Planning a trip to Rome is truly exciting, with so many beautiful piazzas, ancient ruins, and those cozy cafes on every corner. But once you start looking at where to stay, one big question pops up: What are the safest neighborhoods in Rome? Knowing you’ll be able to relax at the end of a busy sightseeing day without worry is so important. In this guide, you’ll find a traveler-friendly look at Rome’s safest areas, what makes each one stand out, plus practical safety tips for any visitor. If you also want the most efficient plan for your visit (sightseeing and safety combined), have a look at Rome in Three Days Itinerary , it’s made for travelers who want the best of everything.
What Does “Safe” Mean in Rome?
Safety in Rome is mostly about petty crime, like pickpocketing, rather than violent crime. Violent attacks on tourists are quite rare, and you mostly just need to use typical big-city precautions: keep your bag zipped, don’t flash valuables, and be a little extra aware at night, especially in busy tourist zones or on public transport. The neighborhoods listed below are considered top choices when it comes to overall safety, peace, and traveler comfort , and they each offer something special, whether that’s amazing food, classic Roman charm, or easy access to the city’s best sights.
Rome’s Safest Neighborhoods: Detailed Highlights
| Neighborhood | Why It’s Safe | Pros for Travelers | Watch-outs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prati | Low crime, residential, near Vatican | Elegant, quiet streets; great transport; shopping; excellent food | Can be pricier; busy with Vatican visitors |
| Aventino | Embassies; calm, wealthy area | Peaceful; stunning views; close to Circo Massimo | Few hotels; restaurants close early |
| Monti | Popular with locals, active yet safe | Central; trendy bars; walk to Colosseum | Busy on weekends; nightlife can be loud |
| Trieste | Residential, family-friendly, parks | Chic cafés; calm local vibe; away from crowds | Further from main sights |
| Parioli | Upscale, embassies, green spaces | Elegant, green, very peaceful | Not very central; upscale pricing |
| Testaccio | Local favorite, lively food scene | Nightlife, market, authentic Roman | Louder streets at night; some graffiti |
| Appio Latino | Residential, near parks, safe for families | Parks, relaxed, value options | Slightly removed from tourist center |
Prati: Elegant, Safe, and Close to the Vatican
Prati is a favorite among both locals and travelers who want a peaceful, classy place to stay that’s still central. Located northwest of historic Rome, just between the Tiber River and Vatican City, Prati feels a bit like the Paris of Rome , think wide boulevards, elegant shops, and buildings with grandeur. Why is it considered so safe? It’s mostly residential, with lots of families, local professionals, and even a few embassies. The well-lit streets and constant police presence, thanks to the Vatican next door, make the area relaxed at any hour.
Travelers love Prati for its easy access to St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums (don’t forget to book Vatican tickets here), and the impressive Castel Sant’Angelo (official site for tickets). Pros: You’ll find stylish wine bars, the famous gourmet food market Mercato Trionfale, and shopping along Via Cola di Rienzo. Public transport is a breeze, with Metro Line A and plenty of buses. Prati’s wide sidewalks and abundant street lighting make it easy to stroll even after sunset.
The only downsides are that, because of its safety and charm, Prati can be a bit pricier than some other districts. Also, when there’s a big Vatican event, you might notice more crowds than usual. Still, if safety and a classic, elegant Roman atmosphere are what you want, Prati is a fantastic option.
Aventino: Peace and Panorama in a Historic Hilltop Hideaway
Aventino (or the Aventine Hill) is loved by those who want total peace right inside the city. Just south of the very core of Rome and set between Testaccio and the Circus Maximus, Aventino is dotted with embassies, ancient churches, and quiet, leafy streets. Safety here is almost a given; you’ll notice few tourists, hardly any late night noise, and more than a few diplomatic residences (which means even more police patrol than usual).
