Visiting Rome for the first time and don’t know the best places to stay in Rome? We’ve got you covered with personal tips from our own experience!
In June 2022, we arrived in Rome on the 12th for my niece’s wedding, which was held in the Puglia region on June 27.
We began our journey with five days in Rome, followed by a visit to Naples and the Amalfi Coast, before heading to Bari in Puglia for the wedding. After the celebration, we returned to Rome on July 1 and flew home the next day, on July 2.
Since it was our first time in Rome, we asked locals for advice.
Nico’s uncle, a Roman himself, suggested staying in the Monti neighborhood.
Following his tip, we booked Una Finestra su Monti, located on Via Palermo, 67.
It turned out to be the perfect location — quiet, central, and full of charm.
From our hotel, we walked to famous landmarks like the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain.
We also explored hidden gems that were recommended by family.
Rome is full of energy, history, and delicious food at every turn.
After exploring several areas, we narrowed it down to three neighborhoods we loved the most.
We’re sharing them in this blog, along with hotel recommendations in each one.
Whether it’s your first time in Rome or a return visit, these areas are fantastic places to stay.
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Best Places to Stay in Rome | Hotel Tips by Area Based on Our 5-Day Trip
Before we list the options we selected, here’s why we chose these three neighborhoods as the best places to stay in Rome.
When planning our 5-day trip, we asked for local advice. My niece’s husband’s uncles live in Rome and recommended a location that was both safe and central — key factors for us. We wanted to stay somewhere walkable to major landmarks but also well connected by metro.
We picked the Monti neighborhood, and it turned out to be the perfect base. It was quiet, full of character, and just minutes from the Colosseum and Cavour Station.
We also explored other areas and spoke to locals, which helped us compare atmosphere, convenience, and hotel options. In the end, we narrowed it down to three neighborhoods that offer the best mix of location, safety, and local charm.
Below, you’ll find our top picks for the best places to stay in Rome, with pros, cons, and hotel suggestions in each.
1. Monti – Our Home in Rome and Our Favorite Pick
We stayed in Monti during our visit to Rome, and we loved it and we believe it was the best place to stay in Rome for the budget we had.
Monti was recommended by Nico’s uncles, who lives in the city.
They suggested the neighbourhood for its charm and perfect location.
Our hotel, Una Finestra su Monti, was on Via Palermo, 67.
It had a peaceful feel and a local vibe, yet it was close to everything.
We were waking up in the morning, having our breakfast in a coffee shop just located in the corner down of our building with many locals still wearing suit and tie to go to work, and we had an amazing local experience in other small shops around.
From there we walked everywhere, including to the Colosseum was just a seven-minute walk from our hotel.
The Cavour metro station was only two minutes away.
From there, we easily took the metro to the Vatican.
Monti gave us access to both tourist spots and local experiences.
Pros
- Walking distance to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Trevi Fountain
- Close to metro and other public transportation for easy access to other areas
- Authentic local vibe with shops and cafés
- Central yet not overly touristy
- Safe and quiet, even at night
Cons
- Fewer budget hotel options than other districts
- Cobbled and narrow streets can be tricky with rolling suitcases
2. Trastevere – Full of Charm and Local Energy
When sharing our tips on the best places to stay in Rome, we couldn’t leave out the Trastevere neighborhood.
We visited Trastevere a couple of times and loved the energy, being a totally different neighbourhood, a little hippie but really great vibes.
It is a beautiful, historic area across the Tiber River.
Known for its narrow streets and piazzas, it feels very authentic and charming.
This neighbourhood is perfect if you enjoy a lively atmosphere.
There are many restaurants, bars, and gelato shops.
It is ideal for couples and food lovers.
Pros
- Beautiful architecture and local charm
- Excellent restaurants and fun nightlife
- Less touristy during the day
- Great for photos and evening strolls
Cons
- Farther from landmarks like the Colosseum and Spanish Steps
- No metro line; public transport is mainly buses and trams
- Can be noisy, especially at night
3. Campo de’ Fiori / Piazza Navona – Classic Rome with Everything Nearby
If you want to stay right in the heart of Rome’s historic center, the Campo de’ Fiori and Piazza Navona area is a great option.
