Where to Stay in Rome 2025: Our Top Areas & Best Hotels

Rome had been on our bucket list for what felt like forever — the history, the food, and of course, the never-ending pizza. We’d seen the photos, watched the movies, and imagined those lazy walks through cobbled streets with an espresso in hand.

But honestly, nothing really prepares you for how alive this city feels.

Rome has that kind of magic that sneaks up on you. One minute you’re weaving through chaotic streets with a gelato in hand, and the next you’re standing in front of something built two thousand years ago, wondering how it’s even real.

We’ve stayed in a few different parts of the city, and each one gave us a completely different side of the city. So in this guide, we’re breaking down the best areas (and hotels) to help you find the one that fits your trip best.

Where to stay in Rome: Our experience

We’ve stayed in a few very different parts of Rome, and each one shaped how we experienced the city.

On our first visit, we booked a budget stay near Roma Termini, the main train station, thinking it’d be convenient and save us time getting around. And while it definitely was — especially for day trips — we quickly realized it wasn’t quite the Roman charm we were hoping for.

The area felt a bit rough around the edges, and walking back to our hotel after dark didn’t feel too safe. Not to mention it wasn’t particularly clean either.

On our next visit, we decided to stay closer to the Historic Centre, and honestly, it was a completely different experience. Being able to walk everywhere — to the Trevi Fountain before the crowds or to grab dinner in a tiny side street — made it all feel much more magical.

The downside? Prices are higher and parking is basically impossible, but for us, it was worth it.

We also spent a few nights in Monti, which turned out to be one of our favorite areas. It’s got that mix of local life and convenience — full of cozy cafés, independent shops, and views of the Colosseum just around the corner.

It’s still central but feels more authentic and relaxed than the postcard-perfect center.

If we could give one tip, it’s this: don’t just pick the cheapest or closest place on the map. In Rome, the area you stay in really shapes your trip — how much you walk, where you eat, and even how the city feels at night.

Best areas to stay in Rome

Before we get into the details, here’s a quick look at the best areas to stay in Rome. On the map below, you’ll find the main areas we recommend, so you can easily picture where everything is and how they connect.

Centro Storico (Historic Centre)

The Historic Centre is as central as it gets — right in the heart of Rome, surrounded by the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and Trevi Fountain. It’s the postcard version of the city: elegant piazzas, gelato stands on every corner, and cobbled streets that seem to lead somewhere beautiful no matter where you turn.

We stayed here on our second trip, and it completely changed how we experienced Rome. Everything was within walking distance, which made sightseeing feel effortless. The trade-off is the noise and the prices — accommodation here is noticeably higher, and it’s rare to find a quiet night’s sleep.

If you’ve only got a few days in Rome and want to make the most of your time, this is the area where everything happens.

✅ Pros: Incredibly central, walkable, full of great cafés and landmarks
❌ Cons: Expensive, noisy, and very touristy
⭐️ Best for: First-time visitors or anyone who wants to be right in the action

Trastevere

Across the river from the main historic sights, Trastevere feels like a completely different side of Rome — more local, more lived-in, and a little rough around the edges in the best possible way.

Its narrow cobbled streets wind between ivy-covered buildings, laundry hangs from the windows, and the smell of pasta and wood-fired pizza drifts through the air.

We didn’t stay overnight here, but we spent some of the evenings wandering around, and it quickly became one of those places that’s hard to leave. The food scene is incredible (try Otello or Tonnarello Scala), and the atmosphere after sunset is lively but laid-back, with people dining outside until midnight.

The only real downside is the location: it’s a bit of a walk or tram ride to the main landmarks, and the streets can get very crowded in the evenings.

Still, if you care more about good food, local vibes, and nights that stretch a little longer than planned, Trastevere is hard to beat.

✅ Pros: Authentic local feel, great restaurants, lively evenings
❌ Cons: Slightly far from major sights, busy at dinner time
⭐️ Best for: Couples, food lovers, and anyone who wants the most atmospheric part of the city

Monti

Tucked between the Colosseum and Termini Station, Monti has that perfect in-between vibe — close to the main sights but with a much more local feel. We loved the mix of small boutiques, wine bars, and vintage shops next to old apartment buildings.

