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One of the most typical questions we get requested about visiting Rome is; the place do I keep? The reply is all the time the Trastevere neighborhood! It was as soon as a hidden gem however is now turning a variety of heads as a result of there are such a lot of issues to do in Trastevere and locations to discover.
This quaint, vibrant neighborhood is situated simply South of the Vatican City and throughout the river from the Colosseum and is the traditional working-class district. It’s recognized for being quieter and cheaper than the opposite neighborhoods in central Rome, however nonetheless being near the motion.
It was by far our favourite neighborhood in Rome and we’re so glad we determined to unpack our suitcase there.
While it’s an ideal base for exploring all the highest websites and sights in Rome, it’s additionally a neighborhood that’s price exploring.
In this information, I’ve shared a few of our favourite sights in Trastevere in addition to our favourite locations to eat, the place to remain, easy methods to get round, and suggestions for visiting, so you possibly can plan your go to to this thrilling neighborhood with ease!
Why Is Trastevere Famous?
Trastevere is the previous working-class district of Rome and is the place you’ll discover a vibrant, bohemian environment.
It’s well-known for its quaint, slim cobbled streets, Renaissance structure and medieval homes, and bustling environment. It has a extra native vibe, permitting you to really feel the beat of Italian life extra intimately, and it’s additionally a well known district for backpackers in search of cheaper lodging.
In the daytime, Trastevere is quiet, idyllic, and considerably romantic. At night time, the bars come alive with dwell music, DJs, and laughing, smiling folks – locals and vacationers alike – bringing the quiet streets to life.
Since it’s situated throughout the Tiber River, it’s less expensive than different neighborhoods in Rome, and fewer crowded too, making it an excellent alternative for vacationers wanting to remain near the motion however with out being straight in it.
It’s the place we discovered espressos for lower than €1, wines for €2.50, avenue performers and music within the squares and on the streets, and a typically electrifying environment.
Things To Do In Trastevere
1. Walk Down The Side Streets
I like strolling down the again streets of the Trastevere district in Rome. It’s like strolling by way of the pages of a storybook.
The slim cobblestone alleys are lined with charming, ivy-covered buildings that exude an old-world, romantic appeal you received’t discover within the bustling vacationer areas.
As you stroll down the aspect streets, you possibly can’t assist however discover the pleasant aroma of freshly baked bread and the sound of locals chatting in Italian, creating an genuine and vibrant environment.
The actual magic of Rome shouldn’t be in its iconic landmarks, however in these again alleys and passageways, the place family-run trattorias and gelaterias arrange tables exterior for the locals to spend their afternoons chatting fortunately away over an espresso or two.
This is actually one of the simplest ways to expertise Trastevere. As you stroll down the streets, you may bump into quaint piazzas tucked away from the principle thoroughfares, that are excellent for people-watching from a close-by espresso store.
2. Admire the Fountain in Piazzi di Santa Maria
One of my favourite piazzas within the Trastevere district is Piazzi di Santa Maria, which is understood for its lovely water fountain in its middle. It’s not simply any fountain – it’s a shocking masterpiece that’s steeped in historical past and sweetness.
The Fountain is believed to be the oldest fountain in Rome, thought to have been constructed within the eighth century, although its actual origin is unknown. The design has modified through the years, however what you see earlier than you as we speak was the work of a few of Rome’s best craftsmen, Donato Bramante, with additions by Gian Lorenzo Bernini and Carlo Fontana.
Many folks flock to this fountain within the night to sit down upon its steps and bask within the bustling environment of the sq..
3. Check Out The Nightlife
If you’re questioning easy methods to spend a night in Trastevere, then you definitely’re in luck, as there are such a lot of issues to do in Trastevere at night time!
When it involves nightlife in Rome, the Trastevere district is the place the celebration’s at. This vigorous neighborhood comes alive after darkish with a vibrant mixture of bars, golf equipment, and dwell music venues that cater to each style.