We didn’t stay here due to budget reasons, but we truly believe it’s one of the best places to stay in Rome. It’s close to some of the most beautiful sites we visited, and we walked through this area several times during our trip.
It’s full of energy, rich in history, and perfect for travelers who want to soak up Rome’s classic atmosphere.
This neighborhood is ideal if you want to be surrounded by stunning architecture, lively piazzas, and local charm.
Plus, you can easily walk to major landmarks like the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and even cross over to Trastevere.
Pros
- Extremely central and walkable
- Great access to historic sites and beautiful piazzas
- Lots of restaurants, cafés, and shops
- Lively and full of Roman charm
Cons
- Can be noisy, especially at night
- Hotels are often pricier due to location
- More tourist-heavy than other neighborhoods
Bonus Tip: Stay by the Sea in Fiumicino Before Flying Home
After a busy Roman adventure, we decided to spend our last night by the sea.
We stayed in Fiumicino, close to the airport, and it was the perfect way to end our trip.
Our hotel, Hotel Tiber Fiumicino, was located on Via Della Torre Clementina, 276, and offered lovely sea views.
This area was peaceful and ideal for a relaxing final day.
It also gave us a stress-free commute to the airport the next morning.
If you’re flying out early or just want a quiet break before heading home, this is a great option.
Pros
- Close to Rome Fiumicino Airport
- Located by the sea with fresh air and relaxing views
- Great seafood restaurants nearby
- Less crowded and easygoing atmosphere
Cons
- Fewer sightseeing options, ideal for relaxation instead
- Far from central Rome (around 45 minutes by taxi or transfer)
Best Places to Stay in Rome by Neighborhood – Hotels for Every Style and Budget
Below, you’ll find a list of handpicked hotel suggestions in each of the neighborhoods we mentioned.
These include places we stayed or seriously considered—each with great reviews, convenient locations, and options for every travel style and budget.
If you’re searching for the best places to stay in Rome, this guide is a great place to start.
No matter how you like to travel, Rome has a neighborhood and hotel to match your needs.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to explore more, we hope our personal tips help make your planning easier.
Have you already been to Rome? If so, we’d love to hear where you stayed — feel free to share your tips in the comments!
If you’re still planning your first visit, check out the rest of our blog for more ideas and inspiration based on what we did during our trip.
And don’t forget to watch our Rome vlog for visual highlights and real experiences.
You can subscribe to Discovering Destinations on YouTube for more travel tips, hotel reviews, and itinerary suggestions.
Disclaimer:
The hotel ratings mentioned in this blog (e.g. Hotels.com: 8.8 – Google Review: 4.3) were researched and accurate as of April 2025. Reviews and scores may change over time based on new guest feedback. We recommend checking the most recent reviews directly on Hotels.com, Google, or your preferred booking platform before making a reservation to ensure you have the latest information for your travel dates.
Best places to Stay in Rome: Monti – Central, Walkable, and Our Personal Pick
The first area we suggest as one of the best places to stay in Rome is Monti. We stayed here and truly recommend it—especially for first-time visitors who want easy access to everything.
Here are our top hotel suggestions in Monti, Rome, Italy.
Una Finestra su Monti, Monti – Rome, Italy – Hotels
Hotels.com: 9.4 – Google Review: 4.7
We decided to stay at Una Finestra su Monti, and we totally recommend it for anyone looking for Best Places to stay in Rome.
This cozy guesthouse is centrally located, yet tucked away on a quiet street. Our room had windows facing a dead-end alley, offering a peaceful view of charming historic buildings. Both the room and the building were very clean and well maintained.
Even though it’s an older building, there’s a small elevator — which was a big help with luggage. Most importantly, we always felt safe in the Monti neighborhood, even when walking around at night.
The location was perfect. We were within walking distance to Rome’s main attractions, just a few minutes from the Colosseum and the Cavour metro station.
The staff were also helpful and friendly, offering useful tips and directions during our stay.
