The 10 Best Hotels in San Giovanni, Rome
San Giovanni is one of Rome’s best-kept secrets. This gorgeous area south of the historic centre and Termini station keeps things authentic, and savvy travellers are starting to take notice. From historic stays in medieval monasteries to luxury hotels in the authentic residential streets, here’s our pick of the best hotels.
Hotel Re Di Roma
Hotel
Located steps away from the Re Di Roma metro stop, Hotel Re Di Roma offers bucketloads of Italian charm in a quiet corner of the city. Striking a serene balance between luxurious design and friendly service, the hotel boasts 38 rooms with African hardwood floors, antique furnishings and cosy golden-coloured walls lit by soft lamps. Included in the nightly rate is the buffet breakfast, featuring fresh fruit, pastries, toasts and cereals. The Colosseum is a leisurely 25-minute stroll away.
Hotel San Giovanni Roma
Hotel
Situated outside the ancient Aurelian walls that once contained Rome, Hotel San Giovanni Roma occupies a beautiful former monastery. You wouldn’t know it though; the renovated rooms feature plush beds, colourfully painted headboards, hanging designer lights and spacious bathrooms. Common areas are homey, with Ottoman rugs and more paintings, while the breakfast room (serving all the continental classics) is bright and airy. Minutes away is Villa Celimontana, a tranquil park with the Colosseum beckoning on the other side.
Hotel Tuscolana
Hotel
Situated a five-minute walk from the Tuscolana train station (connected directly with the airport), the upmarket Hotel Tuscolana celebrates all things Rome. The warm rooms feature golden-hued colour schemes, stately wooden furnishings, lavish curtains and freshly cut flowers adorning antique desks. Breakfast is a veritable feast, with everything from fresh eggs to local pastries, but the star of the show is the hotel’s homemade cakes. Nearby, Ponte Lungo metro station whisks travellers into the city centre in a couple of stops where you’ll find the Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano.
Hotel Cilicia
Hotel
Staying at Hotel Cilicia is the closest you’ll get to feel like an ancient Roman emperor. The lodging is home to 62 luxurious and elegant guest rooms, all decorated with soft royal-blue carpets, regal furnishings, and palatial sheets. The hotel restaurant serves a lavish continental breakfast before turning into an à la carte restaurant in the evening, complete with al fresco dining. Located on the edge of the serene Caffarella Park, easily accessible is Catacombe di San Callisto – the biggest catacombs in the city.
Hotel Appia 442
Hotel
This classic hotel sits in the middle of San Giovanni directly opposite Furio Camillo metro station. Swish wallpapers with floral patterns and eye-catching Turkish rugs decorate the modest rooms, some of which come with their own private balcony. Surrounded by countless cafés and restaurants, the welcoming owner Sandra will happily point you towards the best of the area, while in the mornings she serves up a delicious continental breakfast. Situated close to Parco Della Caffarella, Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano and the Colosseum, this hotel is suitable for those looking for a more personal touch.
Best Western CineMusic Hotel
Hotel
This Best Western hotel is themed around Italian film and music, with a contemporary interior paying homage to the country’s biggest stars. Pictures of celebrities hang on the walls, while the interior features vintage designer furniture and some zany features like a staircase leading to a patch of astroturf. The roof terrace lets you channel your inner superstar with a lovely hot tub, as does the hotel’s cocktail bar. A rich continental breakfast is served on the top floor. Attractions like the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and Piazza Venezia are all within close distance.
Romoli Hotel
Hotel
The location of the affordable Romoli Hotel overlooking Caffarella Park is ideal if you’re after a peaceful stay in Rome. The room interiors are minimalist but comfortable, with cherrywood furnishings and a few paintings being the only decoration – but it keeps the prices down. Families will love the larger triple and quadruple rooms, each with a private balcony. A breakfast of cereals, yoghurts, freshly baked bread and pastries is served on the rooftop terrace. The Baths of Caracalla, the Colosseum and the Circus Maximus are just some of the attractions that are within easy reach.
Eurostars Hotel Saint John
Hotel
Ultra-modern, comfortable and sleek, Eurostars Hotel Saint John is a great option for tourists on the hunt for a more upmarket lodging. The elegant rooms are spacious, featuring all the modern amenities expected of a 4-star hotel like fluffy robes, luxurious bathrooms and comfy mattresses – there’s even a hot tub on the roof. Breakfast is just as good, with a full selection of hot breakfast favourites, while Rome’s most famous attractions, such as the Colosseum, Piazza Venezia and the Roman Forum, are practically on your doorstep.
Domus Sessoriana
Budget Hotel
Attached to the Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem, Domus Sessoriana is a simple, no-frills hotel. Being a former monastery, the rooms are simple but comfortable; perfect at the end of a long day of exploring. The historic atmosphere that pervades the entire premises is charming, and you can spend your downtime enjoying the expansive views from the rooftop terrace. A breakfast of cereals, pastries and cold cuts is served in the dining room. The Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, dating back to 324 AD is the area’s most famous attraction, but you also have the Colosseum and Roman Forum nearby.
Best Western Hotel President
Hotel
This chain hotel offers a dash of luxury and style on the borders of San Giovanni and Esquilino. Rooms are indeed presidential, with gold-trim furnishings, king-size beds and access to smartphones loaded with travel information about Rome. Some 192 guest rooms are available, catering to all types of travellers, including families with kids. The Colosseum is a 15-minute walk away, helping you burn some calories after the extensive breakfast buffet featuring all of the favourites and plenty of Italian classics.