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One of the most common questions we get asked about visiting Rome is; where do I stay? The answer is always the Trastevere neighborhood! It was once a hidden gem but is now turning a lot of heads because there are so many things to do in Trastevere and places to explore.
This quaint, vibrant neighborhood is located just South of the Vatican City and across the river from the Colosseum and is the ancient working-class district. It’s known for being quieter and cheaper than the other neighborhoods in central Rome, but still being close to the action.
It was by far our favorite neighborhood in Rome and we are so glad we decided to unpack our suitcase there.
While it’s a great base for exploring all the top sites and attractions in Rome, it’s also a neighborhood that’s worth exploring.
In this guide, I’ve shared some of our favorite attractions in Trastevere as well as our favorite places to eat, where to stay, how to get around, and tips for visiting, so you can plan your visit to this exciting neighborhood with ease!
Why Is Trastevere Famous?
Trastevere is the former working-class district of Rome and is where you will find a vibrant, bohemian atmosphere.
It’s famous for its quaint, narrow cobbled streets, Renaissance architecture and medieval houses, and bustling atmosphere. It has a more local vibe, allowing you to feel the beat of Italian life more intimately, and it’s also a well-known district for backpackers looking for cheaper accommodation.
In the daytime, Trastevere is quiet, idyllic, and somewhat romantic. At night, the bars come alive with live music, DJs, and laughing, smiling people – locals and tourists alike – bringing the quiet streets to life.
Since it’s located across the Tiber River, it’s much cheaper than other neighborhoods in Rome, and less crowded too, making it an ideal choice for travelers wanting to stay close to the action but without being directly in it.
It’s where we found espressos for less than €1, wines for €2.50, street performers and music in the squares and on the streets, and a generally electrifying atmosphere.
Things To Do In Trastevere
1. Walk Down The Side Streets
I love strolling down the back streets of the Trastevere district in Rome. It’s like walking through the pages of a storybook.
The narrow cobblestone alleys are lined with charming, ivy-covered buildings that exude an old-world, romantic charm you won’t find in the bustling tourist areas.
As you walk down the side streets, you can’t help but notice the delightful aroma of freshly baked bread and the sound of locals chatting in Italian, creating an authentic and vibrant atmosphere.
The real magic of Rome is not in its iconic landmarks, but in these back alleys and passageways, where family-run trattorias and gelaterias set up tables outside for the locals to spend their afternoons chatting happily away over an espresso or two.
This is truly the best way to experience Trastevere. As you walk down the streets, you might stumble upon quaint piazzas tucked away from the main thoroughfares, which are perfect for people-watching from a nearby coffee shop.
2. Admire the Fountain in Piazzi di Santa Maria
One of my favorite piazzas in the Trastevere district is Piazzi di Santa Maria, which is known for its beautiful water fountain in its center. It’s not just any fountain – it’s a stunning masterpiece that’s steeped in history and beauty.
The Fountain is believed to be the oldest fountain in Rome, thought to have been built in the 8th century, though its exact origin is unknown. The design has changed over the years, but what you see before you today was the work of some of Rome’s finest craftsmen, Donato Bramante, with additions by Gian Lorenzo Bernini and Carlo Fontana.
Many people flock to this fountain in the evening to sit upon its steps and bask in the bustling atmosphere of the square.
3. Check Out The Nightlife
If you’re wondering how to spend an evening in Trastevere, then you’re in luck, as there are so many things to do in Trastevere at night!
When it comes to nightlife in Rome, the Trastevere district is where the party’s at. This lively neighborhood comes alive after dark with a vibrant mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues that cater to every taste.
While Trastevere has more affordable prices when compared to other districts in Rome, unfortunately, nights out tend to be just as expensive here as anywhere else in the city.
One of the most popular bars in Trastevere is Bar San Calisto because the prices of drinks are a lot less than the swanky wine bars you see around the neighborhood. It’s the oldest and most famous bar in the district and has been a popular watering hole for more than half a century.
It’s a no-frills pub where both locals and tourists congregate after the sun goes down. A classic, Roman pub, unpretentious and authentic. What more could you want?
Another popular bar is Enoteca La Vite which has an extensive collection of local wines.
Come back here in the morning as they have really cheap espresso and gelato!
4. Take A Walking Food Tour
I can’t stress enough how much we enjoyed the walking food tour of the Trastevere district. It wasn’t just about strolling through the charming cobblestone streets, savoring the most mouthwatering Italian delicacies at hidden local spots, but about learning the local way of life and how important food is embedded into Italian culture.
As you walk from trattoria to trattoria, you get to sample some of Rome’s lesser-known and most exquisite dishes, from crispy supplì to heavenly gelato, washed down with the acquired taste of Grappa (it wasn’t for me) – every bite is a burst of authentic flavors that remind you that Italian food is more than just pizza and pasta.