Hotel Virgilio, Monti – Rome, Italy
Hotels.com: 8.4 – Google Review: 4.3
Hotel Virgilio is another great budget hotel in the Monti neighborhood of Rome that we seriously considered for our trip.
At the time of writing (April, 2025), the hotel has a rating of 8.4 on Hotels.com and 4.3 stars on Google from over 1,000 reviews, which made it stand out as a solid option for value and comfort.
This 3-star hotel is housed in a 19th-century building and offers clean, comfortable rooms, a daily breakfast buffet, and 24-hour front desk service.
It’s located on Via Palermo, just steps from shops, restaurants, and within walking distance to the Colosseum, Via Nazionale, and Roma Termini station—ideal for first-time visitors wanting to explore Rome by foot or public transit.
In the end, we chose Una Finestra su Monti instead. Hotels.com offered us a great deal, and we loved its smaller, family-run guesthouse vibe, which suited our travel style perfectly.
Rome Life Hotel, Monti – Rome, Italy
Hotels.com: 9.4 – Google Review: 4.5
If you’re looking for a stylish and unique hotel experience in Rome, we recommend checking out Rome Life Hotel.
This modern boutique hotel is just a one-minute walk from Una Finestra su Monti, located in the heart of the Monti neighborhood, close to Via Nazionale. It immediately caught our attention thanks to its creative design, playful decor, and the inviting rooftop patio that offers a relaxing space to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Although we didn’t end up booking this hotel—mainly due to budget and knowing we’d be arriving late at night—it stayed on our radar as a place we’d love to try in the future. We imagined ourselves enjoying their rooftop terrace or starting the day with their highly rated buffet breakfast.
We’re adding this hotel to our list of recommendations in case you’re looking for something more upscale and modern in the same central area.
Rome Life Hotel is a 4-star property offering stylish rooms, a rooftop lounge, an on-site bar, and a well-reviewed breakfast. It’s located within walking distance of the Trevi Fountain, Quirinale Palace, and Colosseum, with easy access to public transportation. It’s a great option for couples or travelers looking to mix comfort with design in a central Rome hotel.
The Fifteen Keys Hotel, Rome – Italy
Hotels.com: 9.8 – Google Review: 4.7
If you’re looking for a more stylish, boutique-style hotel in Rome, and budget is not a concern, then The Fifteen Keys Hotel is an excellent choice.
This highly rated hotel is known for its beautifully designed rooms, exceptional service, and consistent positive guest reviews.
The hotel is located on a quiet street in the Monti neighborhood, offering a peaceful atmosphere while still being close to everything.
It’s just a short walk from Cavour metro station, making it easy to reach other parts of the city.
You’ll also be within walking distance of top spots like Blackmarket Hall – Rione Monti, a popular bar and restaurant, and the stunning Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major, one of the oldest and most beautiful churches in Rome.
Colosseo Panoramic Rooms, Monti – Rome, Italy
Hotels.com: 9.4 – Google Review: 4.6
And finally, if you’re looking for one of the best places to stay in Rome, just a short walk from the Colosseum, then you should definitely check out Colosseo Panoramic Rooms.
This charming guesthouse near the Colosseum consistently receives excellent reviews on Hotels.com and Google, especially for its amazing location and friendly service. It’s just a 4-minute walk to the Colosseum, making it an ideal base for exploring Rome on foot.
Colosseo Panoramic Rooms offers modern, air-conditioned rooms, many with panoramic views of the Colosseum and surrounding landmarks. Guests also enjoy free Wi-Fi, daily housekeeping, and the convenience of staying in one of the most iconic areas of the city.
If being close to the action is your priority, this is a fantastic option to consider.
Best places to Stay in Rome: Trastevere – Bohemian Vibes and Great Nightlife
Trastevere is one of the most fun, charming, and authentic neighborhoods in Rome. We believe it’s a perfect choice for travelers looking for atmosphere, nightlife, and amazing local food and one of the best places to stay in Rome.
We spent almost a full day exploring Trastevere on foot. During our visit, we had a delicious lunch featuring Rome’s famous fried zucchini flowers and fried artichoke hearts at one of the many traditional restaurants in the area.
The food scene here is outstanding. If you’re a foodie, you’ll love it.
