Where to Stay in Rome: Ultimate Guide for First Time

Europe, Italy •

Planning your trip to the Eternal City and not sure where to stay in Rome? Picking the right neighborhood is one of the most important choices for first-time visitors, since the city is full of history, culture, and so many incredible things to see. From neighborhoods near the main attractions to quieter areas with local charm, this guide will help you find the best places to call home during your stay.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best neighborhoods and explain which is the best area for your style of travel. You want to be close to major attractions like the Colosseum and Vatican, or choose a more relaxed area with great cafés and the best restaurants. By the end, you’ll have everything you need to pick the right place for your first trip to Rome.

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Table of Contents

Map of All Hotels for Every Budget to Stay in Rome

Unique Experiences to Book in Rome

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Best Food Tours to Book in Rome

A Little Bit About Rome Before We Dive In

Rome three days

Rome is a great place to stay, whether it’s your first visit or your fifth. Known as the Eternal City, it’s a destination that never feels the same twice. On one trip, you might focus on the main attractions like the Colosseum, the Vatican, or the Trevi Fountain. On another, you may find yourself wandering quiet cobblestone streets, sipping espresso in a local café, or discovering hidden corners that feel far away from the crowds.

Each neighborhood in Rome offers something different, which is why choosing the right area makes such a big difference. Some places put you within easy access of landmarks, while others are better if your travel style leans toward calm evenings and local dining. I’ll also share practical hotel recommendations so you can find the best place to stay, no matter your budget, preferences, or how many times you’ve visited.

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Where to Stay in Rome: Hotels by the Colosseum

rome three day itinerary

Staying near the Colosseum means waking up in the heart of ancient Rome, with the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill just a short walk away. The sight of the Colosseum glowing at sunrise or sunset is truly unforgettable, and there’s something magical about being surrounded by so much history. This area is perfect for history lovers who want to be surrounded by iconic landmarks.

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Palazzo Manfredi

Staying at Palazzo Manfredi feels like stepping into Rome’s history. This luxury hotel is inside a 17th-century villa and has stunning views of the Colosseum. The rooftop terrace is amazing and a perfect place to enjoy the famous landmark while having dinner or sipping a cocktail. It combines elegance, modern comfort, and ancient history, all in the historic center of Rome.

 🌟 Hotel Rating 9.0 📍 Location 9.5 🏨 Book Hotel

NH Collection Roma Fori Imperiali

This five-star hotel blends modern luxury with Roman history, and the best part is its location, right by the Roman Forum. From the rooftop terrace at NH Collection Roma Fori Imperiali, you get stunning views of the ancient ruins and the city skyline. This is truly a fantastic place for evening drinks. It’s in a central location, very close to the top attractions like Piazza Venezia and the Colosseum.

The hotel rooms are stylish and comfortable, and breakfast has plenty of fresh options to start the day right, with an on-site restaurant available. However, there are also great restaurants in the area with plenty of dining options. It’s one of the best luxury hotels and a great choice if you want comfort, history, and convenience during your stay in Rome.

 🌟 Hotel Rating 9.4 📍 Location 9.7 🏨 Book Hotel

Hotel Colosseum

Tucked away on a quiet street in the city center, Hotel Colosseum has a rooftop terrace with incredible views of ancient Rome. It’s just a quick walk to the Colosseum and Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, and about a 10-minute walk to Termini train station, the city’s main metro station.

The hotel rooms are clean, comfortable, and a good size for couples or small groups. Breakfast has many choices, and the staff go above and beyond to make your stay enjoyable. It’s a peaceful retreat in a busy city, with a location that’s hard to beat.

 🌟 Hotel Rating 8.8 📍 Location is Excellent 🏨 Book Hotel

Zefiro Home

Just a short walk from the Colosseum, is Zefiro Home. It’s a small hotel in a central location, which makes it easy to explore the city. The rooms are cozy, very clean, and equipped with modern comforts like air conditioning and a Smart TV. A simple breakfast is included, and there’s a nice café right next door. It’s a great location to see Rome’s main sights on foot, while still enjoying a quiet and safe place to stay.

