Rome, the Eternal City is home to centuries of history, culture, and charm in every corner. For families planning an Italian adventure, choosing the best area to stay has a tremendous effect on how you experience Rome. From proximity to the most popular landmarks to family-friendly activities, Rome offers a variety of neighborhoods that will fit the needs of most families. In this guide, we’ll check out the best areas to stay in Rome for families. In this guide we’ll check out the best areas to stay in Rome for families, starting with our personal favorite.
This post may contain affiliate links and I may earn a small commission when you purchase from the links at no additional cost to you.
Best Neighborhood to Stay in Rome
Vatican City and Prati
If you’re looking for a central location in Rome without the overwhelming crowds and noise of the historic center, Vatican City and Prati offer a perfect blend of accessibility and calm.
Just west of the Tiber River, this elegant neighborhood puts you within easy walking distance of top landmarks like St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel—making it ideal for families planning sightseeing without the stress of long transit days.
Prati stands out for its residential, well-organized atmosphere. With its wide boulevards, clean sidewalks, and abundance of green spaces, it feels like a breath of fresh air compared to more chaotic tourist zones.
Families will love the availability of grocery stores, gelato stands, and local cafes—perfect for casual dinners or quick bites between outings. It’s also easy to find affordable, spacious apartments in this area, ideal for those traveling with kids.
On our last visit, we stayed near Via Cola di Rienzo, one of the main shopping streets. We were able to walk to the Vatican in about ten minutes, and the metro and bus lines nearby made it simple to reach the rest of the city. It felt safe, relaxed, and surprisingly budget-friendly—perfect for a stress-free family stay.
Why choose Vatican City and Prati:
- Easy access to Vatican landmarks and museums
- Residential and quieter than the city center
- Excellent food, shops, and transport connections
- Great value on apartments and mid-range hotels
Best Areas to Stay in Rome
Trastevere
Across the Tiber River, Trastevere is one of Rome’s most charming and character-filled neighborhoods. Known for its cobblestone streets, ivy-draped buildings, and warm terracotta tones, it offers a distinctly bohemian vibe that’s both lively and welcoming.
Families will find plenty to love here—from spacious vacation rentals and boutique hotels to casual trattorias serving some of the best pasta in the city.
During the day, it’s perfect for wandering quaint alleys, exploring local shops, and visiting cultural highlights like the Basilica of Santa Maria and Janiculum Hill, which offers one of the best panoramic views of Rome.
Trastevere does come alive in the evenings, so if you’re traveling with younger kids or light sleepers, aim for a quieter street or a top-floor apartment. Still, if you want a walkable, food-loving neighborhood that captures the soul of Rome, Trastevere is a fantastic pick.
Why choose Trastevere:
- Trendy, fun, and walkable
- Near family-friendly sites and open markets
- A great balance of energy and tradition
Monti
Tucked between the Colosseum and Via Nazionale, Monti is a hidden gem that offers families the best of both worlds—central location and authentic local charm.
While it sits right in the heart of ancient Rome, Monti feels more like a quiet village than a bustling tourist zone. Its narrow streets are lined with artisan boutiques, indie bookstores, vintage shops, and cozy cafes where you can stop for a cappuccino or a scoop of seriously good gelato.
Families staying in Monti will appreciate being within walking distance of major landmarks like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, all while enjoying a more relaxed and intimate atmosphere.
The area is easy to explore on foot, and it has a variety of accommodation options, from affordable guesthouses to well-reviewed apartments. If you’re looking for culture, convenience, and character—without the chaos—Monti is a fantastic place to call home during your stay.
Why choose Monti:
Packed with charm and lesser-known gems
Walkable to major historical attractions
Budget-friendly stays
Piazza Navona and Pantheon
If you want to be surrounded by Rome’s most iconic landmarks from the moment you step outside, the Piazza Navona and Pantheon area is as central as it gets. This neighborhood is a feast for the eyes—Baroque fountains, Renaissance churches, and charming side streets are everywhere you turn.
You’ll be just a short walk from must-see sights like the Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Campo de’ Fiori, and Via del Corso. With so much within walking distance, families staying here can skip public transportation entirely for most of their trip, which makes sightseeing with kids a lot easier.
That said, the location comes with a price tag. Accommodations in this area tend to be more expensive, especially during peak travel seasons.
Booking early is essential—home rental platforms like VRBO or Plum Guide can offer great value if you plan ahead. For families who want to maximize convenience and atmosphere, it’s hard to beat.
Why choose this area:
Ideal for short stays or first-time visitors
Steps from major sites
Picture-perfect streets and plazas
Testaccio
If you’re looking for a more laid-back, authentic Roman experience, Testaccio is a fantastic choice. Located just south of the historic center, this underrated neighborhood offers a true taste of local life without the heavy tourist traffic.