Travelers enjoy Aventino for the spectacular view it offers from the Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden), and the famous “keyhole” at the Priory of the Knights of Malta. Plus, you can walk down the hill to the historic heart (and Circo Massimo Metro station) in less than 10 minutes. Pros: This area is for you if you crave tranquility after a busy day in Rome, or if you’re about to travel with family. The early closing times for nearby restaurants and bars keep things quieter at night, and the park spaces are a nice bonus.
The main thing to note is that hotel choices here are more limited than in other areas, and nightlife fans might find it too quiet after dark. But for pure peace without leaving the center, Aventino is hard to beat.
Monti: Central, Cool, and Comfortably Safe
Monti sits right in the historic center, yet has a neighborhood charm all its own. Tucked between Termini Station and the Colosseum, Monti is all winding streets, arty boutiques, and bustling piazzas where locals gather every night. Safety in Monti is strong; it’s popular with young professionals and couples, but not overrun with tourists, and the close-knit feel means neighbors keep an eye out.
Monti is the perfect “best of both worlds” district , you can easily walk to main sights like the Roman Forum and Colosseum (book your Colosseum tickets here). Pros: It’s central, so you’ll spend less time commuting and more time exploring. There are trendy cafes, artisan gelato shops, and lively bars (especially around Piazza della Madonna dei Monti), perfect for meeting locals and savoring authentic Roman aperitivo.
Do note: on weekend nights, it’s likely to be busier and sometimes a little noisy because of all the nightlife. As with anywhere in Rome, keep an eye on your valuables in the most crowded places. But compared to similarly central neighborhoods, Monti is a top pick for safe, energetic, and stylish stays.
Trieste: Family-Friendly, Safe, and a Local Favorite
North of the center and nestled between Villa Borghese and Nomentano, Trieste is an upscale, mostly residential area known for classic architecture, elegant piazzas, and lots of green spaces. If safety and a less touristy vibe are your goal, Trieste ticks every box. Families and older Romans have chosen Trieste for decades because of its low crime, good schools, and neighborly community.
For travelers, Trieste means peaceful strolls under shady trees, chic local cafes, and maybe a picnic in Villa Torlonia or Parco Virgiliano. Pros: The area is rarely crowded even at busy times of the year, and there are lots of little bakeries and gelaterias to discover. Hotels and guesthouses here often have better value than in the historic center.
The only catch? Trieste isn’t as close to Rome’s main monuments as some other neighborhoods , expect to take the Metro (Line B) or bus for about 15-30 minutes to get downtown. Still, for travelers who value comfort, rest, and safety above all, Trieste is a smart choice.
Parioli: Green, Upscale, and Exceptionally Secure
Just north of Villa Borghese, Parioli is well-known for being one of Rome’s most elegant and safe neighborhoods. Home to embassies, some of the city’s most established families, and leafy avenues, it’s a model of peace and prosperity. Paroli’s reputation for safety is well deserved , petty crime is low, streets have good lighting, and it feels secluded from the downtown hustle.
Travelers who stay in Parioli love the sense of relaxation, whether it’s wandering through the parklands or enjoying an evening in a refined trattoria. Pros: It’s perfect for those wanting a serene setting, big spacious hotels, and maybe a room with a garden view. Plus, you have easy access to the best of Rome’s concert venues and the tranquil scenery of Villa Borghese.
Downsides include higher hotel prices and the need to catch a bus or taxi to reach the main tourist sites (the area is less connected by Metro than other parts of the city). If you’re visiting Rome for museums and monuments, plan for a little extra travel time. But for pure comfort and peace, Parioli is unbeaten.
Testaccio: Lively, Local, and Lower Crime
On the other side of the Tiber from Trastevere and Gianicolo, Testaccio is one of Rome’s most “real” neighborhoods , local, lively, and renowned for its fantastic food market and authentic nightlife. Why is it considered safe? It’s a favorite with families and young professionals, with a real sense of community. Police patrols are common, and residents are quick to look out for each other.
