look at a map, you’ll see that the River Tiber splits the city into two halves. On the eastern side, you’ll find most of the top tourist attractions, including the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Trevi Fountain. Meanwhile, the western side is home to Vatican City and Trastevere, the city’s most charming neighbourhood.
Deciding where to stay in Rome can feel daunting, especially if it’s your first visit. What is the best location to stay in Rome? Should you opt for a spot near the Colosseum, the Spanish Steps, or Termini Station? With so many options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed! But don’t worry – I’ve created a detailed guide to help you find the perfect place to stay in Rome.
Where I stayed in Rome
I’ve been to Rome several times and stayed in various neighbourhoods. However, my favourite area is around the Trevi Fountain. It’s the heart of the city and the most central location, making it perfect for first-time visitors. While Rome is quite a large city, you can easily walk to many attractions from here, such as the Spanish Steps and the Colosseum. Plus, if you need to use public transport, the red metro line A is conveniently nearby.
💖 My favourite hotel in Rome: U-Visionary Roma Hotel
Perfect for: sightseeing – just 5min walk to the Trevi Fountain and a metro station
What I loved: spacious rooms, great panoramic rooftop bar, delicious breakfast
Check details & prices: Booking.com | Expedia
I stayed at U-Visionary Roma Hotel on my last trip to Rome and honestly loved it. The location was amazing – just a few steps from the Trevi Fountain. I could pop over early in the morning, around 7 AM, when it was nice and quiet, or head there late at night. Plus, the rooftop bar was awesome, and I loved having breakfast there in the mornings.
Readers’ most booked hotel in Rome
Looking for a great hotel in central Rome, close to the tourist attractions and transport links? Then check out H10 Palazzo Galla – with over 2,200 reviews, it is one of the most booked hotels in Rome.
H10 Palazzo Galla – Most booked hotel
H10 Palazzo Galla is housed in a gorgeous 19th-century bourgeois building, and its location couldn’t be more perfect. Nestled in the heart of the historic centre, it’s just a stone’s throw from Piazza Venezia and the Roman Forum. You can easily stroll to some of Rome’s most famous landmarks, like the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and the Colosseum, all within minutes. Make sure to check out the Traiano Rooftop Bar – perfect for a cocktail and stunning city views.
Where to stay in Rome for first time (My top picks)
- Trevi Fountain – best area for first-timers (Hotel Barberini – best hotel near Trevi Fountain)
- Pantheon – for sightseeing (Hotel Nazionale – best hotel near Pantheon)
- Best hotel in Rome with a pool – Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Hotel
- Termini Station – for one night (Hotel Diocleziano – best hotel near Termini Station)
- Best hotel near the Spanish Steps – Room Mate Filippo
- Best hotel near Colosseum – FH55 Grand Hotel Palatino
- Trastevere – for nightlife (Donna Camilla Savelli – best hotel in Trastevere)
- Best hotel near the Vatican – Hotel Della Conciliazione
- Best hotel near Fiumicino Airport – Air Rooms Rome Airport by HelloSky
Tips for booking a hotel in Rome
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Stay as central as possible – unlike many other European cities, Rome’s public transportation isn’t the best. The city has only three metro lines that intersect at Termini Station. You can use lines A and B to go to the Colosseum and Vatican City, but that’s it. Unfortunately, the metro doesn’t serve the most central areas between Termini and the River Tiber. This means you’ll likely be walking a lot. I recommend choosing a central location near a metro station, ideally close to the red line A.
Visiting Rome for the first time? Then check out my detailed itinerary for 4 days in Rome, featuring the most popular attractions, tips on how to skip the lines, and my favourite restaurants.
Hotel breakfast – avoid paying extra for a hotel breakfast if it’s not included in the price. From my experience, hotel breakfasts in Italy aren’t the greatest, usually featuring mostly sweet items like pastries, yoghurt, and coffee. I found it much better to head to a nearby bakery for a more satisfying breakfast.
