Our daughter will be studying in the Campo dei Fiori area this August/September. We'll be visiting for 10 days and can't decide which neighborhood would be best. The Pensione Rosetta is near the Coloseum and Pensione Panda is near the Spanish Steps. We'd like to be able to get to the Campo area easily and we'd also like to stay at a place that is close to/walking distance to shops and bakeries, etc. but not too overwhelmingly touristy. Grazie mille.
Posted by
Indianapolis, IN, USA
143 posts
Both hotels are well-situated in being close to the action, though the one near the Coliseum may be a father walk to your daughter. Both neighborhoods are pretty touristy, as in most of Rome's centro storico. The Spanish Steps areas is more upscale (at least the shopping), and is a bit more central to everything else (the Vatican, Villa Borghese, etc.) than the Coliseum area. If you'll be hoffing it Campo di Fiori frequently I'd vote for staying near the Spanish Steps - the walk will take you past two of my favorite areas, the Pantheon and Piazza Navonna, as well as a host of places to grab a coffee, gelato or baked treat en route.
Posted by
Portlandia
3313 posts
Yes. The Spanish Steps area would be better. An easier walk, close to more sites.
Posted by
Atlanta
3262 posts
Hi Adrienne,
Have you considered staying near Campo de' Fiori? We stayed in the Hotel Smeraldo and really liked it--especially for the location.
There is a cafe and bakery just across the alleyway/street. The website is www.smeraldoroma.com
Posted by
OP
San Francisco, CA, USA
278 posts
Grazie tutti for the terrific advice and suggestions. I'll have to look into the gelaterias and bars/coffee shops in the area. I tried requesting a room at the Esmeraldo a few days ago and no luck/response. I love the RS books but I'm beginning to understand that one needs to book recommended hotels/pensiones far in advance, particularly if you're on a budget. This helpline has been invaluable and a lot of fun. Ciao.
Posted by
Scottsdale, AZ, USA
1127 posts
Both neighborhoods are good. The Spanish Steps area is better for shopping but it is very touristy. The Coliseum area still has a bit of a neighborhood flair. There is some shopping on Via Boschetto & Serpenti but it is more boutiques, not the main stores & designer labels. You will find great bakeries, coffee shops & bars in every area of Rome - you're in Italy. Both locations have quick bus connections to Campo dei Fiori if decide not to walk.
Posted by
Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
705 posts
I would stay in the Spanish steps area. It's so close to everything and I really just like the area. I love wandering up and down the street finding really interesting shops and cafes. I stayed in via Margutta last year and found a little bar that served the best coffee I have every had and at only 1.20 Euro!
Posted by
OP
San Francisco, CA, USA
278 posts
Grazie for the wonderful details from all of your Italian experiences in Roma. Roma can be daunting, it seems, so it's always fun to hear about great places to find one's way to and enjoy. Ci vediamo.