If you’re heading to Rome for uni, you’ve got loads of choices when it comes to the best neighbourhood to live in Rome as a student. Most international students end up at places like Sapienza, LUISS, or Roma Tre, and each uni shapes its own little pocket of city life. San Lorenzo, just by Sapienza, is the classic student district, whereas in Trastevere, you get that old-school Roman vibe.
Rome’s big and a bit scattered, so if you're looking to study in Rome, picking your area isn’t just about rent—it’s about what kind of student scene you want on your doorstep.
Rome student accommodation explained
Finding a place to live in Rome isn’t just about trawling through endless listings – you need to know what’s actually on offer. Most students either share a flat (appartamento condiviso) with others, or, if the budget is bigger, rent a small studio. University halls exist, but they’re pretty limited and tend to fill up fast, especially at big unis like Sapienza and LUISS.
Living near your university makes a massive difference, especially with Rome’s sometimes unpredictable public transport. It's also a good idea to check exactly what's covered in the rental price. Some listings will state that all bills are included (spese incluse), but for many others, you’ll need to budget for splitting costs like internet, electricity, and rubbish collection on top of your rent.
Top student neighbourhoods in Rome
Where you decide to live depends not just on which university you're studying at, but how much you want to get involved in Rome's bubbly student life and social events.
San Lorenzo
Energetic, gritty, and unapologetically student-focused. This is the heart of Rome’s university life, with a creative, alternative pulse.
Proximity & transport: its biggest selling point is being right on the doorstep of Sapienza University. It’s also well-connected by bus and tram, making it easy to get to Termini station and the city centre.
Student life: the streets are lined with affordable pizzerias, second-hand bookshops, and lively, no-frills bars where an aperitivo won’t break the bank. It's home to student-friendly spots like the bookshop-café Giufà Libreria Caffè, and has a thriving live music scene.
Best for: students at Sapienza who want a classic, budget-friendly university experience.
Trastevere
Picturesque and bohemian, with ivy-clad buildings, cobbled lanes, and bustling piazzas.
Proximity & transport: perfect for students at John Cabot University or the American University of Rome, which are located here. It's walkable to the historic centre, and the number 8 tram is a direct line to Largo di Torre Argentina.
Student life: packed with artisanal shops, cosy cafés perfect for a study session, and countless trattorias. The evenings are all about gathering in Piazza di Santa Maria or catching a gig at a venue like Alcazar Live.
Best for: students who want to live in a beautiful, historic area and have a slightly bigger budget for rent and socialising.
Ostiense
Post-industrial and artsy, with a real, up-and-coming energy. Ostiense swaps ancient ruins for massive, colourful street art murals on former industrial buildings.
Proximity & transport: prime territory for anyone studying at Roma Tre University, with its main campus right here. It’s well-connected, served by the Piramide and Garbatella metro stops (Line B).
Student life: rent is noticeably cheaper than in areas like Trastevere. The neighbourhood is practical, with plenty of supermarkets, local libraries, and authentic Roman trattorias that haven't been taken over by tourists.
Best for: Roma Tre students, or anyone on a budget looking for an authentic neighbourhood with a strong creative pulse and excellent transport links.
Piazza Bologna (Nomentano)
Leafy, residential, and refreshingly normal. Piazza Bologna isn’t trying to be trendy; it’s a practical, comfortable neighbourhood that feels like a proper community
Proximity & transport: Its location is a huge draw for students. It’s just a short metro hop or bike ride from Sapienza University and is also very convenient for LUISS University. The Bologna metro station (Line B) is a major hub, making commutes a breeze.
Student life: this area is packed with student flats, making it easy to find shared accommodation. It has everything you need on your doorstep: cheap places to eat, friendly cafés for long study sessions, and all the essential shops.
Best for: students at Sapienza or LUISS who value convenience and affordability and want a quieter residential base with everything they need close by.
- Rooms for rent in Piazza Bologna
- Studio apartments in Piazza Bologna
- Long-term rentals in Piazza Bologna
Monti
A bohemian village nestled in the heart of Rome. Monti is all about picturesque winding lanes, independent boutiques, vintage shops, and cool aperitivo bars.
Proximity & transport: sandwiched between the Colosseum and Termini station, it's incredibly central. While not right next to the main universities, you can easily reach Sapienza or John Cabot with a few stops on the metro (Cavour, Line B) or a direct bus.
Student Life: the social scene is driven by its many artisan workshops, art galleries, and stylish bars, giving it a creative, fashionable energy. Rent is higher here, reflecting its desirability and central location.
Best for: arts, design, and fashion students with a slightly larger budget who want to live in one of Rome's most atmospheric and central neighbourhoods.
Pigneto
Artsy, edgy, and effortlessly cool. Pigneto is considered Rome’s creative hub, known for its incredible street art, independent spirit, and diverse community.
Proximity & transport: not in the centre, but it’s well-connected via the Metro C line and several tram routes.
Student life: the pedestrianised Via del Pigneto is the main artery, lined with trendy bars, vintage stores, and brunch spot. It’s more affordable than Trastevere and offers a more alternative, local scene.
Best for: creative and independent students on a budget who enjoy an alternative vibe and don't mind a short commute.
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