Trevi Fountain – where to stay in Rome first time
Rome is such a vast city, divided into 15 administrative districts called municipi. Each of these districts has its own smaller neighbourhoods, each with a unique charm. As a tourist, you’ll find yourself spending most of your time in Municipio I. This area includes more than 10 neighbourhoods, such as the Historical Centre, Trastevere, Testaccio, Prati, Aventino, and Esquilino, among others. Each neighbourhood has its own vibe, making it a fantastic place to explore!
The Historical Centre stretches from the River Tiber to the west, Piazza del Popolo to the north, Termini Station to the east, and the Roman Forum to the south. I strongly suggest this area for your stay, especially if you’re visiting for the first time. However, since it’s a large area, I’d like to be more specific and recommend the Trevi Fountain as the most convenient place to stay.
In my opinion, the Trevi Fountain is the best area to stay for first-timers. This stunning 18th-century Baroque masterpiece is one of Rome’s most famous landmarks. Trevi Fountain is centrally located, right in the heart of the historic centre. This makes it easy to walk to many of the major attractions, such as the Spanish Steps, the Pantheon, and the Roman Forum. While the Trevi Fountain itself isn’t directly served by the metro, it’s just a short walk from Barberini Station (line A), which takes you straight to Vatican City. You can’t beat the convenience and charm of this location!
Don’t miss out! Book your Vatican Museums skip-the-line ticket. With over 19,000 daily visitors, lines are huge – save hours and get straight inside.
Why stay near Trevi Fountain for first-timers
- fantastic location – Trevi Fountain is the best location for first-timers since it’s just a short walk from popular attractions and the red metro line A, which provides easy access to Vatican City and Termini Station
- within walking distance of many tourist attractions such as the Spanish Steps, Galleria Borghese, Pantheon, and the Roman Forum
- staying close to the Trevi Fountain lets you visit it at different times of the day. You can enjoy its magical illumination at night or enjoy it in the quieter morning hours
If you’re visiting Rome for the first time, I highly recommend staying near the Trevi Fountain. This area is incredibly convenient for tourists, as it’s within walking distance of many popular attractions. A few of my favourite spots here are Trecaffè and L’Antico Forno di Piazza Trevi, definitely try their pistachio croissants! For something more savoury, Pinsitaly Trevi does a fantastic Pizza Romana. Plus, the metro is nearby, making it easy to access Vatican City and the Central Railway Station (Termini).
Best hotels near Trevi Fountain
Hotel Barberini – Most popular 4-star
Situated just around the corner from the famous Piazza Barberini, this hotel is the perfect spot for your Rome vacation. You’ll be within a short walk of the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, and Barberini metro station (line A, which connects you to Vatican City). The hotel occupies a beautiful historic 19th-century building, but the best part for me was the rooftop terrace. From there, you can enjoy panoramic city views while having breakfast or sipping cocktails.
Hotel Barocco – Best rated 4-star
Hotel Barocco feels like a hidden gem in the heart of Rome. Overlooking Piazza Barberini and the iconic Triton Fountain, you can step out of the hotel and be at the Spanish Steps or Trevi Fountain within minutes. For those times you need public transport, the Barberini metro is literally just around the corner. However, what really stands out is the breakfast – it’s not your typical Roman hotel fare. They offer an impressive spread, including local specialities from the Roman countryside.
Umiltà 36 – Most popular 5-star
If you’re after a luxury stay near the Trevi Fountain, look no further than Umiltà 36, the highest-rated option in the area. This modern hotel features a stunning rooftop bar where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city. You’ll also love the seafood restaurant, Aquamarina, and the Dandy Café, serving traditional dishes with a modern twist.
Harry’s Bar Trevi Hotel & Restaurant – Second best 5-star
Harry’s Bar Trevi Hotel is ideally located right next to the iconic Trevi Fountain. I can’t recommend the rooftop terrace enough, which features stunning views of the famous landmark. If you’re feeling hungry, head to the hotel’s restaurant, Harry’s Bar Trevi, for delicious culinary specialities from Emilia Romagna. And be sure to check out the fascinating archaeological excavation, The City of Water, right inside the hotel!
