Rome to explore: what’s in your neighborhood
The apartments in Rome by Welcome to R-home are located in the historic center and in different areas of the city, from Esquilino to Testaccio, from San Giovanni to Prati and the Vatican. Each neighborhood in Rome has unique features, hidden treasures, and a local charm waiting to be explored.
This small guide to Rome’s neighborhoods will help you discover some of the best attractions, must-see places, and hidden corners near your apartment in Rome, making your stay special.
Esquilino / Monti – Between multiculturalism, history and bohemian vibes
Esquilino is one of Rome’s most fascinating and contrasting neighborhoods. Just a stone’s throw from Termini Station — and therefore perfectly connected to both airports — this area is not just a point of arrival, but also a place to experience: rich in historical treasures, breathtaking basilicas, and a lively multicultural spirit.
Recommended itinerary (2-3 hours):
- Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore (a must-see)
One of the four papal basilicas, famous for its golden mosaics, the fantastic Cosmatesque floor, and the tomb of Pope Francis. If you love medieval mosaics, also visit the nearby Santa Prassede and Santa Pudenziana, true hidden gems of Esquilino. - Esquilino Market: the multicultural heart of Rome
Housed in the former Caserma Sani, it is one of the liveliest markets in Rome. Here you will find: fresh fruits and vegetables, a wide variety of meat and fish, spices from all over the world, tropical products, fabrics, clothing, and household items. A perfect place to experience the authenticity of the neighborhood. - Palazzo Massimo alle Terme
Just a few minutes away, a must for lovers of ancient art: here you will find masterpieces such as the Resting Boxer and extraordinary reconstructions of Roman domus with frescoes still vibrant in color. - Towards Monti: San Pietro in Vincoli and Michelangelo’s Moses
After exploring Esquilino, you can continue to the nearby Monti neighborhood, one of Rome’s most characteristic areas. Inside the Basilica of San Pietro in Vincoli, you can admire Michelangelo’s majestic Moses and the chains that, according to tradition, bound Saint Peter during his imprisonment. Before leaving, take a photo on the picturesque Scalinata dei Borgia, perfect for Instagram! - Via del Boschetto e Piazza della Madonna dei Monti
Continue on foot (for example along Via Cavour) to Monti: the walk is pleasant and takes you from a “neighborhood” atmosphere to a bohemian soul. End your stroll among artisan shops, wine bars, and trendy venues, the authentic heart of local nightlife.
To finish on a high note:
Treat yourself to an evening at the Rome Opera House: attending an opera or ballet in one of Italy’s most prestigious theaters is an unforgettable experience.
San Giovanni – A neighborhood of grand basilicas, shopping, and local life
San Giovanni is an elegant and lively residential neighborhood, full of bars, restaurants, shops, and authentic cafés. Perfectly connected to the historic center by buses, trams, and two metro lines: Line A, ideal for reaching the Vatican, Piazza di Spagna, Trevi Fountain, or Termini Station in just a few minutes, and the brand-new Line C, which connects San Giovanni to the Colosseum and the archaeological area. If you enjoy walking, the Colosseum is also reachable on foot.
Recommended itinerary (2-3 hours):
- Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano
The oldest Christian basilica in the world, considered the “mother and head” of all Catholic churches, is the Cathedral of Rome. Its majestic Baroque façade leads into a grand interior, alternating mosaics, ancient columns, and splendid decorations created over the centuries. Don’t miss the beautiful medieval cloister (entrance fee required) and, behind the building, the Lateran Baptistery, one of the oldest in the world. Moreover, the large square in front of the Basilica was recently restored. It features fountains at street level, which children especially enjoy during hot summer days. - Scala Santa
Exiting the basilica, you will find the famous Scala Santa on the left. This staircase of 28 marble steps, covered in wood, is said to have been climbed by Jesus during his trial before Pontius Pilate in Jerusalem. It is said that the staircase was brought to Rome in the 4th century by Saint Helena, mother of the Christian Emperor Constantine. Today, the faithful ascend the steps on their knees as a gesture of penance and devotion. - Aurelian Walls
A few minutes from the Basilica, you can admire a well-preserved stretch of the Aurelian Walls, the ancient city walls, 19 km long, built by Emperor Aurelian to protect Rome from enemy incursions, one of the most impressive defensive works of antiquity. Along the walls, you will find two public gardens: those on Via Carlo Felice, which extend to the Basilica of Santa Croce in Gerusalemme, and those on Via Sannio, recently reopened to the public. - Via Appia Nuova
It’s time for some shopping! Crossing the Aurelian Walls, you will find Via Appia Nuova, one of Rome’s famous shopping streets, full of shops, boutiques, cafés, and patisseries loved by locals.
