Bar San Calisto | Roma

Bar · Trastevere

Bar San Calisto | Roma

Bar · Trastevere

Piazza di S. Calisto, 3, 00153 Roma RM, Italy

Highlights

A beloved '60s Trastevere bar serving up cheap Peroni, creamy maritozzi, and lively locals for laid-back coffee or spritz vibes.

Piazza di S. Calisto, 3, 00153 Roma RM, Italy Get directions

barsancalisto.it

@barsancalisto

€1–10

@infatuation

Bar San Calisto - Review - Trastevere - Rome - The Infatuation

"Bar San Calisto is more than just a bar. It’s an institution that feels like the soul of Rome itself: a little rough around the edges, unapologetically authentic, and always buzzing with life. Whether it’s 6am or 2am, you’ll find people ranging from eighth-generation Trastevere locals to study-abroad students, nursing a beer or sipping an espresso. It’s the perfect spot for people-watching at one of the small, weathered tables out front, and on some evenings, there’s even live music." - Annie Replogle

https://www.theinfatuation.com/rome/reviews/bar-san-calisto

View Postcard for Bar San Calisto | Roma

@cntraveler

23 Best Bars in Rome

"Stop by this little corner of Trastevere after lunch and you’ll find grey-haired Romans playing cards, sitting beside university students drinking beer, and young professionals enjoying a Campari spritz on a first date. The house red, served in a carafe and poured into tiny tumblers, is about 3 euros a glass; they also do Campari and Aperol spritzes at aperitivo hour and big, ice-cold jugs of Peroni. Non-drinkers can get coffee or soft drinks. Grab your drink and enjoy it sitting outside, people-watching in the piazza. Bar snacks are limited to potato chips and salted peanuts but if you’re lucky there’ll still be some maritozzi (whipped cream-filled buns), pastries and tramezzini sandwiches left over from the morning breakfast rush." - Maresa Manara

https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-bars-in-rome

View Postcard for Bar San Calisto | Roma

@searchingforstanley

Stanley and friend Claudia della Frattina visit one of their old spots sin Trastevere, where they enjoy espresso and get surprised with maritozzi - brioche-like buns filled with cream.

All the places in Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy - Rome

View Postcard for Bar San Calisto

John Chang

Google

Wow. The soft bread with the whipped cream filling was incredible. For 1.5 euros it can’t be beat. The cream is soft and slightly sweet but very fresh. The bread is soft and has a slight sugar coating on the bottom. You order at the cashier, get a ticket and then show the barista the ticket. I had to use photos of what I wanted to show the cashier and the barista because I don’t speak Italian.

Maria Luísa Miranda

Google

bar san calisto is easily one of my favorite spots in rome. truly the heart of trastevere! the nutella cornettos are amazing and crazy cheap (€0.9)!! and the bar at night is the best spot to get drinks before going out! love love love

Eleanor M

Google

great no frills experience! seems to have a good mix of italians and tourists. nice staff and decently priced cappuccino for 1,20 €

Alexandra Ștefănescu

Google

Cheapest drinks in Trestavere & the place is full of great vibes! Chill atmosphere in an informal setting is a great way to keep the night going on Rome’s cobblestone streets

Alekszej Budarin

Google

Still as good as 20 years ago. "the cheapest Aperol in Rome" ruined it a bit, but it's a classic place for a quick drink, and a must on any trail. Stay inside for a true experience, and try to master at least "per favore" to make them happy.

evin kobatan

Google

I loved the spirit of the place! Aperol was delicious, also the coffee, and the croissant were very good for the price. It was a place where I had a very enjoyable time when i was at home.

Nikola Marković

Google

Cheap beer, fast service. The place has a great history! There is only one toilet and it is horrible. Dirty as hell.

Petros R.

