A visit to Rome, the Eternal City, appears on many a bucket list, and for good reason. It has been a world-class destination since the Middle Ages. Back then, pilgrims journeyed to Rome as the center of Catholicism. Today, travelers flock to this vibrant city to enjoy the rich cultural heritage, awe-inspiring ancient sites, and world-renowned art. Of course the food and fashion are major draws, too.
On vacation in Rome, your hotel can be an attraction all in itself. Many exist in old mansions, villas, or palazzi and are simply packed with history. Others are chic and modern. Whether you choose a hotel or B&B, your lodging experience in Rome is sure to make you feel like royalty.
Rome’s Exciting Neighborhoods
You will surely want to explore the whole city during your stay, but you might want to choose your lodging based on nearby attractions and amenities.
Spanish Steps
This area encompasses Rome’s shopping district and is one of the most central locations to stay. A conveniently located Metro stop makes travel around the city easy, and you’ll be within walking distance to the Pantheon. The area tends to quiet down at night, though people do hang out on the Spanish Steps both day and night.
Piazza Navona and the Pantheon
No visit to Rome is complete with an exploration of the Pantheon and its grand Corinthian columns. But that’s not all this neighborhood has to offer. You’ll enjoy expansive piazzas, baroque fountains, and intricately constructed churches along with trendy bars, shops, and restaurants.
Trastevere
For a peaceful neighborhood that is somewhat off the beaten path, consider Trastevere on the right bank of the Tiber. It is packed with attractive alleyways and ancient churches, but fewer hotels and therefore fewer tourists.
Monti
This hip Rome neighborhood packs an incredible variety of upscale eateries and bars into its narrow warren of streets and alleyways. One of the oldest residential areas in the city, it has a bohemian vibe that invites people to gather and wander. Make time to traverse the steep lane (at first Via Tor de’ Conti and later Salita del Grillo) that offers stunning views of the Roman Forum.
Unforgettable Lodging in Rome
The historic hotels in Rome are half the fun of your visit. Choose from the following six or use them as a jumping off point in your research.
JK Place Roma
For a true hideaway experience, you’ll love the JK Place, accessed through a discreet door on the Via di Monte d’Oro. The art deco décor carries through the massive foyer, glamorous JK Café, and into the stunning four-poster bedrooms.
Every room features Carrara marble bathrooms along with modern amenities such as free wifi, sports and movie channels, and a thumping Bose sound system. Located near the Spanish Steps, you will be able to shop, eat, and sightsee to your heart’s content then meander home for a quick nap before setting out again.
Hassler
A true luxury experience, the Hassler hotel is situated at the top of the Spanish Steps. Its deluxe glory is aging but charming, with polished marble and sparkling chandeliers everywhere you look. It is all carefully maintained by the dedicated and attentive staff that will stop at nothing to make you feel comfortable.
The Hassler features 92 rooms and a luxurious spa, Michelin-starred restaurant, and multiple bars. But the crown jewel is the sweeping city view that you simply can’t get anywhere else. You’ll never tire of gazing out over the Spanish Steps and rooftops of Rome.
Hotel Sole al Pantheon
History comes alive at the Hotel Sole al Pantheon, the oldest hotel in Europe, dating back to the 15th century. There are 32 rooms that have all been fully restored with freshly tiled floors and lovely frescoes. Every bathroom has a relaxing whirlpool bath, too.
Front-facing rooms feature beautiful views of the Pantheon, but if you can’t snag one of those, you can still enjoy breakfast on the vibrant rooftop terrace.
Villa Spalletti Trivelli
Live the aristocratic life at the Villa Spalletti Trivelli, a regal old family home turned sumptuous 12-room hotel. Some of the larger rooms connect and can be reserved as immense suites, and across the expansive garden are two more suites with beautiful private terraces. Located in the trendy Monti neighborhood, you’ll love the views across the park of the Quirinale Palace.
Enjoy breakfast or aperitivi in that lovely formal garden and get pampered in the basement spa. There is even a chef on staff who can make you a special meal on request. And when you’re ready to explore the incredible history of the spot, settle into the historic library for a few hours.
Hotel Santa Maria
History comes alive at the Hotel Santa Maria, located on the site of a 16th-century convent. There are 19 rooms arranged around a lovely central courtyard full of fragrant orange trees. Each room opens onto the courtyard for a communal experience with your fellow guests. The bedrooms are cheery with colorful décor and spacious bathrooms.
As an off-the-beaten-path neighborhood, Trastevere just begs to be explored. The hotel makes it easy with complimentary bicycles provided for navigating the winding alleys.
Crossing Condotti
This lovely little hideaway is close to the Spanish Steps as well as upscale shopping at the likes of Prada and Bulgari. It is decorated with gorgeous antiques placed against a contemporary background, and the staff is reportedly gracious and helpful.
But with just eight rooms, you might need to wait for a reservation. This diminutive lodging facility is also somewhat short on common gathering spaces, with just one kitchenette stocked with coffee and free sodas. Still, Crossing Condotti is centrally located and a great jumping off place for sight-seeing all over the city.
Conclusion
Whether you stay in the heart of the city or deeper in one of the historic neighborhoods, there is so much to see and learn in Rome. Choose lodging based on your particular priorities, whether it is sightseeing, shopping, or just relaxing in a beautiful atmosphere. There is no shortage of choices, but remember that Rome is incredibly popular with visitors and book your hotel early!