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Exploring Rome’s Prati Neighborhood: A Guide to the Heart of the Eternal City

Prati, a gem within the Eternal City, presents a harmonious blend of residential tranquility and vibrant city life. Nestled on the Tiber’s opposite bank, its proximity to the Vatican adds to its appeal. The neighborhood thrives with stunning early 20th-century architecture, wide boulevards, and lush green spaces, providing a striking contrast to the bustling city center. Its efficient Metro Line A facilitates easy exploration of Rome’s heart, while the neighborhood itself entices with its delicious culinary offerings and thriving Mercato Trionfale. Fashion enthusiasts and architecture buffs will find Prati’s shopping avenues and unique edifices irresistible. A true embodiment of upper-class Roman lifestyle, Prati’s charm is discreet yet undeniable.

How to get to Prati

From Leonardo da Vinci Airport (Fiumicino)

If you’re traveling from Fiumicino Airport to the Prati neighborhood in Rome, there’s a convenient route that involves a combination of train and metro. Begin by boarding the Leonardo Express train, which will whisk you to Rome’s central hub, Termini Station. Detailed information regarding ticket purchase and additional instructions can be found in our article from Rome airport to Rome city centre. Next, hop on Metro Line A, heading towards Battistini. There are two stops that will position you in the heart of Prati: Ottaviano and Lepanto. Choose the one that best suits your destination. 

From Ciampino Airport

From Ciampino Airport, getting to Rome’s Prati district involves a two-step journey. First, head towards Termini station using any available transportation choices here. Following that, board Metro Line A towards Battistini. Your stop, either Ottaviano or Lepanto, will drop you in the heart of Prati.

From Central Train Station – Prati

Starting your journey from Termini station, hop on Metro line A in the direction of Battistini. Alight at either Ottaviano or Lepanto to reach Prati. Alternatively, catch bus number 70 from Piazza della Repubblica. Disembark at Marcantonio Colonna, which is within the Prati district. 

Metro stop closest to Prati

Ottaviano or Lepanto, Metro line A in the direction of Battistini.

How to reach major tourist attractions from Prati, Rome

From Prati to the Colosseum

Traveling from Prati to the Colosseum offers various convenient routes. Opt for the n87 bus at Marcantonio Colonna station, with a journey time of about 25 minutes, dropping you off at the Colosseo stop. Alternatively, begin your journey at the Cola Di Rienzo/Tacito stop, followed by a brief stroll from the S. Gregorio stop. 

Moreover, the metro provides a reliable option. Start from Ottaviano or Lepanto, taking line A towards Anagnina, then change at Termini for line B, heading to Laurentina. After just two stops, disembark at the Colosseo station, standing in the shadow of this iconic landmark.

From Prati to Trevi Fountain

Starting your journey from Prati, there are multiple ways to reach the iconic Trevi Fountain. Utilize public transport like buses from the Cicerone/Cavour stop and you’ll find yourself at Tritone/Fontana Trevi in just a quarter of an hour. 

Alternatively, the city’s metro system is equally convenient. Hop on the Metro Line A, directed towards Anagnina, and disembark at the Barberini station. Once there, a brisk seven-minute stroll will take you to the picturesque Piazza di Trevi. Choose your mode of transport according to your preference, and enjoy the journey through Rome’s fascinating streets.

From Prati to Vatican 

Setting off from Piazza dei Quiriti, in the Roman district of Prati, the allure of Vatican City is merely a short walk away. Engage in a leisurely stroll, meandering down Via Germanico after a brief southern turn, allowing yourself to be absorbed by the charm of the Roman streets. A left turn escorts you to Via Ottaviano, leading further to Via di Porta Angelica. As you persist on this path, it subtly curves into Largo del Colonnato. Keep advancing, and you’ll find yourself at Piazza Papa Pio XII, with the majestic Vatican City emerging on your right, the culmination of a pleasant 15-minute journey.

What to see and do in Prati

Prati, a neighborhood in Rome, offers an abundance of experiences beyond its convenient proximity to Vatican City. As you stroll the tree-lined streets, take note of the Belle Epoque villas and Liberty Style buildings, a testament to Italy’s Art Nouveau influence. Prati pays homage to World War II victims through poignant memorials, dotted throughout the district.

For fashion enthusiasts, Prati is home to iconic milliners and tailors, such as Patrizia Fabbri, whose collaborations extend from Givenchy to Lady Gaga. Don’t miss visiting Tirelli Costumi, a spectacular warehouse that supplies costumes for cinema and theater, including global Hollywood productions.

Shopping is a delightful pastime in Prati, especially on Via Cola Di Rienzo. Uncover a blend of popular brands and independent boutiques such as Brugnoli, a men’s store that embodies the relaxed charm and elegance of Prati.

Exploring Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica is an absolute must. Be captivated by a unique collection of Italian art and architecture. An early morning tour allows you to fully appreciate the museums without the bustle of crowds.

Finally, visit Castel Sant’Angelo, once a mausoleum and now offering an impressive view of Rome and the Vatican. 

This fusion of history, fashion, and culture makes Prati a unique gem within Rome.


Explore our walking maps of Rome:

Rome in a day

📌 Allotted Time: 1 day
🐾 Walking time: 3-4 hours

Panoramic Views in Rome

📌 Allotted Time: 1 day
🐾 Walking time: Flexible

Fountains of Rome

📌 Allotted Time: 5 hrs
🐾 Walking time: 4-5 hours

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