Rome After Dark: Where To Drink and Where To Dance
Explore Roman nightlife with a selection of the city’s best clubs and late-night bars. Let resident DJ Fabio Luzietti be your guide as you put on your dancing shoes and get ready to party the night away in rock ’n’ roll pubs, techno clubs and live music bars.
Rome’s party scene is vibrant, electric and diverse – but sometimes difficult to navigate. To make it easier for you, nightlife enthusiast Flavia Carlorecchio has consulted Rome-based journalist and DJ Fabio Luzietti about some of his favourite places in the city. After building his career through the roaring ’90s and contributing to the growth of a Roman indie-alternative clubbing scene, Luzietti now broadcasts for Radio Sonica and performs as a DJ in the best clubs in the city. Here’s where he’d like to take you for a night out.
(A note about Rome’s nightlife: it starts late. Don’t panic if you turn up to the club at 11 and it’s deserted, as things only really start to get intense after midnight in the Eternal City. If you’re out clubbing, expect to stay up till dawn, while late-night bars usually close at 2am. Most of the best nights are hosted from Thursday to Sunday, but you’re never too far from a perfect midweek pick-me-up; check individual venue websites for the latest news on what’s on.)
1. Goa Club
Bar, Cocktails
Goa Club has been the temple of electronic music in Rome since it first opened its doors in 1996. Located in the Ostiense neighbourhood, its nights offer an impressive rotation of resident and world-famous DJs at more-than-affordable prices. Decked out with industrial, optical illusion-style black and white decor, it’s the perfect combination of dance floor and lounge – once you’ve worn yourself out under the disco ball, retreat to the sofas and refresh with one of their classic cocktails (they have a great selection of spirits). Fabio says: “A must in the Roman clubbing scene, with one of the best sound systems in town. A great musical selection in a carefully designed location.”
2. Fanfulla 5/A
Bar, Nightclub, Cocktails
Fanfulla is a small social club in the offbeat Pigneto neighbourhood, but what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in atmosphere. It promotes underground culture by hosting live bands and DJs both resident and international. Its event listings comprise rock, pop, electro and punk, all played in an intimate and sparkling setting. It’s changed location and name over the years, but has always kept its unique approach and has a well-earned place on the list of party lover’s favourite places. The drink of choice? Their renowned negroni, which is perfect fuel for a night on your feet. A membership card is needed for entry, but most of the events are free. Fabio says: “With well-thought live music and a friendly and homely environment, this is a must-visit underground spot.”
3. Largo Venue
Nightclub, Bar, Beer, Wine, Cocktails
Just outside Pigneto, behind a small door and an unassuming fence, you will find Largo Venue. This roomy warehouse is completed by a lovely outside garden, making it a great place for a night out with friends when you’re in the mood to dance and chat in equal measures. Add a laid-back atmosphere, a lot of comfy seats and a spacious modern bar, and you’re ready to hit the floor. Live shows and DJ sets illuminate Friday and Saturday nights, with frequent special events to look out for. Rub shoulders with the hipster youth of Rome, who often choose Largo Venue for a regular night out. Fabio says: “The garden is perfect for a chitchat with friends, and I love the regular indie-pop nights.”
4. Arena Monk Club, Roma
Concert Hall, Music Venue
5. Le Bon Bock
Bar, Cocktails
‘Le Bon Bock’ is a painting by French artist Édouard Manet, in which a man pulls on his pipe and sips his beer, the very picture of blissful relaxation. It’s the namesake of (and the inspiration for) the warm and relaxed atmosphere of this Scottish pub, which has been open for more than 20 years now. Located in Monteverde, just outside the gates of Villa Pamphili, it attracts whisky enthusiasts from all over the city. The choice is impressive, with high-end bottles hailing not only from Scotland but from all over the world – there’s an impressive Japanese collection. The prices are reasonable, and the knowledgeable staff are happy to help find the right dram for you. Fabio says: “This is a piece of Scotland in Monteverde – a one-of-a-kind pub in Rome.”
6. Orion
Bar, Nightclub, Beer, Cocktails
Just landed in Ciampino airport? Your next stop could be the Orion Club for a post-plane party. Set slightly outside the city centre, this place is a Roman reference point for fans of live rock music, with a huge dance space and a great sound system. If you want to rock out with the Romans, check its programme, featuring bands like Lacuna Coil, Black Flag, Symphony X and more. It also offers themed dance nights and works in partnership with the most important Roman clubs. Entry fees are affordable, though expect to pay a little more to see the bigger names. Fabio says: “[Known] for its big capacity and its technical features, this is a great mid-size event venue to enjoy rock and metal music in Rome.”
7. Le Mura
Bar, Nightclub, Beer, Wine, Cocktails
8. The Jerry Thomas Speakeasy
Bar, Pub Grub, Wine, Beer, Cocktails, Italian
9. Big Mama
Bar, Beer, Wine, Cocktails
10. Big Star, Rome
Pub, Pub Grub
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