It’s known for its exceptional food scene—home to traditional Roman trattorias, bakeries, and the bustling Mercato Testaccio, where locals shop for fresh produce, meats, and regional specialties.
While it may not have the postcard-perfect charm of more famous districts, Testaccio is rich in character and history. Families will enjoy the slower pace, open green spaces like the nearby Aventine Hill, and easy access to major sights like the Colosseum and Baths of Caracalla.
Public transport connections are excellent, making it simple to get to the city center. It’s quiet during the day but can get a bit lively at night, so consider that when choosing accommodations. For value, food, and authenticity, Testaccio delivers.
Why choose Testaccio:
- Local markets and fewer tourists
- Great food scene
- Affordable accommodations
Centro Storico
The beating heart of Rome’s historic center, Centro Storico is the postcard version of the city brought to life—narrow cobblestone alleys, flower-draped balconies, Renaissance fountains, and centuries-old churches at nearly every turn.
This district stretches across a wide swath of iconic sites, from Campo de’ Fiori and Piazza Venezia to the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps, offering families immediate access to Rome’s most celebrated landmarks.
Staying here means you’re rarely more than a few minutes’ walk from something beautiful or delicious. It’s a fantastic choice for families who want to soak up the atmosphere, with no need to rely heavily on buses or the metro.
You’ll find everything from stylish boutique hotels to well-located apartments with room for the whole crew. The area is lively, especially in the evenings, but the sheer charm and walkability make up for it. For a classic Roman experience, Centro Storico is simply unbeatable.
Why choose Centro Storico:
- Close to everything
- Endless shops, cafes, and small piazzas to explore
- Unbeatable ambiance and character
Getting Around Rome with a Family
Navigating Rome as a family is easier than it might seem. Rome’s public transportation system—buses, trams, and metro—can get you just about anywhere. The Metro is the fastest, especially for longer distances, but not all stations are stroller-friendly.
Best tips for getting around Rome:
- Grab a Roma Pass for unlimited rides and museum access
- Use buses to connect areas like Trastevere and Vatican
- Expect some walking—wear comfortable shoes
- Taxis and Uber are available but can be pricey
Our favorite mode? Exploring by foot when possible. It’s the best way to find those random fountains, playgrounds, and gelato stops you’d miss otherwise.
Safety Tips for Families in Rome
Rome is generally a safe city, especially for families. But like any major tourist destination, it’s smart to be aware of your surroundings.
Quick safety tips:
- Watch out for pickpockets, especially in crowded spots like Termini Station and the Colosseum
- Keep valuables zipped away and use anti-theft backpacks or money belts
- At night, stay in well-lit, busier areas if you’re out with kids
We never felt unsafe in Rome, but we did see a few attempted scams near major attractions. As long as you stay alert and trust your instincts, your family trip will be smooth.
Booking Tips for Families
Finding the right accommodation doesn’t have to be stressful. Once you’ve chosen your ideal neighborhood:
- Book early, especially during summer or holiday seasons when demand skyrockets. The best family-friendly places—those with good space, helpful amenities, and great locations—get snapped up fast.
- Use trusted booking platforms like Booking.com, Plum Guide, or VRBO. These often let you filter for family-specific amenities, like cribs, washing machines, kitchenettes, and extra bedrooms.
- Read the reviews carefully, and prioritize those written by other families. Look for insights into how quiet the location is, whether the property is stroller-friendly, and if the host is responsive.
- Look for properties near public transportation, especially if you’re staying outside the immediate city center. A nearby metro or bus stop can make all the difference in how much walking or planning you’ll need to do.
- Pay close attention to cancellation policies and cleaning fees. Some apartments may look like a great deal until the extra charges add up.
- Consider apartment stays over hotels for more flexibility, space, and the ability to cook meals. It’s a great way to save money and keep picky eaters happy.
- If you’re traveling with little ones, don’t forget to check for safety features like stair gates or balcony railings. Some listings will call this out specifically.
Bottom line? Start early, know what your family needs, and don’t be afraid to reach out to hosts before booking. A bit of extra planning now means fewer headaches once you’re there—and more time to enjoy your Roman holiday.
FIND YOUR PERFECT AREA TO STAY IN ROME
Rome’s diverse neighborhoods ensure that you’ll find the ideal spot for your family to stay, whether you’re seeking culture, a great location, or budget friendly options. By choosing the best neighborhood to stay you‘ll increase your enjoyment of Rome. Once you’ve figured out where to stay, you have to figure out how long you should stay in Rome and what to pack. Check out our essential packing guide for Rome as well as this helpful article that tells you how many days in Rome you need.