While Trastevere has extra reasonably priced costs when in comparison with different districts in Rome, sadly, nights out are usually simply as costly right here as anyplace else within the metropolis.
One of the preferred bars in Trastevere is Bar San Calisto as a result of the costs of drinks are loads lower than the swanky wine bars you see across the neighborhood. It’s the oldest and most well-known bar within the district and has been a preferred watering gap for greater than half a century.
It’s a no-frills pub the place each locals and vacationers congregate after the solar goes down. A traditional, Roman pub, unpretentious and genuine. What extra may you need?
Another standard bar is Enoteca La Vite which has an intensive assortment of native wines.
Come again right here within the morning as they’ve actually low cost espresso and gelato!
4. Take A Walking Food Tour
I can’t stress sufficient how a lot we loved the strolling meals tour of the Trastevere district. It wasn’t nearly strolling by way of the charming cobblestone streets, savoring essentially the most mouthwatering Italian delicacies at hidden native spots, however about studying the native lifestyle and the way vital meals is embedded into Italian tradition.
As you stroll from trattoria to trattoria, you get to pattern a few of Rome’s lesser-known and most beautiful dishes, from crispy supplì to heavenly gelato, washed down with the acquired style of Grappa (it wasn’t for me) – each chew is a burst of genuine flavors that remind you that Italian meals is extra than simply pizza and pasta.
What makes this meals tour so particular is that you just’re led by an area information, who tells you tales of the folks and the lifestyle right here, permitting you to really take in the district’s distinctive vibe.
I nonetheless bear in mind the style of the artisanal cheeses like Pecorino cheese that we tried from an area produce retailer. If you’re a foodie, add this to your listing of issues to do in Rome!
5. Admire the Basilicas of Trastevere
When it involves discovering the perfect structure within the neighborhood, look no additional than the church buildings and basilicas.
The Basilica of Santa Maria is arguably essentially the most well-known church within the space and is an actual showstopper with its beautiful mosaics and peaceable courtyard. It’s one of many Seven Pilgrim Churches of Rome, and the most important Catholic Marian church within the metropolis.
Dating again to 432 AD, the design of the church is a mix of Romanesque and Baroque types, with Fifth-century mosaics adorning the interiors. Walking down the central nave is breathtaking. The marble arches and columns draw your eyes as much as the gilded domed ceiling the place the intricacies of the paintings hold your consideration sucked in till your neck cramps up!
The Santa Cecilia is one other gem recognized for its breathtaking paintings and medieval design. What’s particular about this church is that it’s devoted to Saint Cecilia, the patron saint of music and poetry.
The within the church shouldn’t be as spectacular because the Basilica of Santa Maria, however the statue of Saint Cecilia by Stefano Maderno, which sits on the excessive altar of the church, is price testing. It was created in 1600 after the physique of Saint Cecilia was discovered buried underneath the altar. It is claimed that the statue is in true likeness to her physique because it was discovered by Antonio Bosio.
I additionally beloved the design of Basilica di San Crisogono, which is small and unimposing from the skin, however lavish and ornately embellished on the within. I additionally beloved Chiesa di San Francesco a Ripa, a baroque-style church which accommodates a few of Bernini’s masterpieces.
6. Catch Amazing Views from Janiculum Hill
For unbelievable views, head as much as Janiculum Hill (additionally affectionately often called the Balcony of Rome), the second largest in Rome and a hidden gem with essentially the most breathtaking panoramic views of the town.
The climb up the hill is steep and takes about half-hour, however it’s completely price it once you’re rewarded with a shocking vista that stretches from St. Peter’s Basilica to the whole historic middle of Rome.
Make positive to reach at noon to look at the normal firing of the cannon. Every day, a clean spherical is fired at midday, which first started on 1 December 1847 when Pope Pius IX launched it as a method to have a sign for the official time and to assist synchronize the bells of the church buildings.
The cannon sound can typically be heard all the way in which from Esquiline Hill when you pay attention intently.