During the day, locals grab coffee at tiny corner cafés, and by evening, the streets fill up with people heading out for dinner or a drink.

We stayed here on one of our later trips and loved it. It’s central enough that you can walk almost anywhere, yet far enough from the crowds to still feel calm.

The area around Via Urbana is especially nice — full of independent restaurants and tucked-away trattorias that are miles better than anything near the main tourist zones. If you’re visiting Rome for a few days and want a mix of convenience and atmosphere, this is one of the best places to stay.

✅ Pros: Central but local, great food scene, walkable
❌ Cons: Limited green spaces, can get busy on weekends
⭐️ Best for: Travelers who want a balance of location, charm, and local life

Prati (Vatican Area)

Just north of the Vatican, Prati feels like a calmer, more polished side of Rome. The streets are wide and elegant, lined with stylish apartment buildings, gelaterias, and little boutiques that make it feel almost like Paris.

It’s a convenient base if you’re planning to visit St. Peter’s Basilica, Castel Sant’Angelo, or the Vatican Museums — everything’s within easy walking distance.

We didn’t stay overnight here, but we came during the day, and it always felt clean, safe, and refreshingly quiet compared to the chaos of the center. It’s definitely not the place to go if you’re after late-night bars or that old Roman buzz, but it’s perfect if you want somewhere calm to come back to after sightseeing.

If you prefer an area that’s relaxed and a little more upscale — without the constant noise of scooters and crowds — Prati might surprise you in a good way.

✅ Pros: Peaceful, elegant, safe, close to the Vatican
❌ Cons: Quieter in the evenings, less character, fewer budget hotels
⭐️ Best for: Families or travelers who want a calm, comfortable base near the Vatican

Spanish Steps & Piazza di Spagna

If you want to stay somewhere that feels straight out of a movie, the area around the Spanish Steps and Piazza di Spagna is exactly that. It’s one of the most elegant parts of Rome — full of high-end boutiques and beautiful old buildings.

You’re right in the middle of the action, with the Trevi Fountain, Villa Borghese Gardens, and Via Condotti’s designer shops all just a short walk away.

We spent plenty of time wandering through the area and could easily see the appeal. It’s clean, polished, and feels safe, though definitely more high-end than local. The atmosphere is lively during the day with shoppers and tourists, but things quiet down in the evenings once the stores close.

If you’re after comfort, convenience, and that picture-perfect Roman backdrop, this is one of the best places to stay — just be prepared for higher prices and a slightly more touristy feel.

✅ Pros: Central, elegant, close to major landmarks and shopping
❌ Cons: Expensive, less local atmosphere, busy during the day
⭐️ Best for: Travelers who want comfort, style, and postcard-perfect surroundings

Best hotels in Rome

This list brings together our favorite places to stay around Rome — spots we’ve either stayed in ourselves or would happily book after exploring this place from end to end.

We’ve done the hard research so you can easily decide which of the best hotels fit your needs and preferences.

Best Hotels in Centro Storico

Staying in the Historic Centre means waking up surrounded by the best landmarks — the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Piazza Navona are all just minutes away. It’s busy and a little pricey, but the charm and convenience make it hard to beat.

• Residenza Il Giglio $$
• Hotel Raphaël – Relais & Châteaux $$$ (Our Top Pick)
• Umiltà 36 $$$

Residenza Il Giglio $$

Residenza Il Giglio is set in a quiet side street near the Pantheon — just far enough from the crowds to sleep well, but close enough that you can reach all the main sights in under 10 minutes.

The rooms are simple but well-finished, with thoughtful touches like espresso machines and local tips from the owners. It’s a clear step up from most mid-range guesthouses in the area, and the location alone makes it fantastic value for money.

If you’re after comfort, charm, and convenience without the luxury price tag, this one’s hard to beat.