In fact, you can find some of our favorite food spots and local dining tips in our blog about the best restaurants we tried in Rome.
Now, back to why you should consider staying in Trastevere.
This neighborhood is ideal if you’re looking for something a little different, with a more local vibe and vibrant nightlife. There are many experiences to enjoy here, including guided food tours and evening walking tours.
Although we didn’t stay in Trastevere during this trip, we explored the area and found a few hotels that caught our attention.
These are Four great hotel options in Trastevere for each budget that we would love to try on our next visit to Rome:
Trastevere Rooms – Trastevere, Rome
Hotels.com: 8.8 – Google Review: 4.3
Trastevere Rooms is a guesthouse located in Rome’s vibrant Trastevere neighborhood, offering easy access to the area’s popular nightlife, local dining, and cultural attractions.
According to reviews on Hotels.com, guests mention that the rooms are comfortable and adequately sized, with strong water pressure in the showers. However, some feedback notes that the bathrooms are small and a bit dated, though still clean and functional.
Thanks to its central location, Trastevere Rooms allows you to experience the authentic Roman atmosphere without being far from the main attractions. While it may not offer luxury amenities, it’s a practical and budget-friendly option for travelers who want to stay in one of Rome’s most lively and charming districts—without spending a fortune.
Relais Le Clarisse a Trastevere – Hotel Rome, Italy
Hotels.com: 9.2 – Google Review: 4.5
If you’re looking for a charming place to stay in Trastevere, Relais Le Clarisse is a great option to consider.
Located in the heart of the neighborhood, this boutique hotel is set in a former convent and offers a peaceful courtyard, cozy rooms, and lots of character.
We’ve seen it recommended often and love its perfect location, just steps from top restaurants, lively piazzas, and local shops. It’s an ideal base to explore Rome with a more authentic, local feel.
Horti 14 Borgo Trastevere – Rome, Italy
Hotels.com: 9.8 – Google Review: 4.7
If budget is not an issue for you, this is actually our top pick in Trastevere. We would love to stay here for a few nights—or at least two full days.
Horti 14 Borgo Trastevere looks amazing, blending a historic location with modern design and comfort, which is exactly the kind of stay we love.
This boutique hotel offers stylish rooms, a lush garden, and a rooftop terrace with beautiful views. It’s tucked away in a quieter part of Trastevere, yet still close to all the lively piazzas and top restaurants.
If you’re looking for a stay that’s peaceful, design-forward, and close to everything, this could be the perfect match.
Best places to Stay in Rome: Campo de’ Fiori / Piazza Navona (Historic Center)
Another neighborhood we highly recommend is the area around Campo de’ Fiori and Piazza Navona, located in Rome’s historic center. While we stayed in Monti and spent time in Trastevere, this was one of the areas we kept coming back to. It’s close to some of the most iconic historic landmarks in Rome—like the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and Campo de’ Fiori market—all of which became some of our favorite spots outside the Colosseum.
If you’re visiting Rome for the first time or simply want to be surrounded by history at every turn, this neighborhood is a perfect base. It’s charming, walkable, full of great cafés and restaurants, and ideal for soaking in the classic Roman atmosphere.
Campo de’ Fiori 34 – Rome, Italy
Hotels.com: 9.0 – Google Review: 4.5
If you’re looking for more space while visiting Rome, and also more comfort than a standard hotel room—without giving up services like breakfast—then Campo de’ Fiori 34 – B&B is a fantastic option to consider.
Located at Piazza Pollarola, 34, one of the best places to stay in Rome, this property offers apartment-style accommodations with the added convenience of B&B amenities, including an on-site bar/lounge and breakfast service. It’s a great blend of the freedom of an apartment and the comfort of a hotel.
The location is hard to beat. You’ll be just steps from Campo de’ Fiori square, and a short walk to some of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, including the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and Ponte Sisto, which connects you directly to Trastevere. The charming Via Giulia and the Jewish Ghetto are also nearby, making this a perfect base to explore Rome’s historic center on foot.
The apartments are spacious, stylish, and well-equipped, making them ideal for couples, families, or anyone who appreciates a little extra room to relax while traveling.
