Insider Guide to the Best Area To Stay in Rome in 2026: Centro Storico and Beyond

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One thing I have realized is that accommodation, in general, across Italy is not like stepping inside a Pinterest board as you’d find in say Bali or trendy London. Instead, the interiors are incredibly Italian (think a villa from the 15th century) and often have their own distinct style. 

Buildings are preserved in time, and interiors tend to highlight this. However, compared to some of Italy’s other cities, the accommodation in Rome does one up things in terms of offering more modernized options, but still honoring very Italian-esque design. Usually, though, these modern hotels are on the higher end of the price tag spectrum. 

Also, don’t forget, Rome isn’t just Italy’s most visited city, but one of the world’s! Naturally, accommodation is hiked up — for obvious reasons. So budget accordingly. 

Not really sure where to stay in Rome? I love that the different neighborhoods suit various travellers’ needs, from creative Monti to foodie-pleasing Trastevere. After countless trips to Rome (where I’ve stayed in literally every corner of the city) I’ve put together this ultimate guide to help you pick which area best suits you. This is the ultimate guide to help choose the best area to stay in Rome by both your interests and budget. 

Rome Neighborhood Guide

1. Trastevere

My first time ever in Rome, I stayed in charming Trastevere, and I have absolutely zero regrets about my decision. 

Epitomizing everything there is to love about this city, picture cobbled streets, tiny Italian trattorias down a maze of alleyways, brimming bars filled with chitchatter and hardly a space to move, and random markets selling the most chic selection of goods, from second-hand designer sunglasses to clothing. 

(I picked up a few of my now-favourite closet items at a Trastevere market.) 

Fun fact: The Latin derivative for Trastevere means “beyond the Tiber.” It’s befitting because that is exactly the location of this best area to stay in Rome. Trastevere is located on the western bank of the Tiber River, opposite the historic center. 

I’d especially recommend this location if you only have one or two days in Rome and are dead-set on visiting the Vatican, as it’s closer to the world-famous landmark, but still just across the way from Rome’s bustling tourist hotspot, i.e., the historic center. It’s a little pricier than staying in the tourist hub, but great for apartment vibes (which I personally prefer). In short, all the magic of Rome (cobblestones, small trattorias) plus close proximity to major tourist sites.

Insighter Tip: We’ve put together a guide to the best restaurants in Trastevere. 

Best Hotels in Trastevere 

Sleek and stylish, and boasting the sweetest balcony for your morning cappuccino and croissant to dip into it, Trastevere Roma | UNA Esperienze is an upmarket pick. It’s fabulous for couples. In comparison to some of the outdated interiors you see in Roma, I love this hotel because it feels more contemporary, yet still classic. The rooftop terrace is amazing. San Pietro Boutique Rooms is another option that offers rooms with little balconies. I love the vintage-esque touches decor-wise, like a purposefully-placed pile of antique trunks. 

Rome is crazy busy, and a night at Residenza Leone XIII provides a peaceful night’s rest. Its massive outdoor guest courtyard and garden are a huge selling point for me. Equipped with its own kitchen and living room, Nora’s Home is for those who prefer an entire place to themselves when traveling. Waking up to its green shutters overlooking a street below is such an inspiring Italian moment. 

P.S. Last trip to Rome, I stayed at The Secret Courtyard. If hospitality and small touches (like bottles of wine and local baked goods on arrival) matter, as well as the most helpful and genuine hosts I’ve come across, book this courtyard apartment!  

2. Centro Storico 

From Rome’s most famous wishing well, i.e., the Trevi Fountain, to the iconic 18th century Spanish Steps, Centro Storico is the most central part of Rome. It’s also known as the historical center, and this is where most tourists are led to make their accommodation bookings. 

It’s a super duper convenient location, and is loaded with restaurants, hotels, bars, cafes, gelaterias, boutique shops, landmarks, and things to do. 

I have to point out, though, that a lot of the accommodation can feel sort of “on top” of one another, and because it is the central part of Rome, it is noisy at night. I met a couple staying in Centro Storico, and they complained that they battled to sleep at night as their room was directly facing the street. If you’re a light-sleeper (that would be me), these are a few things to consider when making your booking. That said, accommodation is more affordable than others, and is the best area to stay for more budget-friendly options. 

Best Hotels in Centro Storico 

Sentho Roma has a great location! It’s a couple of minutes’ walk from the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore and the Teatro dell’Opera di Roma. Rooms (including bathrooms) are comfortable, spacious, and have tons of natural light. 

Time-travel back centuries at Boutique Relais Barozzi & Spa. Even the property’s entrance is intriguing, and I just love the spa, which is like one of the classical Roman bath houses. Princeps Boutique Hotel boasts a great location as well and also includes a delicious, free breakfast. 

Looking for brunch spots in Rome? Check out some of my favorite locales for a lazy mid-morning munch-down. 

Hotel Smeraldo has many types of room options to take your pick from. Guests rave about the excellent service, free breakfast, comfortable bedrooms, and hotel cleanliness. The terrace/patio is amazing! 

3. Monti 

Bohemian Monti would be my next best area to stay in Rome after Trastevere. Buildings kind of slope down in between ancient staircases, and the facades are an array of deep pastel shades, ranging from oranges to pinks. Its cobbled streets add dollops of ambiance, and make you feel like you’re in Rome centuries ago, but also not — if that makes sense? 