Google

Bar San Calisto is a true Roman gem, offering unbeatable prices in a relaxed, authentic atmosphere. It’s perfect for a morning coffee or an evening drink, with consistently good quality and friendly service. The charm of this spot lies in its simplicity and its popularity among locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re sipping an espresso or enjoying a spritz, it’s an ideal place to soak in the vibe of Trastevere without breaking the bank. It’s unpretentious, affordable, and full of character—a must-visit for anyone wanting a genuine Roman experience. Highly recommended for great drinks and a laid-back atmosphere!

Kylie S.

Yelp

YES. Just yes. Thankfully I had tagged this in my Rome collection well before we travelled there. Every so often I would check my collection list to see what we were near and if I wanted to check places out in person. We had JUST passed this little bar and I thought I had recognized the sign. We backtracked and went in. Great decision-making on our part. We ordered an Americano and a caffe Freddo. We also ordered 2 Aperol spritzes (YOLO). They were all so cheap and SO great. I wish we would have had time to go back. There is not a lot of standing room inside, but there are outdoor tables if you can find one. It's just always a busy place!

Komal R.

Yelp

This place is a popular hangout spot for the locals - not much space to sit but a lot of room to stand and drink right outside by the tables. The bartenders were fun and chatty. If you want to experience the local "dive" scene, this place is a must!

Courtney P.

Yelp

After seeing the Stanley Tucci "Searching for Italy" episode, like so many others, my mom and I made our way to Bar San Calisto for a morning cappuccino and one of the delicious whip cream filled rolls. We arrived fairly early in the morning, and you could tell it was all locals enjoying their morning espresso. The staff were kind and knew exactly what we were looking for, because I could not remember the exact name of the bakery item. The roll itself was stuffed to the brim with fresh whipped cream that was subtly sweet and perfectly accompanied my morning cappuccino. We enjoyed sitting in the square and taking in the cool Rome morning. If you find yourself in the area, I would highly recommend giving them a try.

Prudence T.

Yelp

We came here after seeing this spot on the Stanley Tucci Finds Italy show. It is in a super authentic part of town and is very inexpensive. Good for coffee, a beer and to hang out and eat a pastry. We asked for the pastry Stanley ate in the show and got it. Not too sweet at all, almost like a Hawaiian sweet bread filled with unsweet whipped cream. Def a cute place to hang.

Hannah M.

Yelp

4.5 stars, rounding down. Ordering system is a bit complicated and the staff is a bit gruff but one of the best negronis I've ever had for €3.50 is impossible to overlook. I simply couldn't believe the price when they rang it up. Vibes are absolutely unreal, great people watching, felt super local, a true gem to stumble on. Docking a star partly because of the service but mostly because the one toilet (keep in mind this is a busy place) was dismal - dirty, door didn't lock, flushing "buttons" needed to be replaced, etc. They could easily up the cost of the drinks a bit and make the money for a minor refurbishment in no time. All in all def recommend, just don't go with a full bladder like I did.

Eric M.

Yelp

For te freddo con gelato al limone. (iced tea with lemon gelato). Quick service. Order first then pay.

pam ..

Yelp

I've never had breakfast there but it looks good. We did have appertivo . It was good and the place was busy so go early.

Michael W.

Yelp

Tucci: in Trastevere Simply an institution. It may be one of the most iconic places to have a coffee in all of Trastevere. Almost any time of day, you can spot a gathering of local denizens playing cards, usually outside, and usually with one of their dogs by their feet. The fixtures are certainly from another era, giving you the sensation of stepping back into the "dolce vita" days Italian-style breakfast - cappuccino + cornetto (Italian version of a croissant), or some other hot drink + bakery item

Fred S.

Yelp

Excellent spot for an espresso, gelato, Danish, or cocktails. Simone is an excellent bartender, highly recommend. Located right on Piazza di San Calisto, in Trastevere, great spot.

Armand L.

Yelp

The expresso was amazing and the sweets all. I think I gained weight and was on coffee high for weeks lol

Jeff M.

