Nine Captivating Roman Neighborhoods to Discover

Rome's core evolved organically over 2,000 years, resulting in a labyrinthine layout rather than a planned grid. Nonetheless, there is some logic to the city's chaos: Rome's heart is encircled by the Aurelian Walls, built between 271 and 275 CE around the city’s seven legendary hills. Much like Paris’s winding arrondissements, Rome is divided into 22 numbered rioni, or districts, which define the city’s central areas.

While the postcard-perfect cobblestone paths of the historic center—spanning from the Colosseum to the Trevi Fountain and Pantheon—are tempting, Rome’s most intriguing spots are just outside the Centro Storico. Renting an Airbnb in areas like Pigneto, San Lorenzo, or Centocelle offers a chance to explore off-the-beaten-path locales, or enjoy upscale neighborhoods near Campo de’ Fiori or Piazza di Spagna at a fraction of hotel prices.

Whether you're keen to gaze upon the Colosseum or escape the crowds by venturing further, here’s a guide to the best neighborhoods in Rome—along with top sights and dining options in each.

CAMPO DE’ FIORI

Campo de’ Fiori, meaning 'field of flowers,' is a cherished public square in Rome renowned for its vibrant daily market and flower stalls. While traditional food vendors are being replaced by souvenir stands selling quirky pasta shapes, the area remains one of Rome's most charming and upscale neighborhoods. The sunlit terra-cotta walls and cobblestone lanes give it an enchanting, movie-set feel.

Coffee Spot: Roscioli Caffè Located just a stone’s throw from the popular Roscioli restaurant, Roscioli Caffè offers an impeccable cappuccino crafted from beans sourced from small Italian roasters and brewed on a custom espresso machine. Don't miss the mini-maritozzi or the apple danish topped with toasted almonds. Piazza Benedetto Cairoli, 16, 00186 Rome

Must-See: Arco degli Acetari While the bustling morning market with its mix of food and souvenir stalls is a must-visit, for a quieter experience, stroll down Via del Pellegrino and pass through the “Arco degli Acetari” arch. Beyond it lies a picturesque medieval courtyard that embodies the charm of Roman house-hunting dreams. Via del Pellegrino, 19, 00186 Rome

Top Bite: Forno Campo de’ Fiori Amid the numerous Mytouries and tourist traps around Campo de’ Fiori, don’t miss the opportunity to try pizza bianca at this historic forno bakery. This local favorite offers olive oil-brushed pizza fresh from the oven, with a perfect balance of crunchy top and chewy center. The bakery closes briefly after lunch, but their annex across the alley (Vicolo del Gallo, 14) sells cookies and sandwiches made from pizza bianca. Campo de’ Fiori, 22, 00186 Rome

Top Accommodation:

DOM This elegant former palace, now a luxury hotel on the prestigious Via Giulia, features stylish rooms with preserved historical elements. Ideally situated for exploring nearby wine bars and artisan shops, it's just a 15-minute stroll to the Pantheon. (average $370 to $500/night) Via Giulia, 131, 00186 Rome

G-Rough Suites Perfect for design enthusiasts, this boutique hotel boasts sophisticated mid-century decor, Smeg mini-fridges, Murano chandeliers, and a cozy bar. Located near Piazza Navona, this upscale retreat offers a unique blend of contemporary comfort and historic charm. (average $550 to $700/night) Piazza di Pasquino, 69, 00186 Rome

PIAZZA DI SPAGNA/PIAZZA DEL POPOLO

The upscale neighborhoods around Piazza di Spagna and Piazza del Popolo are among the most exclusive in Rome. This area, frequented by affluent locals, features high-end boutiques and art galleries. The charming cobblestone streets are alive with the click of high heels and the clinking of prosecco glasses during aperitivo hours.

Coffee Spot: Antico Caffè Greco As Rome’s oldest coffeehouse, Antico Caffè Greco is a historic and elegant venue that once catered to intellectuals and now attracts stylish professionals willing to pay a bit extra for their coffee. Via dei Condotti, 86, 00187 Rome

Must-See: The Spanish Steps and Villa Borghese Recently refurbished by Bulgari, the Spanish Steps are a popular gathering spot and a perfect place to relax during your Roman adventure. For a quieter retreat, head to Villa Borghese for lush gardens, bike paths, and picnic areas.

