Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
With its picture-perfect lanes, colourful
palazzi
and boho vibe, Trastevere is one of
Rome's most vibrant neighbourhoods. Formerly a bastion of working-class independence,
it's now a trendy hang-out full of restaurants, cafes, pubs and pizzerias. Behind it, the Gi-
anicolo Hill is a lovely, romantic spot commanding superb views.
This sweeping, multifaceted area has something for everyone: medieval churches and mo-
numental basilicas (Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano above all), towering ruins (Ter-
me di Caracalla) and tranquil parkland (Villa Celimontana). Down by the river, Testaccio
is an earthy, workaday district known for its traditional trattorias and thumping nightlife.
Boasting a wealth of diversions, from ancient catacombs to futuristic ministries and
cutting-edge clubs, this huge region extends to Rome's southern limits. Interest centres on
Via Appia Antica, the ancient Appian Way and home to the early Christian catacombs;
post-industrial Ostiense, full of clubs and popular eateries; and EUR, a modernistic
purpose-built suburb in the extreme south of the city.
This moneyed part of Rome encompasses the city's most famous park (Villa Borghese)
and its most sought-after residential district (Parioli). Concert-goers head to the Auditori-
um Parco della Musica while art-lovers choose between contemporary exhibitions at
MAXXI or baroque marvels at the Museo e Galleria Borghese, one of Rome's best galler-
ies.