7. Watch The Street Artists on the Ponte Sisto
Connecting central Rome to Trastevere is the beautiful bridge, Ponte Sisto, which in itself is a murals, with its elegant arches and beautiful views of the Tiber River.
What’s so particular about Ponte Sisto is that it’s typically lined with avenue artists busking within the early night. It’s the right spot for a leisurely stroll, particularly within the night when the lights of the town solid a magical glow over the river.
8. Relax within the Botanical Garden of Rome
The Botanical Garden of Rome is a peaceable oasis proper within the coronary heart of the town. The second I stepped into the backyard, I used to be surrounded by lush greenery, vibrant blooms, and a way of tranquility that’s laborious to search out within the bustling streets of Rome.
It’s a haven for nature lovers and anybody searching for a serene escape from the city hustle.
What’s so particular about this botanical backyard is that it accommodates greater than 7,000 plant species from everywhere in the world. From unique tropical palms to historic olive timber, each nook tells a singular botanical story.
9. Admire The Art Inside Villa Farnesina
Villa Farnesina is maybe essentially the most lovely constructing within the Trastevere district. It was constructed for Agostino Chigi, a Sienese banker who was additionally the treasurer of Pope Julius II.
He had a keenness for Renaissance artwork and commissioned fresco work by a few of the most beloved artists of the period, Raphael, Sebastiano del Piombo, Giulio Romano, and Il Sodoma.
The most well-known piece within the villa is Raphael’s depiction of “Cupid and Psyche”, which adorns the ceiling of the Loggia on the bottom ground. Another notable piece is by Sodoma, who painted scenes from the lifetime of Alexander the Great on the partitions of the upstairs bed room.
Every room and hall is embellished with a few of the best frescos of the Renaissance. If you’re an artwork lover, or not, you can’t miss an opportunity to stroll amongst 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 community. It has an unlimited assortment of works documenting the story of “old Rome”, in addition to a number of galleries devoted to Italian artwork.
One of the museum’s highlights is a set of 120 watercolor work by the nineteenth-century painter, Ettore Roesler Franz of Roma.
This museum is a treasure trove of Rome’s wealthy historical past and tradition, showcasing every little thing from charming work to intriguing artifacts that carry the town’s previous to life.
11. Marvel at Palazzo Corsini
Another architectural gem within the neighborhood is Palazzo Corsini, a late-baroque palace belonging to the Corsini household.
This beautiful palace was as soon as house to rich cardinals and popes, however now homes the Accademia dei Lincei, the world’s oldest scientific establishment.
It accommodates greater than 600,000 books and papers on scientific topics of varied types, in addition to a set of marbles and statues belonging to the National Gallery of Ancient Art.
Visitors can enter the palace by guided tour solely, in which you’ll stroll across the fresco-clad halls and exuberant rooms. A spotlight of the tour is to go to the previous Throne Room, the place the household’s wealth and affect will be finest appreciated.
Tours run Monday – Friday and take round 90 minutes. You can study extra about excursions of Palazzo Corsini right here.
The palace can also be related to the Botanical Gardens of Rome.
12. See the Ruins of Circus Maximus
If you had been wowed by The Colosseum and wish to go to extra of Rome’s historic sporting stadiums, then a go to to Circus Maximus in Trastevere is a should.
This historic chariot racing stadium was the primary and largest stadium within the Empire and extends for 621 meters. In its prime, it may home over 150,000 spectators
Today, the stadium is a wreck become a sprawling city park, the place you possibly can sit on the grassy banks and picture what life in historic Rome would have been like.
What I like about Circus Maximus is how one can simply see what the stadium would have regarded like. Everywhere you look there are remnants of the seating tiers and pathways that might simply have been chariot tracks.
This is simply over the river from Trastevere. We walked previous it on our manner again tot our condominium 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 captivating fountain with nymph statues that make it a serene escape from the bustling metropolis.
