Rome is not only home to incredible architecture and beautiful artifacts, but it also boasts a fantastic, bustling café culture. Rome truly is a paradise for coffee lovers. In this article, we’ll guide you through the most authentic and delicious coffee experiences to be had in the Italian capital. Let’s explore the best cafés in Rome where tradition meets modernity, discover small artisanal roasters offering unique blends, and enjoy a perfectly brewed cup of coffee in Rome's most iconic coffee bars.

Where to get the best coffee in Rome:

Make sure you’re fully caffeinated and ready for a day of sightseeing, and do as the Romans do: visit a bar or two throughout the day to keep your energy levels up. Let’s take a walk through some of the best places to grab a coffee, and explore those spots that are an integral part of the rich tapestry that is the Eternal City.

Sciascia Caffé: a cup of elegance

This chic little café is tucked away in the Prati district. It has a warm and cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for a little break while sightseeing. Be sure to try one of their decadent hot chocolates, along with their amazing coffee. It's the perfect destination for a great coffee in Rome.

Bar Santeo: coffee and a sweet treat

An excellent stop after visiting The Basilica di Sant’Anastasia al Palatino. Enjoy the quirky décor and friendly staff while sipping one of their excellent cappuccinos, lattes or espressos. Locals consider this place to serve some of the best coffee in Rome. Don’t leave without trying one of their homemade cannoli.

Tram Depot: vintage glam on a tram

This beautiful vintage tram, located on Via Marmorata, has been converted into a chic gourmet café with an outdoor seating area near a leafy park. With a great selection of freshly made coffees using quality beans, this gourmet kiosk is perfect for a stop on a hot day for an iced coffee. They also serve some of the best espresso in Rome.

Antico Caffé Greco: take a sip amongst the greats

This is the oldest coffee shop in Rome, frequented over the decades by famed writers and intellectuals. The atmosphere is formal, with marble-topped tables, and you can feel the history in the air, along with the delicious aroma of coffee. Blend in like a local and stand at the bar to drink your coffee - and pay a little less, too.

Tazza D’Oro: an icy treat

Located right beside The Pantheon on Piazza della Rotonda, this café has been serving aromatic coffee blends since 1946. Be sure to order their legendary iced coffee, granita. They serve some of the best speciality coffee in Rome.

Sant’Eustachio II: drink coffee like a Roman

Founded in 1938, this café is a Roman institution, loved by locals and visitors alike. Located near the Pantheon, it’s an ideal stop while sightseeing. With coffee beans sourced from cooperatives in South America, you can be sure that your cup of coffee is fair trade. If you take sugar, the barista will add a spoonful of sweet froth made from espresso. Delizioso!

Caffé Canova-Tadolini: art and coffee in one

This fantastically unique spot is located by the Spanish Steps and is both a café and an art gallery. Adorned with sculptures and paintings, it’s housed in an old atelier.

Faro: speciality coffee makers

This eclectic café is a must-visit for any coffee aficionado, as they focus on very precise brewing techniques and single-origin coffees. Try one of their fresh pastries to pair with that creamy cappuccino.

Barnum café: chill out in a relaxed vibe

Located in the bustling heart of the Monti district, this café offers a great escape with a relaxed vibe and beautifully crafted coffee by friendly baristas.

La Stanza: a little something different

Head to the Trastevere district to enjoy this cozy café. Have a cappuccino and a sweet treat in its bohemian, rustic vibe. It’s a great way to while away a few hours, soaking in the unique décor and cool atmosphere.

Coffee at Rome Fiumicino Airport:

Once you arrive at Rome Fiumicino Airport and have developed a taste for the excellent coffee in Rome, there are plenty of places to enjoy a good cup or two before you head home. From internationally renowned coffee chains such as Costa Coffee or Illy to more local establishments, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Try a delicious cappuccino or hot chocolate at the renowned Cioccolati italiani, or grab a quick espresso at Caffè Vergnano or Kimbo. Check out Deli&Cia, Culto or Panella for a healthy snack along with your favorite coffee blend in a relaxed environment - just what you need before your flight! For a touch of wellness and tradition, try Delice Maison, Motta, Natoo or Passaggio Roma, and for sweet and savory snacks with your coffee, don’t miss Semplicemente Roma and Rinaldini.

The next time you visit The Eternal City, make stopping for a coffee part of the experience. Enjoy the rich history and stunning architecture from the comfort of a lovely terrace or bar, and watch the world go by, or blend in like a local and stand at the bar with your coffee. Whatever your preference, you’ll [mv1] find the right blend in Rome and make lasting memories on your next visit to Italy’s impressive capital. “When in Rome!” as they say.

 

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