Top Mytoury: Da Gino Al Parlamento While dining options near the famed squares can be hit-or-miss, cross Via del Corso and continue past Parliament to Gino’s—a delightful, retro restaurant serving traditional Roman dishes. It’s also known as Trattoria Dal Cavalier Gino. Vicolo Rosini, 4, 00186 Rome

Accommodations:

The First Hotel This chic boutique hotel boasts 29 stylish rooms, rotating contemporary art displays in the lobby, and a stunning rooftop terrace with panoramic views. (average $385 to $500/night) Via del Vantaggio, 14, 00186 Rome

Hotel de Russie Elegantly situated just off the Spanish Steps, this sophisticated hotel features a private courtyard where trendy Romans enjoy their cocktails. (average $550 to $750/night) Via del Babuino, 9, 00187 Rome

PRATI

Once a swampy wasteland, Prati has transformed into one of Rome's most refined neighborhoods. By day, its broad, tree-lined streets are frequented by corporate professionals and Supreme Court lawyers. However, as the sun sets, the district reveals its true character with upscale boutiques and trendy bistros tucked into historic 20th-century buildings, offering a delightful contrast to its daytime demeanor.

Coffee Spots: Pergamino Caffè and Sciascia Caffé Visit Pergamino for top-notch third-wave coffee crafted from single-origin beans using a sophisticated La Marzocco machine. Alternatively, savor the nostalgic charm of Sciascia Caffè, a vintage Roman café since 1919, renowned for its rich coffee blended with cocoa. Piazza del Risorgimento, 7, 00192 Rome; Via Fabio Massimo, 80/a, 00192 Rome

Top Attraction: Vatican Museums Although technically in Vatican City, bordering Prati, the Vatican Museums are a must-see. They house Leonardo da Vinci’s St. Jerome, Caravaggio masterpieces, and Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel frescoes. Book tickets in advance to skip the lines. Viale Vaticano, 00165 Rome

Must-Try: Pizzarium This renowned Mytoury is the birthplace of Gabriele Bonci’s inventive Roman pizza al taglio. Toppings range from octopus to spicy ’nduja, changing daily. While you can sample various flavors, remember that gourmet ingredients like truffles can push prices to €40 per kilogram. The tiny shop only offers standing room, so if the line is long, you can find a selection of pizzas at Panificio Bonci (Via Trionfale, 36) or Mercato Centrale at Termini Station, though Pizzarium boasts the most extensive variety. Via della Meloria, 43, 00136 Rome

Where to Stay:

Fabio Massimo Design Hotel A cozy boutique hotel with just nine rooms housed in a charming 19th-century building, only a short stroll from the Vatican. Despite its small size, the hotel offers uniquely styled rooms with contemporary furnishings and large, comfortable beds. (average $120 to $200/night) Viale Giulio Cesare, 71, 00192 Rome

Hotel Atlante Star The main draw of this hotel is its rooftop bar, featuring a garden setting and breathtaking views of St. Peter’s Basilica. While the classic rooms are adorned with outdated tapestries, some modern suites offer a more current aesthetic. The hotel's façade is undergoing renovations, but its terrace and prime location between the Vatican Museums and Castel Sant’Angelo make it a worthwhile stay. (average $340 to $500/night) Via Giovanni Vitelleschi, 34, 00193 Rome

TRASTEVERE

This quaint and distinctive quartiere on the Tiber's right bank, once a haven for artists and craftsmen, now attracts countless Instagrammers. While you might still find artisans working in hidden studios among ivy-clad medieval alleys, the area is now predominantly frequented by college students and Airbnb guests. This shift explains the proliferation of flashy cocktail menus that appear during aperitivo hour.

The Coffee Shop: Bar San Calisto A quintessential Roman coffee spot from the 1960s, Bar San Calisto offers a delightful outdoor seating area. Enjoy a coffee served piping hot, as is the local tradition. For the adventurous, try a caffè corretto (espresso with a splash of grappa) or join the bohemian crowd sipping extra-large Peroni bottles for just €3. Piazza di San Calisto, 3, 00153 Rome

The Attraction: Villa Farnesina While wandering the charming cobblestone streets is always pleasant, make sure not to miss Villa Farnesina—an under-the-radar Renaissance villa showcasing Raphael’s original frescoes. Built in the early 1500s as a summer retreat for a wealthy banker, this ornately decorated mansion reflects Trastevere's more pastoral past. Via della Lungara, 230, 00165 Rome

The Must-Eat: Seu Pizza Illuminati Steer clear of tourist traps in Trastevere and head to Porta Portese for exceptional pizza at Seu Pizza Illuminati. Chef Pier Daniele Seu, a protégé of Gabriele Bonci, has built a devoted following with his inventive creations and classic options. Enjoy classics like margherita, spicy diavola, and unique toppings like burrata, tuna tartare, pistachios, and lime zest. Via Angelo Bargoni, 10-18, 00153 Rome

Where to Stay:

Buonanotte Garibaldi This charming bed-and-breakfast with just three rooms and a serene garden patio is the creation of Luisa Longo, a vibrant textile artist who brings her creative flair to every detail. (average $250 to $340/night) Via Giuseppe Garibaldi, 83, 00153 Rome