Yelp

I just found out this place has gelato. Only 1 euro. All prices are at least half of other places in the area. Also has a very lively nighttime crowd. Three of us had a 2 cafe lattes 2 stuffed croissants and a cream filled pastry for $5.5 euro. Great breakfast. Highly recommend this place as the pastries were delicious

Misham H.

Yelp

Our wonderful tour guide Colin took us to this local spot where the beer is cheap and the company is great. All the young locals come here for the beer and wine. The bar is very small but everyone stands outside in the patio or in the courtyard. It's surrounded by an old church and a Montessori. The location is in between small streets and next to other bars too. You can truly feel like an Italian at this bar. It's the hot spot for meeting friends and pre-gaming before going out for the night. You pay for what you want at the door, where a sweet old man charges you $1.40 for a beer and hands you a receipt. Once you get your receipt you go to the bar and show the bartenders your receipt and what you want. I asked for a beer and got their local one called Peroni. I had multiple pours if beer and by the end of the night I was feeling great. I really enjoyed my time here. There is one bathroom for all genders in the bar and some seating room but if you want to experience the European night life, you stand outside and drink your beer with friends. It's great!

Philip S.

Yelp

I believe one could have a good time here if arriving at the correct time to get a seat and before all the food is gone. The bar staff is very friendly and indeed kind to the patrons, some of whom are locals on a small budget.

Maija J.

Yelp

I asked the bartender for toilet paper and he screamed at me in line in front of everyone. He told me I was crazy. I began to cry and it was horrible. Terrible service from the man who is bald. I went up to him and told him he was rude and he gave me a glass of water? I had one drink.... So I was not drunk. Terrible!

Larissa W.

Yelp

Just the absolute best. If you're able to find a table settle in and spend a few hours. Drinks are cheap but good and live entertainment is bound to set up outside in the afternoon. This will be my first stop on my next trip to Rome.

Sydney S.

Yelp

il bar san calistoga forse va bene durante le ore diurne, ma dopo le 18 ti fanno pagare lo stesso euro per la minima quantità di alcol nonostante l'importo sia compreso tra tre quarti e un terzo del volume. NON valgono assolutamente soldi o tempo e saranno scortesi con te a causa di tutti gli studenti americani vicini che si aspettano di fregare.

Mike D.

Yelp

After walking by the first two nights and wondering why it was so packed I ventured in. I went to the counter and ordered two large beers (66 cl) and when they asked me for 5 euro, I understood. The place serves cheap beer, wine, coffee, etc in a Parisian café setting. It stays lively and energetic dawn until closing because of this. The location right near the church square provides great people watching too. This is the place to give your feet a rest, start up some conversation with strangers, and experience Rome.

Madison I.

Yelp

a true gem in a wonderful neighborhood. €1.50 for small beer/ €2.50 for large - lovely elderly man takes your order at the door and your drinks are up at the bar. Lovely atmosphere. Lovely location. My favorite spot in Rome.

Alex M.

Yelp

Absolutely loved this place!!! Our Airbnb was a two minute walk from here so we frequented it often, multiple times a day. San Calisto is a traditional Italian "bar" ... meaning it serves coffee drinks, pastries, beer, hard alcohol, sodas and even gelato. It's pretty much open 24/7, so if you need an early morning expresso drink (early meaning like 6:00am when most places are closed in Rome), San Calisto is the place to visit. San Calisto has a very locals vibe - I didn't see many tourists when I was there, which is a good thing. It's small, with about 30 seats outside. Outside seating is usually full (except for those early morning coffee visits) ... but that goes to show you the popularity of this place. Prices are the lowest I've seen in Rome! 0.80 euro for an expresso, 1 euro for a cappuccino, big Peroni beer (330ml) for 1.50 euros ... these prices cannot be beat. Although they are very busy, service was always spot on and friendly. They were patient with our orders and the payment "workflow" (pay first at the cashier, then bring your receipt to the bartender). Loved the vibe here ... I highly recommend visiting Bar San Calisto!

