Discover what’s the spirit of Roman nightlife like before getting ready to dance all night in one of the most distinctive nightclubs & clubs in Rome.
Clubs or Multifunctional Venues?
In the ’80s, ’90s, and early 2000s, clubbing became immensely popular, becoming the go-to weekend activity. During the era of urban tribes, Rome boasted a variety of long-standing clubs like Piper, Alien, Gilda, and NRG. Music has undergone significant transformations since then, leading to the closure of many of these clubs. But did the fun come to an end? Not at all.
Today, in Rome, multifunctional venues take precedence over traditional disco nightclubs. These establishments offer a combination of fine dining and later transition into vibrant disco experiences. In the daytime, they transform into inviting brunch spots, aperitivo bars, and even art exhibition galleries.
The options available for entertainment are plentiful, catering to a diverse range of interests, but I should point out that they might not be available all year round. In fact, many clubs close down during the scorching Roman summers and either relocate to the seaside or reopen in September.
1. The Latin American Dance Haven
Zanussi Étoile 23 – Piazza Tarquinia, 5 (Re di Roma)
This well-established venue in Rome is a celebrated hotspot for dance enthusiasts who revel in the energetic beats of Latin America. Open solely during the winter season. It frequently hosts lively salsa and bachata nights. And if you fancy brushing up on your dance skills, this is the ideal place to be: they offer salsa, bachata, and even swing dancing classes for all experience levels.
2. The Jazz Enthusiasts’ Hideout
Micca Club / Ellington Club – Via Anassimandro, 15 (Mandrione)
If you’re a fan of all things retro, Micca Club is the place for you. It first opened in 2005 on via Pietro Micca, which is where it gets its name. Over time, it transformed into an event brand that hosted nights in various theatres across Rome. Nowadays, Micca Club treats its guests to live variety shows, cafĂ© chantant performances, music, and burlesque entertainment.
3. The Ultimate Rock Experience
Traffic Rock Live Music Club – Via Prenestina 738 (Alessandrino)
Traffic is a bit of a trek from the city centre – in fact, it’s located in the suburbs, quite a distance from any metro stops. However, if you’re a fan of underground music, it’s definitely worth a visit. This venue showcases various live music genres, ranging from rock and metal to punk and rap. And it’s a fantastic option if you’re keen on catching some local bands performing live or immersing yourself in the vibrant alternative Roman scene.
4. The Live Music Oasis
Wishlist Club – Via dei Volsci, 126 (San Lorenzo)
I remember that many years ago, this club had a different name, yet it was already a hub for incredible rap gigs. Today it continues to be a venue that hosts exhilarating freestyle rap battles. Alongside its regular hip-hop nights, Wishlist Club also invites renowned national and international DJs to take the stage. Located in the youthful and artistic neighbourhood of San Lorenzo, it has established itself as a reference point for those who love alternative music.
5. The North Rome Fine Dining and Dance
Giardini dell’Eden – piazzale dello Stadio Olimpico 5-8,
Giardini dell’Eden, which translates to “Gardens of Eden” in Italian, is a breathtakingly lush location. Nestled just behind the Olympic Stadium, Giardini dell’Eden offers an enchanting outdoor green space. Here, you’ll discover a refined restaurant, captivating dinner shows, and disco vibes that kick off at 9 pm and continue late into the night. As is the case with several places in North Rome, it tends to attract a more affluent crowd.
6. The Exhilarating Disco Experience
Exe – Viale della CiviltĂ Romana, 1 (EUR)
Who said the fun ends at 25? Exe is undoubtedly one of the finest disco clubs in Rome, particularly if you don’t want to be surrounded by teens. Exe offers an exceptional show dinner that transitions into a disco night, predominantly featuring house and dance music, all within a venue renowned for its excellent acoustics.
It has hosted international DJs. Situated in EUR, paying a visit not only offers you the opportunity to create unforgettable memories but also allows you to explore this unique Roman neighbourhood.