What makes this food tour so special is that you’re led by a local guide, who tells you stories of the people and the way of life here, allowing you to truly soak up the district’s unique vibe.
I still remember the taste of the artisanal cheeses like Pecorino cheese that we tried from a local produce store. If you’re a foodie, add this to your list of things to do in Rome!
Here are more food tours in Rome to consider, and we also loved our Roman street food tour. Foodies may also love this pasta making class in Trastevere with wine!
5. Admire the Basilicas of Trastevere
When it comes to finding the best architecture in the neighborhood, look no further than the churches and basilicas.
The Basilica of Santa Maria is arguably the most famous church in the area and is a real showstopper with its stunning mosaics and peaceful courtyard. It’s one of the Seven Pilgrim Churches of Rome, and the biggest Catholic Marian church in the city.
Dating back to 432 AD, the design of the church is a mixture of Romanesque and Baroque styles, with 5th-century mosaics adorning the interiors. Walking down the central nave is breathtaking. The marble arches and columns draw your eyes up to the gilded domed ceiling where the intricacies of the artwork keep your attention sucked in until your neck cramps up!
The Santa Cecilia is another gem known for its breathtaking artwork and medieval design. What’s special about this church is that it’s dedicated to Saint Cecilia, the patron saint of music and poetry.
The inside of the church is not as impressive as the Basilica of Santa Maria, but the statue of Saint Cecilia by Stefano Maderno, which sits at the high altar of the church, is worth checking out. It was created in 1600 after the body of Saint Cecilia was found buried under the altar. It is said that the statue is in true likeness to her body as it was found by Antonio Bosio.
I also loved the design of Basilica di San Crisogono, which is small and unimposing from the outside, but lavish and ornately decorated on the inside. I also loved Chiesa di San Francesco a Ripa, a baroque-style church which contains some of Bernini’s masterpieces.
6. Catch Amazing Views from Janiculum Hill
For incredible views, head up to Janiculum Hill (also affectionately known as the Balcony of Rome), the second largest in Rome and a hidden gem with the most breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
The climb up the hill is steep and takes about 30 minutes, but it’s totally worth it when you’re rewarded with a stunning vista that stretches from St. Peter’s Basilica to the entire historic center of Rome.
Make sure to arrive at midday to watch the traditional firing of the cannon. Every day, a blank round is fired at noon, which first began on 1 December 1847 when Pope Pius IX introduced it as a way to have a signal for the official time and to help synchronize the bells of the churches.
The cannon sound can sometimes be heard all the way from Esquiline Hill if you listen closely.
7. Watch The Street Artists on the Ponte Sisto
Connecting central Rome to Trastevere is the stunning bridge, Ponte Sisto, which in itself is a work of art, with its elegant arches and stunning views of the Tiber River.
What’s so special about Ponte Sisto is that it’s often lined with street artists busking in the early evening. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely walk, especially in the evening when the lights of the city cast a magical glow over the river.
8. Relax in the Botanical Garden of Rome
The Botanical Garden of Rome is a peaceful oasis right in the heart of the city. The moment I stepped into the garden, I was surrounded by lush greenery, vibrant blooms, and a sense of tranquility that’s hard to find in the bustling streets of Rome.
It’s a haven for nature lovers and anyone seeking a serene escape from the urban hustle.
What’s so special about this botanical garden is that it contains more than 7,000 plant species from all over the world. From exotic tropical palms to ancient olive trees, every corner tells a unique botanical story.
9. Admire The Art Inside Villa Farnesina
Villa Farnesina is perhaps the most beautiful building in the Trastevere district. It was built for Agostino Chigi, a Sienese banker who was also the treasurer of Pope Julius II.
He had a fondness for Renaissance art and commissioned fresco paintings by some of the most beloved artists of the era, Raphael, Sebastiano del Piombo, Giulio Romano, and Il Sodoma.
The most famous piece in the villa is Raphael’s depiction of “Cupid and Psyche”, which adorns the ceiling of the Loggia on the ground floor. Another notable piece is by Sodoma, who painted scenes from the life of Alexander the Great on the walls of the upstairs bedroom.
Every room and corridor is decorated with some of the finest frescos of the Renaissance. If you’re an art lover, or not, you cannot miss a chance to walk among these halls and witness the grandeur created by the Renaissance elite.
10. Step Back In Time at Museo di Roma
The Museo di Roma is a small museum that belongs to the Roman civic museums network. It has a vast collection of works documenting the story of “old Rome”, as well as several galleries dedicated to Italian art.
