Best Neighborhoods for Families in Rome

Rome, the Eternal City, is not only a haven for tourists but also a delightful place for expats and digital nomads with families. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and excellent cuisine, Rome offers a variety of neighborhoods that cater to the needs of families looking for a balance between the bustling city life and tranquil residential areas. Here are some of the best neighborhoods in Rome that are perfect for families seeking a comfortable and enriching living experience.

Monteverde

Monteverde is a charming residential area known for its green spaces and family-friendly atmosphere. The neighborhood is home to Villa Pamphili, Rome's largest public park, which is perfect for picnics, jogging, and leisurely walks. Families can also enjoy the Gianicolo Hill for its panoramic views of the city and puppet shows that entertain children on weekends. The area boasts several reputable schools, making it an ideal choice for those with educational priorities.

Location: Southwest of Rome's historic center, above Trastevere

Real Estate: Rental prices for a 2-bedroom apartment average around €1,200 per month, while a 3-bedroom can go for €1,800. Purchase prices average €5,000 per square meter.

International Schools: Monteverde is close to international schools like St. George's British International School, offering education from early years to A-levels with a British curriculum.

Where to Eat: The neighborhood is dotted with authentic trattorias and pizzerias, such as Tutto Qua and La Gatta Mangiona, which are family favorites.

Interesting History: The Quattro Venti area within Monteverde is known for its historical villas and the Fontanone, an impressive fountain offering a glimpse into Rome's aqueduct history.

Parks: Villa Pamphili is the most popular park in the area, providing a vast green escape from the urban environment.

Parioli

Parioli is one of Rome's most upscale neighborhoods, offering a tranquil and sophisticated environment for families. It's known for its elegant buildings, fine dining, and proximity to some of the best schools in the city. The area is also close to the beautiful Villa Borghese gardens, where families can visit the zoo, rent bikes, or explore the Galleria Borghese art museum.

Location: North of the city center

Real Estate: A 2-bedroom apartment rents for about €1,500 per month, while a 3-bedroom can reach €2,500. Purchase prices are around €6,000 to €9,000 per square meter.

International Schools: The neighborhood is near the Overseas School of Rome, which offers an American curriculum from pre-K to grade 12.

Where to Eat: Parioli has several upscale restaurants, including the Michelin-starred Metamorfosi and the family-friendly Vivi Bistrot.

Interesting History: The neighborhood was developed in the 1920s and 1930s, showcasing a mix of Art Nouveau and modernist architecture.

Parks: Villa Borghese is the crown jewel of the area, providing a cultural and natural oasis.

Prati

Prati is a well-heeled neighborhood that offers a mix of residential comfort and access to the Vatican and its museums. It's a great area for families who appreciate the proximity to historical sites, as well as the availability of modern amenities. Prati has a good selection of schools and is known for its wide, tree-lined streets and elegant buildings.

Location: Just north of the Vatican City

Real Estate: Rental prices for a 2-bedroom apartment are around €1,400 per month, and a 3-bedroom can be €2,000 or more. Purchase prices average €6,500 per square meter.

International Schools: Close to Prati is the Marymount International School, a private Catholic school offering an American curriculum.

Where to Eat: Families can enjoy a variety of dining options, from the traditional pizzeria Sorpasso to the contemporary flavors at Ercoli 1928.

Interesting History: Prati was the last neighborhood to be developed within the old Aurelian Walls, and it features the impressive Palace of Justice, known as Palazzaccio.

Parks: The neighborhood is near the expansive Villa Borghese gardens and also has smaller green areas like the Piazza Cavour.

Trastevere

Trastevere is known for its bohemian charm and vibrant street life, making it a favorite among expats and locals alike. While it can be lively at night, it also has a strong sense of community and is very family-friendly during the day. The cobblestone streets are lined with artisan shops, cafes, and playgrounds. Families can enjoy the Orto Botanico, a botanical garden perfect for educational outings.

Location: South of the Vatican, on the west bank of the Tiber River

Real Estate: Rental prices for a 2-bedroom apartment average €1,300 per month, with a 3-bedroom around €1,800. Purchase prices are about €6,000 per square meter.

International Schools: While there are no international schools directly in Trastevere, several are located within a short commute.

Where to Eat: Trastevere offers a plethora of dining options, including family-run trattorias like Da Enzo al 29 and the historic Pizzeria Ai Marmi.