⭐️ Best for: Travelers who want an authentic, mid-range stay steps from the Pantheon
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Hotel Raphaël – Relais & Châteaux $$$ (Our Top Pick)

Just behind Piazza Navona, Hotel Raphaël blends five-star service with old-world character. Its ivy-covered façade makes it one of Rome’s most photogenic stays, and inside you’ll find elegant interiors filled with art and warmth rather than formality.

Our favorite part? The rooftop terrace overlooking the city — perfect for sunset drinks after a day of exploring. It’s not the cheapest, but for location and atmosphere, few hotels in the Historic Centre compare.

⭐️ Best for: Travelers seeking timeless luxury with unbeatable views near Piazza Navona
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Umiltà 36 $$$

Umiltà 36 is where contemporary design meets Roman elegance. Just a short walk from the Trevi Fountain, it has modern interiors, curated artwork, and a relaxed, welcoming vibe that feels luxurious.

The attention to detail here is next level, from the high-quality linens to the service that somehow remembers your name after day one. It’s pricier, but it feels genuinely worth it — more boutique retreat than typical city hotel.

If you’re looking for a stay that combines design and comfort, this is the one we’d book again in a heartbeat.

⭐️ Best for: Couples or design lovers looking for refined, modern luxury near the Trevi Fountain
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Best Hotels in Trastevere

If you want to experience the local side — full of life, food, and narrow cobbled streets — Trastevere is where you’ll find it. It’s lively in the evenings but feels authentic, with great restaurants and that real Roman spirit. Staying here means trading tourist crowds for character and charm.

• Suites Trastevere $ (Our Top Pick)
• Hotel San Francesco $$
• Horti 14 Borgo Trastevere Hotel $$$

Suites Trastevere $ (Our Top Pick)

Suites Trastevere is a small, creative B&B just 300 m from the train station and tram stop, making it super easy to reach the historic center in minutes. Every room has its own design, each one decorated with large wall murals inspired by Rome — so it actually feels exciting to come back after a day out.

The breakfast is to die for: a beautifully packed box brought straight to your room, filled with everything from pastries to juice and coffee. It feels personal, warm, and great value for this location. If you want comfort with a local touch and an unbeatable breakfast, this is the one.

⭐️ Best for: Couples or travelers who want a cozy, well-connected stay in Trastevere
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Hotel San Francesco $$

Just a short walk from the main piazza, Hotel San Francesco hits that sweet spot between comfort and price. It has a 24-hour reception, spacious rooms, and one of the best breakfasts you’ll find in the area.

What we really like about this hotel is the rooftop terrace — perfect for enjoying a quiet evening drink while the neighborhood buzzes below. The location is close enough to all the action but still peaceful enough for a good night’s sleep.

⭐️ Best for: Travelers looking for a relaxed, comfortable base with great service and views
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Horti 14 Borgo Trastevere Hotel $$$

We chose the Horti 14 Borgo Trastevere Hotel for its location on a quiet street near the Botanical Garden. We love that it is a modern boutique escape with lovely design and plenty of greenery around.

The rooms are elegant and minimalist, the rooftop bar has fantastic sunset views, and the location is ideal — a short stroll from Trastevere’s buzzing restaurants. It feels like a hidden retreat in the heart of the city, with excellent service and style to match.

If you’re after a modern, relaxing hideaway that still keeps you close to everything, this is the one we’d pick every time.

⭐️ Best for: Design lovers and couples looking for a calm, stylish base in Trastevere
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Best Hotels in Monti

Monti sits right between the Colosseum and Termini Station, which makes it one of Rome’s best areas for both exploring. It’s central, walkable, and has that perfect mix of history and local life — with wine bars, artisan shops, and cozy cafés on every corner.

• Colosseo Relais $
• Hotel Artemis $$ (Our Top Pick)
• Leonardo Boutique Hotel Rome Monti $$$

Colosseo Relais $

Colosseo Relais is a hidden gem for anyone wanting to stay close to the Colosseum which is literally just around the corner. We love that the interiors are simple but beautifully done, much nicer than most budget stays in this area.

The breakfast is delicious — fresh pastries, coffee, and fruit served each morning. For the price, the combination of location and quality is seriously hard to beat.