What makes this backyard distinctive is the number of flora from Italian and Mediterranean roots, alongside extra unique species akin to a number of styles of palms.
Walking alongside the pathways, and smelling the aromatic blooms, is the right method to chill out after a day of exploring.
Places To Eat & Drink In Trastevere
The benefit of Trastevere is there isn’t any scarcity of excellent locations to eat. The supervisor of our condominium, an area to the realm, instructed us, “If you see a line, don’t hassle ready, simply go to a different one with out a line, it is going to be good. It’s additionally cheaper than throughout the river.“
But if you wish to plan a great place to eat within the neighborhood, listed here are a few of our favourite eating places in Trastevere…
1. Mama Eat Roma
Mama Eat was our favourite restaurant in Trastevere and so we’ve to incorporate it as our primary spot! We ate there a few occasions as a result of the menu will be made totally gluten-free!
They do make non-gluten-free variations of every little thing as nicely, however for us with dietary wants, it was actually a luxurious to have selections.
I can’t let you know how great it was to know I may safely devour a scrumptious pizza or pasta carbonara adopted by tiramisu.
The meals was so contemporary and flavorful, and you may clearly inform it was all produced from scratch.
The tiramisu was the perfect I’ve ever eaten. Period.
2. Otello
Otello is one other standard place to eat within the Trastevere district. The second you step into the restaurant, you might be greeted by the comfy and welcoming environment that makes you are feeling proper at house.
The aroma of scorching garlic and the sound of clinking glasses fill the air, creating the right ambiance for a romantic date night time meal.
Otello affords genuine Roman flavors, from the creamy carbonara to the superbly crispy fried artichokes, each dish is a culinary masterpiece that leaves you yearning for extra.
It’s a bit on the expensive aspect, however if you’d like a memorable eating expertise, that is the place to go.
3. Osteria Nannarella
If you need one thing somewhat extra informal, Osteria Nannarella is an efficient alternative. Described as a “modest eatery”, this can be a no-fuss restaurant serving up conventional Roman dishes.
The amatriciana and the suppli are a few of the most beloved objects on the menu, and the native wines on supply are the right pairing.
While folks come for the meals, folks keep for the service, notably by Ronaldo, the pleasant waiter who all the time serves you with a smile and constructive perspective. He’s grow to be considerably of an area movie star within the Trastevere district!
4. Alle Fratte di Trastevere
Alle Fratte di Trastevere is one other busy restaurant that’s all the time popping! You might wish to reserve a desk right here, in any other case you possibly can anticipate to attend as much as 20 minutes for a desk within the evenings.
And folks do wait as a result of the meals is that good! The pasta dishes, akin to Spaghetti Carbonara and Cacio e Pepe are a few of the hottest objects on the menu.
The tiramisu can also be superb, and their home wine isn’t too shabby both!
5. Restaurant Ai Spaghettari
For a easy, family-friendly environment, head to Restaurant Ai Spaghettari. This little trattoria is like strolling into a house – you instantly really feel welcome and wish to kick off your sneakers and make your self cozy.
The Spaghetti Caccio Pepe is especially good right here and the employees are all very pleasant and hospitable.
6. Prosciutteria Cantina dei Papi
For a fast day time porchetta sandwich, a late night time snack, or a extra enjoyable sit city with prime quality hams and cheeses, eat at Prosciutteria Cantina dei Papi paired with a pleasant glass of Italian wine.
Don’t expect a fast-food Subway expertise right here. It’s a country, old-world setting, however with prime quality merchandise fastidiously chosen by our Chefs and Sommeliers, with a give attention to natural, seasonality and native farm to desk.
We loved grabbing a late night time pork sandwich right here after our go to to the wine bar. We took house sandwiches for the women too!
7. Breakfast at Baylon Cafe
If you’re in search of an ideal breakfast spot, Baylon Cafe is it. It was across the nook from our condominium, so I popped in on my final day for a fast take out of pastries and occasional. Two coffees and three yummy chocolate stuffed pastries and croissants for lower than €12
Many rave about their American model breakfast and their lunch and dinner menu and nice apertivo!