Floris V.

Yelp

Good place for your early evening aperitivo: great wine and good bites.

Mikee H.

Yelp

Grumpy behind the gelato bar. Did not know the procedure to order and pay or pay and order . Good gelato.

Kate B.

Yelp

Brilliant, cheap and very Italian. The grumpy old man at the till takes your money and your order and yells it across to the bar where you pick up your order. Bloody fantastic and makes you feel like you've really arrived in Rome.

Brendan C.

Yelp

I will describe this place as a legendary cheap hipster hang out in Trastevere. I use to work around the corner and would come here for an aperitivo, (spritz or Peroni) before or after work. Good amaros available including Gianamico di Abruzzo, my fav! While it's not on the Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere proper, but rather in the smaller Piazza San Calisto, the prices are cheaper because of this. Clientele is usually 20s-30s. Its a local hangout, and also has a local reputation as being divey. A lot of the local street people (barboni, pankabestia) hang out here. Good patio, though it's often a challenge to find a seat. At a busy hour the crowd will often overspill into the street. I don't know the specifics, but there is a city bylaw whereby at a certain time, glass bottles are not to be consumed outside of the patio area, and so a large bouncer dude will let you know in one way or another. There is one bathroom for everyone. Good luck with that after a few large Peroni.

Kathrin S.

Yelp

I use to go to this bar 13 years ago when I lived in Rome. I'm currently in Rome for 2 weeks and my apartment is around the corner from this place. I can say San Calisto has not changed in 13 years. This place is popluar and it was 13 years ago but I'm not sure why because there is no frills about this place. The great thing about San Calisto is the location in Trestevere and the relaxed atmosphere. This bar is ideal for a beer and a conversation with friends.

Steve M.

Yelp

Come here starting 21-06 around 9pm and you will be very suprised. The atmosphere you'll find and the great drinks you'll enjoy will never be forgotten.

Dipika P.

Yelp

Can't beat a glass of wine for 2 euros. Come early if you want a seat but I would recommend grabbing the glass and wandering around the streets just taking in all that Rome has to offer. Price can't be beat.

Sam C.

Yelp

Fun place in the evening...extremely casual....they usually have jazz outside.. also for a coffee in the morning. This "go back and repeat place," very social. Inexpensive.

Diane R.

Yelp

Bar San Calisto has been my neighborhood bar in Rome for over a decade. It's a family-owned and operated local favorite that draws an incredibly diverse, international crowd. Literally around the corner from Santa Maria in Trastevere, this unpretentious but perfect bar is a great place both for a morning coffee and cornetto and for an evening beer.

Hollina U.

Yelp

A glass of wine for 2 euros? You pay for your drink with the cashier at the door, then hand your receipt to the bartender and tell him what you want. So quick and efficient! Everybody hangs out outside in front of the bar. This is where you'll get a true Italian bar experience!

Rebecca S.

Yelp

Many locals drink Spritz and Beer here at night--it gets very crowded so you may have to share a table or stand. You can order a small or large Peroni--just get the large. Go big or go home, yeah?

Natasha B.

Yelp

This bar was apparently very popular in the 70's. I doubt it has changed much. It gets very crowded at night. When we went, there were no seats available, so we bought our "due Ceres" and walked over to the Piazza di Santa Maria to watch the street performers. Good prices and fun vibe.

Sean A.

Yelp

Excellent coffee. Real place not a tourist trap locals , kids, tourists I love this place

Giacomo Z.

Yelp

Famous bar where locals hang out for the cheapest drinks in Trastevere. Peroni gelata is a must.