If you’re after an affordable stay where you can step out and see the Colosseum within minutes, this is the one.

⭐️ Best for: Travelers who want a budget-friendly yet beautiful base next to the Colosseum
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Hotel Artemis $$ (Our Top Pick)

We picked Hotel Artemis for its great location and a touch of character that’s rare at this price point. The rooms are uniquely designed, each with an old-world charm that feels Roman — cozy, classic, and full of personality.

The hotel is perfectly situated to explore the city, whether by foot, metro, or bus, and it strikes that balance between convenience and comfort. We’d stay here purely for how effortless it makes getting around and how inviting it feels after a long day of sightseeing.

If you love hotels with a bit of personality and value a central base, this one’s an easy win.

⭐️ Best for: Couples and travelers who want comfort, style, and walkable access to all main sights
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Leonardo Boutique Hotel Rome Monti $$$

We’d choose Leonardo Boutique Hotel Rome Monti for its perfect mix of modern comfort and location. It’s right in the heart of Monti, surrounded by cafés and restaurants, but still feels calm and refined inside.

The rooms are spacious and elegant, with high ceilings, plush bedding, and a polished, contemporary design that makes it stand out from other hotels in the area. There’s also a spa and wellness area — a real bonus after full days of walking Rome’s cobbled streets.

If you want a stay that feels sophisticated yet still close to everything, this is the one we’d happily book again.

⭐️ Best for: Travelers looking for boutique-style luxury and comfort in the heart of Monti
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Best Hotels in Prati (Vatican Area)

If you’re after a calmer, more elegant part of Rome, Prati is perfect. It’s close to the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica, but the streets here feel spacious, clean, and local.

• Lilla Suites – Musei Vaticani $
• Eccelso Hotel $$ (Our Top Pick)
• Piccolo Hotel Boutique $$$

Lilla Suites – Musei Vaticani $

Lilla Suites – Musei Vaticani made our list for its unbeatable location — just a few minutes’ walk from the Vatican Museums and Ottaviano metro. It’s the kind of place that’s modern yet personal, with bright, comfortable rooms and a warm atmosphere that feels more like a guesthouse than a hotel.

The in-room breakfast setup is a thoughtful touch, packed with fresh pastries, juice, and coffee to start your day right. For travelers who value convenience and good design, this one’s a standout in its range.

⭐️ Best for: Travelers who want a modern, comfortable stay steps from the Vatican Museums
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Eccelso Hotel $$ (Our Top Pick)

We included Eccelso Hotel for its perfect mix of value, design, and location. It’s just a short walk from St. Peter’s Basilica and the Ottaviano metro, surrounded by great cafés and bakeries.

The rooms are clean and well-designed with stylish details that feel above its price range, while the staff are known for being exceptionally friendly and helpful. It’s one of those stays that consistently impresses guests without trying too hard — a comfortable option right next to the Vatican.

⭐️ Best for: Couples and travelers who want comfort, great service, and easy Vatican access
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Piccolo Hotel Boutique $$$

Piccolo Hotel Boutique stands out for its charm and elegance — a refined hideaway just a short walk from St. Peter’s Square. The interiors are stylish and thoughtfully curated, with soft lighting, cozy corners, and a calm atmosphere that feels far removed from the crowds outside.

It’s a boutique-style stay that’s perfect for unwinding after long sightseeing days, offering both beauty and comfort in equal measure.

⭐️ Best for: Couples and design lovers looking for an elegant, peaceful boutique stay near St. Peter’s
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Best Hotels near Spanish Steps & Piazza di Spagna

The Spanish Steps area is filled with designer boutiques, historic cafés, and stunning architecture — ideal if you want a central, polished base where everything feels refined and easy to reach.

• HortiSallustio Luxury Rooms $
• Via Veneto Prestige Rooms $$
• Ara di Marte Suites $$$ (Our Top Pick)

HortiSallustio Luxury Rooms $

HortiSallustio Luxury Rooms earns its spot for offering stylish comfort without the steep luxury price tag of nearby hotels. The rooms are beautifully designed with neutral tones, elegant details, and plenty of natural light.

