Best Bars in Rome

Rome is home to some of the best wine bars, craft beer rooms and cocktail speakeasies in the country. Although in the past Rome was not known for its bar scene, in recent years this has changed. You can now find everything here, from cavernous beer halls to tiny old wine bars, doubling up as wine shops and delis. Here are some of our favorites, all ready for you to frequent as soon as you step off the plane. Our Rome airport guide helps you start your adventure as soon as you land!

Jerry Thomas Project

The Jerry Thomas Project is thought to be one of the best bars in the world. It’s a speakeasy style, complete with a password that is the answer to a riddle you can find on their website (the riddle frequently changes so be sure to check the site on the day you want to visit). The bar doesn’t only make exceptional cocktails it also makes its own spirits. From spicy bathtub style gins with rosemary and cloves, to punchy vermouths. The dimly lit space is reminiscent of speakeasys of old, with hidden corners and comfortable couches. The cocktail list is eclectic and everything is delicious.

Vicolo Cellini, 30, 00186, Rome

Litro

Set high upon a hill above the Trastevere Rome neighborhood lies Litro. This is one of the best wine bars in Rome, specializing in organic and low intervention wines from some of the best wineries in Italy. It has a lovely little terrace just outside for the warmer months, and in the winter the interior is cozy and warm. As well as wine, Litro also has some great spirits including artisan mezcal and gin from small distilleries. They do few great cocktails and there is local beer available too. The bar also serves some delicious snacks, to keep you from going hungry. If the wine has piqued your interest, you can learn about how this great beverage is made on our Frascati wine tasting tour.

Via Fratelli Bonnet, 5, 00152, Rome

Enoteca Mostò

Enoteca Mostò is close by the MAXXI center, as featured on our Rome design guide. It’s known as one of the best enotecas (a mix of wine bar and shop) in Rome, with brilliant wines by the glass and bottle. The list is Italian and French heavy and owner Ciro is always on hand to help you pick something delicious. You can stop by for a glass and a snack at aperitif hour, or indulge in a full dinner. You can also pick up some delicious Roman treats such as salami and cheese to take away.

Viale Pinturicchio, 32, 00196, Rome

Il Goccetto

To find Il Goccetto, you need to look for the old ‘Vino e Olio’ sign hung above the door. Inside is a wine shop and bar with bottles lining the walls, floor to ceiling. This is one of the oldest wine shops and bars in Rome. You can drink any bottle you like from the shelves, or drink by the glass from a good selection of local and further afield wines. There are plenty of snacks available, from roast beef to local salamis to cheese, all prepared from the old counter at the front of the bar. They also have a larger, more comprehensive menu if you plan to stay longer than just a glass or two. The location of this bar is perfect; right in the center of Rome, close to the Pantheon and would make a great pit stop after a Roman market tour and cooking experience.

Via dei Banchi Vecchi, 14, 00186, Rome

Open Baladin

If you like craft beer, you have to visit Open Baladin. This is one of the most spectacular temples to beer in the city, with around 40 beers on tap and another 100 by the bottle. It’s a bustling, busy place, great to visit with friends. The bar is also famous for its homemade potato chips, covered in paprika and pecorino cheese. The beers are largely Italian, who have a roaring craft beer scene. With beers ranging from lager and pale ale to stout to Belgian, there’ll be a style to suit everyone.

Via degli Specchi, 6, 00186, Rome

Caffe Propaganda

Just down the road from the Colosseum lies Caffe Propaganda. This bar is distinctly art deco, with black and white checkered tile floors, a gorgeous wrap around zinc bar and leather banquettes. As well as its amazing location and beautiful décor, the bar offers drinks of the finest quality. Organic wines by the glass and bottle, inventive cocktails and good coffee. You can stop by for a glass after a Colosseum tour or stay for dinner. And if you have a sweet tooth, they are very well known for their cakes and homemade desserts.

Via Claudia, 15, 00184, Rome

Drinking Like a Roman

When it comes to drinking in Rome, you’ll be spoilt for choice. If you’re planning an itinerary, our food and wine guide to Rome is a good place to start. And be sure to check out our list of curated hotels in Rome for somewhere comfortable to stay. If you’re looking for something to do during the day before you can hit all these great bars, be sure to take a look at our tours of Rome. There’s something for all tastes, from historical sights to quirky wine tastings.