In the heart of Italy’s capital, gelato is more than just a summertime indulgence—it’s a way of life. From time-honoured family parlours to experimental artisans redefining what frozen dessert can be, the Eternal City serves up countless ways to cool down and savour flavour. Whether you’re strolling near the Spanish Steps or exploring the backstreets of Testaccio, here are the best gelaterie to visit in Rome this summer.
What makes gelato different?
Before diving into the scoops, it’s worth understanding what sets gelato apart from regular ice cream. Although both are made from similar core ingredients—milk, cream, sugar, and flavourings—gelato contains more milk and less cream, meaning it typically has a lower fat content. It’s also churned more slowly, incorporating less air, which makes for a denser and silkier texture.
Perhaps most crucially, gelato is served at a slightly warmer temperature than ice cream, allowing its flavours to emerge more intensely. The result is a smooth, vivid, and deeply satisfying treat that captures the essence of its ingredients—whether that’s a perfectly ripe fig or a robust roasted hazelnut.
Gelateria Fassi: A Roman classic
Founded in 1880, Gelateria Fassi is one of the oldest and most beloved gelato parlours in Rome. Located in the multicultural Esquilino neighbourhood, this family-run shop is a slice of the city’s history. Its nostalgic decor and community feel make it a favourite among locals, though curious tourists often find their way in too.
What sets Fassi apart is its dedication to tradition and quality. You’ll find all the classics—zabaglione, pistachio, stracciatella—alongside signature creations like the sanpietrino, a chocolate-coated semifreddo dessert named after the cobblestones that line many Roman streets. For an extra indulgence, try your gelato served in a warm Sicilian-style brioche bun. Two scoops start at just €1.80—a true Roman bargain.
Otaleg: Where flavour gets flipped
Don’t let the quirky name throw you—Otaleg (that’s ‘gelato’ spelled backward) is one of the most exciting modern gelaterie in Rome. Hidden in the winding alleys of Trastevere, this shop has gained a cult following for its innovative approach and devotion to quality ingredients.
While the classics here are expertly done, Otaleg’s adventurous flavours are what truly set it apart. Think mustard-laced white chocolate, tomato and Calabrian sausage (‘nduja), or loquat and sour cherry sorbets depending on the season. It’s a small space with big ideas, and for €2.00 you’ll walk away with a scoop unlike anything you’ve tried before.
Ciampini: Gelato with a side of elegance
For those craving their gelato with a bit of refinement, Ciampini is the place to be. Just steps from the Spanish Steps and perched on the edge of the charming Piazza di San Lorenzo in Lucina, this cafe-bar-gelateria hybrid has been serving since 1943.
Enjoy a gelato while people-watching on the piazza, or pair it with an aperitivo inside the chic lounge. The raspberry-Nutella combination is a customer favourite, while the cioccolato is rich and intense. Made from organic milk and eggs, every flavour here is crafted with care and served with a touch of class. Two scoops come in at €2.50—not bad for one of Rome’s most upscale neighbourhoods.
Gelateria dell’Angeletto: A Monti gem
After a tour of the Colosseum, head north to Monti, one of Rome’s most atmospheric neighbourhoods, for a sweet reward. Gelateria dell’Angeletto is a cosy, renovated shop that’s earned a loyal following thanks to its focus on artisanal, high-quality gelato made with natural ingredients.
Here, seasonal fruit flavours rotate throughout the year, and there’s a solid range of lactose-free and vegan options—including a vegan Nutella that has become a cult favourite in its own right. The shop may be small, but the scoops are generous: three flavours for just €2.50.
Günther: Where gelato becomes gourmet
A relative newcomer to Rome’s gelato scene, Günther Rohregger’s gelaterie are redefining what “gourmet” means when it comes to frozen treats. With three sleek locations in central Rome, this South Tyrolean master focuses on pristine ingredients and technical perfection.
The Alpine mugo pine flavour is a must-try for adventurous palates, while fruit sorbets are made with fresh, seasonal produce and pure spring water. Each element, from the milk to the pistachios, is ethically sourced and expertly handled. Prices are a bit higher (starting at €3.50 for two scoops), but this is gelato elevated to an art form.
Brivido: Testaccio’s traditional treasure
Tucked away in Rome’s historic Testaccio neighbourhood, Brivido is an old-school gem with a fiercely local spirit. Since 1986, it has been quietly perfecting the craft of gelato using only natural ingredients and small-batch methods.
There are no flashy signs or gimmicks here—just creamy, delicious gelato made the old-fashioned way. Expect familiar Italian dessert flavours alongside creative takes like ricotta with lemon zest or almond with fig jam. If you’re in the mood for indulgence, have your cone dipped in warm melted chocolate for an extra treat. Two scoops go for €2.50, and the quality is impeccable.
The perfect scoop awaits
Whether you’re in the mood for timeless tradition or bold new flavours, Rome has a gelateria to match. From the bustling boulevards to quiet side streets, gelato in the Eternal City is more than just a snack—it’s a ritual, a respite, and a reminder to slow down and savour the moment. So next time you find yourself under the Roman sun, take a detour for a scoop—or three. The best gelato in the world might just be a few cobblestones away.
