A Taste of Trastevere in Rome

If you are travelling to Rome, whether for business or pleasure planning your trip can be daunting. The Italian has so much to offer it is sometimes difficult to fit it all in. Whilst there are some mainstream tourist attractions in the Italian capital, it is also full of hidden gems. In lesser-known regions of the city there are some beautiful sights that will leave you just as in awe as the likes of the Colosseum.

Seek the hidden gems of the city

For those looking outside the box, Trastevere is a must-see when in the city. The district has great transport links to the city centre for those drawn to the big name attractions, offering visitors the chance to see the best of both worlds. Trastevere holds a wealth of hidden gems, beautiful architecture and ancient Roman baths waiting to be discovered down the maze of narrow cobbled streets. Be tempted beyond the luxury of your design hotel - Rome truly will surprise and delight.

The University district lies south of Vatican City and is famed for its unique character - coming as a pleasant distraction from the tourist-heavy city centre. In Trastevere, when you book in to a design hotel, Rome offers options for the traveller who wants to experience a more local and authentic feel. The centre of the activity is the Piazza S. Maria, a square outside one of the city’s oldest churches, Santa Maria. The Piazza S. Maria provides a lovely place to sit and enjoy buskers and street artists in a relaxed atmosphere. It is lined with myriad cafes and restaurants and the al fresco seating provides a perfect opportunity for long lunches or dinners. The neighborhood’s chilled out atmosphere attracts an eclectic mix of artists drawing inspiration from the surrounds and curious holidaymakers looking for a taste of the heart of Italian culture.

The Viale Trastevere hosts a weekly flea market on a Sunday morning, ideal for savvy shoppers or tourists looking for the ideal keepsake or souvenir. The market is home to a host of antique and second-hand vendors and is one of the largest in Europe. It is arguably among the best places to shop in the city, but be prepared to haggle. During the week the street is lined with local shops selling fresh produce as well as clothing and accessories, amongst many other things. The tiny shops and boutiques of Trastevere are also perfect to source a unique handcrafted gift as many artists reside in the district, attracted by its beauty and atmosphere.

Trastevere is the perfect destination for travellers wishing the best of both worlds: a vibrant modern atmosphere set within an historic Roman district. Even if nightlife is not your top priority there are some fantastic restaurants, shops, and historic monuments well worth visiting - so check into your design hotel, Rome is waiting!

Looking for a great hotel in Rome? Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for Worldhotels, a company offering top class accommodation in a design hotel, Rome, as well as a selection of unique four and five star hotels around the world.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.