Hotels near Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona is the most theatrical of Rome's baroque squares, built directly on top of the Stadium of Domitian (1st century AD) - which is why its long elliptical shape echoes a Roman racecourse. Three fountains anchor the piazza, including Bernini's Fountain of the Four Rivers (1651) at the centre, where four colossal river-god figures personify the Nile, Ganges, Danube, and Río de la Plata under a Roman obelisk.

Bordering the piazza are the Sant'Agnese in Agone church by Borromini, several historic palaces, and a permanent rotation of street artists, portrait sketchers, and outdoor cafés. It is one of the few spots in Rome where the historical theatre and modern street life genuinely fuse. You can also descend below ground at the Stadio di Domiziano museum on the north end to see the original Roman foundations.

Pro Tip: Skip the overpriced piazza-side restaurants and walk one street west to Via dei Coronari for far better food at half the price - then circle back for an evening espresso when the lights come on.