Accomodation Recommendations

Hi folks, irish man here,, looking for help here in what is a flooded market. So so many places to stay. I am going with my 14 year old son, for 3 nights, who is interested in Roman history at the end of February. I have a place booked but it looks like it's kind of in a dodgy enough area, quiet looking and not far from the colloseum, lots of graffiti. I'd rather a place somewhere that's maybe more central, safer and maybe busier in that we could wander around later in the evening when the sites have been seen during the day. I'd rather not spend more than 500 quid I'm total but willing to spend a bit more if worth it. Anyway would appreciate a recommendation or two. Cheers