Revel With Romans: 9 Best Live Music Venues In Rome, Italy

1. Big Mama: mecca for Roman blues lovers!

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Since 1984, Big Mama has been the premiere spot for cool jazzy tunes. Offering 200 blues, rock, jazz, and ethnic concerts annually, the pub-like setting accommodates 150 patrons, yet is cozy and maintains an intimate feel. A showcase for up-and-coming talent, many performers at Big Mama have gone on to great success in Italy and around the world. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the legendary Roman jazz club experience of Big Mama.

Big Mama

Address: Vicolo di S. Francesco a Ripa, 18, 00153 Roma RM, Italy

Website: Big Mama

2. Diverse music is the name of the game at Fonclea!

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Situated near Vatican City, Fonclea has emerged as a strong presence on Rome’s live music scene. Comprised of two basement rooms, Fonclea provides one space dedicated to live music performances, and for those looking for something slower paced, a second area is available to enjoy good conversation, a pint of your favorite lager, and eat some good grub. With a consistently exciting program that features a daily dose of diverse musical acts, such as rock, bluegrass, jazz, Latin-American and folk, Fonclea keeps music-seekers content.

Fonclea

Address: Via Crescenzio, 82/a, 00193 Roma RM, Italy

Website: Fonclea (in Italian)

3. Antica Biblioteca Valle: classic Roman hot spot

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In close proximity to the Pantheon and the popular Piazza Navona, Antica Biblioteca Valle has become a beloved institution in Rome. Considered the focal point for the “Dolce Vita” lifestyle of the 1960s, Antica Biblioteca Valle regularly attracted Hollywood types, such as famous actors and high-powered directors, in its heyday. Though still residing in its original historical building, Antica Biblioteca Valle now boasts a more modern atmosphere with wonderful live piano music.

Antica Biblioteca Valle

Address: Largo del Teatro Valle, 9, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

Website: Antica Biblioteca Valle

4. Beba do Samba: Latin vibes in the Eternal City

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A local-style Brazilian establishment, Beba do Samba offers various live music events with its focus on a diverse slate of talented artists. From jazz and blues to ethnic and local Italian songwriters, Beba do Samba showcases musical performances for those with a preference for bold, broad and eclectic tunes. Skillfully-made signature cocktails prepared with first-rate fresh ingredients are also on hand at Beba do Samba.

Beba do Samba

Address: Via de Messapi, 8, 00185 Roma RM, Italy

Website: Beba do Samba (in Italian)

5. Hard-rock lovers head to Blackout Rock Club

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Consisting of two massive rooms, an outdoor garden, and four separate bars, Blackout Rock Club has everyone who enters covered when it comes to a memorable night of top-notch live music. Only open for scheduled concerts and private parties, Blackout Rock Club hosts events that emphasize rock music and tribute bands of the same ilk. So if you’re a heavy metal addict, Blackout Rock Club is your piece of heaven.

Blackout Rock Club

Address: Via Anagnina 3, 00173 Roma RM, Italy

Website: Blackout Rock Club (in Italian)

6. So chill is the feeling at ConteStaccio

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Best known for its free live music, ConteStaccio, in the Testaccio district, offers music from emerging talent that touches on all genres from indie and rock to funk and acoustic. A multi-purpose venue, ConteStaccio provides a cocktail bar, restaurant, and pizzeria. Live music begins at 11 pm and ConteStaccio’s al fresco terrace is a charming and inviting setting, with wooden stools spread over a flight of steps. Listen and groove to the live music and relish the unique Roman atmosphere.

ConteStaccio

Address: Via di Monte Testaccio, 65, 00153 Roma RM, Italy

Website: ConteStaccio (in Italian)

7. Lian Club: the ultimate boat bash!

Lian Club offers a very unique live music experience. Anchored on the Tiber River, near ponte Cavour, Lian Club offers patrons the opportunity to let loose at Rome’s premiere boat party. Surround yourself with great music, tasty food, and delectable drinks on this one-of-a-kind music event escapade. Lian Club enjoys a great deal of repeat business. And why not. With a lively, fun, and unusual atmosphere, great music, and attentive bartenders, who are more than ready to keep the spirits flowing, Lian Club is the place to be.

Lian Club

Address: Lungotevere dei Mellini, 7, 00196 Roma RM, Italy

Website: Lian Club (in Italian)

8. Gregory's Jazz Club: a gem on the jazz scene!

A slice of heaven for jazz purists, Gregory’s Jazz Club is located in the heart of Rome near the top of the Spanish Steps. While it might be easily overlooked because of its location, it won’t be easily forgotten. With a sophisticated old-school flair that features velvet couches and wood paneling, Gregory’s Jazz Club is a cozy and intimate environment. Some of the best swing and jazz bands in Rome have played at Gregory’s Jazz Club. Reservations are strongly encouraged as the actual performance area is upstairs and seating is limited.

Gregory's Jazz Club

Address: Via Gregoriana, 54/a, 00187 Roma RM, Italy

Website: Gregory’s Jazz Club

9. Cotton Club: jazzy 1930s New York vibe!

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With blousey white cloths adorning the round tables and the chairs and eye-catching ornate curtains hanging from the walls, Cotton Club is definitely an homage to the historic New York City club of the same name. Opening its doors in 2005, the Cotton Club’s retro atmosphere provides a liveliness that surely is an embodiment of the original establishment of the 1930s, sans the U.S. Prohibition laws. Highlighting the Cotton Club’s freewheeling attitude are a free buffet of finger foods and original hand-crafted cocktails.

Cotton Club

Address: Via Bellinzona, 2, 00198 Roma RM, Italy

Website: Cotton Club

Rome...music to your ears

Rome’s live music scene is vibrant and alive. It is just what you’d expect from Italy’s bustling capitol. With a large array of choices from jazz to rock to Latin rhythms, Rome lives up to its promise of displaying a captivating, magical, and enticing experience for travelers who visit. So when in Rome, don’t be surprised the Eternal City offers some live music in tune with your tastes. The city may even sway you to something new.