I know there are a lot of "best neighborhood" threads for Rome and I have read many; but hoping my question provides enough of a spin to justify a new topic. We are thinking of a month or longer in Rome, and want to divide the time between two apartments in two different neighborhoods. Which two neighborhoods would you pair together in order to create an interesting contrast, and ultimately, a more complete Rome experience? "Contrasting" could take many forms -- I'm leaving it vague to spark conversation because I'm curious about the possibilities. We are adept and comfortable with transit and public transportation, so I feel like we can manage to navigate around wherever we stay (we will be car-free), even if further out. Thanks in advance for your thoughts...
Posted by
Italy
3812 posts
Parioli vs Esquilino, think at a poorer Belgravia vs a less charming Notting Hill.
Posted by
Forest Grove, OR
11356 posts
I like Dario's suggestions and his colorful comparisons.
Another pair to consider would be Monte and Prati. Monte is in/adjacent to the historical center with some architectural sites but is also a bit hip and eclectic with atmospheric streets to wander. Prati is on the other side of the Tibur, is adjacent to Vatican City, has government buildings, and is more modern in its grid-like layout but also encompasses historic architecture (Castel Sant'Angelo) and shopping on Via Cola di Rienzo. Many professionals live in Prati. Each is well-connected to various transportation options.
Posted by
11205 posts
I recommend Monti and Tessacio.
Posted by
Vancouver, BC
525 posts
Another vote for Prati and Monti. Both great neighbourhoods with lots of food/restaurant options and near sights without being in the center of a tourist zone.
Posted by
Atlanta
3250 posts
I'd pair Testaccio and Prati.
I like your idea of contrasting neighborhoods for two, month-long stays!
That's really clever!
Posted by
Boise, ID, USA
2189 posts
Yes, we did that in Paris, although just for a week each: Marais and Butte-aux-Cailles. It worked out well.
Posted by
OP
785 posts
Thanks for the suggestions so far. Keep them coming! I'm curious if anyone has experience with the Salario neighborhood. It doesn't seem to get mentioned very often (very few "hits" on the forum), but seemed like another neighborhood to contrast with, say, Testaccio. Thoughts?
Posted by
Forest Grove, OR
11356 posts
Salario is a little distant from the center, IMO. Maybe no worse than Parioli but you might want to assess how long you are willing to sit on a bus or tram to get to sites you want to see. Perhaps spend some time with Google Maps and look at transit times. We lived n Parioli and it could take an hour to get to the historic center.
Posted by
Calgary, AB, Canada
485 posts
We just came back from a much briefer trip. Stayed in Termini at the start and on Aventino hill at the end. I woud maybe change Termini to Monti next time, but liked the convenience to the train station. Aventino hill is right next to Testaccio where we had fabulous food.
Posted by
seattle
2048 posts
We like Testaccio. Great restaurants and transit.