If you're looking to stay in a less-touristy location from which the city's sites are all still accessible I could not recommend Pigneto more highly. Rome's 'alternative' neighbourhood, while rich in fresh food markets, cafes and the odd forno during the day, really comes alive at night as the artsy crowd of Rome flock to the bars, eateries and music venues that the area has to offer. I had a fantastic experience staying here
Ezio was a super host: welcoming, sociable and equipped with all the local knowledge you could need. I also met and had dinner with a fair few of his social crowd so by the end it was more like staying with friends than a host. If I weren't looking for a place to rent long term here I'd return in a heartbeat. Can highly recommend!