Inside Rome: Trastevere

It must be said that the charming and cozy-feeling ambiance of Italy’s smaller towns with their maze-like streets is a bit diminished in Rome. Cars have taken up most of the streets and the touristic masses are everywhere.

But when you look well, and cross the Tiber river, you will find a (car free!) neighborhood that still radiates that cozy, and charming vibrance that you might be looking for. Trastevere is a traditional area, that although a bit overwhelmed now and then by tourists, attracts plenty of locals alike for an aperitivo, dinner or craft beer.

This former working class district still has the small medieval streets that are so perfect for washing filled photography. It’s right across from the river and the colorful Campo de’Fiori market, which can be perfectly combined during a visit. Not far from this area you may also find two gorgeous viewing points over the city.

It’s easy to get lost in the narrow cobbled streets, but this is an area that you WANT to get lost in! The heart of the district is Piazza Santa Maria, featuring a fountain and the world-famous Basilica di Santa Maria with the breathtaking Cavallini mosaics on display.

Trastevere is a gorgeous area both during the day and at night, but it are the nights when the district really comes to life. Locals – old and young – gather and head for an aperol spritz on one of the many terraces that are scattered around the squares and streets of Trastevere.

Later on they head over to one of the restaurants for some authentic cuisine (my personal favorite pizza restaurant is Dar Poeta). The younger generations then move to one of the bars or clubs in the area to dance the night away. And if you really want to do Trastevere local-style, sit down on the steps of Piazza Trilussa with your friends and sample some gelato.