You’re a student, digital nomad or young worker considering living in Rome?
Rome is the capital of Italy and is located in the central part of the country, allowing you to easily visit other italian cities! This city will turn you into a true historian, and while having the chance of studying in a prestigious university or working in the company of your dreams!
If you want to know why you should definitely move to Rome, read this blog post: you’ll find everything you need to know about the city (its history, culture, traditions and much more) as well as the many benefits of living in Rome!
Discovering Rome's timeless treasures
Did you know that Rome is also known as the Eternal City? If you are thinking of living in Rome, you can rest assured that you won’t get bored! Rome is home to numerous iconic attractions that are visited by millions of visitors each year, and that you should definitely go see once you’re settled in:
1. Colosseo (Colosseum): A symbol of ancient Rome, the Colosseum is an amphitheater that once hosted gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, and other spectacles. It’s an impressive architectural marvel and one of the world’s most recognized landmarks.
2. Città del Vaticano (Vatican City): The independent city-state within Rome, Vatican City is the spiritual and administrative headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church. Its main attractions include St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums (including the Sistine Chapel), and the Vatican Gardens.
3. Fori Romani (Roman Forum): Located in the heart of ancient Rome, the Roman Forum was the center of political, commercial, and social life in the city. It is a vast archaeological site featuring ancient ruins, temples, and historic structures.
4. Pantheon: This well-preserved ancient temple is now a Catholic church. The Pantheon’s impressive dome, intricate architecture, and stunning interior make it a must-visit attraction. It’s renowned for its oculus, a circular opening in the dome that allows sunlight to filter in.
5. La Fontana di Trevi (Trevi Fountain): One of Rome’s most famous landmarks, the Trevi Fountain is a grand Baroque masterpiece. Visitors flock to this iconic fountain to toss a coin over their shoulder, a tradition believed to ensure their return to Rome.
6. Spanish Steps: A popular gathering place and a beautiful staircase, the Spanish Steps connect the Piazza di Spagna with the Trinità dei Monti church at the top. They are a popular spot for people-watching and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
7. Piazza Navona (Navona square): This lively square features stunning Baroque architecture and three beautiful fountains, including Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers. Piazza Navona is known for its lively atmosphere, street performers, and outdoor cafes.
8. Castel Sant’Angelo (Saint Angel Castle): Originally built as a mausoleum, Castel Sant’Angelo later served as a fortress and a papal residence. It offers panoramic views of Rome and houses a museum showcasing its history.
9. Musei Vaticani (Vatican Museums): The Vatican Museums house an extensive collection of art and historical treasures accumulated by the Popes over centuries. The highlight is the Sistine Chapel, renowned for Michelangelo’s frescoes, including the famous ceiling painting of “The Creation of Adam.”
10. Trastevere: This charming neighborhood is known for its narrow cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and vibrant atmosphere. Trastevere offers a mix of trendy bars, restaurants, and a bohemian ambiance.
Exploring Rome: the best neighborhoods
Life in Rome can be very different depending on the neighborhood you decide to live in! There are several super charming neighborhoods to explore, and here are some of the most famous and popular ones:
1. Trastevere: Located on the west bank of the Tiber River, Trastevere is known for its narrow cobblestone streets, vibrant atmosphere, and lively nightlife. It’s filled with cozy restaurants, trendy bars, and unique shops.
2. Monti: Situated near the Colosseum, Monti is a trendy and artistic neighborhood. It has a bohemian vibe with its narrow streets, vintage boutiques, and hip cafes. Monti also offers a range of dining options, from traditional Roman trattorias to international cuisine.
3. Testaccio: Testaccio is a historic working-class neighborhood that has transformed into a food lover’s paradise. It’s known for its local markets, authentic Roman cuisine, and vibrant nightlife. Testaccio is also home to the MACRO contemporary art museum.
4. Campo de’ Fiori: This neighborhood is famous for its daily market where you can find fresh produce, flowers, and local delicacies. Campo de’ Fiori has a lively atmosphere, with bustling piazzas, charming streets, and a variety of restaurants and bars.
5. Pigneto: Pigneto is a hip and artistic neighborhood that has gained popularity in recent years. It’s known for its street art, alternative vibe, and diverse range of bars, restaurants, and live music venues. Pigneto is a great place to experience Rome’s alternative culture.
