Rome is a city of contradictions. Home to the Vatican, it's also the place where supermodels, seedy politicians and fashionistas come out to play. So it shouldn't come as a surprise that Rome boasts some of the hottest, most exclusive bars and clubs around.
But you don't need to rule the runway or roll with Berlusconi to have a great night out at the bars and clubs in Rome. Though a night with Berlusconi would probably give you a lifetime of stories. Here at Party Earth, we know from experience that some of the cheapest places attract the rowdiest crowds in this city of high-rolling saints and sinners. This list of Party Earth's favorite budget-friendly bars in Rome will have you drinking like Caesar at plebian prices.
The Nag's Head
The Nag's Head is easily accessible in the middle of El Centro. This rowdy Scottish pub stays open all the way till 4 a.m. A knight in shining armor will greet you at the door (sorry, it's just a statue), and though the pub décor is traditional with lots of wood and Scottish adornments, the bar has made a few additions to please the stylish late-night crowds. Thirsty English speakers chat while watching sports highlights on the flat screens, pile onto the dance floor as a DJ spins, and rock out to live music that's performed multiple times a week. The Nag's Head has great deals on drinks so you can keep the debauchery going all night without breaking your budget. Once you've had a drink or two, try your hand at the pub's popular drinking games or come for the wild themed parties. This is one of the few places in the city that remains open in August, placing the Nag's Head firmly on top of the El Centro party scene.
Abbey Theatre
If you're craving a taste of Ireland but don't want to dish out a pretty penny for your pint, head on over to the Abbey Theatre. This classic Irish bar carries all the Irish standards on tap and is conveniently located close by Piazza Navona. The name and decorations take their cue from William Butler Yeats' Abbey Theatre in Dublin, but don't expect a literary crowd. International travelers and students come out for the great student discounts or to test their wits at the popular Pub Quiz nights. And with 14 flat-screen TVs all tuned to important sporting events around the world, the Abbey Theatre is also one of the best places in Rome to root for your team with fellow fans.
Druid's Rock
With a happy hour that goes until 8 p.m. every single day of the week, Druid's Rock is one the best places in Rome to watch a game with a cheap drink in hand. As one of Rome's most popular Irish bars, Druid's Rock attracts fans of all types with plenty of big-screens showing the latest in European sports. Check out the foosball and pool tables upstairs or join the crowd on the outdoor patio to add your voice to the rowdy cheers. If you're just looking for a drink at a discount, skip the big-screen TVs and enjoy the stunning views of Santa Maria Maggiore from the patio.
Mr. Pucci
You might not guess at first, given its fancy décor, but Mr. Pucci has some of the best drink deals in Rome. Tucked away in its own piazza in Trastevere like it owns the place, Mr. Pucci is an intimate lounge featuring vintage theater seats and eclectic decorations where the playful waiters are just as entertaining as the nightly laser show. The patrons here are largely from Rome's art and music industries so don't be surprised if you find yourself sitting next to some of Rome's rising stars. And with deals this good, you'll have extra room in your budget to buy that rising star you just met a drink.
Trinity College
For some of the best prices on whiskey in town, be sure to head to Trinity College. This Irish pub is beautifully located in a historic palazzo off Via del Corso and attracts a lively crowd of travelers, expats and devoted locals. Don't be fooled by the book-lined walls or the upstairs reading room. Because at night, Trinity College turns into an all-out disco pub with popular DJs spinning late into the early morning. Admire the enormous antique chandelier or step out onto the patio to sip a cocktail beneath the Roman sunset. Whatever you're in the mood for, the cheap drinks at Trinity College will be sure to have you celebrating out on the dance floor until closing time.
For more articles and reviews, go to Party Earth.