Best Neighborhoods for Families in Rome

Rome, the Eternal City, is a fascinating blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy. For expat families and digital nomads, choosing the right neighborhood can greatly enhance your living experience. Here are eight of the best neighborhoods for families to live in Rome, each offering a unique mix of amenities, schools, and cultural attractions.

Trastevere

Trastevere is a charming medieval neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets and vibrant atmosphere. Families enjoy the lively piazzas, where children can play and parents can socialize. The neighborhood is home to several playgrounds and the beautiful Botanical Garden of Rome. The Rome International School offers an international curriculum for students aged 2 to 18.

Location: West bank of the Tiber, south of Vatican City

Real Estate: Average Rental Price - 2 bedroom: €1,500, 3 bedroom: €2,000. Average Purchase Price - 2 bedroom: €350,000, 3 bedroom: €450,000.

International Schools: Rome International School (ages 2-18, International Baccalaureate curriculum)

Where to Eat: Da Enzo al 29, Osteria della Gensola, and Tonnarello are family-friendly trattorias offering traditional Roman cuisine.

Interesting History: Visit the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere, one of the oldest churches in Rome, dating back to the 3rd century.

Parks: The Botanical Garden of Rome is a popular spot for families to enjoy nature and learn about various plant species.

Parioli

Parioli is an upscale residential neighborhood known for its elegant buildings and green spaces. Families appreciate the proximity to Villa Borghese, a large park with a zoo, playgrounds, and museums. The area is home to several international schools, including the French Lycée Chateaubriand.

Location: North of the city center, near the historic heart of Rome

Real Estate: Average Rental Price - 2 bedroom: €1,800, 3 bedroom: €2,500. Average Purchase Price - 2 bedroom: €450,000, 3 bedroom: €600,000.

International Schools: Lycée Chateaubriand (ages 3-18, French curriculum), St. George's British International School (ages 3-18, British curriculum)

Where to Eat: Ristorante All'Oro, Metamorfosi, and Il Gabriello offer refined dining options, while family-friendly pizzerias are also abundant.

Interesting History: Explore the Auditorium Parco della Musica, a renowned musical complex designed by architect Renzo Piano.

Parks: Villa Borghese is the most popular park, offering extensive gardens, play areas, and cultural attractions.

Testaccio

Testaccio is a lively, working-class neighborhood with a strong sense of community. Families enjoy the local markets, playgrounds, and sports facilities. The area is home to the Rome International School, offering an international curriculum. The historic Testaccio Market is a great place to shop for fresh produce and sample local cuisine.

Location: South of the city center, along the Tiber River

Real Estate: Average Rental Price - 2 bedroom: €1,200, 3 bedroom: €1,600. Average Purchase Price - 2 bedroom: €300,000, 3 bedroom: €400,000.

International Schools: Rome International School (ages 2-18, International Baccalaureate curriculum)

Where to Eat: Flavio al Velavevodetto, Da Bucatino, and Trapizzino are popular for their traditional Roman dishes.

Interesting History: Visit the Monte Testaccio, an ancient Roman dump site for broken amphorae, offering a unique glimpse into the city's past.

Parks: Parco della Resistenza dell'8 Settembre is a popular green space with playgrounds and sports facilities.

Monteverde

Monteverde is a residential neighborhood known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful views of the city. Families appreciate the proximity to Villa Pamphili, Rome's largest public park. The area is home to several schools, including the American Overseas School of Rome, offering an American curriculum.

Location: West of the city center, on the Janiculum Hill

Real Estate: Average Rental Price - 2 bedroom: €1,300, 3 bedroom: €1,800. Average Purchase Price - 2 bedroom: €320,000, 3 bedroom: €420,000.

International Schools: American Overseas School of Rome (ages 3-18, American curriculum)

Where to Eat: La Gatta Mangiona, Osteria dell'Ingegno, and Hostaria del Moro offer a mix of traditional and innovative Roman cuisine.

Interesting History: Explore the Janiculum Hill, where you can find the Fontana dell'Acqua Paola and enjoy panoramic views of Rome.