To end your visit with a treat:
After all, after such a long walk, what could be better than a good gelato or a stop at a pastry shop? Among our favorites: gelato at Rivareno and a sweet treat at the excellent Charlotte Patisserie.
Testaccio – Core de ‘sta città, Rome’s authentic soul
A quintessentially Roman and Roma FC neighborhood, Testaccio stretches along the Tiber and is today one of the most beloved districts to experience the authentic soul of Rome. Originally born as a working-class neighborhood in the early 20th century, its quiet streets, traditional trattorias, large local market, and cultural spaces repurposed from industrial buildings now make it a lively and genuine place, where history, daily life, and contemporary creativity coexist.
Recommended itinerary (2 hours):
- Piramide Cestia and Porta San Paolo
Did you know that Rome has a perfectly preserved ancient pyramid? This is the Piramide Cestia, a funerary monument built in the 1st century BC for Gaius Cestius, a Roman magistrate fascinated by Egyptian culture. Our itinerary starts here, at Porta San Paolo, a key hub of the city. Just a short walk away are Ostiense train station, the B line metro stop, and… the train to the sea, the Roma-Lido! If you feel like a plate of spaghetti alle vongole with your feet in the sand, just hop on this local train, and in 30 minutes you’ll be at Ostia Lido! - Monte dei Cocci (Monte Testaccio)
Moving deeper into Testaccio, along Via Galvani, you will find the so-called Monte de’ Cocci. This is an artificial hill formed between the 1st century BC and the 3rd century AD from millions of fragments of ancient Roman amphorae, used to transport oil: a kind of “ancient landfill,” today a symbol of the neighborhood; a unique place in the world that offers a remarkable testimony on trade in ancient Rome. - A gourmet stop: Mercato Testaccio
Continuing along the street, you cannot miss Mercato Testaccio, one of the oldest markets in Rome. Open daily from Monday to Saturday, get lost among the colorful stalls of seasonal fruits and vegetables, cheeses, bread, meat, and fish. Many stalls offer snacks or full meals: from slices of pizza to vegan burgers, from pasta to sushi, from salads to street food. Absolutely unmissable are the sandwiches at Mordi e Vai!, filled with authentic Roman specialties. - Ex Mattatoio and Città dell’Altra Economia
Finally, we recommend a visit to the Ex Mattatoio, an industrial space transformed into a cultural hub, hosting numerous exhibitions, events, and creative workshops.
To end your visit in style:
Enjoy a drink in Piazza Testaccio, a pedestrian area frequented at all hours by locals, and dinner with cacio e pepe, amatriciana, or coda alla vaccinara in one of the historic trattorias of the neighborhood.
Campo de’ Fiori – Market, flavors and local charm
Many of our guests choose Campo de’ Fiori as the area to stay in. And who can blame them! One of Rome’s liveliest squares, where life flows from the early morning hours until late at night, this corner of the historic center offers unbeatable picturesque views.
Recommended itinerary (2 hours):
- Piazza Campo de’ Fiori and the Giordano Bruno Statue
Every morning, from the first light of dawn, the square comes alive with the traditional market, where stalls of fruit, vegetables, spices, flowers, and local products create a colorful and fragrant mosaic. It is one of the oldest markets in the city, still retaining a genuine spirit, made up of historic vendors and regular customers. From late afternoon to evening, the square changes its face: cocktail bars, cafés, and restaurants turn it into a lively meeting point. - Via di Grottapinta, an ancient hidden theater
After walking through the Campo de’ Fiori market, head towards Piazza del Biscione. Here you will find an open gate to the so-called Passetto del Biscione, a corridor entirely decorated with recently restored paintings. Afterwards, crossing this secret passage, you will emerge on Via di Grottapinta, a historic alley notable for its U-shaped layout: this is where the large Theatre of Pompey once stood, whose remains are still visible in some of the cellars of the surrounding buildings. - Pizza bianca and mortadella
Continue to Via dei Chiavari, where you’ll find one of the city’s best and most famous bakeries: Antico Forno Roscioli. Try to arrive before lunchtime, when it is usually crowded, and taste their pizza. Don’t miss the pizza bianca with mortadella (a classic mid-day snack!) or the stuffed version with porchetta, topped with a layer of potatoes… enjoy! - Piazza Farnese
Walking along Via dei Giubbonari, you’ll get to the elegant Piazza Farnese, home to the French Embassy. The palace, whose project involved, among others, Michelangelo, is one of the masterpieces of Roman Renaissance architecture. Behind it opens Via Giulia, one of Rome’s most charming streets, perfect for a relaxed stroll among Renaissance buildings and romantic views. Iconic landmarks include the Mascherone Fountain and the Farnese Arch.