 🌟 Hotel Rating 9.4 📍 Location 9.8 🏨 Book Hotel

Where to Stay in Rome: Hotels by Trevi

Rome three days
Hotel Fontana Trevi

If you love being in the middle of it all, staying near Trevi is a great choice. The Trevi Fountain is just around the corner, and you’ll be right next to shops, cafés, and famous sights like the Spanish Steps and the Pantheon. This lively, central neighborhood is ideal for first-time visitors who want to experience the postcard-perfect side of Rome.

Hotel Fontana

Where to stay in Rome three days

If you want to stay in Centro Storico, Hotel Fontana Trevi is one of the top picks. It’s right next to the Trevi Fountain, and you honestly can’t get any closer! Our room was on the second floor and faced the fountain. I was able to enjoy it in the early morning without crowds and again late at night when it was lit up. It felt so dreamy and quickly became one of my favorite areas to stay.

The rooms are simple, but the rooftop lounge more than makes up for it. Breakfast is served there each morning. In the afternoon, it turns into a spot for aperitivo with front-row views of the fountain. Drinks aren’t cheap, but you’re paying for one of the best views in Rome.

If you visit in the off-season, the pricing is very reasonable for the area, and it’s actually a great deal for such a central and iconic setting. Because of the location, it can be noisy late at night.

 🌟 Hotel Rating 8.2 📍 Location 10 🏨 Book Hotel

Relais Fontana Di Trevi Hotel

Located right next to the Trevi Fountain, Relais Fontana Di Trevi Hotel is another perfect place to stay in Rome. The rooms are comfortable and well equipped. You can easily walk to the Pantheon and Spanish Steps. Surrounded by cafés, shops, and restaurants, it’s a great location for exploring the city on foot.

 🌟 Hotel Rating 8.4 📍 Location 9.5 🏨 Book Hotel

Trevi Slideshow Apartment by the Trevi Fountain

For first time visitors, it doesn’t get more iconic than staying right above the Trevi Fountain. This Trevi Slideshow Apartment is on the 4th floor of a historic building in central Rome. The view from the windows is simply unforgettable. You can look right down on the fountain day or night, which makes it feel like the city is just outside your doorstep.

The space has double rooms, two bathrooms, a living room, plus a full kitchen if you want to cook; this is also great for families. From here, you can walk to almost all the main sights. Of course, there are also plenty of restaurants and shops steps away. It’s a place that feels both local and special, with the Trevi Fountain as your backdrop.  

 🌟 Hotel Rating 10 📍 Location is Excellent 🏨 Book Apartment

Luxurious Apartment with Stunning Trevi Fountain View

Rome

This incredible apartment sits right above the Trevi Fountain, giving you the best location for the iconic view in the historic heart of Rome. It has a double bedroom, a bright living room with a sofa bed, two bathrooms, one with a jacuzzi, and a full kitchen. It also includes extras like Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a washing machine.

The style blends antiques with modern touches, and the coffered ceiling adds real charm. Being right on the fountain means it can be noisy, but the sound of the water is often more relaxing than distracting. It’s in Rome’s city center, perfect if you want space, comfort, and that unforgettable Trevi backdrop.

 🌟 Hotel Rating 9 📍 Location is Excellent 🏨 Book Apartment

Where to Stay in Rome: Hotels by the Vatican

Rome

If you’re visiting Rome for the first time, staying near Vatican City is a special experience. You’ll be just steps away from world-famous sites like St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums. Although Vatican City is technically its own country, it still feels like a part of Rome.

Each year, millions of people come to see its art, history, and religious landmarks. Picking a hotel in this area means you can easily walk to these attractions and still get around the rest of the city with ease.

