An immaculate little air conditioned apartment in a very active section of Rome. The Testaccio neighborhood is packed with good, local style restaurants where the food wonât disappoint. Most have English speaking staff, and some have translated menus. For convenience there is Giolitti - one of Romeâs best known gelaterias - and a great carry out pizza shop right across the street, plus a nice sit down or carry out pasticceria around the corner. MamaRoma is on the 3rd level up (thereâs an elevator on a landing up 8 steps from the entry - itâs not handicapped accessible) so itâs a bit above the din, plus itâs high enough that spring & fall sunlight makes it a bright place via a large streetside window. Itâs situated a few steps off of Via Marmorata, a busy thoroughfare, so buses and trolleys to many of Romeâs attractions are literally a minute outside the front door. Although Testaccio is not a tourist area in Rome - itâs a busy city streetscape complete with all of the good and not so good of a city - it is totally crime free (we had no concerns walking the neighborhood after dark) and situated midway between the Forum ruins and the Vatican.
The apartment lists 2 bedrooms on some sites, but one is really part of the âgreat roomâ which served as living, dining & second bedroom. Not a lot of privacy for guests 3 & 4, but the unit is perfect for a couple. Kitchen is adequate, with a dishwasher, microwave, 4-burner stove, refrigerator, toaster and tiny table. Hot water is plentiful & bathroom is spacious enough, save the tiny shower, which is common in Europe. Closet space is more than adequate in the one bedroom. The bed was fine - we both slept well. Fulvio is a gracious host who communicates well in preparation for his guests. Just one request for Fulvio - please install a hanging soap and shampoo caddy in the shower.
If you are renting a car, parking is a real challenge in this neighborhood. Itâs every man for himself, and you may end up blocks away. I would recommend an airport limo type service (âŹ45) and public transportation for this location, or parking will drive you crazy.
Be appraised that Rome has enacted a new tax on guest lodging that amounts to 7% in cash upon arrival. This in no way detracts from the condition or character of the unit or our gracious host. Itâs just a fact of life when staying in Rome.