The Best Nightclubs in Rome, Italy

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.

Bar, Nightclub, Beer, Wine, Cocktails
In the student-packed quartiere of San Lorenzo, bar and nightclub Le Mura particularly attracts live music fans. Early evening sees local bands (and the occasional touring group from elsewhere) take to the stage. After midnight, revellers can dance to a mix of indie, funk and classic pop. When feet begin to ache, relax in the seating area, complete with cosy fairy lights, vintage sofas and even a selection of books and magazines to enjoy.

Restaurant, Nightclub, Cocktails, $
Part restaurant, part bustling nightclub, Shari Vari Playhouse has been pulling in the crowds since it first opened its doors in 2009. Inside, the theme of the decor is distressed-vintage, with the occasional trashy ornament added in for fun. Throw some shapes to hip-hop, house, dance and a smattering of top 40 hits.

Nightclub, Cocktails, $$
Close to Piazza Navona lies one of Rome’s most exclusive nightclubs, La Cabala. Half piano-bar, half discotheque, La Cabala offers a stunning view of Rome from its position on top of Ostaria dell’Orso on the river Tiber. The mood generally attracts those aged 25 and above, but anyone looking for a stylish place to dance away the evening is welcome.

Nightclub, Cocktails
In 1996, Goa made its home in a former motorbike repair shop in the once-industrial but now up-and-coming district of Ostiense. Named after the Indian state of Goa, famous for its full moon parties, the club’s decor follows the same theme. A reputation for electronic house and techno music has earned this spot many local supporters who come to hear resident DJs such as Giancarlino, Fabrizio Sala and Adiel.

Nightclub, Cocktails
Tucked away between Via Veneto and Villa Borghese is Art Cafè, the nightclub of choice for Rome’s it-crowd. Amid the flawlessly dressed ladies and often abundantly aftershave-scented men, it’s sometimes possible to spot a local celebrity or two. As well as extravagant club nights, Art Cafè also hosts one-off events like fashion shows and film screenings.

Nightclub, Cocktails, $

One of the biggest clubs in Rome, Qube has dance floors sprawling across three levels. Check out their Facebook page for upcoming club nights, most notably the ever-popular Muccassassina Friday night special, a favourite with the LGBTQ community. Expect drag queens, fire dancers and plenty of theatrics.

Nightclub, Cocktails
Spazio 900 is located inside the Palazzo dell’Arte Antica, a striking example of fascist architecture built by Mussolini in the 1930s. Today, the palazzo is used for conferences, exhibitions and trade shows, as well as club nights hosted by Spazio 900. Check their Facebook page for event listings, and be sure to get tickets for big name DJs early to avoid disappointment.

Nightclub, Cocktails
Once a dogana, or customs checkpoint, this industrial space now hosts thumping club nights with guest DJ sets from the likes of Marcel Dettmann and Ben Klock. Not content just playing the best techno, house, funk and dance tracks every weekend, Ex-Dogana has also evolved into a creative space for film screenings, concerts and one-off events.

Bar, Cocktails, $

Located close to the often-overlooked neighbourhood of Coppedè, Piper has been getting Romans on their feet since 1965. In its 1960s and ’70s heyday, international artists such as the Byrds, Procol Harum and Pink Floyd all played there. These days, Saturday nights are strictly house music nights, but ’80s-themed events, tribute bands and live music feature throughout the rest of the week, Wednesday to Sunday.

Nightclub, Wine, Beer, Cocktails
Taking inspiration from New York’s underground club scene of the 1970s, Vicious is a small club with a big personality. The decor is dark, grungy and almost exclusively black or mirrored, while the music is always loud. Keep an eye on the Facebook page for scheduled electro, techno or indie events.