Trastevere Neighborhood, Rome

Most of Rome’s attractions, activities and sights can be found on the east side of the Tiber River, but the west certainly should not be neglected, and not just because it is home to Vatican City. Approximately 2.5 miles due south of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel is a Roman neighborhood full of charm, energy and a roaring local spirit.

Trastevere literally translates to “across the Tiber,” indicating its obvious location. By day, the neighborhood’s cobblestone streets are sprinkled with families on afternoon walks, locals perusing riverside art displays and visitors marveling in the brightly hued buildings and gardens that seem to spring out of the concrete. Cafes, both large and small, dot the corridors and provide everything from a quick espresso at the bar to a full-on patio pasta experience.

By night, the avenues become even more alive as restaurants, bars and live music venues open to the throngs of young people that flock to Trastevere for a bottle of wine and a few memories. Although locals will argue the streets can become quite noisy at night, especially during the weekend or when a local football game is on, the liveliness of this quarter only adds to its personality.

Trastevere hugs the curves of the Tiber River as it snakes its way through the Eternal City. Located just beyond the Ponte Garibaldi, it makes for a convenient daytrip spent wandering the paths, popping into cathedrals and settling down for a home-cooked bowl of pasta.