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Has anyone rented an apartment in Rome? We are thinking of renting something through VRBO (only because they have lots of reviews) in October but have never done this before. Looking for any advice. Are there good locations? Areas to stay away from? Amenities to look for?
We did and will do it again when we go. I wouldn't use VRBO though, we used a local site and had a very positive experience. We were blocks from the Vatican, in a very residential neighborhood with only locals in the apartments next to us. I highly recommend this company!
I am sure there are lots of nice places to stay in Rome but we chose the Prati area which is between the Vatican and the river. We loved it. The apartment was on the 4th floor, solid and quiet and the street it was on - Via Cola di Rienzo - was bustling and lively during the day and evening but quiet during the night. We'd walk out the solid front doors of the lobby and right into the midst of Roman life. Wide sidewalks, lots of interesting shops, restaurants and cafes. There was a market down the road for fresh produce, bread and meats. There was a department store (Coin) with a supermarket downstairs. There were a couple of Metro stops nearby as well as a bus. Only about 300m from the Vatican. We'd stay there again. It was called Casa Laura. One bedroom, with sofa bed, full kitchen, two bathrooms, etc.
Rome is a great walking city and smaller than I thought. We'd hop on the Metro if we were tired on our way back from other parts of the city but mostly walked everywhere.
Thanks for all the great leads! We were thinking the Navona/Pantheon area and hadn't thought about Prati. I'll have to look closer at that area.
We liked Prati because it seemed less obviously touristy and more like a regular Italian neighbourhood. The street we were on was great because we were right there, in the midst of everything, without having to walk too far. Just out the front door. We'd go to the market, pick up some fresh bread, prosciutto, cheese, fruit, etc. and head back to the apartment, stopping at a bar for an espresso or cappuccino on the way. We felt like we were living as close to Italian life as we could, as tourists.
We had initially looked at Trestevere and that looked okay too but some parts of it looked run down and dirty when we meandered through the area looking where a couple of the apartments we had considered at one time were. We were very happy with our choice of Prati. We got there about 5pm the first night and took a stroll after settling in. We suddenly came upon St. Peter's Square in the soft evening light, all quiet and uncrowded compared to the day. What an amazing sight! We didn't know it was that close.
The one area I've been told by several people to stay away from is near the central train station.
Excellent choice. There are terrific convents where one can stay at.
If anyone traveling to Rome wants, I can probably scan a few pages or provide a few choices in most cities. I have an old book.
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