Interesting History: Trastevere is one of the oldest parts of Rome, with a history that can be traced back to the Etruscan era.

Parks: The Orto Botanico is a highlight, but the neighborhood also enjoys proximity to Villa Pamphili.

Eur

Eur is a modern and well-planned neighborhood that was originally designed for the 1942 World's Fair. It's a great area for families who prefer a more contemporary setting with plenty of parks, museums, and a man-made lake. Eur is also known for its wide avenues, imposing buildings, and modern infrastructure, including shopping centers and sports facilities.

Location: South of the city center

Real Estate: Rental prices for a 2-bedroom apartment are around €1,000 per month, and a 3-bedroom can be €1,500. Purchase prices average €4,000 per square meter.

International Schools: Eur is close to the Rome International School, which offers an International Baccalaureate program.

Where to Eat: The neighborhood has a variety of eateries, from the upscale Ristorante Giapponese Harusaki to the family-friendly L'Arrosticinaro for traditional Italian fare.

Interesting History: Eur is a prime example of Fascist architecture, with landmarks like the Palazzo della Civilta Italiana, also known as the "Square Colosseum."

Parks: The neighborhood is known for its green spaces, including the Eur Park and the Passeggiata del Giappone, a Japanese-themed walkway.

Aventino

Aventino is a peaceful and exclusive neighborhood that offers stunning views of the city. It's a residential area with a mix of ancient history and modern living. Families can enjoy quiet streets, beautiful gardens, and attractions like the Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci) and the famous keyhole view at the Knights of Malta gate. Aventino is also close to good schools and has a friendly international community.

Location: Central Rome, on one of the city's seven hills

Real Estate: Rental prices for a 2-bedroom apartment average €1,500 per month, while a 3-bedroom can go for €2,200. Purchase prices are around €7,000 per square meter.

International Schools: The neighborhood is within reach of several international schools, including the Rome International School.

Where to Eat: Aventino has a selection of refined restaurants, such as the Michelin-starred Aroma, with its breathtaking views of the Colosseum.

Interesting History: Aventino is steeped in history, with ancient sites like the Santa Sabina church and the Circus Maximus nearby.

Parks: The Orange Garden is a popular spot for families, offering a serene environment and a playground for children.

Trieste

Trieste is a residential neighborhood that is gaining popularity among families for its quiet charm and local feel. It's away from the tourist crowds but still offers plenty of amenities, including parks, shops, and cafes. Families can enjoy the Villa Ada park, which hosts music festivals in the summer and offers plenty of space for outdoor activities.

Location: Northeast of the city center

Real Estate: Rental prices for a 2-bedroom apartment are around €1,200 per month, and a 3-bedroom can be €1,700. Purchase prices average €5,000 per square meter.

International Schools: The neighborhood is close to the Canadian School of Rome, which offers a bilingual education in English and Italian.

Where to Eat: Trieste has a variety of dining options, including the family-friendly Gelateria dei Gracchi for artisanal gelato and the cozy Osteria Nuvolari.

Interesting History: The area is known for the Catacombs of Priscilla, an ancient Christian burial site.

Parks: Villa Ada is the main park in the area, providing a large natural space for family outings and sports activities.

Testaccio

Testaccio is a traditional Roman neighborhood with a strong sense of community and a rich culinary scene. It's an excellent choice for families who want to experience authentic Roman life. The area is known for its market, where locals shop for fresh produce, and the Monte dei Cocci, an ancient mound made of pottery shards. Testaccio also has a modern cultural center, the MACRO museum, and is close to several schools.

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

Real Estate: Rental prices for a 2-bedroom apartment average €1,100 per month, with a 3-bedroom around €1,600. Purchase prices are about €4,500 per square meter.

International Schools: While there are no international schools directly in Testaccio, there are several within a short commute.

Where to Eat: Testaccio is famous for its traditional Roman trattorias, such as Da Felice and Flavio al Velavevodetto.

Interesting History: The neighborhood has a working-class history and is home to the ancient Pyramid of Cestius, a unique Roman monument.

Parks: Testaccio doesn't have large parks, but it's close to the Aventine Hill and its green spaces.

Each of these neighborhoods offers a unique blend of Roman culture, history, and modern amenities, making them ideal for expat families looking to immerse themselves in the local lifestyle while enjoying the comforts of home. Whether you're drawn to the traditional charm of Trastevere or the upscale elegance of Parioli, Rome has a neighborhood that will meet your family's needs and exceed your expectations.