Where you stay in Rome shapes your whole trip. The city is large, but its finest hotels cluster in a few elegant districts, close to the Spanish Steps, the Villa Borghese and the historic centre, so you can walk to the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain and the best restaurants. Here are the best areas to stay in Rome and the luxury hotels we recommend in each.
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The short answer
- Best area for a first visit: the Spanish Steps and the Tridente
- Best for walking everywhere: the centro storico around the Pantheon and Piazza Navona
- Most atmospheric: Trastevere and Monti
- Best for the Vatican: Prati
- Best resort stay: Rome Cavalieri on Monte Mario
The Best Areas to Stay in Rome
Spanish Steps and the Tridente: the three streets fanning out from Piazza del Popolo, with the Spanish Steps, Via Condotti and the best shopping in Rome. This is where the grand hotels are, and everything in the centre is within walking distance.
Via Veneto and Villa Borghese: the elegant streets above the Spanish Steps, close to the park of Villa Borghese and the Borghese Gallery. Calmer than the centre, with some of the finest hotels in the city.
Centro storico: the historic centre around the Pantheon, Piazza Navona and Campo de’ Fiori. Lively by day and night, with beautiful piazzas and many restaurants on your doorstep.
Monti: a village like district of cobbled lanes, boutiques and wine bars, a short walk from the Colosseum and the Roman Forum.
Trastevere: across the Tiber, with ivy covered houses, small trattorias and a lively evening atmosphere. Charming, but noisy at night in places.
Prati: an elegant residential district next to the Vatican, with wide streets, good shopping and quieter evenings.
Monte Mario: the green hill above the city, home to Rome Cavalieri, a resort with a park and pools, a taxi ride from the centre.
The Best Luxury Hotels in Rome
Hotel de Russie
A Rocco Forte hotel between Piazza del Popolo and the Spanish Steps, with a terraced secret garden that is one of the loveliest spots in the city for breakfast or an aperitivo.
Best for: first visits and a garden in the city centre
Check rates at Hotel de Russie
Hotel Hassler Roma
A legendary, family run hotel at the top of the Spanish Steps, next to the church of Trinità dei Monti, with a rooftop restaurant and views over the domes of Rome.
Best for: classic glamour and the view
Check rates at Hotel Hassler Roma
Hotel Eden
A Dorchester Collection hotel near Via Veneto and the Villa Borghese, with a rooftop restaurant and bar and sweeping views over the city.
Best for: a calmer, refined stay close to the centre
Six Senses Rome
A contemporary hotel in a historic palazzo just off Via del Corso, close to the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon, with a spa inspired by the Roman baths.
Best for: wellness in the heart of the city
Check rates at Six Senses Rome
Rome Cavalieri
A Waldorf Astoria resort in a large park on Monte Mario, with outdoor pools, a spa, tennis and the three Michelin starred La Pergola. Read our Rome Cavalieri review.
Best for: a resort stay with space and pools
Charlotte’s tip: think about noise
Rome is a lively city until late. If you sleep lightly, ask for a room facing a courtyard or garden, or choose a hotel near the Villa Borghese or in Prati rather than on a busy piazza.
Compare hotels in Rome
The best hotels in Rome fill up early for spring and autumn. Check current rates for your dates.
Travelling with a racket? See our guide to tennis hotels in Rome.
FAQ
Where is the best place to stay in Rome?
For a first visit, around the Spanish Steps or in the centro storico near the Pantheon, where you can walk to most of the major sights.
Is it better to stay near the Vatican or the Colosseum?
The Colosseum area and Monti are more central for sightseeing. Prati, near the Vatican, is quieter and good if you want calmer evenings.
How many nights should I stay in Rome?
Three nights for the highlights, four or five to add the Borghese Gallery, the Appian Way and a day trip.
Is Trastevere a good place to stay?
Yes, for atmosphere and restaurants, but it can be noisy at night and is a little further from the main sights.