Hotel Hiberia – Best 3-star
Hotel Hiberia is a great budget-friendly choice just a short walk from the Trevi Fountain. The rooms have a cosy, old-world charm that fits perfectly with the building’s historic character. Be sure to check out the Petrucci Restaurant for some delicious Roman classics.
master Trevi – Best apartments
If you’re after a bit more comfort, Master Trevi is a great pick. The apartments are modern, with full kitchens, and the location is quiet but just steps from the Trevi Fountain. The best part? Free happy hour with wine and snacks every afternoon at 6 PM in the lobby.
Pantheon – best area to stay in Rome for sightseeing
As I mentioned earlier, Rome’s public transportation isn’t the most efficient, especially in the city centre. The areas between Termini and the River Tiber, where you’ll spend most of your time, aren’t well-served by the metro. Plus, the charming neighbourhood of Trastevere is also out of reach by metro. That’s why I always recommend staying as centrally as possible when sightseeing in Rome. Honestly, walking is the best way to explore the city’s hidden gems and soak in its charm – it’s how I love to experience Rome!
The Trevi Fountain area is a fantastic choice for both first-time visitors and sightseeing enthusiasts. So, if you’ve already booked your hotel near the Trevi Fountain, no need to worry – you’ve picked a fantastic area! You’ll be within walking distance of major attractions like the Spanish Steps, Galleria Borghese, Pantheon, and the Roman Forum. Plus, having the red metro line A nearby makes getting to Vatican City super convenient. But, if you’re like me and want to be within a 30-minute walk of all the top sights, I’d suggest staying closer to the Tiber River. That way, you can easily stroll to Vatican City or enjoy unforgettable dinners in the charming neighbourhood of Trastevere.
In my experience, the best area to stay in Rome for sightseeing is definitely around the Pantheon. It’s perfectly located right in the heart of the historic centre, which means you can walk to most of the city’s top sights. You’ll be just 15 minutes from the Spanish Steps and Castel Sant’Angelo, and even the Colosseum and Vatican City are only about a 25-minute walk away. Whenever I’ve stayed in this area, I loved being able to explore the city on foot. However, if you ever need to use public transport, the Barberini metro station is a short 15-minute stroll away, too.
Why stay near the Pantheon for sightseeing
- most central area for sightseeing – you can walk everywhere (15min to Spanish Steps, Castel Sant’Angelo and Trastevere, 25min to Colosseum and Vatican City)
- charming area, packed with restaurants – some of my favourite spots include Gelateria La Romana (the best gelato in Rome), Two Sizes (delicious tiramisu), and La Fraschetta di Castel Sant’Angelo for some of the best pasta you’ll find in the city
- Barberini metro station (a 15-minute walk away) offers easy access to Termini Station and Vatican City (perfect for when you’d prefer not to walk)
Best hotels near the Pantheon
Hotel Nazionale – Most popular 4-star
Nestled on Piazza di Monte Citorio, Hotel Nazionale is steps away from key landmarks like the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and Trevi Fountain. Housed in a stunning 18th-century building, the hotel has loads of charm and character, making your stay extra special. And if you’re in the mood for a coffee, cappuccino, or a delicious snack, the Donatello Bar is the perfect spot.
Antico Albergo del Sole al Pantheon – Best rated 4-star
Nestled right in Piazza della Rotonda, this charming hotel puts you just steps away from the magnificent Pantheon. It’s hard to imagine a better location for exploring Rome! The hotel itself occupies a building from 1467, adding a unique, old-world atmosphere to your stay. Despite the ancient setting, the rooms are modern, with super comfy beds. And if you’re lucky, you might even get one with a breathtaking view of the Pantheon right outside your window!
Palazzo Roma – Best 5-star
If you’re after a luxurious stay near the Pantheon, Palazzo Roma is a real gem. Housed in a beautiful 17th-century palace, it’s got original frescoes and crystal chandeliers that give it tons of charm. The Core Restaurant serves delicious Mediterranean cuisine, and the à la carte breakfast is fantastic. Plus, the location couldn’t be better – perfect for exploring the city on foot.
