Most European cities have their central prepare station proper within the coronary heart of the town—it’s simply part of city planning. And, in loads of these cities, it’s usually the dirtiest and grungiest a part of city—whether or not well-known for affordable inns, prostitution, medication or any variety of completely different vices.
And whereas that results in loads of seedy neighborhoods, it usually results in a neighborhood filled with variety—for higher or worse. Fortunately, Rome’s surrounding space across the central Termini Station isn’t fairly so seedy, neither is it very soiled. The truth is, it’s close to to among the metropolis’s most attention-grabbing and undiscovered neighborhoods.
Anybody touring by Italy is sure to search out themselves in or close to Termini Station at one level. From the prepare station, it’s straightforward to catch quick and low-cost trains (beneath 90 minutes!) both north to Florence, and even south to Naples (and Pompeii). It’s additionally the principle connection to Rome’s airports.
Termini additionally has a big shopping center a part of the premises. And like all the pieces else in Rome, there’s a little bit of historical past, too. In the midst of a McDonald’s within the basement, close to the metro cease, is the rest of an historical Roman wall—in plain sight proper subsequent to the ketchup and napkins.
What to do Close to Termini Station
Whereas many prepare stations are typically positioned in “useless zones,” that’s simply not the case in Rome. Termini is inside strolling distance to a few of Rome’s finest historic sights. Simply north of the Termini Station is the Santa Maria della Vittoria (Church of our Girl of Victory) the place you’ll discover Bernini’s Ecstasy of Saint Theresa. It’s an unimaginable piece of artwork, the primary sculpture depicting an precise orgasm.
I bear in mind finding out this piece extensively after I was studying about it in artwork historical past, however to see it first particular person—that’s one thing particular. Sadly, it’s hidden in a nook of a church the place it’s enclosed in darkness…as many orgasms are. However it’s nonetheless a bit of artwork value seeing.
San Lorenzo Neighborhood
On the alternative aspect of Termini, nonetheless, are some distinctive and attention-grabbing neighborhoods. San Lorenzo is only a quick 10-minute stroll from the station down by way of Marsala, close to the College La Sapienza (one in every of Europe’s largest universities).
The world is a mixture of vacationers, worldwide college students and native Romans. Eating places and bars within the San Lorenzo neighborhood are a bit extra reasonably priced than in different areas of Rome, however the high quality is simply pretty much as good. Look out for the pizza at Method One, one in every of my favorites in Rome. Within the evenings, San Lorenzo actually comes alive, with folks spilling out onto the streets from hidden bars and nightclubs.
The Luppolo 12 bar is a comfy place that serves an ever-changing number of craft beers, a brand new pattern in Rome (and in Italy, basically). The newest bar/membership to hit San Lorenzo is Marmo (in English, Marble as a result of it’s positioned on an outdated marble headstone chopping manufacturing facility web site). Hanging lanterns and a big out of doors decking space makes this hidden place an actual gem for a top-quality cocktail and snack.
You’ll additionally discover the Mentioned Chocolate store in San Lorenzo which is the oldest chocolate manufacturing facility in Rome. The candies are so common, you could find them in London, too!
Pigneto Neighborhood
And simply one other 5-10-minute stroll farther from San Lorenzo is one in every of Rome’s many inventive communities. The Pigneto neighborhood is likely one of the latest hotspots for Rome locals.
Wine bars and eating places are the principle fare right here. There’s a speakeasy right here referred to as Spirito (assume roulette tables and a rooftop bar that you just entry from a sandwich store!) plus the Bottiglieria Pigneto is common with locals.
CoHouse is the latest cool hotspot in Pigneto. Inside a transformed warehouse, it homes a rotating schedule of cooks and after dinner, it turns into an unique cocktail bar. On the weekends, you’ll discover your hipster crew brunching all day at Necci.
The place to Keep Close to Termini Station
Most of Rome’s finest funds inns are within the space simply to the east of Termini Station. From backpacker hostels to 1 and 2-star inns, the world is an infinite array of “lodge” indicators. I’ve stayed in at the very least three completely different properties and these are my favorites:
The Beehive
This lodge, referred to as lovingly a ho(s)tel by its’ house owners, is clearly a labor of affection. The lodge is only a 2-minute stroll from Termini and even has a small backyard and café, making it an ideal place to hang around earlier than catching a prepare.
The Beehive has each non-public and dormitory-style rooms, plus a handful of luxury-styled rooms. The on-site café serves natural and wholesome breakfasts each morning and the workers are greater than useful find cool and attention-grabbing issues to do in Rome.
The property can also be styled with art work from native artists and, each month, the lodge opens up and hosts a “storytelling” occasion—the place expats, Romans, vacationers and locals share tales round a selected theme. It’s a cool group effort and actually makes the place stand out as among the finest in Rome. Dorms from 25€ and personal rooms begin at simply 70€.
The Yellow
This hostel (additionally with non-public rooms) has a well-liked bar on its floor flooring, making it a social place to hang around and meet others. The gang right here is usually fairly younger—loads of backpackers. The Yellow produces their very own printed map of Rome with cool suggestions and suggestions. Dorms from 12€ and personal rooms begin at 40€.
M&J Hostel
A protracted-running hostel arrange and owned by an area Italian, Marco, the M&J is a little bit of an establishment within the space. The bar and membership downstairs stays open late and is the start line for a bar crawl by Rome’s nightlife. Dorms are primary, however first rate—you’d keep right here for the social ambiance and the crowds of different younger vacationers, actually. Dorms from 15€ per evening.
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Clearly there’s much more to see and do in Rome. However so many individuals go by the Termini space with out attempting to catch some particular moments within the neighborhood. For extra Rome journey suggestions, take a look at my full Hipster Information to Rome, Italy. Particular due to my buddy in Rome, Maria, who helped select loads of the following tips, as nicely! Try her Rome journey weblog: HeartRome – My Life and Instances within the Everlasting Metropolis.