Hotel Sant’ Anna

Just steps from St. Peter’s Basilica, Hotel Sant’Anna is housed in a 17th-century building. It has elegant rooms that blend historic charm with modern comforts like Wi-Fi and air conditioning. The central location makes it easy to reach the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and Castel Sant’Angelo on foot. There are also many great restaurants nearby.

 🌟 Hotel Rating 9.6 📍 Location 9.7 🏨 Book Hotel

St. Peter’s Basilica Apartment with Great views

This apartment is a great pick if you want to stay near St. Peter’s Basilica while enjoying the feel of a residential neighborhood. Located in the Aurelio district, it comfortably fits up to six people. This is a great choice for families or small groups.

The apartment is well-equipped with Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and breakfast basics to start your day. From here you can walk to St. Peter’s Square and Castel Sant’Angelo, or use nearby buses and metro lines to reach the entire city. It’s a comfortable, convenient stay with a local vibe and great views of the dome of St. Peter.

 🌟 Hotel Rating 10 📍 Location 9.8 🏨 Book Apartment

Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá

One of the best luxury hotels in Rome, Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá feels like an oasis in the middle of the city, while still being close to the city’s main attractions. It is just a short walk from the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica and near the Tiber River, so you are perfectly placed to explore central Rome.

The property resembles a resort, with a beautiful garden, outdoor pool, spa, and sun terraces where you can relax after sightseeing. Inside, the rooms are elegant and comfortable. It’s the perfect mix of resort-style luxury and a prime location in the Eternal City.

 🌟 Hotel Rating 9.1 📍 Location 9.4 🏨 Book Hotel

Where to Stay in Rome: Hotels by the Spanish Steps

Rome three days

The area around the Spanish Steps is the epitome of Roman elegance, with luxury boutiques, rooftop terraces, and sweeping city views. Here, you’re close to Villa Borghese, Via Condotti, and a collection of stylish cafés. It’s the perfect place to stay if you want to immerse yourself in Rome’s charm and sophistication.

Il Palazzetto

Tucked next to the Spanish Steps, Il Palazzetto boutique hotel is full of charm and character. It’s located on the 3rd and 4th floors of a historical 19th-Century building overlooking Rome’s Spanish Steps. The hotel has two beautiful rooftop terraces, perfect for a cocktail while watching the city come alive below.

The location is ideal for wandering through Rome’s narrow streets, exploring nearby shops and cafés, and enjoying breakfast at the Hotel Hassler next door. It’s a small, romantic escape right in the heart of the city.

 🌟 Hotel Rating 9.7 📍 Location 9.9 🏨 Book Hotel

Internazionale Domus

Another great option right next to the Spanish Steps is the Internazionale Domus. The rooms and suites are spacious, apartment-style, and include modern comforts like Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a small kitchen area. It’s close to Villa Borghese, as well as coffee shops, and the Spagna Metro stop, so getting around is easy. The atmosphere is homely and relaxed, perfect for a romantic getaway or a longer stay in the city.

 🌟 Hotel Rating 9.2 📍 Location 9.7 🏨 Book Hotel

Where to Stay in Rome: Hotels by Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona is easily one of Rome’s most beautiful squares, framed by Baroque architecture, sparkling fountains, and bustling restaurants. Staying here means you’re surrounded by charm, with the Pantheon, Campo de’ Fiori, and the Tiber River all just a short walk away. It’s a wonderful choice if you’re looking for a romantic and lively atmosphere.

Relais Rione Ponte

Set in a 17th-century building just steps from Piazza Navona, Relais Rione Ponte is a charming boutique hotel that combines classic charm with modern comfort. The rooms are bright, quiet, and stylish, with wood floors, comfortable beds, and plenty of natural light.

You can easily walk to the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and even reach Vatican City with a short stroll across the river. Surrounded by lively, narrow streets filled with cafés and restaurants, Relais Rione Ponte feels like a peaceful escape right in the center of Rome.