To end your visit in style:
Hidden among the alleys around Campo de’ Fiori, you’ll find many historic cafe and wine bars, perfect for soaking up the neighborhood’s atmosphere at sunset. For an authentic experience, stop by Caffè Perù on Via di Monserrato!
Piazza Navona and Rione Ponte – Art, workshops and postcard views
An intricate labyrinth of alleys, historic buildings, artisan boutiques, and plenty of atmosphere, Rione Ponte is the elegant and “slow” heart of the historic center.
Recommended itinerary (2 hours):
- Piazza Navona
The quintessential Baroque square, famous for its elongated shape, which follows the outline of the ancient Stadium of Domitian, whose remains are still visible. At the center are three splendid fountains, including the majestic Fountain of the Four Rivers by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, topped by one of the many Egyptian obelisks in the city. Always lively with street artists, performers, outdoor cafés, and small markets, it is worth visiting at different times of the day. At night, with the fountains illuminated, it is breathtakingly beautiful. - Pasquino and the talking statues
Leaving Piazza Navona, head towards Pasquino, one of Rome’s famous “talking statues“. On this fragment of a Hellenistic statue, Roman citizens would post short ironic and sarcastic texts, called pasquinades, to criticize the popes and city rulers. - Via del Governo Vecchio
Now stroll along Via del Governo Vecchio and be inspired by its vintage shops, bookstores, and small elegant boutiques. At the end, you will reach Piazza dell’Orologio, with the Clock Tower designed by Francesco Borromini, one of the most interesting examples of Roman Baroque architecture, characterized by elegant and dynamic shapes, concave façades, and refined decorative details. - Via dei Banchi Nuovi
Continuing, you will arrive at Via de’ Banchi Nuovi, a Renaissance street where you can get lost among antique shops, art galleries, and artisan workshops where ancient techniques are still practiced today, from mosaics and frescoes to metalworking. Here begins the Ponte Art and Design District, a project combining design, contemporary art, artistic craftsmanship, and antiques, aimed at highlighting the many creative excellences of the district. We recommend a visit to the Galleria Sinopia, where you will be warmly welcomed by our friends Raffaella and Cloe. - Ponte Sant’Angelo
A few minutes on foot will take you to one of the city’s most iconic bridges over the Tiber, with Bernini’s angels framing the majesty of Castel Sant’Angelo. From here, you can reach St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican via the new pedestrian route from Piazza Pia along Via della Conciliazione.
Walking along Via dei Coronari, you will quickly return to your starting point.
The Tridente – Elegance, high fashion, and shopping
From Piazza del Popolo to Piazza di Spagna, this is undoubtedly the most famous and frequented area of Rome’s historic center. A must-visit for shopping lovers, the area ranges from luxury and high-fashion ateliers on Via Condotti and Via Frattina to major international brands along Via del Corso.
Recommended itinerary (2 hours):
- Piazza del Popolo
One of the most spectacular squares in Rome, and a monumental entrance to the city for travelers coming from the North. Dominated by the Egyptian obelisk (one of the 13 obelisks in the city), the square is characterized by the famous twin churches of Santa Maria in Montesanto (on the left) and Santa Maria dei Miracoli, which lead into the Tridente formed by Via del Babuino, Via del Corso, and Via di Ripetta. From the Pincio Terrace above, the square opens up to one of the most breathtaking views of Rome. - Caravaggio at Santa Maria del Popolo
Before leaving the square, don’t forget to enter the Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo to admire two masterpieces by Caravaggio: The Conversion of Saint Paul and The Crucifixion of Saint Peter, preserved in the splendid Cerasi Chapel at the end of the left nave. The strong chiaroscuro, theatricality, and composition of the scenes will captivate you. - A café surrounded by statues
Now take Via del Babuino and wander among elegant boutiques and historic buildings. The street is named after the curious, almost grotesque, Fontana del Babuino, one of Rome’s “talking statues” where citizens once posted anonymous satires and invectives. Right next to it, you’ll notice the charming Caffè Canova Tadolini, an old sculpture atelier turned café-restaurant, where you can enjoy a drink surrounded by plaster casts, statues, and atmospheres from another era. - Via Margutta
Hidden behind Via del Babuino is one of Rome’s most charming and quiet streets, Via Margutta, an oasis of peace with its flowered courtyards, art galleries, and artisan workshops, still preserving the bohemian atmosphere that made it famous among artists and filmmakers. - Piazza di Spagna and the Spanish Steps
At the end of this short walk, you will reach Piazza di Spagna, one of Rome’s most iconic spots. Dominating the square is the majestic Spanish Steps (Scalinata di Trinità dei Monti), elegantly fanning out between historic buildings and scenic views. It’s worth climbing to the top to enjoy the panorama. At the base of the steps, you’ll find the Fontana della Barcaccia, the famous fountain sculpted by Pietro and Gian Lorenzo Bernini in the 17th century.
