Trastevere neighbourhood, Rome
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Trastevere - by Iga Palacz on Unsplash
Description
The Trastevere neighbourhood is across the Tiber River from the Old City Centre / Centro Storico of Rome. In fact, it's the etymology of the name: "trans" + "Tiberim", literally 'beyond the Tiber'. The area was settled by fishermen, Jews and Syrian immigrants when it formally became part of the city under Augustus who divided Rome in 14 regions in 7 BC. Several important figures such as Julius Caesar had a villa built there. Today, the neighbourhood has preserved its narrow, cobbled streets and ancient buildings. It also has a popular traditional street life and restaurants. Highlights include the Villa Farnesina, the Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere, the Palazzo Corsini alla Lungara, and the Palazzo San Callisto (belongs to the Holy See)
Access & Transport
The easiest way to get there is to walk across one of the bridges from the Old City (Ponte Sisto, Ponte Garibaldi or Ponte Giuseppe Mazzini), or even walk from the Vatican / Castel Sant'Angelo. The closest tram stop is Belli (8), near Ponte Garibaldi.
Instructions & Recommendations
The neighbourhood is very atmospheric in the evening, it is a good place to dine out. For urban explorers looking to discover another neighbourhood, it connects to Testaccio via Ponte Sublicio.
Environmental & Social
Urban environment with a little green spaces (botanical garden). Increasingly commercialized but not excessive yet
Conclusion
The neighbourhood of Trastevere immediately feels more authentic / less touristy than the Old City across the Tiber. It is a good place to sample some traditional Italian cuisine in trattorias, a small step towards la Dolce Vita. However, we do not expect everybody will find the neighbourhood attractive but even those that don't fancy the streets should find sufficient villas, museums and churches to justify exploring the area.
Key positive
Atmospheric with several interesting attractions
Lots of nice restaurants
Key negative
Some areas could do with cleaning and renovation
Suitability
No restrictions but wheelchair users should note the cobblestone streets and the slope to Gianicolo
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
August 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 30m
est. visit time:2h 30m
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightOk
Night – aft. midnightNo