 🌟 Hotel Rating 9.6 📍 Location 9.7 🏨 Book Hotel

Mama’s Home Rome

For a cozy, quirky stay, Mama’s Home Rome near Piazza Navona and Campo de’ Fiori is a great option. It has a unique vibe, with stylish rooms full of personal touches, and some overlook the lively square below. The location is perfect with many major attractions close by, like the Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, and many cute coffee shops and gelato spots. It’s ideal for a more laid-back and personable stay in Rome.

 🌟 Hotel Rating 9.3 📍 Location 9.9 🏨 Book Hotel

Where to Stay in Rome: Hotels by the Pantheon

Staying near the Pantheon puts you right in the historic heart of Rome, where everything is just a stroll away. The Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, and the Spanish Steps are all close by, making it easy to explore the city’s highlights. This area is perfect for travelers who want to experience Rome’s history, culture, and convenience all at once.

Hotel Albergo del Senato

Located right on Piazza della Rotonda, Hotel Albergo del Senato is such a charming hotel with old-world elegance and modern comforts. The rooms are beautifully decorated and soundproofed. The best part is the rooftop terrace, where you can enjoy incredible views of the Pantheon’s dome. Piazza Navona and the Trevi Fountain are just a short walk away.

This hotel is the perfect spot for those who prefer classic style, great service, and one of the best locations in Rome.

 🌟 Hotel Rating 9.6 📍 Location 9.8 🏨 Book Hotel

Orient Express La Minerva

Located in the heart of Rome, just steps from the Pantheon and Piazza Navona, this hotel blends rich history with modern luxury. Set inside a 17th-century palace, it’s the first Orient Express Hotel in the world, offering elegant rooms and suites with a timeless Art Deco design. 

The rooftop terrace has breathtaking views of the Eternal City, and guests can enjoy Mediterranean dining at The Gigi Roma or relax with a cocktail at La Minerva Bar. Known for its exceptional service and attention to detail, it’s a truly luxurious stay that captures the spirit and beauty of Rome.

 🌟 Hotel Rating 9.5 📍 Location 10 🏨 Book Hotel

Where to Stay in Rome: Hotels by the Jewish Ghetto

The Jewish Ghetto is one of Rome’s oldest and most authentic neighborhoods, with cobblestone streets and rich history. Here, you’ll find some of the city’s best restaurants serving traditional Roman-Jewish dishes. Staying in this area offers a truly local and cultural experience right in the heart of Rome.

HT6 Boutique Hotel

Located in the Jewish Ghetto, this boutique hotel is just steps from the Great Synagogue of Rome. The rooms are stylish and modern, with some featuring private spa baths and chromotherapy showers. With the Pantheon and main attractions nearby, HT6 Hotel Roma offers a chic stay in one of Rome’s most historic areas.

 🌟 Hotel Rating 9.4 📍 Location 9.6 🏨 Book Hotel

Chapter Roma

Set in a 19th-century building on the edge of Rome’s historic Jewish Ghetto, in the old Regola neighborhood, is Chapter Roma Hotel. The design is bold and modern but still respectful of the building’s history. It has clean-lined décor, wood floors, and artistic touches throughout.

There is also a rooftop bar and a Mexican-inspired restaurant, adding fun flavor to your stay. Its central location means many of Rome’s major sights, like the Pantheon and Piazza Navona, are within walking distance. 

 🌟 Hotel Rating 9.6 📍 Location 9.6 🏨 Book Hotel

Where to Stay in Rome: Hotels by Trastevere

Rome three days

Just across the River Tiber, Trastevere is a lively yet relaxed neighborhood with winding streets, ivy-draped buildings, and cozy trattorias. It’s one of Rome’s most authentic and local neighborhoods, giving you a real taste of local life while keeping you close to the city’s main sights. This area is perfect for travelers who want atmosphere, great food, and a more local feel.

Hotel Santa Maria

This charming hotel sits by the Tiber River in Trastevere, one of Rome’s most authentic residential areas. Once a 16th-century convent, it now offers cozy rooms with views of a quiet courtyard full of orange trees and flowers. You can enjoy breakfast and evening drinks outside, which adds to the relaxed, local atmosphere.