Albergo del Senato – Best 3-star
If you want a place that’s comfortable, well-located, and not crazy expensive, Albergo del Senato is a great option. It’s right on Piazza della Rotonda, so you get an awesome view of the Pantheon just outside your window. And make sure to check out the rooftop bar – it’s a great spot to enjoy a cocktail and catch the sunset over the Pantheon.
Palazzo Delle Pietre – Best apartments
If you’re seeking a bit more comfort, consider Palazzo Delle Pietre. This charming aparthotel features luxurious self-service apartments with fully equipped kitchens. It is perfect for all who enjoy a home-like experience. Housed in a stunning 15th-century building, the apartments beautifully blend modern amenities with antique touches. Plus, the location couldn’t be better – it’s just a short stroll to the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and the Trevi Fountain.
Best hotels in Rome with a pool
Rome can get seriously hot in the summer, so having a hotel with a pool is a total game-changer. After spending the day wandering through ancient ruins, bustling piazzas, and ticking off all those iconic landmarks, you’ll be ready for a break. There’s no better feeling than jumping into a cool pool to refresh and recharge. It’s the perfect way to unwind before heading back out to explore the city’s nightlife!
However, given that Rome is filled with centuries-old buildings, finding a hotel with a pool right in the city centre can be quite a challenge. Be prepared to pay a premium, as most hotels with pools are 5-star, or you may even compromise on location. But don’t worry! In this guide, I’ve highlighted three fantastic hotels with pools that are perfectly situated for sightseeing!
Here are the best hotels in Rome with a swimming pool, in my opinion.
Aleph Rome Hotel – Best 4-star
At Aleph Rome Hotel, you won’t have to compromise on location or break the bank. The hotel has an excellent location, just steps from Barberini Metro Station. Plus, the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain are only a short 15-minute walk away. The hotel’s Restaurant 1930s offers seasonal cuisine, while the rooftop Trattoria serves up modern Italian dishes. But the real standout for me is the outdoor rooftop pool. It’s such a dreamy spot to relax! Plus, the spa is fantastic, featuring a Finnish sauna, hammam, and a thermal Jacuzzi pool.
Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Hotel – Most popular 5-star
If you’re looking for a luxurious stay, I highly recommend the Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Hotel. It’s located in a gorgeous 19th-century white marble building right on Piazza della Repubblica. There’s a panoramic rooftop terrace with a plunge pool, along with a nice wellness centre with a steam bath and hot tub. For dining, you can enjoy Italian cuisine at INEO or fresh sushi at SEEN by Olivier Restaurant on the rooftop.
Palazzo Dama Hotel & SPA – Best rated 5-star
Palazzo Dama is ideally located along the Tiber River, just a short stroll from the Spanish Steps, Villa Borghese, and the Trevi Fountain. The hotel boasts charming outdoor spaces, including a beautiful garden with lemon trees and a pool. You can also unwind in the great spa area, which has a whirlpool, Finnish sauna, Turkish bath, and an emotional shower. For dining, the hotel’s restaurant, PACIFICO, serves delicious Peruvian-Nikkei cuisine that’s guaranteed to impress you.
Termini Station – where to stay in Rome for one night
Termini Station (Stazione Termini) is Rome’s primary railway station and one of the busiest transportation hubs in Italy. It serves as the departure point for high-speed trains to cities such as Florence, Milan, and Venice. If you’re arriving from the airport or looking to explore other regions of Italy, staying close to the station is super convenient. It really simplifies your travel plans and makes getting around so much easier!
If you’re in the city for one night, I recommend staying near Termini Railway Station. The area is incredibly convenient for transport links, making it easy to travel around Italy. Getting to both airports is a breeze – you can hop on the Leonardo Express train or catch one of the many shuttle buses.
Plus, the station is also well-connected to the metro, with both the red line A and blue line B stopping there. The blue line takes you straight to the Colosseum, while the red line will get you to the Spanish Steps and Vatican City. If you enjoy walking, you can easily reach the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, and Colosseum in about 30 minutes.
However, like many major European railway stations, I recommend staying a few blocks away from Termini. I’ve found the immediate area around the station a bit sketchy and not so pleasant. Fortunately, there are plenty of hotels nearby, and the area is bustling with travellers during the day. I never feel too worried about safety, but I do make it a point to keep an eye on my belongings, especially in crowded spots.