Qype User (allano…)

Yelp

Just love this place. It's absolute amazing. You just have to see it. Lovely local people - lovely low beer-rates. Allan, Roskilde, Denmark

@infatuation

Bar San Calisto - Review - Trastevere - Rome - The Infatuation

https://www.theinfatuation.com/rome/reviews/bar-san-calisto

View Postcard for Bar San Calisto | Roma

@cntraveler

23 Best Bars in Rome

https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-bars-in-rome

View Postcard for Bar San Calisto | Roma

@searchingforstanley

Stanley and friend Claudia della Frattina visit one of their old spots sin Trastevere, where they enjoy espresso and get surprised with maritozzi - brioche-like buns filled with cream.

All the places in Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy - Rome

View Postcard for Bar San Calisto

John Chang

Google

Maria Luísa Miranda

Google

Eleanor M

Google

great no frills experience! seems to have a good mix of italians and tourists. nice staff and decently priced cappuccino for 1,20 €

Alexandra Ștefănescu

Google

Cheapest drinks in Trestavere & the place is full of great vibes! Chill atmosphere in an informal setting is a great way to keep the night going on Rome’s cobblestone streets

Alekszej Budarin

Google

evin kobatan

Google

I loved the spirit of the place! Aperol was delicious, also the coffee, and the croissant were very good for the price. It was a place where I had a very enjoyable time when i was at home.

Nikola Marković

Google

Cheap beer, fast service. The place has a great history! There is only one toilet and it is horrible. Dirty as hell.

Petros R.

Google

Kylie S.

Yelp

Komal R.

Yelp

Courtney P.

Yelp

Prudence T.

Yelp

Hannah M.

Yelp

Eric M.

Yelp

For te freddo con gelato al limone. (iced tea with lemon gelato). Quick service. Order first then pay.

pam ..

Yelp

I've never had breakfast there but it looks good. We did have appertivo . It was good and the place was busy so go early.

Michael W.

Yelp

Fred S.

Yelp

Excellent spot for an espresso, gelato, Danish, or cocktails. Simone is an excellent bartender, highly recommend. Located right on Piazza di San Calisto, in Trastevere, great spot.

Armand L.

Yelp

The expresso was amazing and the sweets all. I think I gained weight and was on coffee high for weeks lol

Jeff M.

Yelp

Misham H.

Yelp

Philip S.

Yelp

Maija J.

Yelp

Larissa W.

Yelp

Sydney S.

Yelp

Mike D.

Yelp

Madison I.

Yelp

Alex M.

Yelp

Floris V.

Yelp

Good place for your early evening aperitivo: great wine and good bites.

Mikee H.

Yelp

Grumpy behind the gelato bar. Did not know the procedure to order and pay or pay and order . Good gelato.

Kate B.

Yelp

Brendan C.

Yelp

Kathrin S.

Yelp

Steve M.

Yelp

Come here starting 21-06 around 9pm and you will be very suprised. The atmosphere you'll find and the great drinks you'll enjoy will never be forgotten.

Dipika P.

Yelp

Sam C.

Yelp

Fun place in the evening...extremely casual....they usually have jazz outside.. also for a coffee in the morning. This "go back and repeat place," very social. Inexpensive.

Diane R.

Yelp

Hollina U.

Yelp

Rebecca S.

Yelp

Many locals drink Spritz and Beer here at night--it gets very crowded so you may have to share a table or stand. You can order a small or large Peroni--just get the large. Go big or go home, yeah?

Natasha B.

Yelp

Sean A.

Yelp

Excellent coffee. Real place not a tourist trap locals , kids, tourists I love this place

Giacomo Z.

Yelp

Famous bar where locals hang out for the cheapest drinks in Trastevere. Peroni gelata is a must.

Qype User (allano…)

Yelp

Just love this place. It's absolute amazing. You just have to see it. Lovely local people - lovely low beer-rates. Allan, Roskilde, Denmark

Bar San Calisto | Roma

Photos

Highlights

Postcards

Bar San Calisto - Review - Trastevere - Rome - The Infatuation

23 Best Bars in Rome

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Bar San Calisto - Review - Trastevere - Rome - The Infatuation

23 Best Bars in Rome