6. Prati: Located near the Vatican City, Prati is a residential and upscale neighborhood. It’s known for its elegant boulevards, high-end shopping on Via Cola di Rienzo, and a wide selection of restaurants and cafes. Prati also offers beautiful views of St. Peter’s Basilica.
7. Parioli: Known as an upscale residential area, Parioli is favored by affluent residents. It features tree-lined streets, elegant apartments, and beautiful villas. Parioli is known for its prestigious schools, parks, and proximity to the Villa Borghese gardens.
8. Ostiense: Formerly an industrial area, Ostiense has undergone significant urban redevelopment in recent years. It has become a trendy neighborhood with a thriving arts scene, modern lofts, and converted industrial spaces. Ostiense is also known for its street art, alternative venues, and a vibrant nightlife.
Renting in Rome
House hunting in Rome is no easy task! Make sure you have defined the monthly budget you are willing to spend, but also what are the commodities you cannot live without: do you want to walk to your university / work? Do you want to share a house, or have an apartment for yourself?
The most in-demand neighborhoods in Rome are Prati, Parioli, Trastevere, and Monti which tend to have higher prices due to their central location and proximity to tourists attractions. Renting in Rome usually goes from 500 to 2000€ per month, depending on the location, property type and many other features!
If you want help in finding the accommodation that suits all your needs, Inlife can be a great option! The rental process will be definitely easier, as you will have a local advisory team that will help you in each step of the way.
Rome's prestigious universities
Rome is also home to several prestigious universities! The city has a long-standing tradition of academic excellence and is renowned for its educational institutions. Therefore, if you choose to start living in Rome, you’ll have the opportunity to study in one of these famous institutions!
Take a look below to find out which university may be a good fit for you!
1. Sapienza University of Rome (Università degli Studi di Roma La Sapienza): Established in 1303, Sapienza is one of the oldest and largest universities in Europe. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including humanities, sciences, engineering, and medicine. Sapienza consistently ranks among the top universities in Italy.
2. Roma Tre University (Università degli Studi Roma Tre): Founded in 1992, Roma Tre University is a relatively young institution known for its focus on social sciences, humanities, and architecture. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in fields such as economics, law, political science, philosophy, and more.
3. LUISS Guido Carli University (Libera Università Internazionale degli Studi Sociali Guido Carli): LUISS is a private university known for its emphasis on business, economics, and political science. It offers programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels, and has collaborations with international institutions.
4. University of Rome Tor Vergata (Università degli Studi di Roma Tor Vergata): Established in 1982, Tor Vergata is a public research university known for its scientific and technological focus. It offers a wide range of programs in fields such as engineering, economics, law, medicine, and humanities.
5. Pontifical Gregorian University (Pontificia Università Gregoriana): Located in Vatican City, the Pontifical Gregorian University is one of the premier institutions for ecclesiastical studies and theology. It offers programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels, primarily catering to Catholic clergy and scholars.
6. Pontifical Lateran University (Pontificia Università Lateranense): Also located in Vatican City, the Pontifical Lateran University is a pontifical university specializing in theology, philosophy, canon law, and social sciences. It serves as a training ground for future clergy and church administrators.
Beyond Rome: exploring all Italy
Have you always dreamed about travelling around Italy? If yes, we have good news, because if you decide to move to Rome, you’ll be able to easily travel throughout Italy and visit the marvels this amazing country has to offer!
Here are a few reasons why Rome’s location is advantageous for travel:
1. Transportation Hub: Rome is a major transportation hub with excellent connections to other parts of Italy. The city is served by two international airports, Fiumicino (Leonardo da Vinci) and Ciampino, which offer numerous domestic flights and international connections. Rome also has a well-developed railway network, with multiple train stations providing easy access to destinations throughout the country.
2. High-Speed Train Connections: Italy’s high-speed train network, operated by Trenitalia and Italo, offers fast and efficient connections from Rome to major cities like Florence, Venice, Milan, Naples, and more. These trains make it convenient to explore different regions of Italy on day trips or weekend getaways.
3. Proximity to Southern Italy: Rome’s location in the central part of the country makes it a convenient starting point for exploring southern Italy. You can easily reach popular destinations like Naples, the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, and the beautiful islands of Capri and Sicily from Rome.
