Trastevere is Rome’s most important night-time area. It is one of the city’s oldest quarters and is characterized by narrow, meandering streets with many restaurants and pubs.
The name Trastevere (pronounced with the accent on the second syllable, thus Tras-TAY-ve-re) is a combination of the words TRA (between) and Tevere (the Italian name of the river Tiber). Since the main part of the rione lies in a bend of that river, it is called Trastevere.
Though at the moment one of Rome’s liveliest quarters, only a century ago the area was only populated by prostitutes, sailors and pick-pockets. The first inhabitants of Trastevere were mostly freed slaves and Jews. The latter were businessmen and made their money thanks to the vastness of the Roman Empire.
Trastevere B&B’s: Book Bed and Breakfasts in Trastevere
The main churches in Trastevere are the Basilica Santa Maria in Trastevere, the first Roman basilica dedicated to the Virgin Mary, and the Church of San Pietro in Montorio, which was built in the spot where Saint Peter was crucified. The botanical garden (Orto Botanico) is very interesting. It is located halfway down the Janiculum hill, which leads to Piazza Garibaldi and to a beautiful view over the city. The Villa Farnesina and the Palazzo Corsini are magnificent buildings, and Trastevere has many picturesque little streets like the Vicolo dell’Atleta (with the ruins of a medieval Synagogue), the Via della Lungara and the Via della Lungaretta.
On Sunday mornings Italy’s biggest flea market is held in Trastevere. Here you can buy anything from safety pins to (more or less) antique pieces of furniture. Be careful: There are many pick-pockets and the prices of the wares on offer go up when your hair is blond. Haggling is often necessary.
Trastevere Practical Information
| Address | Trastevere, Rome, Italy (13 th rione) |
| District | Trastevere |
| Hotels nearby | Trastevere Hotels |
| Telephone | Not appliccable |
| Opening Hours | Always open |
| Closed | Never |
| Admission | Free |
| Public transport | Bus: H,3,75,780; Tram: 8 |
| Special Holidays/Events | The Festa de Noantri (July 15-30) |
| Note | Don't miss the Sunday Porta Portese flea market. |
Directions to the Trastevere
From Termini, take bus 75 for the southern part of Trastevere (Porta Portese market) or bus H to the northern part (night time area).