All roads lead to Rome, or so the saying postulates. But let’s not forget that Rome was not built in a day. And when in Rome… okay, you get it, Rome looms pretty large in the popular imagination. The mighty Italian capital is a potent reminder of the great strength of the Roman Empire and the continued importance of Catholicism, especially in the city-within-a-city of The Vatican.
Understandably, with sights like the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain and the Sistine Chapel among hundreds more, there is quite a lot of demand for beds in Rome. Hostels are the economical way to go about a trip and there are roughly a hundred dotted all over the city. Here are our favourite seven based on many factors, including price, location, ambiance, previous guest reviews over the last six months, and more.
Generator Rome
Dorms from €35/ night. Privates from €102/ night
Generator is an established chain of hostels. The often hip and laid back vibe is effortlessly replicated in their Rome chapter here. The slightly higher price is justifiable on the basis that the quality of the dorms and bathrooms are much higher than many other rival hostels. The hostel is laid out across a number of floors in a 19th century building, which emphasises the majesty of the surrounding neighbourhood. The Termini train station is just a couple of minutes away from Generator and there is a great bar and lounge area in which to relax after a long day of urban exploration.
Alex Romano
Dorms from €16/ night. Privates from €51/ night
For anybody who isn’t a big fan of the bunk bed, Alex Romano provides a good alternative: Dorms only have single beds in them, making climbing to the top bunk a thing of the past. The hostel does feel a little worn in places but the price is excellent and the dorms have their own personal bathrooms, which are equipped with hairdryers. Wifi is available throughout the building and the upper floors are accessible by elevator. There are also a couple of private room choices at Alex Romano.
New Generation Hostel Santa Maria Maggiore
Dorms from €39/ night. Privates from €82/ night
Super sleek and modern New Generation Hostel is in a fantastic location minutes from Santa Maria Maggiora Basilica. It is also ten minutes away from Termini station, making it a great choice for anybody who wants proximity to the trains, but also with great access to the sights of the city centre. Beds are comfortable and have their own reading lights and plug sockets. Wifi is available throughout the hostel and there is a snack bar and shared kitchen on-site.
Roma Tempus
Dorms from €28/ night. Privates from €109/ night
There is a homely feel to Roma Tempus hostel. Although a little worn in some ways, the dorms here are neat and there is a shared kitchen with a microwave and stovetop. Breakfast is included in the price for all private rooms, and can be purchased separately for a small additional fee for those staying in the dorms. There are also plenty of good local restaurants and coffee shops in the vicinity of the hostel, which is ten minutes away from Termini train station.
Thousand Sunny
Dorms from €23/ night. Privates from €44/ night
Thousand Sunny is located some way out of the centre, but the nearest metro station, connecting you to the whole of Rome, is just a few minutes away on foot. Despite this there are plenty of benefits to this hostel, including the fact that pets are allowed on request. Unlike most hostels in Rome, breakfast is provided as part of the price here. Dorms are basic and some have their own balcony. Free wifi is available throughout the hostel.
Ostello des Artistes
Dorms from €19/ night. Privates from €84/ night
Ostello de Artistes is another great option for travellers who prefer to sleep in single beds within a dorm as opposed to bunk beds. The colourful, clean hostel has a good amount of communal space, including a terrace, lounge area and garden. There are a range of room options available here. A bed in a six bunk bed dorm is often the best value. Smaller dorms are also available, along with a number of different private room options. All rooms have a shared bathroom.
Nika Hostel
Dorms from €19/ night. Privates from €50/ night
Rooms bathed in turquoise lend this comfy hostel a relaxed and laid back vibe. This is a friendly hostel and a good option for families. Although communal spaces at Nika Hostel are limited, there is a small shared kitchen. All dorm rooms have a desk and a shared bathroom. Private rooms are available, but also have a shared bathroom. Wifi is available throughout the hostel free of charge. An airport shuttle can be booked for an additional fee.