Wondering what the best area to stay in Rome for first timers is?
Visiting Italy for the first time can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience especially if its your first time in Rome. Rome, with its many neighbourhoods, offers a diverse array of experiences and sights to explore. Having visited Rome three times myself, staying in different areas each time, I’ve come to appreciate the unique character each neighbourhood brings.
While Monti has become my personal favourite, I understand that choosing the best area depends on your preferences. You may be after hotels in Rome near attractions or who you’re travelling with, whether with family, friends, or a partner may effect where you stay in Rome.
Let’s explore the best areas to stay in Rome for first timers, ensuring you have a memorable and enjoyable trip.
⏰ Short on time? Here's our top recommendation for Rome.
🗺️ Top Things to do in Rome
1. Best of Rome Walking Tour including Trevi Fountain
2. Trastevere Roman Food Guided Walking Tour
3. Colosseum skip the line tickets
4. Testaccio Neighborhood Food Tour
5. Vatican Museums Skip The Line
💸 Save Money: Use the Rome Pass includes attraction and public transport. Check it out here.
🏨 Best area to stay for couples in Rome: Monti. (walking distance to major sights)
👉 Read Next: Sights to see in Rome with prices
Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. This means that, at no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click on or make a purchase through these links.
Monti (My Personal Favorite)
Monti is a trendy neighbourhood known for its cool vibes, vintage shops, and hipster cafes. It’s close to major attractions like the Colosseum and Roman Forum. I’m probably bias but i think it’s the best area to stay in Rome for first timers.
Who should stay here: Great for young travellers, couples, and those looking for a vibrant, trendy atmosphere.
What you will find: Stylish bars, unique boutiques, and a great selection of restaurants. Monti offers a mix of ancient and modern, perfect for sightseeing and enjoying the local nightlife. The area is also home to some great rooftop terraces offering stunning views of the city.
Public transport options: You can walk to many attractions, and the area is well-served by buses and the metro.
Hotels we recommend:
- Luxury hotel – Hotel Palazzo Manfredi
- Midrange hotel – Black Rooms Colosseo
- Budget hotel – Sandy Hotel
Tip: Take a guided tour of the Colosseum and Roman Forum while in Monti to get the most out of your visit. If you prefer you can get Colosseum skip the line tickets here.
Where did I stay in Rome?
👉 Watch our hotel review staying at an AirBnb in Monti, Rome. It had a Terrace Spectacular Views including the Colosseum!
👉 View the hotel here
Trastevere
Trastevere is known for its bohemian atmosphere, charming streets, and vibrant nightlife. It’s one of the most picturesque neighbourhoods in Rome.
Who should stay here: Ideal for solo travellers, couples, and those looking to experience the local culture and nightlife.
What you will find: Boutique shops, lively bars, and delicious restaurants. Trastevere is also home to beautiful churches and the stunning Villa Farnesina. The neighbourhood is famous for its street food and local eateries.
Public transport options: While Trastevere is highly walkable, there are trams and buses that connect you to other parts of Rome.
Hotels we recommend:
- Luxury hotel – Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá
- Midrange hotel – Top Floor Trastevere
- Budget hotel – Hotel Carmel
Tip: Don’t miss the local food tour while in Trastevere to experience the best of Roman cuisine. 👉 Compare tours here.
Centro Storico (Historic Center)
Centro Storico is the heart of Rome, filled with iconic landmarks, narrow cobblestone streets, and historic charm. It’s home to some of the city’s most famous sights like the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and the Trevi Fountain.
Who should stay here: Perfect for first-time visitors, couples, and history buffs who want to be in the centre of everything.
What you will find: Luxury shopping, the best sightseeing opportunities, vibrant nightlife, and an array of historic sights to explore. You’ll also find charming cafes and restaurants around every corner. The neighbourhood is ideal for those who enjoy being within walking distance of the main sights and attractions.