Hotel Santa Maria combines rustic charm with modern comfort and is just a short walk from Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere, where you’ll find plenty of restaurants and lively, narrow streets at night.

 🌟 Hotel Rating 9.6 📍 Location 9.9 🏨 Book Hotel

Trastevere Luxury Design Apartment for 6

Tucked away in the heart of Trastevere, this modern apartment is a wonderful blend of style and comfort in one of Rome’s most authentic neighborhoods. Inside, it has two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a spacious living area that’s perfect for families or small groups.

All the essentials are here, from Wi-Fi and air conditioning to a fully equipped kitchen, making it a great choice for a longer stay. Step outside and you’re surrounded by lively cafés, local restaurants, and cobbled streets full of character, all just a short walk from Rome’s main sights.

 🌟 Apartment Rating 10 📍 Location is Excellent 🏨 Book Apartment

Elegantia Luxury Rooms Trastevere

This is a stylish guesthouse that has all the modern comforts while maintaining a quiet, local feel. The rooms are sleek and thoughtfully designed, with walk-in showers, minibars, and soundproofing that makes it easy to relax after a day exploring the city. 

Mornings start with a breakfast of fresh pastries and local specialties, served in a bright and elegant setting. It’s the kind of spot where you can unwind and enjoy a relaxed stay with just the right touch of luxury.

 🌟 Hotel Rating 9.4 📍 Location 9.8 🏨 Book Hotel

Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Rome

Rome has so many different neighborhoods, each with its own style and atmosphere. From stylish luxury hotels to cozy stays with a more authentic feel, there’s something for every type of traveler. You’ll find great value options for budget travelers, elegant spots for a short stay, and plenty of choices in the most convenient areas near the city’s top sights. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find the best hotels for your next visit to the Eternal City.

Travel Tips/Things to Know Before Visiting Rome

How to get to Rome

Reaching the City of Rome is easy, thanks to its well-connected transportation network. If you’re flying in from overseas or traveling within Italy, there are several convenient options to get to this popular destination. With major international airports, high-speed trains, and well-maintained highways, arriving in Rome is just the beginning of an unforgettable adventure.

By Air

The best way to get to Rome depends on your starting point. If you’re flying, Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (FCO) is the main international gateway. It has tons of direct flights from many popular destinations across Europe, North America, and beyond. Rome’s second airport, Ciampino (CIA), is a smaller hub primarily used by budget airlines. From either airport, you can take a train, bus, shuttle, or taxi to reach the city center.

By Train

The Leonardo Express train is the fastest and most convenient way to reach the city center, taking about 30 minutes to Termini Station. Cost: €14 express | €8 local.

By Bus

BUS Terravision Bus: Reserve in advance to skip the line and pay a cheaper rate of €6. It’s affordable and convenient!

S.I.T. Airport Bus: Pre-book your ticket for €7, but expect to pay more if you buy at the gate. 

Cotral Night Bus: Ideal for early morning or late-night travel when trains and other buses aren’t running. It operates between Tiburtina and Termini stations. Tickets are €7 on the bus or just €5 if purchased in advance.

SHUTTLE T.A.M. shuttle service. Another budget-friendly option at €6 one-way or €11 round-trip when booked online.

By Taxi

PRIVATE TAXI or Uber The most convenient but also the most expensive option. Expect to pay between €50-€100 depending on your destination.

How to get around Rome

Navigating the City of Rome is an adventure in itself, and with so many transportation options, getting from one main attraction to another is seamless. The city is highly walkable, especially in the historic center, where every street, piazza, and monument tells a story of centuries past. Walking is a great way to experience Rome’s charm up close, allowing you to stumble upon hidden gems and admire its historic sites along the way.

For longer distances, Rome’s metro system is one of the fastest and most efficient ways to travel. With three main lines (A, B, and C), the metro connects key metro stations near major historic sites like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and Piazza di Spagna, making it a convenient option for sightseeing.

