Rome is rich in history, perhaps more than many cities of the world. The story of Roman conquest, the Colosseum, and Roman lifestyle has been told for centuries. The echoes of years of dominance and successful warfare are still heard in recent times.
Arguably, there aren't many places in the world where you can walk by a structure that was completed almost two millennia ago.
Rome, affectionately dubbed the "Eternal City," has lived up to its reputation. Buildings from millennia past still stand today, a testament to the city's endurance and rich heritage. This is why the city of Rome remains one of the most visited places on earth.
Part of Rome's appeal is how ancient some of its structures are, which still causes jaws to drop as people marvel at the accomplishments of the ancient city. The city has so much to offer, from picturesque architecture and landscapes to museums with antiques, romantic atmosphere, and a welcoming culture.
If you intend on visiting Rome, whether solo, as a couple, or even with family and friends, then remember the popular saying, "When in Rome, do as the Romans do." You must adapt rapidly to the culture, find places to dine, places to visit, and discover the best places to stay in Rome.
In this guide, we'll walk you through some of the best neighborhoods to stay in Rome, activities to enjoy, and what you can do to have a great time in this ancient city.
Best Places to Stay in Rome, Italy
Rome's neighborhoods have very unique personalities, each drawing visitors to it for various captivating reasons. The beauty of the Eternal City is that there are many places to explore, and it can get confusing deciding where to stay.
Choosing the right neighborhood can determine the overall outcome of your trip. You want to pick the best spots and stay close to the city's famous landmarks, but there are just so many enchanting places.

If this is you, here are the best areas in Rome that should make it to the top of your list:
Historic Center (Pantheon/Campo de' Fiori/Piazza Navona)
Centro Storico, Rome's Historical Center, is the heart of the city. For those looking to experience the best of Ancient Rome, this is the perfect destination. With iconic landmarks like the Pantheon, Campo de' Fiori, and Piazza Navona, visitors will be at the heart of it all.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or you're returning to Rome for a more intimate experience, this location is a great choice as it's only a few minutes away from Rome's major attractions.
As you plan your itinerary to Rome, Centro Storico is a place where you can stay and expect to enjoy every minute of it, especially if you're a first-timer. The area around Piazza Navona and its beautiful streets is perhaps the best part of the historic center, so do not forget to explore its charm.
Some of the best hotels in Rome are in Centro Storico, including Hotel Martis Palace and Hotel Albergo Santa Chiara. For those on a budget, a stay at Locanda degli Antiquari is an excellent choice.
Pros:
- Centrally located, near the city's major attractions
- Most attractions are within walking distance
- Vibrant, indulgent atmosphere with several dining areas and shopping centers
Cons:
- Quite pricey
- Can be really crowded in peak seasons (April and October)
Piazza di Spagna
If you're in Rome for luxury shopping, Piazza di Spagna is the place for you. This destination has its streets lined with designer boutiques and an array of shopping centers. It's one of the city's famous squares, popular for the Spanish Steps leading up to the Trinità dei Monti church.
Piazza di Spagna is an area rich in history and tourist attractions, including the popular Villa Borghese Gardens and the Temple of Aesculapius.
Pros:
- Great destination for luxury shopping enthusiasts
- Near popular landmarks like the Spanish Steps, Temple of Aesculapius, and Villa Borghese Gardens
- Close to Rome's historic center and its famous attractions
Cons:
- Can get really crowded in popular tourist attractions like the Spanish Steps
- Higher prices due to the upscale nature of the neighborhood
Good hotels to stay at include Ara di Marte Suites and Tritone Top House. For budget-conscious travelers, the D.R. Rome Spanish Luxury Suites offer value for money.

Trastevere
Trastevere is beaming with life. The vibrant and colorful atmosphere of Trastevere charms every visitor that graces its corridors. Arguably one of Rome's best destinations, this Bohemian neighborhood is full of great cafes, restaurants, and bars, and is littered with enchanting and picturesque streets.
For those seeking to explore the local side of Rome, and for the foodies and beer lovers, Trastevere is the perfect holiday destination. Trastevere remains one of the best places to stay in Rome.
Pros:
- Vibrant and colorful neighborhoods with charming streets
- Many picturesque locations
- More affordable than other destinations
Cons:
- Quite noisy, especially at night
- Not so close to other major attractions
Hotels in Trastevere are quite as charming as its picturesque streets. Notable ones include Le Clarisse Trastevere and Casa Mia. For a more affordable option, tourists can check out Villa Riari Garden.
Monti/Colosseum
Rome's rich history is preserved everywhere in the city, but more so in Monti. For the lovers of history, Monti holds several iconic ancient landmarks and is just the perfect destination to explore.
Imagine how cool it would be to explore the Colosseum, Palatine, and the Roman Forum! Besides these remarkable sites, Monti is also popular for its trendy restaurants, cafes, authentic local vibe, boutique shops, and bars.

Pros:
- It's near major historical landmarks like the Roman Forum, the Colosseum, and Palatine
- Vibrant neighborhood bustling with life
- Home to some of the city's best restaurants
Cons:
- Can be crowded, especially near the Colosseum
-Higher prices due to influx of tourists
Some high-end hotels to stay at include Roma Luxus Hotel and Piazzetta de' Monti Suites. A budget option for locals and tourists is the Glam Sm Maggiore Guest House.
Journey Through the Eternal City
Of course, the plan is to do a lot of exploring when you visit Rome, and as it is eventful, it can be quite exhausting too. So it's important for you to find a great place to stay during your visit to the Eternal City. Rome has a lot of remarkable attractions, charming picturesque streets, and bustling hubs to keep you entertained, but in the middle of all that, finding comfortable spots to relax and unwind in some of the best places to stay in Rome brings ease to your trip.