Rome

Vintage markets, Monti backstreets & Trastevere evenings

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Rome is one of the most rewarding places to explore, and this local guide brings together the best things to do, where to eat and where to stay in one place. Highlights include Panthéon, Mercato Monti and Colosseum. Food lovers should not miss Da Enzo al 29 and Roscioli. Below you will find 51 hand-picked local recommendations across sights, restaurants, hotels and tours, which you can filter by category and budget to plan the perfect trip, whether you have a weekend or a week.

Rome at a glance

Ideal stay: 2 to 3 days
Best time to visit: spring and autumn
Highlights: Panthéon and Mercato Monti
Where to stay: Trastevere and Pantheon
Local picks: 51 hand-chosen recommendations
Getting around: walkable, plus easy public transport

Local tips for Rome

Stories and neighbourhood know-how from our local guides.

Local tipsWhere to Stay in Rome: Best Neighborhoods (by a Local)Where to stay in Rome? A local ranks the best neighbourhoods for first-timers, from the Centro Storico and Monti to…

Local tipsHow Many Days Do You Need in Rome? A Local’s Honest AnswerHow many days do you need in Rome? A local breaks down the ideal trip length, from a rushed one…

Local tipsHipster Shopping in Rome: Monti, Vintage and Indie DesignSkip the souvenir stalls. Where stylish Romans really shop, from Monti boutiques to weekend vintage at Mercato Monti.

Where to stay in Rome

Compare live hotel prices and availability on the map. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Gianicolo

Gianicolo Terrace

The Janiculum hill above Trastevere offers arguably the best free panorama of Rome’s domes and rooftops. Come for sunset – and at noon each day when a cannon is ceremonially fired over the city.

★ 4.7

Pantheon

Giolitti

One of Rome’s most storied gelaterie, scooping since 1900 near the Pantheon. Grab a cone of classic flavours and join the after-dinner passeggiata – it’s a Roman ritual as much as a dessert.

★ 4.5

Via Nazionale

Hotel Artemide

A polished, consistently well-reviewed four-star on Via Nazionale, prized for genuinely warm service, a generous breakfast and a handy walk-everywhere location. A dependable mid-range choice.

★ 4.7

Piazza del Popolo

Hotel de Russie

One of Rome’s grande-dame luxury hotels, tucked between Piazza del Popolo and the Spanish Steps around a beautiful terraced “Secret Garden.” Impeccable service and a celebrity-favourite bar.

★ 4.8

$$$

Trastevere

Hotel Santa Maria

A charming, low-rise hideaway wrapped around a sunny orange-tree courtyard in the middle of Trastevere – a rare peaceful spot in a lively quarter, and a gem if you want to stay in Rome’s most atmospheric neighbourhood.

★ 4.6

Pantheon

Il Barroccio

One of the longest-standing trattorias in the centre, a few steps from the Pantheon, serving the Roman classics, carbonara, saltimbocca, artichokes, in a warm, timeworn room. Central but still proudly traditional.

Sant'Angelo

Jewish Ghetto & Portico d’Ottavia

One of Europe’s oldest Jewish quarters, a moving and atmospheric warren of lanes around the ancient Portico d’Ottavia. Wander its streets, then try the neighbourhood’s legendary carciofi alla giudia (Jewish-style fried artichokes).

★ 4.6

Trastevere

La Renella

A wood-fired Trastevere bakery going since 1870, loved for its pizza al taglio, crusty bread and biscuits pulled hot from the oven all day and late into the night. Point at what looks good and eat it on the step outside.

Monti

Mercato Monti

On weekends locals drift into Rione Monti and stop by this open-air market, where young Italian designers and vintage sellers show off their own fashion, accessories, illustrations and artwork. It is the place to hunt for one-of-a-kind pieces straight from the makers.

★ 4.4

€

Centro Storico

Old Bear

A characterful Mediterranean restaurant on a quiet lane near Piazza Navona, set in a former carpenter’s workshop with warm rustic rooms and a menu built around fresh pasta and seasonal cooking. Intimate and popular – reserve.

Colosseo

Palazzo Manfredi

A five-star bolthole whose whole reason for being is the view: rooms and a Michelin-starred rooftop restaurant gazing straight at the floodlit Colosseum. Special-occasion territory, and unforgettable.

★ 4.8

$$$

Pantheon

Panthéon

Soufflot’s neoclassical masterpiece; the crypt holds Hugo, Curie, and Baker, with Foucault’s pendulum above.

★ 4.8

Testaccio

Piatto Romano

In Testaccio, the historic heart of Roman cooking, this trattoria champions local produce and seasonal menus – think fiori di zucca, oxtail stew and offal done properly. A favourite of locals who want the real, unfiltered cucina romana.

★ 4.6

Centro Storico

Piazza Navona

A glorious baroque square shaped like the ancient stadium it was built over, centred on Bernini’s dramatic Fountain of the Four Rivers. Ringed by cafes, street artists and churches – lovely by day and floodlit at night.

★ 4.7

Prati

Pizzarium Bonci

Gabriele Bonci’s legendary pizza al taglio counter near the Vatican – airy, long-fermented dough topped with inventive, seasonal combinations and sold by weight. No seats to speak of; grab a slice and eat on your feet.

★ 4.5

Portonaccio

Qube

Qube is Rome’s biggest LGBTQ+ nightclub, spread across three industrial-chic floors near Via di Portonaccio, each spinning a different genre from house to hip-hop to retro disco. The long-running Muccassassina party has anchored the scene here for two decades and still draws a mixed, high-energy crowd on weekend nights. Doors don’t get going until close to midnight and run through 3:30am Thursday to Saturday. Bring cash for the cover charge and coat check, and budget extra time for the line.

Centro Storico

Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

The ruined heart of ancient Rome – temples, basilicas and triumphal arches spread beneath the Palatine, the hill where emperors built their palaces and the city was said to be founded. Usually covered by the Colosseum combined ticket.

★ 4.7

Centro Storico

Roman Pasta-Making Class

Roll up your sleeves and learn to make fresh Roman pasta from scratch – typically fettuccine or ravioli – then sit down to eat your handiwork with wine. A fun, hands-on break and a skill to take home.

★ 4.8

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Rome travel FAQ

How many days do you need in Rome?

Two to three days is enough to enjoy the highlights of Rome at a relaxed pace. See our Rome itinerary guide for a day-by-day plan.

Where is the best area to stay in Rome?

Stay central and walkable to the main sights for a first visit. Our where to stay in Rome guide breaks down the best neighbourhoods.

What are the best things to do in Rome?

Browse the local picks above, from top sights and museums to where to eat and stay.

What is the best time to visit Rome?

Spring and autumn usually bring the most comfortable weather and thinner crowds, though Rome is worth visiting year-round.