To end your visit in style:
Piazza di Spagna is the perfect place to sit and watch the world go by. For a more comfortable experience, we recommend enjoying a fine English tea with biscuits and scones at the historic Babington’s Tea Room at the foot of the Spanish Steps.
Prati – Elegant neighbourhood in a strategic location
Liberty-style buildings, wide avenues, boutiques and curated restaurants: staying in Prati means experiencing a more “modern,” elegant, and quiet Rome, just a short walk from the historic center and the Vatican.
Recommended itinerary (2-3 hours):
- Via Cola di Rienzo
One of Rome’s main shopping streets, elegant and lively but less touristy than the streets in the historic center. With boutiques, local shops, cafés, and historic buildings, it offers an authentic Roman atmosphere and a pleasant shopping experience away from the busiest areas. - Strolling among Liberty-style villas
Prati is not only a shopping district. Starting from Via Cola di Rienzo, just wander into its quieter side streets to discover another side of the neighborhood. From Via Terenzio or Via Properzio, you can stroll among elegant buildings and small local shops until reaching the area between Via Crescenzio and Via dei Gracchi, where some beautiful Liberty-style villas survive, featuring decorated façades, bow windows, and floral details typical of the early 20th century. - Piazza Cavour & Palazzo di Giustizia
Dominated by the monumental Palazzo di Giustizia, known as the Palazzaccio, an imposing example of Umbertine architecture, Piazza Cavour is the neighborhood’s hub, with a large taxi stand and many bus lines. The square is also home to Cinema Adriano, a historic local cinema that often screens films in their original language, making the square an ideal meeting point where culture, elegance, and authentic city life converge. - Castel Sant’Angelo
Built in the 2nd century AD as Emperor Hadrian’s mausoleum, later transformed into a military fortress, papal residence, and prison, Castel Sant’Angelo perfectly represents Rome’s layered millennial history. Around its massive structure overlooking the Tiber stretches a large green area with a playground, perfect for a relaxing break or families visiting the city. From here, Ponte Sant’Angelo, adorned with angels sculpted by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, provides a scenic route leading directly to the heart of the historic center.
To end your visit in style:
It’s always the right time for a gelato break! We absolutely love Neve di Latte on Via Federico Cesi, one of the best gelato in Rome. Don’t miss it!
Vatican – Art and spirituality
The Vatican neighborhood is the religious and cultural heart of Rome, combining iconic masterpieces like St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums with quiet streets where you can experience the everyday life of Romans. Staying in this area offers the convenience of being just steps away from the main attractions, without missing out on authentic corners and neighborhood services.
Recommended itinerary (3 hours):
- St. Peter’s Basilica
It’s impossible not to start with the majestic St. Peter’s Basilica, a symbol of Christianity and a showcase of architectural genius from different eras. From Michelangelo’s dome to the monumental bronze baldachin, every corner tells a story of art, history, and devotion. The square in front, with Bernini’s colonnade, is perfect for pausing and admiring the magnificence of the Vatican. - Borgo Pio and Porta Sant’Anna
A short walk from St. Peter’s, Borgo Pio is one of the most picturesque alley in the neighborhood, lined with small shops, cafés, and restaurants that preserve the atmosphere of the historic village. Just ahead, at Porta Sant’Anna, one of the access points to Vatican City, you can see the famous Swiss Guards. - Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel
Walking along the Vatican Walls, you will reach the Vatican Museums, one of the richest art collections in the world, featuring sculptures, paintings, tapestries, and classical antiquities. The Sistine Chapel, with Michelangelo’s frescoes, is a must-see for anyone visiting Rome. Find out how to book skip-the-line tickets on the official website. - Via Doria and the Mercato Trionfale
To experience the neighborhood like a Roman, head a short distance to Via Doria, home to the famous Mercato Trionfale. Fruits, vegetables, typical products, and local culinary delights in a lively and authentic atmosphere. A perfect stop for those who love exploring the tastes and aromas of the city away from the traditional tourist circuits.
