Looking for local flavour? Try Trastevere.

Vibe on the street: charming, picturesque, lively, multi-cultural.
Famous for: vibrant often-outdoors nightlife, its many bars and restaurants, unique bunch of shops and markets. The Basilica of Santa Maria also stands out.
Looking for local flavour? Try Trastevere.
  • Trastevere is a city within a city. The neighbourhood’s resilient personality means that it is complete with every social trapping a city could need. Private art galleries, museums and cultural centres mix with cafés, restaurants and bars, all set in Trastevere’s lovely medieval backdrop. Many cafes double as evening hang outs, with more bars opening after six in the evening.

    Nearby sights

    Without a doubt, the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere is the gem of the neighbourhood. Its interior fresco and mosaic series are only surpassed in beauty by its exterior façade’s frescoes, best enjoyed at sunset. Trastevere is also home to several ancient churches include Santa Cecilia, on the other side of Viale Trastevere, with its underground 1st-century AD Roman home. Heading up the hill, Piazza Garibaldi and the terrace in front of the spectacular Fontanone boast the most romantic views of Rome.

    Eating out

    Everyone loves to eat in Trastevere, whether in search of ‘real’ Roman food or a gorgeous setting. Head to the southern side of the neighbourhood for some typical Roman restaurants like Le Mani in Pasta or Spirito di Vino. If you prefer the area near Piazza Trilussa and Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere, Taverna Trilussa and Sabatini are tops. Keep an eye on ParlaFood and Elizabeth Minchilli for current listings and in-depth assessments.

    Nightlife

    Trastevere is known for its outdoor hangout environment and busy bar scene. Every piazza and almost every side street will have a small bar overflowing with seated and standing clients. Some to look out for include the arty Freni e Frizioni, Che Siete Venuti a Fa, with its collection of more than 1000 beer brands, Bar San Calisto, the traditional local hangout, and any open chair in front of Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere. If you’re visiting the neighbourhood between June and August, there usually is a pop-up, open-air bar next to the Fontanone (atop the Janiculum hill) and more recently a pop-up in Piazza Garibaldi as well.

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