I’d also suggest staying near Termini Station only if you’re spending just one night in the city. For a longer stay, I highly recommend choosing a more central location to fully enjoy the charm of Rome.
Why stay near Termini Station for one night
- Termini Station is the most convenient location for a one-night stay since it offers excellent connections to the rest of the city, the airport, and other Italian destinations
- two metro lines (A and B) cross at Termini, giving you direct access to the Colosseum, Spanish Steps and Vatican City
- easy access to Ciampino and Fiumicino Airports via the shuttle bus (plus an express train to Fiumicino)
- Termini Station is the starting point of the hop-on-hop-off bus tours
Best hotels near Termini Station
Hotel Diocleziano – Nearest to Termini Station
Just a 5-minute walk from Termini Railway Station, Hotel Diocleziano is an ideal choice for a one-night stay in Rome. The nearby Termini metro station makes it easy to reach both the Colosseum and Vatican City in no time. And even though the hotel is in a beautiful 19th-century building right next to the Baths of Diocletian, the rooms are modern and incredibly cosy.
iQ Hotel Roma – Best 4-star
iQ Hotel Roma boasts an excellent location, just a short walk from both Termini Station and Repubblica metro station. One of the highlights for me is the rooftop restaurant and bar, La Fata Ignorante. It serves a seasonal Italian menu, perfect for enjoying a delicious meal with a view. For some post-travel relaxation, don’t miss the hotel’s spa. It features a sauna and an outdoor jacuzzi – an ideal way to unwind after a long journey.
NH Collection Palazzo Cinquecento – Best 5-star
Set right on Piazza dei Cinquecento, next to Termini Station, this 5-star hotel is super convenient if you’re arriving by train. There’s a good restaurant on-site and a rooftop bar with awesome panoramic views of Rome. Don’t miss the hotel’s garden, where you’ll find a section of the ancient Servian Wall dating back to the 6th century BC.
Sophie Terrace Hotel – Best 3-star
Sophie Terrace Hotel is a solid budget-friendly option just a short walk from Termini Station and the Repubblica metro stop. The rooms are modern and comfortable – perfect for a short stay. Don’t miss the rooftop terrace, where you can relax with a drink from the lobby bar, or even something you bring yourself.
Best hotels in Rome near the Spanish Steps
Completed in 1725, the Spanish Steps are one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks. I love staying here because it places you right in the historic heart of the city. From this central location, you can easily walk to major attractions like the Trevi Fountain, Piazza del Popolo, and the Pantheon.
Additionally, staying near the Spanish Steps means you’re just a short distance from the Spagna metro station. This makes it easy to hop on the metro and explore other iconic attractions like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Roman Forum. It’s a central location that offers both convenient walking routes and easy public transport options.
The area surrounding the Spanish Steps is absolutely beautiful, with historic buildings and charming cobblestone streets. It is also known for its luxury shopping, particularly along Via dei Condotti. There you can find fabulous boutiques like Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton. And let’s not forget the elegant cafés, cosy restaurants and gelaterias, perfect for soaking up the atmosphere. It feels like stepping straight into the scenes from Roman Holiday and La Dolce Vita!
I highly recommend the Spanish Steps for first-timers, sightseeing, and shopping. Just keep in mind that due to the area’s popularity, charm, and convenience, hotel prices can be a bit higher. That said, here are some of the best hotels in Rome close to the Spanish Steps that won’t break the bank.
Room Mate Filippo – Most popular 4-star
This hotel is in a great spot – on a quiet side street, but just a short walk from the Spanish Steps and Barberini metro station. The rooms are modern and spacious, with super comfy beds. And the rooftop terrace is a nice bonus, perfect for sipping wine and enjoying the city views.
TB Place Roma – Best rated 4-star
TB Place Roma is housed in a beautiful 17th-century historic building, just a stone’s throw from the iconic Piazza di Spagna. The hotel features a rooftop restaurant, Le Colonnette, where you can try delicious Italian and Roman cuisine while enjoying breathtaking views of the city. Additionally, there’s a great wellness centre equipped with a sauna, Turkish bath, ice waterfall, and hydromassage tub.