Buses and trams also provide extensive coverage, reaching areas beyond the city center. Rome’s public transportation is generally reliable, but be prepared for crowded trains, especially during rush hour and summer months. Always factor in enough time when using public transit, as delays can happen.

If you prefer a more private experience, taxis are readily available. Taxi drivers in Rome are more expensive than public transport, but they offer a door-to-door service. Just be aware that traffic in Rome can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to allow extra time when you’re in a rush.

For a more immersive and adventurous way to explore the city, renting a Vespa or bike is a great way to experience the streets like a local. However, keep in mind that Rome’s traffic can be chaotic, especially during peak summer months.

What is the currency in Rome?

Italy’s currency is the Euro (€), so be sure to have some cash on hand for small purchases or places that may not accept cards. While credit cards are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas, smaller shops and local markets may prefer cash.

What do I need to know about weather in Rome?

Rome can get quite hot in the summer, with temperatures often reaching the 90s (°F). Always carry a refillable water bottle, Rome has many public water fountains (known as “nasoni”) scattered throughout the city. These fountains provide free, fresh drinking water! Also, wear sunscreen, and bring a hat to protect yourself from the sun. For cooler months, pack a light jacket as temperatures can drop in the evenings.

What exactly is Coperto?  

When dining out in Rome, it’s important to know that most restaurants charge a coperto, or a sitting/service charge, which typically ranges from 2 to 6 (€) per person. This is a fixed cover charge that helps cover the cost of table service, linens, cutlery, and other items. It’s commonly charged by restaurants, especially in popular or busy areas, and is added to your bill on a per-person basis, in addition to the cost of your food and drinks.

It should be listed somewhere on the menu, so be sure to check for details to avoid any surprises when the bill arrives.

What do I need to know about Reservations?

Many of Rome’s main attractions, like the Vatican Museums and Colosseum, can get crowded, especially during the summer months. To make the most of your time, book skip-the-line tickets in advance. It’s a great way to avoid waiting and instead spend more time exploring Rome’s incredible history.

During peak seasons, making reservations at popular restaurants and for must-see attractions is highly recommended to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. This also goes for restaurants! 

Is Rome Safe? What is the deal with pickpockets?

I felt pretty safe in Rome, however, like any major tourist city, it’s important to stay vigilant. Pickpockets target busy areas like the metro stations and major tourist attractions. Keep your belongings secure, use a crossbody bag, and AVOID putting wallets or phones in your back pocket.

Do I need to speak Italian in Rome? 

Italian is the official language, but many locals on the Amalfi Coast understand and speak basic English, especially in tourist areas. Learning a few Italian phrases like “Grazie” (thank you) and “Per favore” (please) goes a long way, it enhances your experience and shows appreciation to the locals.

When is the best time to visit Rome?

APRIL, MAY, SEPTEMBER, OCTOBER (Shoulder Season)

I think this is the best time to visit! The weather is mild and pleasant, which is perfect for exploring without the intense heat. You can enjoy shorter wait times and fewer crowds because there are fewer tourists. In Spring, the blooming flowers add to the charm, while Fall showcases beautiful colors.

JUNE-AUGUST (Peak Season)

This time is very busy, hot, and humid. July is usually the hottest month, which can make sightseeing uncomfortable. Additionally, some places may close in August as locals take their vacations during this time.

NOVEMBER – MARCH (Off-season)

You can expect fewer tourists and shorter lines. Hotels and flight prices are generally lower, making it more budget friendly. With cooler weather, you can enjoy indoor attractions like museums and galleries. Keep in mind that the weather may be chilly and rainy. 

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Travels with MR

Growing up between Europe and New York, I was always drawn to new places and how they made me feel. After visiting over 25 countries, that love has only grown. I enjoy finding great places to visit, stay, and eat—and I’m someone who really loves planning and staying organized. Through this blog and on Instagram, I share my travel tips, personal experiences, and ready-to-go itineraries to help you plan memorable trips.

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