Rome: Nightlife

Caffé Caruso This Caribbean-music-infused dive is located in Testaccio, a mountain made of an ancient Roman garbage heap that’s become a hip area of town, especially at night. Via Monte Testaccio, 36; 011-39-06-574 5019
trendy | dancing

Campo de Fiori The spot for drunken frat boys and their fans to party it up in Rome, this piazza is packed with bars that spill over into each other. Take your pick; they’re interchangeable. The Drunken Ship is an old favorite of American tourists. The Drunken Ship; 011-39-06-6830-0535
bar | nightclub

Circolo degli Artisti A dance haven for alternative types, with an outdoor bar and garden for those who like their scene smoky. Via Casalina Vecchia, 42; 011-39-06-7030-5684; www.circolodegliartisti.it
dancing | live music | nightclub | patio | dj

Parco della Musica This striking performing arts complex designed by Renzo Piano resembles three giant turtles. It’s a bit out of the way, but the range of programming here is superb. Rome; Viale Pietro de Coubertin, 30; 011-39-06-8024-1281; www.auditorium.com
performing arts | smart splurge

Qube Mega dance club with three floors on the outskirts of the city; Friday nights are gay. Via di Portonaccio, 212; 011-39-06-438-5445; www.metropolino.com/qube
open late | gay | nightclub | dj

Rialtosantambrogio This underground “centro sociale” has a range of art exhibits, DJ nights, and performances. It’s a bit hidden, off an alley in the Jewish Ghetto, but it’s arguably the hippest spot in Rome. Via Sant’ Ambrogio, 4; 011-39-06-6813-3640; www.rialtosantambrogio.org
dancing | live music | dj | electronica | editor pick