3 nights in Rome - Area to stay?

The central areas I recommend would be close to the Plaza Novanna, Pantheon or campo de fiori. Travestere would be another place thats wonderful, but it's not in the center of things. You could do a eating/wine tour that takes you thru that neighborhood instead.. Travestere Twighligt Tour.

My first pick would be close to the Piazza Novanna.

The Monti neighborhood is pretty centralized.

https://www.airbnb.com/locations/rome/monti

I would look for something in the cluster above the Cavour metro station and west of there.

I've stayed both central (Pantheon) and non-central (near Termini Station). Staying central was definitely a richer experience. The only downfall of my Airbnb was that it was quite a haul up about six flights of steep stone stairs. On the other hand, it had a rooftop view on three sides soooo... kinda worth it ;) And completely reasonably priced for two btw.

We also prefer Pantheon/ Piazza Navona area. Did not care for Spanish Steps area at all.
If it your first visit to Rome, a hotel front desk can can be very helpful rather than staying in an apt.

I had a hard time finding Airbnb that were in central Rome near all the tourist sites. I ended up staying in Prati, and it was great. You're close to the Vatican (museum especially) and have good Metro access. It's a real neighborhood, with lots a good restaurants and felt very safe. A local guide said it was kind of the up-and-coming trendy place to move to. Prati also hosts one of Rome's largest indoor markets, though I could not find time to visit.

Pantheon or Piazza Navona areas would be my pick. They are close enough to be considered the same area in some booking places and others will separate them.
Between the 2 choose the option closest to the actual piazza itself. Some places will use the name but be a few blocks from the actual piazza the area is named for.

Have been to Rome 5x. We have stayed in a hotel off Via Nazionale, a hotel near Campo di Fiori, 2x in apts. near Piazza Navonna and most recently an apt. near the Pantheon. That being said, all locations were fine but we much prefer Piazza Navonna, Pantheon or Campo di Fiori areas. I think Trastevere would be nice too. Frequented this neighborhood in the evenings for dinner.

Thanks everyone. We will stay near Campo di Fiori area.