I am just beginning to plan our trip to Rome and have a question - what is the name of the tourist district that people are recommending you stay in? Is there a name of it, or specific streets to look for? I am having difficulty when I look at a hotel to determine where it is in relation to the tourist area because I don't know what all the names are. We want to be in the thick of things - and be able to walk everywhere. But mostly we like to sit and people watch and try little shops and restaurants, etc. I would like a hotel with a roof top if possible. I do have a map - but frankly, having not been there - I don't know what I am looking at! It doesn't have street names. Any ideas or help? Thanks, Mary
Posted by
Forest Grove, OR
11362 posts
I suspect you mean the Centro Storico, or historical center of Rome. That is generally an area in and around Piazza Navona. Campo dei Fiori, the Pantheon, and Largo dei Torre Argentina. We have stayed there twice and it is fabulously convenient. We walk almost everywhere! What is your budget, Mary? That will help in guiding you to lodging. Also, what time of year will you be in Rome, and for how long? Laurel
Posted by
Costa Mesa
348 posts
Find a website such as Eurobookings.com that allows you to search the city by hotels near landmarks. In Rome, some enjoy near the Termini train station but I woould prefer near Piazza Navonna, Trevi, Campo d Fiori
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23340 posts
First, the central part is pretty compact with short distances and easy walking. Remember that is all they were doing 2000 years ago. So a lot areas are within walking distance. Second, review the Steves Rome guidebook as he covers the various neighborhoods very well. We stay in the Termini area - south of the station for convenience to all transportation and it is a little cheaper than the more central areas around the Pantheon which is close to the very center. The Vatican is the furthest attraction from the Termini area and you can walk there in an hour. But the bus system is cheap and easy to use. Where you stay is mostly personal choice. Some areas like the Spanish steps will simply be overrun by tourists. We prefer to be away from that.
Posted by
Pa and Italy
4152 posts
Also, remember there is no one area that will put you close to all the sites. The city center will put you close to most but some will still be a short distance away. You can stay in the city center or by the colosseum, trevi fountain, spanish steps or termini and still be able to walk to most of the sites. Your map should show you where the main sites like the pantheon, piazza navona, trevi fountain, spanish steps and colosseum are. If not, get another map. Based on where those are you can easily use google maps or a site like venere.com to help pick a hotel and see the location. I like to use venere.com because you can choose the area and price range you wish to stay within. Donna