7. The Erasmus Students’ Hangout
NurBar – Largo del Teatro Valle, 7 (Rione Parione)
Nur Bar is situated in the heart of Rome, in Palazzo Capranica del Grillo, an 18th-century building. The club occupies a vast space of over 800 square metres across two levels. At Nur Bar, you can enjoy an aperitivo before joining the underground rooms that serve as the perfect setting for exclusive evenings, with DJ sets and live music entertaining guests well into the night.
The place is impressive, with large windows that overlook the magnificent Sant’Andrea della Valle church, attracting a youthful crowd and an international mix of Erasmus students. The downside? It closes during summer.
8. The Karaoke Lover’s Paradise
Escopazzo – Via d’Aracoeli, 41/43 (Rione Pigna)
This disco-pub is located in the heart of Rome, just a stone’s throw away from Piazza Venezia. It serves as a vibrant gathering spot for the city’s young crowd. Its spacious screens and lively karaoke nights provide the perfect setting for an entertaining evening after a day of sightseeing. Escopazzo offers a diverse weekly program that includes DJ sets of various genres, such as black and dance music, exhilarating live concerts, and drinking games.
9. The Bohemian Retreat
The Sanctuary Eco Retreat – Via delle Terme di Traiano, 4A (Colle Oppio)
I don’t think I know any Romans from my generation who haven’t been to The Sanctuary. It’s a trendy and hip spot, with a design that blends tropical and tribal elements, nestled among ancient Roman ruins. And it boasts a spacious outdoor area. The Sanctuary it’s not your typical disco: it’s actually an eco retreat.
Here, you can enjoy a morning brunch, unwind by the pool, indulge in a reiki treatment or traditional Thai massage, have an aperitivo or fusion dinner, and of course, dance the night away to the beats of international DJs like Sven Väth and Peggy Gou. Be prepared for weekend crowds: expect to wait in line, and make sure to dress well if you want to avoid being bounced.
10. The Locals’ Beloved Club
Sharivari – Via de’ Nari, 14 (Piazza Navona)
Located in the heart of the city centre, Shari Vari is well-known for its diverse music selection, encompassing a fusion of electronic, house, disco, and alternative sounds. The club boasts an impressive size, spanning 1000 square metres and featuring three spacious dancefloors, four bars, and a restaurant. Regarded as one of the finest nightclubs, it exudes an elegant atmosphere and attracts a discerning crowd of individuals in their 20s and 30s.
Remember to dress stylishly if you want to avoid being bounced at the door. Casual is fine but leave sportswear, boots, and sneakers at home for one night.
11. The La Dolce Vita Retreat
La Conventicola Degli Ultramoderni – Via di Porta Labicana, 32 (San Lorenzo)
Open from 9:30 PM until dawn, La Conventicola is a club with a charmingly old-fashioned twist. Here, you’ll witness captivating burlesque variety shows featuring many dancers, illusionists, singers, and musicians. With its unique blend of elegance and relaxed ambiance – and a resident band. – La Conventicola truly embodies the spirit of 1950s Rome, reminiscing the days of la dolce vita.
12. The LGBTQ+ Party Haven
Qube – via di Portonaccio (Casal Bertone)
Qube is a renowned nightclub in east Rome that offers multiple dance floors. It’s known for hosting Muccassassina, one of Rome’s most iconic LGBTQ+ parties. Originally established in 1993, Muccassassina has gained a reputation for its extravagant theme nights, energetic atmosphere, and top-notch DJs spinning a variety of music genres, including house, techno, and pop. Muccassassina attracts a diverse crowd of locals and visitors alike, creating a welcoming and inclusive space.
13. The Timeless Nightspot
Goa – Via Giuseppe Libetta, 13 (Ostiense)
Established in 1996, Goa has been a staple of Rome’s underground electronic music scene for many years. The club is renowned for its dedication to promoting innovative electronic music genres, including techno, house, and experimental sounds. And has gained a reputation for hosting some of the world’s most respected DJs and artists, both local and international.