4. Day Trips to Surrounding Regions: Rome’s location allows for easy day trips to nearby regions. Within a few hours’ drive or train ride, you can visit places like Tuscany, with its picturesque countryside and cities like Florence and Siena, or Umbria, known for its charming towns such as Assisi and Orvieto.
5. Access to Coastal Areas: Rome is located near the Tyrrhenian Sea, providing access to beautiful coastal areas. From Rome, you can explore seaside towns like Ostia, Anzio, and Sperlonga, or venture further to the stunning Amalfi Coast, known for its scenic beauty and charming coastal towns.
Overall, Rome’s central location and excellent transportation links make it a fantastic starting point for exploring the diverse regions and cities of Italy! Whether you prefer historical sites, art and culture, stunning landscapes, or coastal getaways, travelling will be hassle-free if you end up living in Rome.
A gastronomic journey
As you know, the Italian cuisine is considered as one of the best in the world! This means that living in Rome is synonym to eating great meals every day (and loads of pasta and pizza!).
In this section, we’ll guide you through the most traditional dishes and we’ll give you recommendations regarding what to try once in Rome and where to eat during your stay!
1. Carbonara: One of Rome’s most famous pasta dishes, carbonara is made with spaghetti, eggs, Pecorino Romano cheese, guanciale (cured pork cheek), and black pepper. It results in a creamy, rich, and indulgent pasta dish.
2. Cacio e Pepe: Another classic Roman pasta dish, cacio e pepe translates to “cheese and pepper.” It features spaghetti or tonnarelli (a thicker version of spaghetti) tossed with Pecorino Romano cheese, black pepper, and a bit of pasta cooking water to create a creamy sauce.
3. Amatriciana: Originating from the town of Amatrice near Rome, this dish is made with tomato sauce, guanciale, Pecorino Romano cheese, and chili pepper flakes. It’s typically served with bucatini or rigatoni pasta.
4. Supplì: A popular street food snack in Rome, supplì are fried rice balls filled with a mixture of rice, tomato sauce, ground meat, and mozzarella. When you break open a supplì, the melted cheese stretches out, making it a delightful treat.
4. Saltimbocca alla Romana: This is a classic Roman meat dish consisting of veal scallops topped with prosciutto and fresh sage leaves. The meat is cooked in butter and white wine, resulting in a flavorful and tender dish.
5. Roman-style Pizza (Pizza Romana): Roman-style pizza is characterized by its thin, crispy crust. It typically has a minimalist approach to toppings, often featuring classic combinations such as margherita (tomato, mozzarella, and basil) or marinara (tomato, garlic, oregano, and olive oil).
6. Roman Artichokes (Carciofi alla Romana): Rome is known for its delicious artichokes, which are typically prepared by trimming and stuffing the artichoke with garlic, mint, and parsley. They are then slow-cooked until tender and served as a flavorful and unique vegetable dish.
7. Tiramisu: Although not originally from Rome, Tiramisu is an Italian dessert that can be found in many Roman establishments. It consists of layers of ladyfingers dipped in coffee, layered with a creamy mixture of mascarpone cheese, eggs, and sugar, and dusted with cocoa powder.
8. Maritozzo: Maritozzo is a sweet, soft bun typically filled with whipped cream. It’s often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack. Sometimes, maritozzo is also filled with other delicious ingredients like Nutella or candied orange peel.
Here you can find some famous restaurants in Rome where you can try traditional food:
1. La Pergola: Located at the top of Rome Cavalieri, a Waldorf Astoria hotel, La Pergola is a three-Michelin-star restaurant. It offers exquisite gourmet cuisine, stunning views of Rome, and an extensive wine selection.
2. Roscioli: A popular and highly regarded restaurant and deli, Roscioli is known for its high-quality ingredients and traditional Roman dishes. You can enjoy homemade pasta, cured meats, cheeses, and an impressive wine list.
3. Da Danilo: This family-run trattoria in the Monti neighborhood serves authentic Roman cuisine with a focus on simplicity and quality ingredients. The menu features classic dishes like amatriciana, cacio e pepe, and abbacchio.
4. Armando al Pantheon: Situated near the Pantheon, this historic restaurant has been serving traditional Roman dishes for generations. It offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu that includes Roman specialties such as saltimbocca and artichokes.
