The best bars in Rome are an intrinsic part of the Eternal City’s cultural fabric. And over the past decade, the drinks scene here has undergone something of a Renaissance, with the number and variety of options across the city blossoming. Of course, there are still the old school stalwarts that adhere to the traditional Italian idea of a bar—envision the quintessential all-day café-bar where you might stand at the counter for a cappuccino in the morning, grab a quick panino at lunchtime, or linger over an aperitivo after work. But there are also cutting-edge cocktail dens waiting to host your next date night, Prohibition-inspired speakeasies that take their tipplers back in time with each pour, swanky rooftop bars that take on a whole new life on endless summer evenings, and laid-back enoteche—or wine bars—where you can take in la dolce vita one smooth, full-bodied sip at a time. In no particular order, this is our curation of the best bars in Rome for contemporary art that pairs perfectly with the wine, panoramic Colosseum views, and Michelin-starred antipasto.
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How we choose the best bars in Rome
Every bar on this list has been selected independently by Condé Nast Traveler editors and reviewed by a local contributor who has visited that bar. Our editors consider both high-end and affordable bar, and weigh stand-out menu items, location, and service—as well as inclusivity and sustainability credentials. We update this list as new bars open and existing ones evolve.