Testaccio is the place to be if you care about excellent eating (try the famous Mercato Testaccio for official info), fresh Roman cuisine, and nightlife , plus quick access to the historic center by bus or a short taxi ride. Pros: The atmosphere is friendly, you’re close to the Cestia Pyramid, and you can join in Rome’s genuine, noisy fun, especially late on weekends.
The area does have more graffiti than the upscale north, and it gets lively (sometimes loud) at night around bars and the river. So stay aware as you would in any popular nightlife district. But for genuine Roman living in an area travelers feel secure, Testaccio is a fantastic choice.
Appio Latino: Affordable, Green, and Great for Families
South-east of the historic center, near Via Appia and bordered by San Giovanni and the vast Caffarella Park, Appio Latino is one of Rome’s safest and most practical neighborhoods for visitors. Its residential feel, abundance of parks (like Parco della Caffarella), and family-oriented atmosphere have made it a popular home-base for Romans. Crime is low, streets are well lit at night, and the community is active and welcoming.
If you’re traveling on a budget or want lots of greenery, Appio Latino will suit you well. The ancient Appian Way and Catacombs are close by (visit the official Appian Way park website for info and event tickets). Pros: The accommodation range includes affordable hotels and B&Bs, and the area is quiet at night but well-connected by Metro line A.
It’s a little farther from the main tourist hot spots , expect about a 20-minute subway ride to the Colosseum area. But for those seeking value, peace, and parks, Appio Latino is a great pick.
Other Good “Normal” Choices: Busy But Generally Safe
There are plenty of other neighborhoods in Rome where thousands of visitors and locals happily stay every week. While they may not be the quietest or greenest, they’re absolutely fine with standard big-city awareness. Areas like Trastevere, the historic center, Pigneto, San Giovanni, and the Spanish Steps zone are all popular and have their own unique magic.
If you plan to stay in these neighborhoods, keep to main streets after dark, stick with your group where possible, and be extra aware near lively piazzas, busy bus or tram stops, and anywhere there’s nightlife. For most visitors, the main thing is keeping your bag zipped and your phone put away in crowds.
Neighborhood Checklist: Choose Your Best Fit
- Trastevere: Fun, social, lots of restaurants. Great for groups; a little more lively/noisy at times. Extra awareness at night suggested.
- Historic Center: Always busy but very well policed; pickpockets in big piazzas.
- Pigneto: Trendy, up-and-coming, active nightlife. Stick to main roads at night.
- San Giovanni: Lively, authentic, with many shops and cafes. Well connected.
- Spanish Steps: Heart of the tourist action; petty theft is the main risk, so stay alert.
Which Areas to Use Extra Caution In
While there’s nowhere in Rome that you need to avoid totally, there are a few places where you should stick to main streets, stay with your group at night, and avoid wandering around with valuables on show. These include the area right around Termini Station (especially after dark), parts of Esquilino, and the zone near Piazza Vittorio. These areas are busy transport hubs and popular for quick visits, but they attract pickpockets and can feel less comfortable at night when things quiet down.
It’s totally fine to pass through, visit markets, or change trains here with a zipped bag. But if safety is your number one concern, these are less ideal choices for your home-base in Rome.
Safety Tips for Everywhere in Rome
No matter where you stay, you’ll want to make the most of every day , and that includes feeling secure as you do. Here’s a handy list of habits to help you travel smarter anywhere in Rome:
- Keep valuables out of sight; wear your bag in front, especially on buses or in crowds.
- Use ATMs inside banks, and avoid withdrawing large amounts of cash after dark.
- Avoid empty side streets late at night, and stick to well-lit, busy areas.
- Take an official taxi or Uber when traveling after midnight.
- Don’t accept offers of help with luggage or “tourist tips” from strangers near train stations.
- If you’re ever in doubt, step inside a busy cafe/hotel or call 112 (Rome’s emergency number).
With common sense and a smart choice of neighborhood, you’ll find Rome is one of the most welcoming and comfortable big cities in Europe. Enjoy your trip , you’ll love discovering all the safe, colorful, and unique personalities of Rome’s neighborhoods!