5. Antico Arco: Located in the charming neighborhood of Gianicolo, Antico Arco is known for its contemporary Italian cuisine and a stunning rooftop terrace. It offers a mix of traditional and innovative dishes using seasonal ingredients.
6. Trattoria Monti: A beloved trattoria near Termini station, Trattoria Monti serves homemade dishes with a focus on regional and seasonal ingredients. It’s known for its warm atmosphere and traditional Roman recipes.
The history of Rome
The history of Rome is vast and spans over 2,800 years, beginning with its legendary foundation in 753 BC and continuing through its growth and evolution as a city, a republic, an empire, and a center of power and culture. Here’s a brief overview of the history of Rome:
1. Ancient Rome: Rome’s early history is steeped in mythology and legend. According to Roman mythology, the city was founded by Romulus in 753 BC. In the following centuries, Rome grew into a prosperous city-state and eventually became the capital of the Roman Republic. The Roman Republic lasted from 509 BC to 27 BC and was characterized by a system of elected officials and a Senate.
2. Roman Empire: In 27 BC, the Roman Republic transitioned into the Roman Empire with the rise of Augustus Caesar. The Roman Empire expanded its territories through military conquests and reached its height in the 2nd century AD, encompassing vast regions around the Mediterranean Sea. The empire brought advancements in engineering, law, governance, and culture. Prominent emperors such as Julius Caesar, Augustus, Trajan, and Hadrian left their mark on Rome’s history.
3. Decline and Fall: The Roman Empire faced internal challenges, including political instability, economic struggles, and invasions from external forces. The empire split into the Western Roman Empire and the Eastern Roman Empire (later known as the Byzantine Empire) in 286 AD. The decline of the Western Roman Empire continued, marked by invasions by Germanic tribes and internal conflicts. In 476 AD, the last Roman emperor in the West was overthrown, traditionally considered the end of ancient Rome.
4. Middle Ages: Following the fall of the Western Roman Empire, Rome went through a period of decline and transformation. The city faced invasions by various Germanic and barbarian tribes. Rome became the center of the Papal States, with the Pope assuming a significant role in both spiritual and temporal affairs. The Middle Ages saw the construction of several churches and monuments, including St. Peter’s Basilica and the Colosseum’s transformation into a fortress.
5. Renaissance and Beyond: Rome experienced a revival during the Renaissance, with renewed interest in classical art, architecture, and learning. The Papacy played a crucial role in the city’s cultural and artistic development, commissioning famous works by artists like Michelangelo and Raphael. Rome became a prominent center of Baroque art and architecture in the 17th and 18th centuries. The city went through significant transformations during the Italian unification in the 19th century and became the capital of the Kingdom of Italy in 1871.
Roman traditions and festivals you cannot miss
During your stay in Rome, you’ll have the chance to have a first row seat to many events and celebrations! Check out some examples below:
1. Pasqua (Easter Celebrations): Easter holds significant religious importance in Rome, and the city celebrates this occasion with various events. The most notable is the Papal Mass held in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican, including the renowned Urbi et Orbi blessing delivered by the Pope.
2. Festa di San Pietro e Paolo (Feast of Saint Peter and Saint Paul): Celebrated on June 29th, this feast day honors the patron saints of Rome, Saint Peter and Saint Paul. It includes religious ceremonies, processions, and special Masses held at St. Peter’s Basilica and St. Paul’s Outside the Walls.
3. Festa della Repubblica: Held on June 2nd, Festa della Repubblica commemorates the founding of the Italian Republic. The day features parades, concerts, cultural events, and a grand military parade along Via dei Fori Imperiali.
4. Estate Romana: Estate Romana is a summer festival that takes place from June to September. It encompasses a wide range of cultural events, including outdoor concerts, theater performances, art exhibitions, film screenings, and dance shows held in various locations across the city.
5. Natale e la Natività (Christmas and Nativity Scenes): Rome is known for its elaborate nativity scenes, particularly in St. Peter’s Square and the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore. These scenes depict the birth of Jesus and attract visitors with their intricate designs and craftsmanship.
6. Sagra di San Giovanni: Celebrated on June 24th, Sagra di San Giovanni marks the feast day of Saint John the Baptist. It includes a historical reenactment, horse races, parades, and various festivities in the neighborhood of Testaccio.
