Remote Under the 'Cupolone'
A Digital Nomad’s Guide to Rome in the Jubilee Era
As the Eternal City enters a historic Jubilee year and welcomes a new pope, Rome is more alive than ever—and surprisingly ready for digital nomads. While the city is more famous for ruins than routers, the combination of major urban investments and Italy’s digital nomad visa is making Rome a fresh contender on the remote work map.
Practical Life: Cost of Living and Challenges
Rome is cheaper than most European capitals. Renting a furnished studio apartment in a central neighborhood like Prati or Trastevere costs around €1,000–€1,200/month. Utilities average €150/month, and a coworking pass starts from €150–€250/month. Eating out can be affordable if you embrace the Roman way.
Still, not all is dolce vita. Internet speeds can vary wildly—30 Mbps is typical, but inconsistent Wi-Fi remains an issue in older apartments. Public transport is often delayed, especially during large events like the Jubilee. Bureaucracy is infamous—getting documents, contracts, or even a SIM card may test your patience.
The Digital Nomad Visa
Introduced in 2024, Italy’s digital nomad visa allows non-EU citizens to live and work in the country for up to a year, renewable. Requirements include proof of remote work, a clean criminal record, valid health insurance, and a gross income of at least €30,000/year.
Where to Stay (1 week to 3 months)
Short-term (1–3 weeks): Use platforms like Flatio or Blueground for ready-to-work apartments. Some hotels now offer “smart rooms” with desks and fast Wi-Fi (check Mama Shelter or The Hoxton).
Medium-term (1–3 months): Airbnb monthly discounts can be decent, but check local Facebook groups like “Digital Nomads in Rome” for sublets, coliving spaces, or room swaps. Rome Loft and RomeHello Coliving are highly rated.
Where to Work
Best Coworking Spaces:
Impact Hub Roma: Professional, social, near metro.
Talent Garden Ostiense: Modern, fast internet, workshops.
Cowo360: Budget-friendly, great for solo workers.
Free or Nearly-Free Places:
Biblioteca Europea (Trastevere): Reliable Wi-Fi, calm.
Materiae Café or AntiCafé: Cafés with power outlets and a remote-friendly culture.
La Casa del Parco (Monte Mario): Quiet, green setting for deep focus.
Networking & Community
Rome's startup and freelancer scene is still young, but growing. Look for:
Meetups & Events: Search on Meetup.com for events tagged "remote work," “freelancers Rome,” or “international networking.” Expect regular meetups at Caffè Letterario or Talent Garden.
Slack & WhatsApp Groups: Try the “Digital Nomads Italy” Slack or “Rome Expats” WhatsApp groups to stay connected and find coworking buddies or social events.
Free Tech Events: LUISS EnLabs and Link Campus University often host open innovation talks and pitch nights.
Benefits of Rome for Nomads
Inspiration: Ancient ruins, Renaissance art, and Vatican grandeur provide unmatched creative energy.
Lifestyle: Work in the morning, walk through the Forum in the afternoon, dine al fresco at night.
Cultural Access: Many museums and landmarks offer discounted or free entry one Sunday a month.
Downsides to Watch
Heat and Tourism: Summer is sweltering and packed—aim for spring or fall stays.
Language Barrier: While younger locals speak English, some landlords, bureaucrats, and shops may not.
Noise: Between scooters, bells, and piazza chatter, bring noise-cancelling headphones.
Conclusion
Rome may not be the most obvious choice for remote work, but it rewards patience and curiosity. The Jubilee brings major upgrades—better transport, more green spaces, and faster networks. Combined with its new digital nomad visa, Rome is becoming more than a city for pilgrims. It’s becoming a base for modern wanderers with a laptop and a love of beauty.