It’s set in a peaceful street close to Villa Borghese Gardens and only a short walk from the Spanish Steps, making it ideal for sightseeing on foot. The attention to cleanliness and service makes it feel far more upscale than its price suggests.

If you’re after modern comfort in a quiet but central part of Rome, this one’s a smart pick.

⭐️ Best for: Travelers who want boutique comfort and easy access to the Spanish Steps
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Via Veneto Prestige Rooms $$

Via Veneto Prestige Rooms stands out for its elegant design, spacious rooms, and ideal location between Via Veneto and the Spanish Steps. We included it for its excellent value — it offers the feel of a high-end boutique stay at a mid-range price.

The décor is unusual, modern, with warm lighting and plush finishes that make it genuinely relaxing after a day of exploring. Staff are known for being exceptionally welcoming, adding that extra touch that makes a stay memorable.

If you want something polished and perfectly placed, this is easily one of the best finds in the area.

⭐️ Best for: Couples and travelers looking for boutique elegance at a great price
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Ara di Marte Suites $$$ (Our Top Pick)

Ara di Marte Suites is one of the most elegant places to stay around the Spanish Steps — modern, beautifully decorated, and exceptionally peaceful for such a central location. Every suite feels curated, with contemporary design, soft lighting, and luxurious details that create a calm, sophisticated atmosphere.

Its proximity to both Piazza del Popolo and Via del Corso means you can easily explore the best of central Rome on foot. For travelers who appreciate design and comfort, this one’s a standout.

If you’re looking for a stylish, upscale base that feels both private and central, this is the one to book.

⭐️ Best for: Design lovers and couples who want a luxurious, quiet stay near the Spanish Steps
👉 Check availability and current prices →

FAQ about the best places to stay in

Where should first-time visitors stay in Rome?

For first-time visitors, the Historic Centre (Centro Storico) is the best area to stay. You’ll be within walking distance of the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Piazza Navona, so you can easily see Rome’s biggest highlights without worrying about transport. It’s lively, full of character, and perfect if you want that “classic Rome” experience right outside your door.

What is the best place to stay in Rome for couples?

If you’re visiting as a couple, Trastevere is hard to beat. It’s atmospheric, full of cozy restaurants, and comes alive at night with just the right amount of buzz. For something more elegant, the Spanish Steps area offers a romantic setting with boutique hotels, stylish cafés, and quiet evening walks through some of the city’s most beautiful streets.

What is the best place to stay in Rome with kids?

Prati is a great choice for families — it’s peaceful, clean, and close to the Vatican and Castel Sant’Angelo, with plenty of green spaces and family-friendly restaurants. It’s also well connected by metro, making it easy to reach the Colosseum and other main sights without staying in the busiest areas.

What are the best 5 star hotels in Rome?

If you’re looking for something truly special, Rome has some incredible 5-star hotels that combine design, comfort, and location perfectly. 

Maalot Roma stands out for its bold interiors, impeccable service, and on-site restaurant that’s become a local favorite. Near Piazza Navona, Palazzo Roma offers a grand, historic atmosphere with marble details, chandeliers, and spacious rooms that feel like a private residence.

For a stay that’s effortlessly elegant, J.K. Place Roma is a longtime favorite thanks to its refined design, curated details, and calm atmosphere just steps from Via Condotti’s luxury boutiques.

Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Rome

Choosing where to stay in Rome can completely shape your trip — it’s one of those cities where the neighborhood really matters. If it’s your first visit, the Historic Centre is unbeatable for being close to everything.

For a more local feel, Trastevere gives you that authentic Roman atmosphere with incredible food and lively evenings. Monti is perfect if you want charm and convenience, while Prati offers calm streets and easy access to the Vatican.

No matter where you stay, Rome has a way of sweeping you up — in its chaos, beauty, and history. Whether you wake up to church bells echoing through cobbled streets or end the night with gelato under the stars, the city never loses its magic.

Once you’ve soaked up the best of Rome, it’s easy to keep exploring — southern Italy has so much to offer. We especially recommend visiting Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius if you’re continuing toward Naples or the Amalfi Coast.