If you’re looking for a more flexible stay in Rome—where you can enjoy your mornings with a hotel-style breakfast but still have the feel of a home—Campo de’ Fiori 34 B&B might be the perfect fit for your trip.
Piccola Navona Roof Garden Hotel – Rome Italy
Hotels.com: 9.6 – Google Review: 4.9
If you’re seeking a charming stay in Rome’s historic center, Piccola Navona Roof Garden is an excellent choice.
This boutique hotel offers a rooftop garden and cozy terrace, providing a serene retreat amidst the bustling city. Its prime location places you within walking distance of iconic landmarks such as Campo de’ Fiori and Piazza Navona, allowing you to immerse yourself in Rome’s rich history and vibrant culture.
As per reviews we checked, guests have praised the hotel’s comfortable accommodations, friendly staff, and proximity to local attractions, making it a delightful option for your Roman holiday.
Boutique Hotel Campo dé Fiori – Rome, Italy
Hotels.com: 9.2 – Google Review: 4.6
If you’re dreaming of waking up in the heart of historic Rome, budget is not an issue, and you want to end your day with rooftop views over the Eternal City, then Boutique Hotel Campo de’ Fiori is definitely worth checking out.
Although we didn’t stay here ourselves, we came across it while exploring the area and were immediately drawn to its charm. It’s located just steps from the lively Campo de’ Fiori square, surrounded by restaurants, cafés, and local markets. Plus, it’s within walking distance to major landmarks like the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and the Trevi Fountain.
What really caught our attention—aside from the outstanding reviews—was the hotel’s rooftop terrace with panoramic views of Rome. It looks like the perfect place to relax with a drink and take in a Roman sunset after a day of sightseeing.
If you’re looking for a romantic, centrally located stay with charm and unforgettable rooftop views, this boutique hotel in Rome might be the perfect match for your trip.
Bonus Tip: Stay by the Sea in Fiumicino Before Flying Home
As we mentioned at the beginning of this blog, we arrived in Rome on June 12, 2022, for my niece’s wedding, which was held in the Puglia region on June 27.
We began our journey with five days in Rome, followed by a visit to Naples and the Amalfi Coast, before heading to Bari in Puglia for the wedding. After the celebration, we returned to Rome on July 1 and flew home the next day, on July 2.
Since we were tired from traveling and had already spent several days exploring Rome, we decided to book a hotel near Rome Fiumicino Airport for our final night.
And honestly, we couldn’t have been happier with that decision.
We stayed in Fiumicino, right by the sea, which turned out to be the perfect and most relaxing way to end our trip. Our hotel, Hotel Tiber Fiumicino, is located at Via Della Torre Clementina, 276, and it offers beautiful sea views.
This peaceful coastal area was ideal for a quiet final day. We found lovely seafood restaurants, walked along the seafront promenade, and enjoyed the fresh air.
The hotel also provided a free airport shuttle, which made our commute to the airport stress-free the next morning.
If you’re flying out early or just want to unwind before heading home, staying in Fiumicino is a great alternative to the busy city. It’s also more budget-friendly than most Rome hotels, especially if you’re looking for a seafront location.
Just keep in mind that Fiumicino is about 45 minutes by taxi or transfer from central Rome, so it’s best suited for the start or end of your trip.
Pros:
- Very close to Rome Fiumicino Airport
- Seafront location with relaxing views and fresh air
- Plenty of great seafood restaurants within walking distance
- Less crowded and peaceful compared to central Rome
Cons:
- Far from Rome’s city center (about 45 minutes by taxi or private transfer)
- Limited sightseeing options nearby — ideal for rest, not exploration
Conclusion
We hope this guide helps you feel more confident about where to stay in Rome. ✨
Choosing the right neighborhood can truly shape your experience—and after walking miles of ancient streets, tasting unforgettable food, and getting lost (in the best way!), these are the places we’d choose again in a heartbeat.
Whether it’s your first time in Rome or your fifth, we hope our personal tips from Discovering Destinations help make your trip even more memorable.
Safe travels and happy discovering!
