Discover the allure of the cafes of Rome, where you can delve into history and culture amidst a nostalgic ambiance.

Rome’s historic center hosts a plethora of ancient cafes, each with its own fascinating tale, offering a glimpse into the soul of the Eternal City.

Ancient Caffè Greco

Among the most renowned cafés is the Ancient Caffè Greco, located on the elegant Via Condotti. It holds the distinction of being the second oldest in Italy after Florian in Venice.

Founded in 1760, it owes its name to the Greek origin of its founder, Nicola della Maddalena. A meeting place for Italian and foreign artists and intellectuals since the 19th century, a hub of society and culture in the ’60s and ’70s, it has been depicted in sketches and paintings and counted Schopenhauer, Franz Liszt, Stendhal, Wagner, and Orson Welles among its patrons. Besides enjoying excellent coffee, the rooms of this enchanting place house over 300 artworks, making Ancient Caffè Greco one of the largest private art galleries open to the public in the world.

Via Condotti, 86, Roma
Tel: (+39) 06 6791700

Caffè Museo Atelier Canova Tadolini

Staying within the shopping streets, along the renowned Via del Babuino, you’ll find Caffè Museo Atelier Canova Tadolini, the former studio of the great sculptor Antonio Canova, later inherited by his favorite disciple, Adamo Tadolini. 

The studio has transformed into a unique establishment that also features a museum with an exceptional collection of sculptures.

Via del Babuino 150/A, Roma
Tel: (+39) 06 32110702

Caffè Sant’Eustachio

Just steps away from Piazza Navona and the Pantheon, facing the Italian Senate, there is Caffè Sant’Eustachio. A historic wood-fired roastery established in the ’30s, it still maintains the same furnishings and flooring from that era. Its emblem is the stag, symbolizing Saint Eustachius.

Piazza Sant’ Eustachio, 82, Roma
Tel: (+39) 06 68802048

Babington Tea Room

Not a café but a tea room, the Babington Tea Room was founded in 1893 by Englishwomen Isabel Cargill and Anna Maria Babington. Created for the many Anglo-Saxons in Rome who could enjoy their favorite beverage, previously only available in pharmacies. Even today, this tea lover’s haven offers a tranquil and reserved atmosphere, featuring essential 19th-century-style furnishings, wooden tables set with colonial straw, teapots, and exclusive porcelain. The Babington Tea Room overlooks Piazza di Spagna, adding an extra touch of magic to the experience.

Piazza di Spagna, 23 – 25, Roma
Tel: (+39) 06 6786027