To end on a tasty note
After so much art and walking, stop for a snack in Piazza Risorgimento: here you can try the famous Trapizzino, a Roman specialty consisting of a triangle of pizza bianca filled with traditional ingredients such as chicken cacciatore, oxtail stew, meatballs in tomato sauce, or eggplant parmigiana. Perfect for recharging before continuing your exploration.
Celio – Ancient Rome and hidden gardens
The Celio neighborhood is a true treasure trove of history, where Imperial Rome coexists with medieval churches and relaxing green spaces. Staying here means being just a short walk from the Colosseum and the Imperial Fora, while also enjoying quiet streets and hidden gardens, perfect for discovering a more authentic side of the city.
Recommended itinerary (3 hours):
- Colosseum and archaeological area
The Colosseum, Rome’s undisputed symbol, dominates the neighborhood with its majestic presence. Next to it, the archaeological area offers the chance to immerse yourself in the city’s millennia-old history, among temple ruins and ancient Roman streets. Check our guide to purchase skip-the-line tickets! - Colle Oppio and the remains of the Domus Aurea
Heading towards Colle Oppio, you can stroll through a large green area with views of the Colosseum, perfect for a relaxing break. The park sits above the remains of the Domus Aurea, Emperor Nero’s lavish residence, which is now open to visitors with a ticket available on the official website. The park also features a playground and a skate park, making it ideal for families. - A journey through time: the Basilica of San Clemente
This church is a unique example of Rome’s layering: a paleochristian church was built above a Roman imperial building, and above that, the medieval basilica we see today. Visiting all three levels, you can admire mosaics, frescoes, and architectural details that tell the story of Rome’s evolution over more than a thousand years. - Villa Celimontana
For an outdoor break Villa Celimontana is just perfect. Among centuries-old trees, fountains and scattered archaeological remains, the park offers a peaceful oasis and spaces for quiet walks away from the tourist crowds.
To end on a high note
Treat yourself to a break at the new café of the Museo della Forma Urbis, which offers a stunning view of the Colosseum from Celio. The museum houses the famous Forma Urbis Romae, a detailed marble map of Imperial Rome.
Via Veneto – Elegance, cinema and a huge park
Via Veneto neighborhood is one of the most upscale areas of Rome, famous for its refined buildings, historic cafés, and the iconic “Dolce Vita” atmosphere. Staying here allows you to enjoy a unique mix of history, culture, and pleasant walks along elegant streets and green spaces, just a short distance from the heart of the city.
Recommended itinerary (3 hours):
- Piazza Barberini and the Palazzo
The ideal starting point is Piazza Barberini, dominated by the impressive Palazzo Barberini, now home to the Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Antica. The square is lively with tourists and locals alike, featuring Bernini’s Triton Fountain at its center—a perfect example of harmony between Baroque architecture and city life. - Bones and mystery: the Capuchin Crypt
A short walk from Piazza Barberini, the Capuchin Crypt surprises visitors with chapels decorated with the bones and skeletons of Capuchin friars: a unique and striking memento mori in the heart of Rome, perfect for those seeking an unusual experience. - Via Veneto and the history of cinema
Walking along Via Veneto, you step onto the symbol of Roman Dolce Vita: historic hotels, elegant cafés, and restaurants that were the meeting spots and film sets of international cinema stars in the 1950s and ’60s. Strolling here lets you breathe an elegant, cinematic atmosphere among historic buildings and picturesque corners. - Villa Borghese and the Borghese Gallery
At the top of Via Veneto, just past the Aurelian Walls, you’ll reach Villa Borghese, one of Rome’s most beautiful parks, perfect for walking along tree-lined avenues, fountains, and statues. Inside is the renowned Galleria Borghese, home to masterpieces by Bernini, Caravaggio, and Canova (find out how to book).
To end on a high note
Take some time to relax: the park offers playgrounds for children and the possibility to rent bikes or rickshaws, ideal for exploring the avenues and reaching the Pincio Terrace, where you can take spectacular sunset photos and admire Rome from a unique perspective.