The Best Hotels to Book in Rome, Italy

When it comes to a weekend break, Rome offers plenty of top hotels. From its strategic location in Centro Storico, Hotel de Russie has hosted Hollywood A-listers, writers, politicians and sports stars. The rooms blend modern design with classical architecture and were decorated by hotelier Olga Polizzi. One of the newest rooms is the Picasso suite, dedicated to the artist who stayed there for three months in 1917. As well as Picasso-inspired furnishings, it features an opulent, Italian marble bathroom and has a view of the secret garden courtyard – home to the famous Stravinskij Bar, a spectacular spot for dinner or drinks.

One of the most prestigious hotels in Rome, the Hassler celebrated its 125th anniversary in 2018. Book here for the magical views of the city from the top of the Spanish Steps, for the sophisticated style of the suites and for the impeccable service, which is surprisingly warm for a five-star hotel. The facilities are first-rate and include the Rossano Ferretti Hair Salon, the Amorvero Spa, the Michelin-star Imàgo restaurant and the elegant Hassler Bar – where Princess Diana supposedly described the house bellini as the best ever.

Between the Pantheon and the Trevi Fountain, 9Hotel Cesari occupies some of the most exclusive real estate in Rome. Not only are the most famous city attractions within easy reach, but just steps away are the stunning Piazza di Pietra and the atmospheric Temple of Hadrian. The rooftop bar, the Terrazza del Cesàri, is the real highlight, though – both the cocktails and the view of the piazza below are outstanding.

Owned by the Ferragamo family and situated above their eponymous store on the high-end fashion street in Rome, Via Condotti, Portrait feels more like an exclusive townhouse than a hotel. It comprises 14 exquisite suites, designed by contemporary Florentine architect Michele Bönan and features subtle tie-ins to the fashion powerhouse – photographs from the company archives line the walls and original shoe designs are on display in glass cases. Attentive service comes courtesy of a dedicated “lifestyle team”. There is no restaurant here, but the hotel does have stunning panoramic views from the private rooftop terrace.

When the Spagna Royal Suite says it offers “unique experiences in the heart of Rome”, it’s not kidding. For example, the deluxe double room has a glittering mosaic bathtub in the shape of a shoe. The Instagram-worthy decor continues throughout this hotel in Rome, with classical-style statues, plush velvet fabrics and four-poster beds. Even the walls come in a variety of colours and textures – from wooden to mirrored to covered in vertical gardens, all of which contribute to a very fancy feel.

Just like the Monti neighbourhood in which lies, the Fifteen Keys is effortlessly cool. Converted to a hotel in 2015, this five-storey palazzo comprises 15 rooms decked out with modern, minimalist furnishings that quietly hint at 1950s Italian glamour. The elegance continues in the bar, which features sumptuous Chesterfield sofas and is open around the clock. A generous buffet takes place in the gorgeously retro breakfast room and extends into the leafy courtyard in warmer months. Vintage-style Dudebikes are also available for guests to use free of charge.

Atop Monte Mario, the Rome Cavalieri affords a commanding view of the city. The opulent interiors are filled with more than 1,000 paintings, sculptures and antique tapestries, and the traditionally styled rooms are equally luxurious (even the complimentary toiletries are Salvatore Ferragamo branded). The location is a little far from the main sights, but there’s plenty to do here. You can enjoy a treatment in the luxury spa, take a dip in one of four swimming pools and dine at the outstanding restaurant, La Pergola, which has been awarded three Michelin stars.

Originally a 17th-century monastery built by baroque master Borromini, the Donna Camilla Savelli is packed with history. The 78 rooms, where nuns once slept, are characterised by vaulted ceilings, rich fabrics and antique furniture. The neatly spruced cloister has been repurposed as a breakfast area, while the 700-year-old dining room now provides a historical backdrop to weddings and conferences. Tucked into the Janiculum Hill, this hotel in Rome is a refuge of tranquillity while still only being a short walk from the action of Trastevere.

A thoroughly modern place to stay in an ancient city, Hotel Ripa is made up of almost 200 rooms decorated with quirky design details. The most expensive, the Borromini suite, is adorned with wall-to-ceiling images of the masterpieces by architect Francesco Borromini, as well as playful, moulded plastic and sleek, cut-glass furniture. The location, in a modern residential area, might not seem the most picturesque, but the hotel is conveniently placed to see all the main sights. Also, the lower demand for real estate here means rooms are generally more spacious than they are in the heart of the city.