The streets spill out with vintage shops (I picked up the most incredible pair of cowboy-style boots in Monti), the restaurants are hyper-local and affordable, and there’s definitely a creative and artsy sort of buzz in the air. It’s one of, if not the best, places in Roma for artisanal shopping for unique goods. 

“Che bello!”

It’s a popular place for explorers, as the Colosseum is around the corner from Monti. 

Best Hotels in Monti

Wooden tennis rackets on the walls, eclectic wallpaper (from animated crowds at the teatro to hot air balloons), and abstract items repurposed as furniture, Salotto Monti personifies the neighborhood’s creative vibes.

As you stumble upon a sweet building facade with burgundy-coloured wooden shutters across its walls, you know you’ve arrived at Nerva Boutique Hotel. The rooms are wonderful, but my pick of the lot is the Premium Suite Patio! 

Palazzo Serpe Suites is the type of place I’d imagine artists living. The bathrooms of the Romantic Studio Suite and the Deluxe Studio Suite are amazing. Other fantastic Monti accommodation options include Aenea Superior Inn (all rooms have gorgeous little terraces) and The Major. 

4. Prati 

Do you only have one day and one night in Rome, and those plans are dedicated solely to exploring the Vatican City? Then Prati is your best bet, and is the best area to stay in Rome that’s closest to the Roman Catholic Church headquarters. 

Fun fact: The Vatican is technically classified as its own COUNTRY! Let that sink in for a minute…Honestly speaking, the day flies by as you set off discovering its famous landmarks, including the Sistine Chapel and its frescoes, the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and more.

If you arrive and you haven’t prebooked tickets, you’re shooting yourself in the foot. Considering the already swarming lines, there’s no way you’ll make it inside in time and still be able to see everything that comprises the Vatican. Organise your tickets before your travels to avoid disappointment — trust me on this one. 

The Prati neighborhood is favored by families, and the accommodation is affordable. 

Best Hotels in Prati/near the Vatican 

Warm and inviting, the rooms at Velantia Vaticano – Guesthouse are super comfortable. Bathrooms boast modern marble finishes. It’s a short walk to the Vatican, and there’s a lovely restaurant next door for added convenience. With its blue walls and brick-mimicking laminates, co.sleep exudes masculine energy. Rooms are named by decor, for example, the photo studio or the music studio. It’s a really well-priced option. 

Les Chambres d’ Or is the perfect option for families visiting Rome, as it offers rooms with multiple beds. The Family Quadruple Room boasts a double bed, as well as two singles (it’s a four-sleeper). The Family Triple has one queen bed and one single bed, sleeping up to three members. Out of the lot, I’d opt to spend a night at Eccelso Hotel. I’m a mega fan of the tall shutter windows allowing all the natural sunlight, and little extras upon arrival, like a bottle of vino. 

5. Aventino (Aventine Hill) 

Also known as Aventine Hill, Aventino forms part of Ripa — Rome’s 12th ward — and as the name suggests, it’s nestled among the hillsides. It comprises one of the Seven Hills of Rome. During a Vespa ride from Trastevere to the Vatican, we cruised around this beautiful neighborhood, and I simply fell in love with the buildings. It’s definitely got an upmarket feel, and I don’t even want to imagine what the property prices are like in this part of Rome. 

Expect an avalanche of villas or modernised “penthouses,” and the area is home to some of Rome’s wealthiest residents. I love how quiet Aventino is, making it feel worlds away from the rest of the city, granting you a different side of Roma. 

I must admit, there isn’t an awful lot happening in Aventino, but it’s fantastic for some serious downtime. Nearby Testaccio is packed with restaurants, bars, etc. I wouldn’t suggest staying here, though, if it’s your first time in Rome. 

In short, I would recommend Aventine if you’re returning to Rome after multiple visits and want to simply enjoy the city, without feeling the need to revisit tourist sites. Slightly upmarket, extremely photogenic and, well, just simply Roma.

Best Hotels in Aventino (Aventine Hill)

I go gaga over The Sanctuary Urban Retreat, most especially for its trendy architectural features and raw and minimalistic interior design. It fuses contemporary moments with ancient Roman attributes. The breakfast is restaurant-worthy, and you can enjoy luxe amenities, like muslin cloth robes and down duvets. There’s also an on-site coffee shop. For a serious splurge, check into the Palazzo Velabro.

I simply love, love, love the grounds of Fauno Urban Resort, especially the seasonal outdoor pool area! What a treat to have in Rome’s summertime. It’s a very affordable option — prices you’d hardly stumble upon in Aventino. The Corner Roma is a tasteful accommodation choice. The Double Suite has a rather interesting, capsule atrium-like bay window. 

Now that you’ve got your accommodation sorted, here’s a complete itinerary of how to spend a glorious three days in Rome. Beyond the sightseeing, if you’re here to eat, eat, eat, you have to try Rome’s iconic carbonara dish, and here are some of the most delicious spots for it.  

Then, for street food that is symbolic to Rome and hails from the capital, have a read through my yummy list of the must-try street food bites in Roma. 

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