Rome · Where to Drink
Best Bars in Rome
Rome may be famous for its ancient ruins and historic piazzas, but the city also has a vibrant bar scene that blends tradition with modern nightlife. From relaxed wine bars tucked into cobbled streets to stylish cocktail lounges overlooking historic landmarks, the city's drinking culture is social and deeply enjoyable. Evenings often begin with aperitivo, the Italian tradition of enjoying a drink with small snacks before dinner.
Top Bars in Rome
Drink Kong (Monti)
Creative cocktails in a stylish modern setting.
Drink Kong has quickly become one of the most famous cocktail bars in Rome. Located in the Monti district, the bar blends futuristic design with a relaxed atmosphere. The interior features neon lighting and sleek décor, creating a completely different vibe from traditional Roman bars. The cocktail menu focuses on inventive drinks crafted with precision and unusual ingredients.
~€12 to €16 per cocktail
Jerry Thomas Speakeasy (Historic Centre)
A classic speakeasy cocktail experience.
Jerry Thomas Speakeasy is one of the most respected cocktail bars in Italy. Hidden near Piazza Navona, the bar operates as a reservation-only speakeasy with a secret password required for entry. Inside, the atmosphere feels intimate and elegant. The bartenders specialise in classic cocktails prepared with exceptional technique.
~€15 per cocktail
Terrazza Borromini (Navona District)
Rooftop drinks with historic views.
Located above Piazza Navona, Terrazza Borromini offers one of the most beautiful rooftop settings in the city. From the terrace, guests can enjoy views across Rome's historic skyline. The bar specialises in spritzes, champagne, and classic cocktails.
~€15 to €20 per drink
Bar San Calisto (Trastevere)
A lively and authentic Roman atmosphere.
Bar San Calisto is one of the most famous neighbourhood bars in Trastevere. It has remained largely unchanged for decades and continues to attract locals every evening. The bar serves simple drinks including beer, espresso, and basic cocktails. The real appeal is the lively atmosphere, with people gathering both inside and outside in the square.
Often under €5 per drink
Salotto 42 (Historic Centre)
Stylish aperitivo near the Pantheon.
Salotto 42 is a sophisticated cocktail and wine bar located near Piazza di Pietra. The interior feels modern and elegant, with comfortable seating and a relaxed lounge atmosphere. During aperitivo hours the bar serves cocktails accompanied by small snacks. It attracts a fashionable crowd and is a great place to begin an evening in Rome.
~€12 to €15 per cocktail
Enoteca Ferrara (Trastevere)
Italian wine in a charming setting.
Enoteca Ferrara is a well-known wine bar and restaurant located in Trastevere. It offers an impressive wine list featuring bottles from across Italy. The bar area is ideal for sampling wines by the glass, while knowledgeable staff can recommend regional varieties.
Glasses from ~€8
Freni e Frizioni (Trastevere)
A lively aperitivo scene.
Freni e Frizioni is one of the most popular aperitivo bars in Rome. Located near the Ponte Sisto bridge, the bar fills with locals and travellers every evening. Drinks are reasonably priced and the aperitivo buffet often includes pasta, salads, and small appetisers.
Affordable, aperitivo included with drinks
Blackmarket Hall (Monti)
Cosy cocktails in a vintage setting.
Blackmarket Hall feels more like a living room than a typical bar. Located in Monti, the space features vintage furniture, soft lighting, and a relaxed atmosphere. The cocktail menu focuses on classic drinks with subtle twists. A great place to escape the crowds and enjoy a slower evening.
~€10 to €14 per cocktail
The Court (Colosseum Area)
Cocktails with a Colosseum view.
The Court is a stylish cocktail bar located beside the Colosseum. From its terrace, guests can enjoy drinks with one of the most iconic views in Rome. The bar specialises in carefully crafted cocktails inspired by Italian flavours.
~€18 to €20 per cocktail
Quick Picks
What to Drink in Rome
Aperol Spritz
A refreshing cocktail made with Aperol, prosecco, and soda.
Negroni
A classic Italian cocktail made with gin, Campari, and vermouth.
Americano
Campari, vermouth, and soda water served over ice.
Italian Craft Beer
Rome has a growing craft beer scene with many local breweries.
Italian Wine
Bars across the city offer excellent wines from regions throughout Italy.
Best Areas in Rome for Bars
Trastevere
One of the liveliest nightlife districts in the city. The streets are filled with wine bars, cocktail bars, and casual neighbourhood spots.
Monti
Offers a more relaxed and stylish bar scene with many cocktail lounges and a local, creative crowd.
Historic Centre
Features elegant bars close to landmarks such as the Pantheon and Piazza Navona, ideal for aperitivo.
Testaccio
Known for late-night bars and a younger nightlife crowd.
Local Tips for Rome's Bar Scene
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