Lively squares, magnificent churches, bustling markets and much more: join us to discover what to see in Rome’s Trastevere district!
Would you like to immerse yourself in Rome‘s most authentic atmosphere? Heed what the locals recommend and head for Trastevere! The capital’s most genuine quarter, the heart of Rome is ready to surprise you with its timeless atmosphere, so much warmer and more relaxed than other more modern and hectic parts of the city. Once a hostile land belonging to the Etruscans, this area later turned into a purely residential neighborhood housing mainly working-class families.
What is there to see in Trastevere today?Follow us on our itinerary – enjoy history, spirituality, nightlife and great food!
What is there to visit in Trastevere? Start from Piazza Trilussa
Our trip starts from Piazza Trilussa, perhaps the most famous and distinctive squares of the district, a place full of life and excitement: surely one of the places you must see on a one-day tour of Rome. It contains the Fontanone di Ponte Sisto, commissioned by Pope Paul V Borghese in the early 17th century, and the statue dedicated to Carlo Alberto Salustri, the famous Trilussa, which depicts him intent on reading verses from his poem “All’ombra”.
Santa Maria in Trastevere: a must-see!
There are many beautiful churches in the neighborhood, and above all you cannot miss the basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere: it is said to be the first official place of Christian worship built in Rome in the year 340. Inside, admire in particular the precious mosaics of the apse, created by Pietro Cavallini in the thirteenth century.
© Rog01 via flickr
In the Trastevere district, there are also other places of worship worthy of note, to be counted among the best sites to see in Rome for free, such as the churches of Santa Maria della Scala, San Crisogono and Sant’Agata.
Trastevere, sites to see The Porta Portese Market
Also not to be missed is a trip to Porta Portese, more than just a market, a symbol of Rome: a place that, with its colors and scents, has been a source of inspiration for writers, singers, and filmmakers.
Today, Porta Portese is increasingly multi-ethnic and colorful, and you can find just about everything, from antiques to clothing, from cosmetics to toys. The market is open every Sunday from 6.00 am to 2.00 pm, and it seems that the best deals are made very early in the morning.
© Taveera via flickr
The Mattei houses: a wonder in Rome’s Trastevere
The Mattei family, nicknamed “the masters of Rome”, has been present in the city since 1282. The family houses form an interesting 15th-century complex overlooking the medieval square in Piscinula. Admiring the ancient palazzi, you can feel the atmosphere of the past and retrace with your mind the tragic events that took place here, including five murders!
What to see in Trastevere in the evening
Trastevere is also one of Rome’s favorite nightlife haunts. At sunset, in fact, the district becomes even more lively and fills with young people, tourists, lively bustle and color. You can stroll around enjoying the performances of street artists and musicians performing live in the piazzas and then go for dinner at one of Rome’s best trattorias.
For example, try Il Rugantino, where even the menu is in Roman dialect, or treat yourself to a carbonara prepared to perfection at La Scaletta, a stone’s throw from Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere. Or, again, for a different kind of evening, try the historic eatery Cencio La Parolaccia, where the waiters indulge in amiable verbal abuse of the patrons.
To Rome with Italo
Are you ready to walk the streets of Trastevere and immerse yourself in its magical atmosphere? Italo takes you to the capital every day with many frequent high-speed trains to Rome: for example, from Milan, there is at least one every hour, and it takes less than 3 hours! Do you know a more convenient way to reach the Eternal City? Then if you have a few more days, also explore the Pigneto district or the Rione Monti and its restaurants and clubs!