Relais Le Clarisse Housed in a 900-year-old former convent, Relais Le Clarisse offers a quaint escape with its rustic charm and a peaceful interior courtyard, all just off Viale Trastevere. (average $120 to $250/night) Via Cardinale Merry del Val, 20, 00153 Rome

TESTACCIO

Once a bustling working-class area with early 20th-century public housing, Testaccio has undergone significant gentrification over the past two decades, though it retains much of its original charm. Despite its growing popularity with ex-pats and food enthusiasts, the neighborhood remains true to its roots with its renowned market and traditional trattorias serving authentic cucina romana. The old slaughterhouse on the edge of the district has been repurposed into a contemporary art museum, an architecture school, and an organic supermarket. For more insights into Testaccio, check here.

The Coffee Shop: Tram Depot (Via Marmorata, 13) This charmingly retro tram car from 1903, transformed into a kiosk in the 1950s and revived in 2013, serves artisanal coffee at its outdoor seating. During winter closures, head across the street for a top-notch cappuccino at Pasticceria Barberini. Via Marmorata, 41, 00153 Rome

The Attraction: Monti dei Cocci Testaccio's name derives from Monti dei Cocci, a hill in the district's southwest formed from approximately 50 million discarded terra-cotta pots dating back to the Roman Empire. To explore, book a guided tour in advance for access to the site and panoramic views from the summit. Remember not to remove any artifacts. Via Nicola Zabaglia, 24, 00153 Rome

The Must-Eat: Mordi & Vai With Testaccio's culinary delights, choosing just one is tough, but the sandwiches at this Mercato di Testaccio stand are exceptional. Try options filled with allesso di bollito (simmered brisket) with bitter greens, trippa alla romana (tripe in tomato sauce), or coratella (lamb's offal). Via Beniamino Franklin, 12E - Box 15 inside the Testaccio Market

Where to Stay:

Seven Suites This chic bed-and-breakfast features modern rooms with quaint balconies overlooking a local church. Enjoy a traditional Roman breakfast with coffee and pastries at the popular family-run Linari coffee bar downstairs. (average $110 to $175/night) Via Nicola Zabaglia, 11, 00153 Rome

Althea Inn This well-appointed bed-and-breakfast offers free Wi-Fi and a private, flower-filled terrace near the Piramide metro stop. It’s also conveniently close to the Protestant cemetery, where notable figures like Percy Bysshe Shelley and John Keats are buried. (average $80 to $120/night) Via dei Conciatori, 7, 00154 Rome

MONTI

This vibrant neighborhood, known for its bohemian flair, attracts trendsetters sipping coffee near the Roman Forum. Just a short walk from the Colosseum, Monti blends old Roman charm with modern, hip businesses. Amidst late-night cocktail bars, sushi spots, and boutique shops, you'll find traditional workshops and antique stores lining its picturesque streets.

The Coffee Shop: Bar La Licata This quintessential Roman bar is always buzzing with locals jostling for their morning cappuccino or caffè macchiato (espresso with a touch of foamed milk). Enjoy a view of the famous amphithMytour at the end of the street. Via dei Serpenti, 165, 00184 Rome

The Attraction: The Colosseum You can also catch a glimpse of the Colosseum from Monti’s lively central square. Grab a bottle of wine and head to Piazza della Madonna dei Monti to relax by the fountain and enjoy people-watching in the evening glow. Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Rome

The Must-Eat: L’Asino d’Oro This Umbrian Mytoury excels in transforming classic country dishes into luxurious experiences, with options like rabbit stewed with hazelnuts or homemade pasta with truffles and anchovies. Via del Boschetto, 73, 00184 Rome

Where to Stay:

Fifteen Keys This trendy boutique hotel with 15 rooms boasts a modern New York vibe, offering a refreshing contrast to Rome's traditional Baroque hotels. Ideal for exploring Monti’s vibrant nightlife, the hotel also has a cozy lounge for those who prefer to unwind on-site. (average $325 to $450/night) Via Urbana, 6/7, 00184 Rome

Roma Luxus Housed in a historic church adjacent to the ancient Roman Forum, this opulent hotel underwent a stunning renovation in late 2016. It features elegant rooms in rich jewel tones and is complemented by Madre, a restaurant led by renowned chef Riccardo di Giacinto. (average $175 to $400/night) Largo Angelicum, 4m, 00184 Rome

PIAZZA VITTORIO/ESQUILINO

The Esquilino district, developed in the late 1800s when King Umberto I moved the capital to Rome, features grand porticoes more suited to a northern climate. Often referred to as Piazza Vittorio, this area is known for its vibrant immigrant communities, making it Rome’s most multicultural neighborhood.