One of the museum’s highlights is a collection of 120 watercolor paintings by the nineteenth-century painter, Ettore Roesler Franz of Roma.
This museum is a treasure trove of Rome’s rich history and culture, showcasing everything from captivating paintings to intriguing artifacts that bring the city’s past to life.
11. Marvel at Palazzo Corsini
Another architectural gem in the neighborhood is Palazzo Corsini, a late-baroque palace belonging to the Corsini family.
This stunning palace was once home to wealthy cardinals and popes, but now houses the Accademia dei Lincei, the world’s oldest scientific institution.
It contains more than 600,000 books and papers on scientific subjects of various forms, as well as a collection of marbles and statues belonging to the National Gallery of Ancient Art.
Visitors can enter the palace by guided tour only, in which you can walk around the fresco-clad halls and exuberant rooms. A highlight of the tour is to visit the former Throne Room, where the family’s wealth and influence can be best appreciated.
Tours run Monday – Friday and take around 90 minutes. You can learn more about tours of Palazzo Corsini here.
The palace is also connected to the Botanical Gardens of Rome.
12. See the Ruins of Circus Maximus
If you were wowed by The Colosseum and want to visit more of Rome’s ancient sporting stadiums, then a visit to Circus Maximus in Trastevere is a must.
This ancient chariot racing stadium was the first and largest stadium in the Empire and extends for 621 meters. In its prime, it could house over 150,000 spectators
Today, the stadium is a ruin turned into a sprawling urban park, where you can sit on the grassy banks and imagine what life in ancient Rome would have been like.
What I love about Circus Maximus is how you can easily see what the stadium would have looked like. Everywhere you look there are remnants of the seating tiers and pathways that could easily have been chariot tracks.
This is just over the river from Trastevere. We walked past it on our way back tot our apartment from the Colosseum.
13. Chill In The Gardens of Villa Sciarra
Another enchanting spot in Trastevere is the Gardens of Villa Sciarra, a verdant paradise with lush greenery, meandering pathways, and a charming fountain with nymph statues that make it a serene escape from the bustling city.
What makes this garden unique is the variety of flora from Italian and Mediterranean roots, alongside more exotic species such as several varieties of palms.
Walking along the pathways, and smelling the fragrant blooms, is the perfect way to relax after a day of exploring.
Places To Eat & Drink In Trastevere
The good thing about Trastevere is there is no shortage of good places to eat. The manager of our apartment, a local to the area, told us, “If you see a line, don’t bother waiting, just go to another one without a line, it will be good. It’s also cheaper than across the river.“
But if you want to plan a good place to eat in the neighborhood, here are some of our favorite restaurants in Trastevere…
1. Mama Eat Roma
Mama Eat was our favorite restaurant in Trastevere and so we have to include it as our number one spot! We ate there a couple of times because the menu can be made entirely gluten-free!
They do make non-gluten-free versions of everything as well, but for us with dietary needs, it was really a luxury to have choices.
I can’t tell you how wonderful it was to know I could safely devour a delicious pizza or pasta carbonara followed by tiramisu.
The food was so fresh and flavorful, and you can clearly tell it was all made from scratch.
The tiramisu was the best I’ve ever eaten. Period.
2. Otello
Otello is another popular place to eat in the Trastevere district. The moment you step into the restaurant, you are greeted by the cozy and inviting atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.
The aroma of sizzling garlic and the sound of clinking glasses fill the air, creating the perfect ambiance for a romantic date night meal.
Otello offers authentic Roman flavors, from the creamy carbonara to the perfectly crispy fried artichokes, every dish is a culinary masterpiece that leaves you craving for more.
It’s a bit on the pricey side, but if you want a memorable dining experience, this is the place to go.
3. Osteria Nannarella
If you want something a little more casual, Osteria Nannarella is a good choice. Described as a “modest eatery”, this is a no-fuss restaurant serving up traditional Roman dishes.
The amatriciana and the suppli are some of the most beloved items on the menu, and the local wines on offer are the perfect pairing.
While people come for the food, people stay for the service, particularly by Ronaldo, the friendly waiter who always serves you with a smile and positive attitude. He’s become somewhat of a local celebrity in the Trastevere district!
4. Alle Fratte di Trastevere
Alle Fratte di Trastevere is another busy restaurant that’s always popping! You may want to reserve a table here, otherwise you can expect to wait up to 20 minutes for a table in the evenings.
And people do wait because the food is that good! The pasta dishes, such as Spaghetti Carbonara and Cacio e Pepe are some of the most popular items on the menu.
The tiramisu is also amazing, and their house wine isn’t too shabby either!