Baglioni Hotel Regina – Best 5-star
Situated on the trendy Via Veneto, the Baglioni Hotel Regina is just a short stroll from the Spanish Steps. The spacious rooms are both elegant and stylish, decorated with Murano glass chandeliers. You’d love dining at the hotel’s Brunello Bar and Restaurant, which offers classic Italian dishes with a modern twist. Plus, the lovely spa area features a sauna, hammam, and hot tub, making it a perfect retreat for relaxation.
Residenza Piranesi Boutique Hotel – Best 3-star
This is a great budget-friendly option just steps from the Spanish Steps and Barberini metro station. You can walk pretty much everywhere – Trevi Fountain, the Colosseum, even the Vatican Museums. The rooms are modern, comfy, and have a cosy boutique feel.
Babuino 79 – Best apartments
Babuino 79 is right on the famous Via del Babuino, just a short stroll from the Spanish Steps and Spagna metro station. The place offers boutique-style apartments with fully equipped kitchens. There’s also a free self-service laundry area if you need to do some washing during your stay.
Best hotels in Rome near the Colosseum
Constructed in 80 AD, the Colosseum is one of Rome’s most famous attractions. If it’s on your must-see list or you want to experience its magical illumination at night, I definitely recommend staying nearby. Staying close to the Colosseum gives you easy access to guided tours and unique experiences, like nighttime explorations of the amphitheatre. Plus, you’ll find yourself within walking distance of other historic sites, including Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum. It is the perfect base for your Roman adventure!
The area around the Colosseum is the oldest part of the Eternal City. It’s the best spot to stay if you want to truly experience ancient Rome. I found it to be a charming place, packed with ancient ruins and centuries-old history. Plus, there are plenty of traditional trattorias, cosy wine bars, and fantastic spots for enjoying an aperitivo.
Also, the area is quite convenient, with a metro station right across from the Colosseum. This makes it easy to reach Termini Station, the Spanish Steps, and Vatican City. The Trevi Fountain is just a 20-minute walk away, and Trastevere, famous for its great restaurants, is about a 30-minute stroll. The only downside is that Vatican City is a bit farther, requiring around 40 minutes to reach by public transportation.
Here are the best hotels in Rome close to the Colosseum.
FH55 Grand Hotel Palatino – Most popular 4-star
Located in the Monti District, this hotel is just a short walk from the Colosseum and Cavour metro station. On-site, you’ll find Le Spighe, a restaurant serving delicious Roman and Italian dishes. The breakfast is pretty great too, with options like organic foods and a smoothie corner.
Mia Room Mate Collection – Best rated 4-star
Mia Room Mate Collection is set on a quiet side street, just a short walk from the Colosseum. Dining at its restaurant, L’Attico, is a treat, with its delicious traditional Roman cuisine, and the Centrum bar serves up fantastic cocktails. But the best part, in my opinion, is the delicious breakfast. It is served on a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the Colosseum – truly a memorable experience!
Hotel Palazzo Manfredi – Best 5-star
If you’re looking for a luxury stay with a stunning view of the Colosseum, I’d recommend Hotel Palazzo Manfredi. It’s a 5-star hotel set in a 17th-century palace, literally right across from the Colosseum. One of the highlights is their Michelin-starred restaurant, Aroma. You get to enjoy amazing Italian food with the ancient amphitheatre as your backdrop! Seriously, it’s the perfect way to start your day since breakfast is served there too. If you like cocktails, the rooftop bar, The Court, is a great place to enjoy some quirky cocktails.
Hotel Centro Cavour – Best 3-star
Hotel Centro Cavour is a great budget-friendly option, just a short stroll from the Colosseum and Cavour metro station. The Roman Forum, Pantheon, and Trevi Fountain are all within walking distance as well. Rooms are modern and cosy, a perfect base for sightseeing without breaking the bank.
DrsRome – Best apartments
DrsRome offers self-serviced apartments with fully equipped kitchens, just a short walk from the Colosseum and Colosseo metro station. The location is ideal – central but still quiet. Plus, they offer free luggage storage, which is super handy if you need to drop off your bags before check-in or after check-out.
