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Rome

Vintage markets, Monti backstreets & Trastevere evenings

Browse Rome

Rome is one of the most rewarding places to explore, and this local guide brings together the best things to do, where to eat and where to stay in one place. Highlights include Panthéon, Mercato Monti and Colosseum. Food lovers should not miss Da Enzo al 29 and Roscioli. Below you will find 51 hand-picked local recommendations across sights, restaurants, hotels and tours, which you can filter by category and budget to plan the perfect trip, whether you have a weekend or a week.

Rome at a glance

  • Ideal stay: 2 to 3 days
  • Best time to visit: spring and autumn
  • Highlights: Panthéon and Mercato Monti
  • Where to stay: Trastevere and Pantheon
  • Local picks: 51 hand-chosen recommendations
  • Getting around: walkable, plus easy public transport

Where to stay in Rome

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Monti

A cosy, ivy-fronted wine bar in the heart of hip Monti, pouring since 1895. Squeeze in for Italian wines by the glass, cheese and salumi boards and hearty daily specials, in one of Rome’s most atmospheric little rooms.

Pantheon

A family-run institution steps from the Pantheon, serving faithful Roman classics since 1961 in a snug wood-panelled room. Tiny and enduringly popular – reservations are essential.
★ 4.6
$$

Trastevere

A tiny, much-loved Trastevere trattoria that locals name first for classic Roman pasta – carbonara, cacio e pepe, amatriciana – plus meatballs, artichokes and tiramisu. It doesn’t take bookings and the queue is real, so turn up early.
★ 4.7
$$

Campo de' Fiori

A no-frills Roman institution behind Campo de’ Fiori devoted to one glorious thing: filetti di baccalà – golden, deep-fried fillets of salt cod. Order a couple with puntarelle and a carafe of white. Evenings only, and gloriously unchanged.

Centro Storico

A wonderfully old-school wine-shop-and-trattoria near the Pantheon, run by the same family for generations, with a tiny handwritten menu of Roman classics that changes daily. Cheap, honest and utterly local – go for lunch.

Pantheon

One of Rome’s most storied gelaterie, scooping since 1900 near the Pantheon. Grab a cone of classic flavours and join the after-dinner passeggiata – it’s a Roman ritual as much as a dessert.
★ 4.5
$

Pantheon

One of the longest-standing trattorias in the centre, a few steps from the Pantheon, serving the Roman classics, carbonara, saltimbocca, artichokes, in a warm, timeworn room. Central but still proudly traditional.

Trastevere

A wood-fired Trastevere bakery going since 1870, loved for its pizza al taglio, crusty bread and biscuits pulled hot from the oven all day and late into the night. Point at what looks good and eat it on the step outside.

Centro Storico

A characterful Mediterranean restaurant on a quiet lane near Piazza Navona, set in a former carpenter’s workshop with warm rustic rooms and a menu built around fresh pasta and seasonal cooking. Intimate and popular – reserve.

Testaccio

In Testaccio, the historic heart of Roman cooking, this trattoria champions local produce and seasonal menus – think fiori di zucca, oxtail stew and offal done properly. A favourite of locals who want the real, unfiltered cucina romana.
★ 4.6
$$

Prati

Gabriele Bonci’s legendary pizza al taglio counter near the Vatican – airy, long-fermented dough topped with inventive, seasonal combinations and sold by weight. No seats to speak of; grab a slice and eat on your feet.
★ 4.5
$

Campo de' Fiori

A famous deli, wine bar and restaurant crammed into one narrow space off Campo de’ Fiori, its shelves heavy with aged cheeses, cured meats and wine. The kitchen turns out refined Roman staples – tables are hard to get, so reserve early.
★ 4.6
$$$

Centro Storico

A stylish little counter dedicated to the supplì – Rome’s beloved fried rice croquette – done to a gourmet standard alongside other classic fritti. The perfect cheap, delicious bite between sights.
★ 4.5
$

Trastevere

A buzzy, great-value Trastevere spot doing all the Roman pasta hits in generous portions, often with a strolling musician. No reservations and always busy – put your name down and wait with a spritz.
★ 4.4
$

Before you go

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Rome travel FAQ

How many days do you need in Rome?

Two to three days is enough to enjoy the highlights of Rome at a relaxed pace. See our Rome itinerary guide for a day-by-day plan.

Where is the best area to stay in Rome?

Stay central and walkable to the main sights for a first visit. Our where to stay in Rome guide breaks down the best neighbourhoods.

What are the best things to do in Rome?

Browse the local picks above, from top sights and museums to where to eat and stay.

What is the best time to visit Rome?

Spring and autumn usually bring the most comfortable weather and thinner crowds, though Rome is worth visiting year-round.

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