Exploring Rome one blog post at the time…

A Hipster’s Guide to Rome

Rome, Italy, a magical city renowned for its rich history, glorious architecture, and captivating art culture is not only a destination for historians and mainstream tourists, but also a hotspot for hipsters. As one of the most photogenic cities globally, it perfectly blends the romance of times gone by with the vibrancy of contemporary culture, making it a hipster’s paradise. So, where do hipsters go in Rome? Let’s dive in!

Lively Neighborhoods in Rome

If you identify as a hipster, the vibrant neighborhoods of Rome have plenty to offer. Start with Trastevere, which, with its narrow cobbled streets and ivy-laden buildings, is a hub for Rome’s creative folks. Here, you’ll find a bohemian blend of artisanal shops, quirky bars, and colorful street art that dances under the Italian sun.

Next up is Pigneto, Romeā€™s answer to Brooklyn. With a lively art scene and counterculture spirit, the district was a favorite of director Pier Paolo Pasolini, attracting artists and intellectuals since the mid-20th century. Now, it’s known for its craft coffee shops, rooftop bars, and vintage boutiques.

Monti, one of Romeā€™s oldest neighborhoods, has exchanged its working-class roots for all things alternative. Itā€™s now frequented by free-spirited travelers seeking out independent design shops, organic food markets and urban gardens.

Coffee and Cuisine: A Hipster’s Delight

Cappuccino and espresso are standard rituals in Rome’s coffee culture, and Roscioli CaffĆØ Pasticceria is the epitome of this ritual, where you’ll find the hipsters savoring their caffeine-infused delights. For those who love exploring the local coffee culture, Antico CaffĆØ Sant’Eustachio stands out with its secret coffee recipe, attracting hipsters from all corners.

Rome’s culinary scene offers a broad spectrum of delights from traditional Italian cuisine to more eclectic, fusion cuisines. Delicious vegan and vegetarian options indeed aren’t scarce in Rome, with places like Il Margutta serving creative gastronomic dishes.

Vintage Shopping in Rome

Vintage and second-hand shopping is the hipster’s favorite pastime, and Rome is no exception. Mercato Monti, a vintage market that runs over the weekend, is a treasure trove of everything from clothes to crafts, all brushed with a distinct Italian style. Fiera di Roma, a large monthly flea market on the outskirts of the city, sells everything from furniture to vinyl records, attracting both locals and tourists.

For those looking for more curated stores, Pifebo is a must-visit, offering a selection of vintage pieces sourced from Italy and beyond. Humana Vintage is another gem, offering quality second-hand clothes with profits going to charity. 

Indie Music and Art Scene

When the sun sets, hipsters head to some of the fantastic live music venues Rome has to offer. Monk Club features a diverse range of global musicians and cutting-edge Italian bands. Black Market, a dimly lit, intimate setting, features live indie performances and art exhibits.

When it comes to art, the contemporary scene thrives alongside the great ancient works Rome is famous for. Visit the MAXXI museum for innovative architecture and contemporary art exhibitions. The thriving street art scene is another facet of Rome that hipsters often explore. To see Rome’s best murals, head to Quadraro, Tor Marancia or Ostiense districts, where youā€™ll see a vibrant blend of traditional mural techniques with modern street art.

Hipster Nightlife in Rome 

Hipsters in tandem with the nightlife of Rome go hand in hand. Rione Monti is the arena for the night owls with its bars contributing to the buzzing nightlife, driving the hipsters to have a taste of the nocturnal bliss. Bar del Fico around Piazza Navona likewise attracts the local hipster crowd, converting it into a popular party spot in the later hours. 

Rome might be steeped in tradition, but it has embraced hipster culture in its own unique ways. From its buzzing neighborhoods, culinary must-visits, thriving indie art and music scene, vintage markets to the lively nightlife, Rome is not just a historian’s paradise, but also a hipster’s haven. So, pack your suitcase and embark on a hipster journey in the heart of the Eternal city. Regardless of where you are, Rome is where Old-World charm meets the new, alternative, and eclectic ā€“ all brought together under the warm embrace of the Italian sun. 

So where do hipsters go in Rome? Simply put, anywhere their creative energy and passion for the unconventional take them. If youā€™re a hipster, Rome will open your eyes and feed your soul. The city isnā€™t just a place to visit, it’s a place to experience, a place to live, and a place to love. The answer to your question is Rome itself!


Explore our walking maps of Rome:

Rome in a day

šŸ“Œ Allotted Time: 1 day
šŸ¾ Walking time: 3-4 hours

Panoramic Views in Rome

šŸ“Œ Allotted Time: 1 day
šŸ¾ Walking time: Flexible

Fountains of Rome

šŸ“Œ Allotted Time: 5 hrs
šŸ¾ Walking time: 4-5 hours

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