With its ivy-laden streets, local trattorias, and lively atmosphere, Trastevere is one of Rome’s most picturesque – and coveted – neighborhoods. Though Trastevere, which means “across the Tiber”, is popular with tourists, it’s an area of the city that is still filled with local institutions making it an essential place to explore during your vacation.
© Daniel X O’Neil/Flickr
Villa Farnesina: with magnificent frescoes by Raphael, rooms intricately decorated with trompe l’oeil paintings, and a leafy garden, this 16th-century Renaissance Villa is one of our favorite places to escape the crowds in Rome.
Orto Botanico: nature lovers will want to spend a couple of hours at Rome’s Botanical Garden, a peaceful park set in 12 hectares of greenery. Discover beautiful fountains, a bamboo forest, a Japanese garden, and more.
Santa Maria in Trastevere & Santa Cecilia: Rome is home to hundreds of churches and two of the most noteworthy lie in Trastevere. Santa Maria is one of the oldest churches in the city, with floor plans that date back to the 3rd century. It has impressive 13th-century mosaics in the apse. Santa Cecilia, a 12th-century church, features a peaceful enclosed courtyard and a Baroque statue dedicated to the martyr that gives the church its name.
Gianicolo: one of the highest hills in Rome, Gianicolo provides an incredible view of the city skyline and its many church domes and bell towers. It’s also the location of the monumental Fontana dell’Acqua Paola fountain, which was built in the 17th century.
© Roma Sparita
Antica Pesa: an institution in the neighborhood, Antica Pesa is an upscale trattoria that dates back to 1922. It’s a favorite haunt for celebrities and VIPs and serves up excellent Roman dishes along with some creative spins on Italian favorites. The hidden courtyard is a romantic place to while the night away.
Le Levain: this little French cafe has been exceedingly popular since the day it opened. Step inside and you’ll be greeted by the comforting scent of fresh, buttery croissants and a wide array of colorful sweets, including macaroons, mini eclairs, fruit tarts, and more. We love the savory quiches.
Roma Sparita: located right in front of Santa Cecilia in Trastevere, Roma Sparita is a trattoria that shot to stardom when Anthony Bourdain filmed an episode of No Reservations here, so you’ll need to book ahead for a seat. Don’t miss ordering the cacio e pepe, which comes served in a parmesan cheese bowl.
Otaleg: a newcomer to the Trastevere scene, Otaleg is an artisanal gelateria that serves some of Rome’s best creative, seasonal flavors, all made with quality ingredients. Read more about which flavors to try in our Rome gelato guide.
© Enoteca Ferrara
Enoteca Ferrara: home to a wine bar, beer bar, restaurant, and trattoria, Enoteca Ferrara is a great place to stop by at any time of the day – especially during the winter months. Order wine by the glass or flip through a veritable Wine Bible with hundreds of labels.
Niji: speakeasy bars are having a moment in Rome – enjoy the intimate atmosphere of Niji after having dinner at a local trattoria and cozy up with a carefully-crafted cocktail of your choice. If you need advice, the bartenders here are excellent and can provide suggestions based on any preference.
Bir & Fud: part beer bar, part pizzeria, Bir & Fud is one of Rome’s legendary places for a bite to eat or a drink in the heart of Trastevere. There are a dozen craft beers on tap and a wide array of mouthwatering pizzas (made in the Neapolitan style) for you to choose from.
Litro: this natural wine bar is one of the best places to enjoy unfiltered, organic, and biodynamic wines in Rome. It’s a hip little spot that attracts wine connoisseurs and also has a menu of creative dishes to pair with your glass.