Where to stay in Rome, Trastevere
With its charming cobbled streets and picturesque piazzas, Trastevere is one of Rome’s most charming neighbourhoods. The name Trastevere actually comes from the Latin Trans Tiberim, which means beyond the Tiber. It’s on the west bank of the Tiber River, just across from the historical centre of the city.
Even though it’s so close to the main sights, Trastevere feels more like a small village than part of the busy city. The area is full of great places to eat, from cosy trattorias to modern restaurants. And the evenings? That’s when Trastevere really comes alive with lively bars and outdoor cafés. It is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the local atmosphere.
Trastevere is a favourite neighbourhood for tourists, especially if you’re looking to rent an apartment. I’ve seen this area recommended countless times in forums and travel blogs. While it is undeniably charming and great for dining, it’s not the best choice for sightseeing in my view. The area lacks metro access, which means you could end up walking 30 to 40 minutes to reach the nearest attractions. The buses are an option, but they can be infrequent and overcrowded.
I’d suggest staying in Trastevere if you’re mainly interested in nightlife and dining out. It’s a fantastic area for those experiences. However, if you’re in Rome primarily for sightseeing, you might want to consider other neighbourhoods. Also, while there are plenty of apartments to choose from, there are only a few hotels available.
Best hotels in Trastevere
Donna Camilla Savelli – Most popular 4-star
Donna Camilla Savelli is set in a former monastery at the foot of Janiculum Hill, right in the heart of Trastevere. The location is perfect – quiet yet convenient, just a 7-minute stroll to Ponte Sisto, which connects you to the historic centre. Breakfast is a real treat, served in a beautiful garden that feels so peaceful. And you’ve got to check out the panoramic rooftop terrace – the views of the city are simply amazing!
Horti 14 Borgo Trastevere Hotel – Best rated 4-star
This stylish hotel is tucked away on a quiet street in Trastevere, just a stone’s throw from the Botanical Garden. A short walk will take you to Ponte Giuseppe Mazzini, which connects you to the historic city centre. Breakfast is served on the botanical rooftop terrace, where you can also enjoy cocktails in the evening (at La Legnameria Bar). Rooms are modern and offer lovely views of the garden. It truly feels like a hidden green oasis in the heart of the ancient city!
Best hotels in Rome near the Vatican
Completely surrounded by the city of Rome, Vatican City is the smallest independent state in the world. It is also the city’s most popular attraction, along with the Colosseum.
Staying near the Vatican gives you the chance to get to attractions early, especially before the crowds show up. This is especially helpful for visiting the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica, where long lines often form later in the day. You can also attend Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica or join special events like papal audiences and other religious ceremonies. Plus, both St. Peter’s Basilica and the nearby Castel Sant’Angelo are absolutely breathtaking when lit up at night.
I’d recommend staying near the Vatican if you’re looking for a quieter area, that’s still close to public transport and attractions. The area around the Vatican (Prati neighbourhood) offers a mix of local shops, cafés, and restaurants. You can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine in a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the busier tourist spots. Just keep in mind that the historic centre is about a 30-40 minute walk away. Also, to reach the Colosseum, you’ll need to take two metro lines or a bus followed by the metro.
I stayed in the Prati neighbourhood during my second visit to Rome. It was really easy to reach the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica from there. However, getting to other parts of the city required quite a bit of walking. If you’re mainly in Rome for sightseeing and plan to spend just one day at the Vatican, I’d suggest staying in the historic centre or near the Colosseum instead. That said, here are some of the best hotels in Rome close to Vatican City.
Hotel Della Conciliazione – Best 4-star
Hotel Della Conciliazione is one of the best hotels near the Vatican City. It has a fantastic location on a quiet cobblestone street, surrounded by plenty of restaurants and shops. The Ottaviano metro station is just a 10-minute walk away, and the bus line ATAC 40 conveniently connects you to Termini Train Station.
Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá – Best 5-star
Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá is ideally located between Vatican City and the historic city centre. It features a lovely wellness centre with a sauna, Turkish bath, and an outdoor vitality pool. For dining, you have two great options: Follie for Italian fine dining and Amaro for light bites and fantastic cocktails.
