Esquilino

Ethnic par excellence, the Esquilino spreads around Termini Station and Piazza Vittorio. Built during the reign of King Umberto I at the end of the 19th century, this district has managed to preserve its elegant and slightly austere architecture, the only one of its kind in Rome today, even if its ethnic shops and the Esquilino market makes it look like a Chinatown with a Roman touch.

Spoilt for choice, art lovers have only to decide which way to turn, whether to visit the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, the Church San Pietro in Vincoli, the National Roman Museum or also, on the Oppio Hill, the Domus Aurea.

On descending Via Cavour, the Monti district is reached with ease. Once working class and falling to pieces, today it is there to be discovered with its narrow mediaeval alleys and concealed trattorias, picturesque shops and fashionable bars. Unquestionably cosmopolitan, the zone with its definitely “in-places” also offers a friendly village atmosphere.