The Coffee Shop: Pasticceria Regoli This historic pastry shop is renowned for its maritozzi, delectable buns filled with a generous dollop of panna (whipped cream). These treats have been delighting Rome for over a century. Via dello Statuto, 60, 00185 Rome

The Attraction: Piazza Vittorio The neighborhood’s bustling square is a hub of activity, featuring a famous food market, tai chi sessions, South American music festivals, and an outdoor summer cinema. Among the lively scene, you’ll also find ancient ruins and charming fountains. Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, 1, 00185 Rome

The Must-Eat: Trattoria Monti Run by two brothers from Le Marche, this cozy trattoria serves traditional dishes like rabbit, ragu, and ravioli inspired by their homeland. The minimalist decor emphasizes the rich flavors of the food, with pasta dishes priced around €12 and meat courses at €18. Via di San Vito, 13, 00185 Rome

Where to Stay:

Mecenate Palace Hotel Enjoy breathtaking views from the terrace overlooking the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore and relax in pastel-colored rooms that offer free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a breakfast buffet. While the rooms show some age, the hotel remains a comfortable stay. (average $150 to $250/night) Via Carlo Alberto, 3, 00185 Rome

Hotel Napoleon Rome This classic, family-operated hotel is nestled next to Esquilino’s main square. With its traditional damask curtains and gold-trimmed decor, it offers a vintage charm. Conveniently located near a popular cocktail bar and excellent Indian takeout, the hotel’s age is balanced by its prime location. (average $120 to $200/night) Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, 105, 00185 Rome

SAN LORENZO

Situated along the tracks leading to Rome’s Termini Station, San Lorenzo is renowned for its progressive spirit and vibrant nightlife. The area, reclaimed by students from Sapienza University, now buzzes with artistic energy. Former industrial spaces have been repurposed into studios, Mytouries, and craft beer bars, making it the city’s creative hub.

The Coffee Shop: Giufà This unique blend of bookstore and coffee shop is perfect for those who enjoy their espresso alongside a good graphic novel. With its effortless cool and relaxed atmosphere, Giufà embodies the laid-back, student-centric vibe of San Lorenzo. Via degli Aurunci, 38, 00185 Rome

The Attraction: Ex Dogana San Lorenzo, heavily bombed during World War II, lacks major historical landmarks. Its postwar transformation saw industrial spaces repurposed, with Ex Dogana being a prime example. This former railway customs area now serves as a versatile venue for contemporary art, pop-up markets, a burgeoning urban forest, and a vibrant nightlife spot. Viale dello Scalo San Lorenzo, 10, 00185 Rome

The Must-Eat: Tram Tram Located next to tram tracks, this family-owned Mytoury offers a delightful array of Apulian seafood, Roman trattoria classics, and Pugliese specialties. The wooden benches and vintage 1940s tables add to its nostalgic charm. Expect to spend around €30 per person for a full meal. Via dei Reti, 46, 00185 Rome

PIGNETO

Pigneto, once known for its pine grove, now thrives as a hub for nightlife and street art. The central Via del Pigneto is a pedestrian zone bustling with a daily fruit and vegetable market, which transforms into a lively area with outdoor seating and students by night.

The Coffee Shop: Necci dal 1924 A historic spot favored by director Pier Paolo Pasolini, this coffee bar boasts a shady terrace and a genuine local vibe. Swing by at sunset for a €5 spritz and enjoy happy hour treats like mini arancini and fried pizza bread. However, skip the snacks as the rest of the menu doesn’t quite measure up. Via Fanfulla da Lodi, 68, 00176 Roma

The Attraction: Etam Cru Mural In a Rome neighborhood renowned for its street art, the standout piece is an impressive eight-story mural by Polish duo Etam Cru, located on an apartment building at the corner of Via del Pigneto and Via Lodovico Pavoni. 00176 Rome

The Must-Eat: Mesob Savor traditional Ethiopian dishes like tibs and spicy doro wot at Rome’s top Ethiopian restaurant, conveniently located on the edge of the neighborhood, just a five-minute walk from the Pigneto metro stop on Line C. Via Prenestina, 118, 00176 Rome

Where to Stay:

Pigneto Luxury Rooms This charming bed-and-breakfast on the fourth floor of an apartment building on Via Prenestina offers cozy accommodations with minibars in deluxe rooms and junior suites. Guests can also enjoy a communal kitchen stocked with complimentary pastries. (average $70 to $130/night) Via Prenestina, 82, 00176 Rome

Natalie Kennedy covers Rome, its culinary delights, and travel experiences, with a focus on practical tips for exploring the city. Find her recommendations in the Discover Rome app.