5. Restaurant Ai Spaghettari
For a simple, family-friendly atmosphere, head to Restaurant Ai Spaghettari. This little trattoria is like walking into a home – you immediately feel welcome and want to kick off your shoes and make yourself comfy.
The Spaghetti Caccio Pepe is particularly good here and the staff are all very friendly and hospitable.
6. Prosciutteria Cantina dei Papi
For a quick day time porchetta sandwich, a late night snack, or a more relaxing sit town with high quality hams and cheeses, eat at Prosciutteria Cantina dei Papi paired with a nice glass of Italian wine.
Don’t be expecting a fast-food Subway experience here. It’s a rustic, old-world environment, but with high quality products carefully selected by our Chefs and Sommeliers, with a focus on organic, seasonality and local farm to table.
We enjoyed grabbing a late night pork sandwich here after our visit to the wine bar. We took home sandwiches for the girls too!
7. Breakfast at Baylon Cafe
If you’re looking for a great breakfast spot, Baylon Cafe is it. It was around the corner from our apartment, so I popped in on my last day for a quick take out of pastries and coffee. Two coffees and three yummy chocolate filled pastries and croissants for less than €12
Many rave about their American style breakfast and their lunch and dinner menu and great apertivo!
8. Apertivo Hour at Antilia
You’re in Italy, Apertivo hour is important, and in Trastevere, it’s buzzing. Like the restaurants in this Roman neighborhood, you could sit at any of bars in Trastevere and have a wonderful Apertivo hour.
Relax with a ice cold Aperol spritz and a plate of free nibbles and watch the streets come alive with people getting ready to end their day and start their night.
Our seat outside Antilia on the corner of two busy thoroughfares gave us a wonderful vantage point!
9. Latteria Trastevere
If you’re looking for a good wine bar to end your evening in Trastevere, then you’ll love the intimate Latteria Trastevere, tucked away on an endearing side street.
It will be difficult to decide between the twinkly lights strung among wine bottles inside, or the cute tables in the leafy outside space. This place is classy and our server helped us choose a glass of wine from the menu.
I wish we came here for dinner, as I loved the quieter, more romantic atmosphere. I heard great things about the menu with food sourced from small farms over Italy and meals that showcase the chefs Sardinian roots.
Lattteria is definitely a hidden secret of restaurants in Trastevere.
Where to Stay in Trastevere
Apartment Rental in Trastevere
This is where we stayed when we visited Trastevere. It’s spacious, modern, and an easy walking distance to all of Rome’s top attractions.
It was also on a quiet street away from the nightlife, so we had no problem sleeping at night. The host was incredibly friendly and gave us a lot of recommendations for places to eat and drink.
See prices and availability here.
Hotel Santa Maria
The Hotel Santa Maria is a charming, cozy hotel on the banks of the Tiber River. It’s a former 16th-century convent turned boutique hotel and features quaint rooms that look out over the internal landscaped grounds filled with orange trees and Mediterranean flora. The rooms are designed in period furnishings, with terracotta floors and wooden furniture. It’s like staying in a fairytale villa!
See prices and availability here.
Palazzo Velli
Another historic place to stay in Trastevere is Palazzo Velli. Yes, you can stay in a 15th-century palace! This former palace has been turned into self-catering apartments that have been kitted out with mod cons, such as free Wi-Fi, living areas with a fireplace, and well-equipped kitchens.
See rates and availability here.
FAQs About Visiting Trastevere
Is Trastevere a nice part of Rome?
Yes, Trastevere is a nice part of Rome. Its medieval houses clad with ivy, paired with cobbled streets and winding alleys filled with the laughter of locals, make it an idyllic spot for those wanting to experience the authentic side of Rome.
How far is Trastevere from Rome Center?
It’s about a 30-minute walk from Trastevere to the city center of Rome, and a 45-minute walk to Vatican City.
Is Trastevere Safe at Night?
Yes, Trastevere is safe at night, as long as you don’t wander around alone and keep an eye on your belongings. It’s always busy, which adds an element of safety, but Rome is notorious for pickpockets so do keep an eye on your valuables at all times.
Before You Go
Trastevere was by far our favorite place to visit in Rome. It was our teens favorite place in Rome as well. The cobblestone streets, vibrant piazzas, lively cafes, traditional trattorias, and artisan shops, really gave us a true taste of local life.
Before you go, make sure to read up on our essential things to know before going to Rome to get an idea of what to expect. To make the most of your visit, be sure to explore the area on foot and be sure to get yourself lost down the side streets. It really is the best way to experience this neighborhood!
I hope this guide helped you plan your trip to Trastevere and gave you some inspiration for what to do, where to stay, and where to eat.
Whatever you decide to do, Trastevere promises to be an unforgettable destination, offering the perfect blend of history, culture, and pure Roman charm.