Here’s our Anti-Tourist Guide Rome to make sure you take the best of it while feeling like a local

Ditch the typical sightseeing spots and get a feeling of what it’s like to live in Italys capital. Known by everyone, Rome has so much more to offer than just the Coliseum or the Trevi fountain. History fills the city, from the Roman Empire to the most recent years. Follow this Anti-tourist guide to Rome to discover the countless art exhibitions, cozy cafes, and wide range of activities. By the end, you’ll be wrapped around the finger by the charm of the Italian lifestyle.  

Let’s find answers to the most important questions about traveling to Rome to have the most amazing experience there!

How many days should I save to visit Rome?

Tricky question! You could really spend weeks discovering all the restaurants, monuments, and museums in Rome, like in many European countries. However, if you are backpacking or Interrailing and your travel time is limited, three to four days would be enough to visit all must-see spots and most of the anti-tourist spots in Rome. I recommend making OstelloBello your home base as its located in a prime area, close to the major attractions and the vibrant life on the streets. The social events and common spaces uplift your experience even more.  

Now that this is covered, lets move on to our three handpicked anti-tourist gems of Rome… 

Visit the best anti-torusit neighbourhood of Rome: Quartiere Coppedè

We’re starting off strong with the smallest district of Rome: Quartiere Coppedè, tucked away behind the well-known neighborhood of Trieste. Although small, it has a lot to offer. From bizarre architecture to laid-back vibes.

The district takes its name from the Florentine architect Gino Coppedè (1866–1927), who designed its striking buildings. Already well known in Venice, Coppedè created several structures for the Roman bourgeoisie. His style is truly one of a kind: timeless yet eclectic, blending Baroque, Art Nouveau, Neoclassical, and Medievalelements. That’s exactly why I recommend checking it out.

Another bonus: the crowds here have started to thin out, making it perfect for when you still have energy to explore but want to escape the mainstream streets. There’s no metro line running directly to Quartiere Coppedè, but it’s still super easy to reach on foot from the Trieste district.

Visit Trastevere, the university district of Rome and go out for anti-tourist prices

A general travel tip from me: always check out the university neighborhood when visiting a new city. Usually the students create a lively community and ensure cheaper prices. The same goes for Rome and your research will eventually lead you to Trastevere. You can easily spend an entire day here; it feels like a completely different world, miles away from central Rome.

Although it’s become a bit more popular in recent years, you can still grab a bite to eat for just a few euros and enjoy a huge selection of craft beers and Aperol Spritzes. If you make it there in the morning, order an espresso and sip it while standing at the bar (it’s cheaper that way;)) as you watch Roman locals getting ready for work and vividly discussing the news.

Trastevere also comes alive at night as many bars and clubs offer student discounts, making it an affordable and lively spot to go out. And if you’re up for a small challenge, climb up Janiculum Hill for a rewarding panoramic view of Rome.

Aventine Hill and Knights of Malta Keyhole

Janiculum Hill isn’t the only hill in Rome. As you might know, they built the city on seven hills, so there are plenty more to explore. I recommend checking out Aventine Hill if you’re looking to escape the chaos of the city and enjoy a peaceful walk — with a beautiful view waiting at the end.

In fact, you won’t have to wait long for great scenery. Along the way, you’ll pass elegant villas and architectural landmarks such as the Rose Garden and the Basilica of Santa Sabina. Once you reach the viewpoint, you’ll find yourself at the southern edge of Rome’s historic core.

But the true highlight still awaits. At the doorway of the Priory of the Knights of Malta, look for the small keyhole in the gate — and take a peek through it. The perfectly framed view of Michelangelo’s St. Peter’s Basilica is truly unforgettable and will stay with you long after your trip. Plus, it’s the perfect spot to snap a few photos for your Instagram story!

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