Trastevere is one of those rare gems in Rome that draws locals and visitors equally in the “Eternal City.”
While the monuments in this neighborhood might not make it to traditional travel guides, its nightlife and food scene are its main attractions. The streets of Trastevere are packed with restaurants and bars known for their authentic, high-quality flavors. So, if you’re looking for a great aperitivo, craft beer, wine, pizza, or pasta, this is the place to be.
But what else is there to do in Trastevere besides eating? What are the main attractions of this neighborhood? Which streets boast the best restaurants and hotels? Find out all this and more in our comprehensive guide.
Trastevere: A Must-See Neighborhood in Rome
Before diving into the must-see attractions of Trastevere, Rome, it’s essential to delve into the history of this unique neighborhood to understand what makes it so special.
The name Trastevere translates to “beyond the Tiber,” referencing its location on the west bank of the Tiber River, just south of Vatican City. This district connects to Rome’s historic center via several bridges. Historically, Trastevere was strategically used to control access to the city from both sides of the river and protect ancient Rome from invasions. Consequently, it also became Rome’s principal port.
However, the use of Trastevere was entirely strategic, so Romans continued residing in other districts on the east bank of the Tiber. As a result, this neighborhood developed more slowly, shaped by fishermen, Jews, and Eastern European immigrants who settled in its narrow streets. This created a stark contrast between the luxurious villas on the east side and Trastevere’s modest homes and taverns.
When the Via della Lungara and the Via della Lungaretta were constructed in the 16th century to connect the Vatican with the center of Rome, Trastevere began to transform. From that point on, the neighborhood welcomed artists and some noble Italian families who opened the first trattorias in the area. In 1743, Pope Benedict XIV officially designated Trastevere as Rome’s 13th district or rione.
Over time, gentrification has made the area’s pubs and restaurants increasingly popular with tourists. Yet, despite this influx, Trastevere retains its bohemian atmosphere. This contrast is evident in the walls adorned with political messages and dark humor expressed through street art throughout Trastevere.
Things to Do in Trastevere, Rome
Trastevere is one of those districts where there’s always something new to discover, brimming with unique details. It’s a place to meander through at your own pace, getting lost in its charming streets—a perfect destination for those who’ve already visited Rome a couple of times and are eager to explore beyond the famous landmarks.
While Trastevere might not boast as many attractions (by Roman standards), there are still a few things you absolutely shouldn’t miss in this charming neighborhood:
1. Visit the Basilica di Santa Maria
This Romanesque-style basilica, founded in the 3rd century, is one of the oldest churches in Rome.
The basilica’s facade is renowned for its upper section, which features a stunning 12th-century mosaic of the Virgin Mary (also known as Madonna) holding baby Jesus. They are surrounded by 10 women holding lamps. At the pinnacle of the church’s bell tower, there’s another smaller mosaic depicting the Virgin and Child.
Inside, the church houses the majestic Madonna della Clemenza (Virgin of Clemency), a painting that depicts the Virgin Mary as a Byzantine empress on her throne. This artwork portrays Mary as the Queen of Heaven and is one of the oldest from the medieval period. It is believed that this painting was completed between the 6th and 9th centuries AD.
Additionally, within the Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere, you will find a series of stunning 12th and 13th-century mosaics, among which stands out a masterpiece by Pietro Cavallini, called Vita della Vergine (Life of the Virgin).
The church is located in front of the bustling Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere. This spot, which features an octagonal fountain surrounded by steps, is popular with local youth who gather there for a relaxed afternoon. It becomes particularly lively on weekends.
2. Visit the Museo di Roma in Trastevere
The Museo di Roma in Trastevere is housed in the historic former Carmelite convent of Sant’Egidio.
This cultural center was established in 1977 under Museo del Folklore e dei Poeti Romaneschi. After a period of closure, it reopened to the public in 2000 with its current name.
The permanent collection at the Museo di Roma in Trastevere focuses on showcasing life in the city at the end of the 18th century and throughout the 19th century, featuring festivals, crafts, costumes, dances, and traditional attire. One highlight is the Galleria delle Scene Romane, a series of six life-sized paintings depicting Roman daily scenes. These pieces were originally housed at the Museo di Roma near Piazza Navona but were moved to Trastevere for more space and to retain the authentic Roman character of the neighborhood.
The museum also hosts temporary art and photography exhibitions. Admission costs €7.50.