Public transport options: While you can walk to most major attractions, there are also plenty of bus stops and metro stations nearby for longer trips. Staying here means you’re well connected to the rest of the city.
Hotels we recommend:
- Luxury hotel – Palazzo Ripetta
- Midrange hotel – Il Corso Comfort Rooms
- Budget Hotel – Hotel Indipendenza
Tip: While in Centro Storico, take a walking tour to explore the hidden gems and learn about the history of the area. 👉 Compare tour options here.
Vatican / Prati
This area is known for its proximity to Vatican City, home to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel.
Who should stay here: Ideal for families, couples, and art lovers who want to be close to the Vatican.
What you will find: Prati is a quiet, upscale neighbourhood with great shopping, elegant streets, and a variety of restaurants. Perfect for exploring the Vatican and its treasures.
Public transport options: Well-connected by metro and buses, making it easy to explore the rest of Rome.
Hotels we recommend:
- Luxury hotel – The First Musica
- Midrange hotel – Eccelso Hotel
- Budget hotel – Room 76
Tip: Book a skip-the-line tour of the Vatican Museums while in the Vatican area to avoid long queues. 👉 Get the Skip The Line tickets here.
Testaccio
Testaccio is known for its authentic Roman atmosphere, fantastic food scene, and historical sites related to Rome’s ancient port.
Who should stay here: Perfect for foodies, culture seekers, and those wanting to experience local life away from tourist crowds.
What you will find: Vibrant markets, traditional trattorias, and lively nightlife. Testaccio is also home to the ancient Pyramid of Cestius and the Protestant Cemetery.
Public transport options: Well-connected by buses and the metro, making it easy to reach other parts of Rome.
Tip: Take a food tour in Testaccio to sample the best of Roman cuisine and learn about the neighbourhood’s culinary history. 👉 Compare tours here.
Campo de' Fiori
Campo de’ Fiori is known for its bustling market, lively square, and vibrant nightlife. It’s a great place to experience the local atmosphere.
Who should stay here: Perfect for couples, solo travellers, and anyone looking to be in a lively, central location.
What you will find: During the day, the square hosts a famous market selling fresh produce, flowers, and local goods. At night, the area comes alive with bustling bars and restaurants.
Public transport options: Easy to walk to many attractions, with several bus stops nearby for longer journeys.
Tip: Visit Campo de’ Fiori market in the morning for fresh produce and local delicacies.
Day trips we recommend from Rome
🚄 Explore Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius: Full-Day Tour from Rome with high-speed train and expert guide.
🚢 Sail the Amalfi Coast: Rome to Positano and Amalfi Coast Day Trip with breathtaking views and boat rides.
🍇 Taste Tuscany: Full-Day Wine Tour from Rome – Visit charming villages and savor local wines.
🏛️ Discover Ancient Ostia: Half-Day Trip to Rome’s Hidden Ruins – Explore well-preserved ruins near the coast.
🗻 Escape to the Castelli Romani: Scenic Day Trip – Discover quaint towns and try the region’s famous wines and cuisine.
FAQ
Where to stay in Rome first time?
For first-time visitors, I recommend staying in Centro Storico. It’s the heart of Rome, offering easy access to major attractions, great restaurants, and a lively atmosphere. It’s the best area to stay in Rome for first timers because you’ll be in the middle of everything.
What area of Rome is the best to stay in as a tourist?
Centro Storico is the best area for tourists due to its central location and proximity to iconic sights. Trastevere and Monti are also great options for their unique charm and vibrant atmospheres and also close to many great Roman sights.
Where to avoid staying in Rome?
Avoid staying in the outskirts of the city, as they are far from major attractions and public transport can be less convenient. Areas around Termini Station can also be less safe and less pleasant.
What is the safest neighbourhood to stay in Rome?
Prati is one of the safest neighbourhoods in Rome. It’s quiet, upscale, and close to the Vatican, making it a great choice for families and those looking for a
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