Parks: Villa Pamphili is the most popular park, offering extensive gardens, play areas, and sports facilities.

Prati

Prati is an elegant neighborhood known for its wide avenues and Art Nouveau buildings. Families appreciate the proximity to the Vatican City and the variety of cultural attractions. The area is home to several international schools, including the Marymount International School Rome, offering an American curriculum.

Location: North of the city center, near the Vatican City

Real Estate: Average Rental Price - 2 bedroom: €1,600, 3 bedroom: €2,200. Average Purchase Price - 2 bedroom: €400,000, 3 bedroom: €550,000.

International Schools: Marymount International School Rome (ages 2-18, American curriculum), St. Stephen's School (ages 14-19, International Baccalaureate curriculum)

Where to Eat: La Zanzara, Osteria dell'Angelo, and Il Sorpasso offer a mix of traditional and innovative Roman cuisine.

Interesting History: Visit the Castel Sant'Angelo, a historic castle and museum located near the Vatican City.

Parks: The Vatican Gardens are nearby, offering beautiful landscapes and cultural attractions.

Aventine Hill

Aventine Hill is a peaceful, residential neighborhood known for its beautiful gardens and ancient sites. Families appreciate the tranquil atmosphere and the proximity to the Circus Maximus. The area is home to several schools, including the New School Rome, offering an international curriculum.

Location: South of the city center, one of the Seven Hills of Rome

Real Estate: Average Rental Price - 2 bedroom: €1,400, 3 bedroom: €1,900. Average Purchase Price - 2 bedroom: €350,000, 3 bedroom: €450,000.

International Schools: New School Rome (ages 3-14, International Baccalaureate curriculum)

Where to Eat: Tavernaccia da Bruno, L'Asino d'Oro, and Colline Emiliane offer traditional Roman and Italian cuisine.

Interesting History: Explore the ancient sites of the Circus Maximus and the Baths of Caracalla.

Parks: The Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden) is a popular park, offering beautiful views of the city.

Garbatella

Garbatella is a charming, working-class neighborhood known for its unique architecture and strong sense of community. Families appreciate the local markets, playgrounds, and sports facilities. The area is home to several schools and is close to the University of Rome Tre.

Location: South of the city center, near the Ostiense district

Real Estate: Average Rental Price - 2 bedroom: €1,000, 3 bedroom: €1,400. Average Purchase Price - 2 bedroom: €250,000, 3 bedroom: €350,000.

International Schools: While there are no international schools in Garbatella, the nearby University of Rome Tre offers courses in various languages.

Where to Eat: Trattoria Perilli, Osteria Fratelli Mori, and Dar Moschino offer traditional Roman and Italian cuisine.

Interesting History: Visit the Centrale Montemartini, a former power plant now housing a collection of ancient Roman and Greek art.

Parks: Parco Scott is a popular green space with playgrounds and sports facilities.

Flaminio

Flaminio is a modern, residential neighborhood known for its contemporary architecture and cultural attractions. Families appreciate the proximity to the MAXXI museum and the Auditorium Parco della Musica. The area is home to several international schools, including the St. George's British International School.

Location: North of the city center, near the historic heart of Rome

Real Estate: Average Rental Price - 2 bedroom: €1,700, 3 bedroom: €2,400. Average Purchase Price - 2 bedroom: €420,000, 3 bedroom: €580,000.

International Schools: St. George's British International School (ages 3-18, British curriculum)

Where to Eat: Ristorante All'Oro, Metamorfosi, and Il Gabriello offer refined dining options, while family-friendly pizzerias are also abundant.

Interesting History: Explore the MAXXI museum, a contemporary art and architecture museum designed by architect Zaha Hadid.

Parks: Villa Borghese is nearby, offering extensive gardens, play areas, and cultural attractions.

Each of these neighborhoods offers a unique blend of history, culture, and family-friendly amenities. Whether you prefer the charm of Trastevere, the elegance of Parioli, or the tranquility of Monteverde, Rome has a neighborhood that will suit your family's needs.