Exploring Rome’s Trastevere neighborhood is a must-do for any traveler to the Italian capital. The area offers a unique glimpse into the daily lives of Roman locals, with its cobblestone streets, ivy-covered buildings, and bustling nightlife. With a plethora of things to see and do, Trastevere is the perfect spot to experience the city’s charm and authenticity. You can explore the area’s medieval churches, or take in the views of the Tiber River. For a truly local experience, take a stroll through the small alleys and arches, and visit some of the traditional artisan shops. Foodies will delight in the array of restaurants, serving up some of the best dishes Rome has to offer. To make the most of your time, why not plan to spend both an afternoon and evening in Trastevere? Whether it’s for a few hours or a full day, you won’t be disappointed in the sights and sounds of this charming neighborhood.
Located south of the Vatican and across the Tiber River it derives its name from the Latin phrase trans Tiberium, which means ‘beyond the Tiber’. Having been a working-class area in the past, the neighborhood still retains its old-world charm with its narrow alleys, medieval houses and cobblestone streets. After dusk, Trastevere comes alive with tourists, who flock to the area to visit the many restaurants, trattorias and pizzerias.
How to get to Trastevere
From Leonardo da Vinci Airport (Fiumicino)
Traveling between Rome Fiumicino Airport and Roma Trastevere is easy with 62 runs per day. The first train (NOT Leonardo Express) departs from Roma Fiumicino Airport at 05:57 and the last one at 23:27 and it takes approximately 26 minutes to make the 20 kilometer journey. Train tickets from Roma Fiumicino Airport to Roma Trastevere start from €8. Travelers can book their tickets with Trenitalia, the railway company that operates on the route with no changes. To save money on train tickets, travelers should book as early as possible, avoid peak times such as weekends and consider traveling outside of rush hours during the week.
From Ciampino Airport
Travelers looking to get from Ciampino Airport to Trastevere in Rome can take advantage of two different routes. The first option involves taking one bus line, one metro line and one train line. To do this, travelers need to take the ROMEAIRPORTBUS bus from Romeairportbus – Aeroporto Di Ciampino stop to Roma Termini (3) stop. Next, they will have to switch to the B metro and finally take the FL1 train from Roma Ostiense station to Roma Trastevere station. The total trip duration for this route is approximately 45 minutes.
The second option involves taking one bus line and two train lines. Travelers can take the Ciampino Airbus/Airlink to get to Ciampino Trainstation, and then take the train from Ciampino Trainstation to Roma Termini (Central Station). From Termini Central station, they can take a train to Roma Trastevere. The first bus departs from Ciampino Airport at 06:15 and the last one at 22:40, and the journey takes approximately one hour. Train tickets from Roma Ciampino Airport to Roma Trastevere start from €2.7. These can be booked with Trenitalia, the railway company that operates on the route with no changes.
From Central Train Station – Termini
Reaching the district is surprisingly easy, as it is within walking distance from the city center. The most direct route is by taking the H bus from Termini station to Viale di Trastevere, or the 780 bus from Piazza Venezia. Alternatively, visitors can also catch the tramway on lines 3 and 8, or the 75 and H bus. Car owners may find it difficult to find a parking spot, but Via Giulia Parking (entrance is on Via Bravaria) may be a good option. Taking the train from Trastevere station to Termini station is another possibility, but the H bus is usually a more convenient choice as it requires no changes and its last stop is at Termini. If traveling with a large piece of luggage, a taxi might be the best option, and there is a taxi stand in the small piazza near the H bus and tram stop.
Metro stop closest to Trastevere
The Piramide station is the closest metro stop to Trastevere, located in the Ostiense district of Rome.
How to reach major tourist attractions from Trastevere, Rome
From Trastevere to the Colosseum
The #3 tram offers a convenient route from Trastevere to the Colosseum. This route takes 19 minutes and involves nine stops. For those leaving from Viale di Trastevere, it is an easy journey to the Colosseum.
Alternatively, for those wishing to take a bus, the number 75 from Induno station Independenza is another option. This route only takes 16 minutes and eight stops. After arriving at S.Gregorio station, it is a mere two minute walk to the Colosseum.
From Trastevere to Trevi Fountain
If you are looking for a convenient and inexpensive way to get from the Viale di Trastevere to the iconic Trevi Fountain, then the bus number 8 is the perfect option for you. This bus departs from the Viale di Trastevere and will take you to the Astalli/Venezia bus stop in about twelve minutes, with five stops along the way. Once you arrive at the Astalli/Venezia bus stop, you will need to walk for about nine minutes and cover a distance of 750 meters in order to reach the Trevi Fountain.
From Trastevere to Vatican
Strolling from Trastevere to the Vatican City is the best option for travelers who don’t want to waste time on public transport. The 2.5 km journey will take around 30 minutes, allowing visitors to take in the sights of the city along the way. The Lungotevere Gianicolense is the perfect route, offering stunning views of bridges that make the journey more special. Instead of waiting for buses and switching several times, travelers can make the most of their time in Rome and explore the sights while walking to the Vatican City.
What to see and do in Trastevere
Trastevere is one of the most picturesque areas of the Eternal City, boasting a number of iconic landmarks and winding cobblestone streets. Exploring this unique neighborhood is best done by setting out with a few locations in mind, but then allowing your curiosity to lead the way; after all, the whole of Trastevere is more than the sum of its parts. With our walking map of Trastevere, you can be sure to uncover all the hidden gems and stunning views this area has to offer. So, if you’re looking for a truly memorable and enjoyable experience, let the streets of Trastevere be your guide.
Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere is the vibrant center of the neighborhood; a meeting place for locals, it also serves as the main entertainment hub of Rome at night. To experience the area’s long history, visit the Basilica Santa Maria in Trastevere, the oldest Marian church in the city and home to many original mosaics. The Basilica of Santa Cecilia in Trastevere is also a must-see, with 13th-century frescoes by Pietro Cavallini. Those looking for a more active experience should hike up Belvedere del Gianicolo, where they will be rewarded with a stunning view of Rome and the beautiful Fontana dell’Acqua Paola.
Other attractions to visit in Trastevere include the Villa Farnesina, where you can admire Raphael’s frescoes, and the University of La Sapienza’s lovely Botanical Gardens. The Church of San Francesco a Ripa is a hidden gem, home to the controversial masterpiece by Bernini, the “Ecstasy of Beata Ludovica Albertoni”, and Porta Portese is the perfect destination for bargain hunters and treasure seekers. Finally, be sure to spend some time in Piazza Trilussa, where you can soak up the atmosphere and may even find a street performer or two.
One of the most charming aspects of Trastevere is that its beauty lies in the larger picture, rather than in its individual parts.
