Rome has always been one of the most popular and desirable cities for property purchases, attracting both Italian and international buyers.

Its strategic location, immense historical, cultural, and artistic heritage, along with a vibrant social and economic scene, make the capital an ideal place for real estate investment.

It’s no surprise, then, that Rome holds a prominent position among Italian cities with the highest-demand neighborhoods for real estate transactions.

According to recent data, the top Roman neighborhoods for home buying are Prati, the Historic Center, and Garbatella-Ostiense, ranking in the top three positions on the Italian real estate list.

Let’s take a closer look at why these three neighborhoods are so highly favored among those searching for homes in the city, with insights from Rome real estate professionals.

Prati: The chic and well-connected neighborhood

Prati remains one of the most sought-after neighborhoods among international buyers. Located near the Vatican and just a short walk from Piazza del Popolo and Castel Sant’Angelo, Prati combines elegance, livability, and excellent connectivity.

With its sophisticated streets, period buildings, and numerous boutiques, Prati is a prime area for those seeking a prestigious residence without straying far from the heart of the capital.

The area is well-served by public transportation, with Metro Line A connecting Prati to the rest of the city in minutes, and multiple bus lines that make mobility even easier.

In addition to this, Prati offers international schools, high-quality dining, and a range of shops and services that appeal to both families and professionals.

Historic center: The heart of Rome

Despite its higher costs, Rome’s Historic Center is among the most coveted areas for an international clientele. This neighborhood remains a prime destination for those who wish to live in the city’s core, close to iconic monuments like the Colosseum, Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain, and the Pantheon.

Buying a home in the Historic Center means fully embracing the beauty of Rome, with its lively streets packed with tourists year-round, historic cafés, theaters, and art galleries, making the Historic Center a dynamic and vibrant area.

However, despite the constant tourist flow, the neighborhood also offers quiet residential spaces, particularly in more secluded areas like Monti or Trastevere. Here, prices per square meter are among the highest in Italy, but for those looking for a unique Roman living experience, the investment can be well worth it.

Garbatella-Ostiense: A mix of tradition and modernity

Finally, this neighborhood ranks as one of the most appreciated. This area has been experiencing significant growth and renewal in recent years. Historically, Garbatella was one of Rome’s more working-class neighborhoods, known for its strong community identity and unique architecture, with “borgata” style homes and wide piazzas.

In recent years, however, the area has attracted many young professionals and families due to its strategic location (close to the center and well-connected by public transportation) and its lively yet calm atmosphere.

Next to Garbatella, Ostiense has also undergone a major transformation. Once an industrial area, is now one of Rome’s most vibrant districts, with an increasing number of restaurants, nightlife spots, art galleries, and design stores.

Garbatella Park and the many green spaces make the area ideal for families, while the connections via Metro Line B and proximity to Rome Ostiense railway station provide a strategic location for those commuting to other parts of the city or outside of Rome.