7. Carnevale (Carnival): Rome’s Carnival celebrations bring colorful parades, masquerade balls, live music, and street performances to the city. The most famous Carnival event in Rome is the annual parade held along Via del Corso.
8. Festival del Cinema (Rome Film Festival): The Rome Film Festival, held in October, is a major event for cinephiles. It features premieres, screenings, panel discussions, and red carpet events attended by renowned filmmakers, actors, and industry professionals.
9. Natale di Roma: Also known as Rome’s Birthday, Natale di Roma is celebrated on April 21st. The city commemorates its legendary foundation with historical reenactments, parades, concerts, and cultural events.
10. La Befana (Epiphany): On January 6th, the Epiphany is celebrated in Rome with the traditional arrival of La Befana, a mythical figure who brings gifts to children. The Piazza Navona is transformed into a bustling market with stalls selling sweets, toys, and gifts.
From bars to clubs: exploring Rome's famous nightlife scene
Whatever kind of nightlife you enjoy, we’re sure you’ll find it in Rome. The city has many bars, terraces, clubs and even neighborhoods where you can have some of the coolest nights of your life!
1. Piazzas and Outdoor Bars: Rome’s piazzas come alive at night, offering a lively ambiance for socializing and enjoying a drink. Piazza Navona, Campo de’ Fiori, and Piazza della Madonna dei Monti are popular spots with outdoor bars and cafes where you can relax and soak up the atmosphere.
2. Cocktail Bars: Rome boasts a thriving cocktail culture with a growing number of cocktail bars and mixology-focused establishments. These venues offer creative and expertly crafted cocktails, showcasing the art of mixology and providing a sophisticated and trendy nightlife experience.
3. Wine Bars: Italy is renowned for its excellent wines, and Rome offers numerous wine bars where you can experiment a wide selection of local and international wines. These cozy and intimate establishments often provide a relaxed atmosphere, making them perfect for wine enthusiasts and those looking for a more laid-back evening.
4. Live Music Venues: Rome has a vibrant live music scene, ranging from small, intimate venues to larger concert halls. You can find venues featuring various music genres, including jazz, rock, blues, classical, and traditional Italian music. These venues often host talented local musicians and occasional international acts.
5. Nightclubs and Dance Clubs: Rome has a selection of nightclubs and dance clubs for those seeking a lively and energetic night out. These venues offer a mix of music styles, including electronic, house, hip-hop, and pop. Some clubs feature renowned DJs and attract a trendy crowd.
6. Trastevere District: The Trastevere neighborhood is known for its lively nightlife. It offers a bohemian and artsy atmosphere with numerous bars, pubs, and clubs. Trastevere is particularly popular among young locals and tourists, providing a lively and energetic scene until the early hours of the morning.
7. Testaccio District: Testaccio is another neighborhood known for its vibrant nightlife. It offers a mix of bars, clubs, and late-night venues that cater to different tastes. Testaccio’s nightlife scene often attracts a diverse crowd, including students, locals, and visitors.
8. Rooftop Bars and Terraces: Rome’s skyline provides a stunning backdrop for rooftop bars and terraces! These venues offer panoramic views of the city while enjoying a cocktail or aperitivo. They are particularly popular during the summer months!
Keep in mind that nightlife in Rome typically starts late, with locals often heading out for dinner after 8 PM and continuing their evening activities well into the night. The atmosphere can vary depending on the neighborhood and the time of year, with the summer months being particularly lively and vibrant.
Conclusion: what are the benefits of living in Rome?
After reading this blog post, we’re sure you’ll agree with us: there are many reasons why living in Rome could be a good decision for you! Whether you are a student, a digital nomad or a young professional, the city has lots to offer, and this change can be the start of a great new life chapter.
Need help finding an apartment?
At Inlife, we want to help you finding the perfect house in Rome that meets your needs and expectations. We offer a wide range of services and benefits that make the rental process easier and more convenient, such as:
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4. Take advantage of a safe payment system, where you’ll have 24h after check-in to let us know if the house is exactly what you were looking for! If not, we will help you find a new home.
At Inlife, we are committed to providing tenants with a valuable platform for finding a room, residence or apartment in Rome. What are you waiting for?