Eccelso Hotel – Best 3-star
Eccelso Hotel is a great budget-friendly option close to Vatican City and the Ottaviano metro station. It’s in the perfect location for checking out the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and Castel Sant’Angelo. Plus, the area’s full of cool cafés and restaurants – plenty of options to grab a bite or chill after a day of exploring.
Trianon Borgo Pio Aparthotel – Best apartments
Trianon Borgo Pio Aparthotel offers cosy, modern apartments with full kitchens, perfect if you like having the option to cook. It’s just a quick walk to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Ottaviano metro, and there’s a supermarket right nearby. The best part? Breakfast is served on the rooftop terrace with stunning views of St. Peter’s Basilica and Castel Sant’Angelo.
Best hotels near Fiumicino Airport
Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO) is the main international airport serving Rome. Chances are, it’s where you’ll land if you’re flying in from abroad. It’s located about 40 minutes outside the city centre, depending on traffic. It’s also the largest and busiest airport in Italy, so expect a bit of a crowd, especially during peak season!
Getting into Rome is easy, too. You can take the Leonardo Express train, which gets you to Termini Station in about 30 minutes, with no stops, super convenient. There are also shuttle buses, taxis (around €55), but if you’re travelling light and want to avoid traffic, the train is usually your best bet.
That said, I wouldn’t recommend staying near the airport unless you’ve got a super early or late flight. It takes around 40 minutes just to get to Termini Station (Rome’s main hub), and from there, it’s another 30 minutes or so to reach most of the main sights. So you’ll end up spending a lot of time (and money) on transportation. But if you do need to stay close to the airport, here are some solid hotel options to check out.
Air Rooms Rome Airport by HelloSky – Nearest to the airport
Air Rooms Rome Airport by HelloSky is the nearest hotel to Fiumicino, located right inside the airport itself. It’s just steps from the terminals 1,2, and 3, connected by a covered overpass. The rooms are modern and comfortable, ideal for a quick overnight stay or a long layover.
Hilton Rome Airport – Most popular 4-star
Hilton Rome Airport is a solid choice if you need to stay near Fiumicino, just a short walk from the terminals via a covered overpass. It’s got a nice wellness area with a sauna, steam room, and indoor pool. The on-site restaurant, Le Colonne, serves up both Italian and international food, and there’s also the Artists’ Bar if you want to grab a drink or a quick bite.
FAQs about where to stay in Rome
The historic city centre is one of the best places to stay in Rome. It’s packed with iconic attractions like the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon, all within walking distance. You’ll find an authentic atmosphere, charming streets, and plenty of restaurants, shops, and cafes.
If you’re spending three days in Rome, I recommend staying near the Trevi Fountain. This central location puts you within walking distance of many major attractions, including the Pantheon, Spanish Steps, and Piazza Navona. Plus, the red metro line A provides easy access to Vatican City and Termini Station.
The safest area to stay in Rome is Piazza di Spagna. Known for its iconic Spanish Steps, this area is lined with luxury boutiques and government buildings, along with a visible police presence. Another central and safe tourist area is the Prati neighbourhood. It’s more residential and quieter, situated close to Vatican City, with well-lit streets and a low crime rate.
If you’re looking for the best place to stay in Rome close to attractions, consider Piazza Navona. This is the most central location and is just a short walk from major sites like the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and the Vatican. Additionally, the area is very charming, packed with restaurants, cafés and local shops.
Trastevere is a great place to stay if you’re looking for vibrant nightlife and excellent dining options. However, if your main focus is sightseeing, you might want to consider other neighbourhoods such as the historic centre. Trastevere is a bit farther from major attractions like the Colosseum and Vatican City, which can require longer walks or public transport.
If you’re looking for a place to stay between Rome and Florence, consider the charming town of Orvieto. This medieval hilltop town is conveniently located about halfway between the two cities. Plus it is easily accessible by train from both Rome and Florence. Furthermore, there’s a Hertz rental car agency just across the street from the station in Orvieto if you need one.
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