8. Apertivo Hour at Antilia
You’re in Italy, Apertivo hour is vital, and in Trastevere, it’s buzzing. Like the eating places on this Roman neighborhood, you can sit at any of bars in Trastevere and have an exquisite Apertivo hour.
Relax with a ice chilly Aperol spritz and a plate of free nibbles and watch the streets come alive with folks on the point of finish their day and begin their night time.
Our seat exterior Antilia on the nook of two busy thoroughfares gave us an exquisite vantage level!
9. Latteria Trastevere
If you’re in search of a great wine bar to finish your night in Trastevere, then you definitely’ll love the intimate Latteria Trastevere, tucked away on an endearing aspect avenue.
It shall be tough to resolve between the twinkly lights strung amongst wine bottles inside, or the lovable tables within the leafy exterior area. This place is elegant and our server helped us select a glass of wine from the menu.
I want we got here right here for dinner, as I beloved the quieter, extra romantic environment. I heard nice issues concerning the menu with meals sourced from small farms over Italy and meals that showcase the cooks Sardinian roots.
Lattteria is certainly a hidden secret of eating places in Trastevere.
Where to Stay in Trastevere
Apartment Rental in Trastevere
This is the place we stayed once we visited Trastevere. It’s spacious, fashionable, and a straightforward strolling distance to all of Rome’s high sights.
It was additionally on a quiet avenue away from the nightlife, so we had no downside sleeping at night time. The host was extremely pleasant and gave us a variety of suggestions for locations to eat and drink.
See costs and availability right here.
Hotel Santa Maria
The Hotel Santa Maria is a captivating, cozy resort on the banks of the Tiber River. It’s a former Sixteenth-century convent turned boutique resort and options quaint rooms that look out over the interior landscaped grounds stuffed with orange timber and Mediterranean flora. The rooms are designed in interval furnishings, with terracotta flooring and picket furnishings. It’s like staying in a fairytale villa!
See costs and availability right here.
Palazzo Velli
Another historic place to remain in Trastevere is Palazzo Velli. Yes, you possibly can keep in a Fifteenth-century palace! This former palace has been become self-catering flats which were kitted out with mod cons, akin to free Wi-Fi, residing areas with a hearth, and well-equipped kitchens.
See charges and availability right here.
FAQs About Visiting Trastevere
Is Trastevere a pleasant a part of Rome?
Yes, Trastevere is a pleasant a part of Rome. Its medieval homes clad with ivy, paired with cobbled streets and winding alleys stuffed with the laughter of locals, make it an idyllic spot for these desirous to expertise the genuine aspect of Rome.
How far is Trastevere from Rome Center?
It’s a few 30-minute stroll from Trastevere to the town middle of Rome, and a 45-minute stroll to Vatican City.
Is Trastevere Safe at Night?
Yes, Trastevere is secure at night time, so long as you don’t wander round alone and control your belongings. It’s all the time busy, which provides a component of security, however Rome is infamous for pickpockets so do control your valuables always.
Before You Go
Trastevere was by far our favourite place to go to in Rome. It was our teenagers favourite place in Rome as nicely. The cobblestone streets, vibrant piazzas, vigorous cafes, conventional trattorias, and artisan retailers, actually gave us a real style of native life.
Before you go, be certain that to learn up on our important issues to know earlier than going to Rome to get an concept of what to anticipate. To benefit from your go to, make sure to discover the realm on foot and make sure to get your self misplaced down the aspect streets. It actually is one of the simplest ways to expertise this neighborhood!
I hope this information helped you intend your journey to Trastevere and gave you some inspiration for what to do, the place to remain, and the place to eat.
Whatever you resolve to do, Trastevere guarantees to be an unforgettable vacation spot, providing the right mix of historical past, tradition, and pure Roman appeal.