3. Climb Janiculum Hill
Besides its many monuments and years of history, Rome is famously known as the “City of Seven Hills.”
However, there’s another set of hills located outside the oldest parts of the city, and one of them is in Trastevere.
Janiculum Hill, standing at 82 meters above sea level, is often considered the city’s unofficial eighth hill. Offering some of the most breathtaking views of Rome, Janiculum’s viewpoints are a must-see. Furthermore, in 1990, UNESCO declared Janiculum’s monuments and buildings a World Heritage Site.
Among the must-see landmarks on Janiculum Hill are the Church of San Pietro in Montorio, the monument to Garibaldi, and the stunning 17th-century Fontana dell’Acqua Paola.
3. Explore the Rome Botanical Garden
The Orto Botanico di Roma is one of the city’s best-kept secrets, nestled in the vibrant Trastevere neighborhood on Janiculum Hill.
This garden is not just a haven for nature and plant lovers, it’s also a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle that define the Italian capital.
At the Orto Botanico di Roma, you’ll find rose gardens, a “Sensory Garden” filled with highly aromatic plants, a Japanese garden, a Butterfly House, and areas dedicated to bamboo and palm trees among other plant species. Plus, this urban oasis frequently hosts temporary exhibitions for the whole family.
The entrance fee to the botanical garden is four euros, but you’ll need to pay an additional four euros to visit the Butterfly House.
4. Spend Your Time at Piazza Trilussa
Like Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere, Piazza Trilussa is where you can truly experience the neighborhood’s vibrant atmosphere.
This square honors the Roman poet Carlo Alberto Camilo Mariano Salustri, popularly known as Trilussa. It features a bronze statue of the poet and a plaque displaying one of his poems.
However, Piazza Trilussa is more renowned for its iconic stairs leading up to a fountain. During the summer, you can enjoy live music from local artists, sip on a beer, or savor some gelato. This spot is essentially the heart of Trastevere’s nightlife, surrounded by numerous restaurants, breweries, and bars.
Piazza Trilussa is a must-visit place where you can witness the essence of Roman daily life.
5. Eat, Eat, Eat!
Of course, you can’t talk about what to do in Trastevere without mentioning food—the main reason people flock to the neighborhood!
In Trastevere, you can choose from many cafés, traditional trattorias, hipster bars serving aperitivo, pizzerias, and breweries.
And while the food quality here is generally top-notch, if you tend to get overwhelmed by too many choices, we’ve got your back with some restaurant recommendations and their locations.
Due to the long lines at restaurants in Trastevere, booking your table in advance is a good idea.
Pizzeria Ai Marmi
While the most famous pizza in Italy resides in Naples, the rest of the country obviously boasts some excellent pizzerias, and Rome is no exception.
One of the most renowned pizzerias in Trastevere is Pizzeria Ai Marmi, located at Viale di Trastevere 53-59. This cozy spot specializes in traditional pizza-making: using a wood-fired oven with a thin and crispy crust.
The pizzas at Ai Marmi feature toppings ranging from classic mozzarella and prosciutto to more unique options like zucchini flowers.
Da Enzo
Da Enzo is one of the most famous traditional Roman restaurants in the “Eternal City,” located at Via dei Vascellari 2.
This trattoria is named after its late owner who passed away in the late ’80s. It takes pride in its Roman dishes with few ingredients but lots of flavor. Standout dishes at Da Enzo include various pastas such as Carbonara, Carciofi alla Romana (braised stuffed artichokes), and for dessert, the Tiramisu.
Despite its popularity, Da Enzo does not accept reservations, so you’ll need to visit and hope for a table to be available.
Glass Hostaria
Glass Hostaria, an award-winning Michelin-starred restaurant in Rome, is the perfect spot for a special occasion or a luxurious dining experience in the Eternal City.
Glass Hostaria blends an industrial-style interior with modern dishes rooted in traditional Italian cuisine but infused with flavors from around the globe. Guests can choose from an à la carte menu, which changes seasonally or opt for a tasting menu.
Here, you can savor everything from potato gnocchi with sea urchin to linguine with eel, among other unusual yet exquisite combinations.
Glass Hostaria is located at Vicolo del Cinque, 58.
Where to stay in Trastevere, Rome
Trastevere has accommodations of all types and is one of the best areas to stay in Rome. Some of the outstanding hotels in this area are: