20 Boutique Hotels You Must Stay In While Exploring Rome
Trying to decide where to stay in Rome? As with any major destination, there are hotels here to meet all tastes – and, indeed, all subcategories of all tastes.
Rome, the eternal city, is one of the most fascinating and enchanting destinations in the world.
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Its ancient ruins, awe-inspiring architecture, art, and food are just a few of the reasons why Rome remains a popular destination for tourists.
When it comes to luxury hotels in Rome, the city has plenty to offer. In this article, we will explore some of the best luxury hotels in Rome and the best areas to stay in Rome.
With that in mind, I’ve put together a great selection of five and four-star hotels in Rome, from large to small, from modern to traditional, and from franchise to family run so that you can have an unforgettable holiday.
Staying in the heart of downtown Rome means that you are just a stone’s throw away from some of the most famous landmarks in the world. The Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Pantheon, and the Trevi Fountain are all within walking distance of each other.
The Vatican City, with its stunning St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, is also just a short bus or metro ride away.
By staying in the heart of downtown Rome, you will have easy access to all these iconic landmarks, and you’ll be able to take in the history and culture of the city without ever having to venture too far.
But it’s not just about the famous landmarks. Staying in the heart of downtown Rome means that you’ll be able to experience the real heart and soul of the city.
You’ll be able to explore the winding alleys and narrow streets of the city, discovering hidden gems and local haunts that you might have otherwise missed.
You’ll be able to taste the true flavors of Italian cuisine, from pizza to pasta to gelato, and you’ll be able to do it all in a truly authentic setting.
The best neighborhoods in Rome offer quaint coffee and gelato shops, cobblestoned streets, and cafes that will make you fall in love over and over again.
And if you’re worried about the crowds and the noise, fear not. While downtown Rome can certainly be busy and bustling, there are plenty of quiet corners and peaceful piazzas to explore.
You can escape the crowds and enjoy a coffee or a glass of wine in a charming outdoor cafe, or simply take a stroll through one of the many parks and gardens that dot the city.
It doesn’t matter if you are traveling to Rome for your anniversary, or honeymoon, exploring Rome with the kiddos, or just to feast on some of Italy’s amazing pasta, and gelato, or explore the Colosseum and other ancient ruins.
Trying to figure out the best place to stay in Rome can be challenging because the city is inundated with tourists and most hotels are overpriced.
I have taken the guesswork out of the best area to stay in Rome. My guide to Rome will cover the following:
- Where to stay in Rome
- Best Hotels in Rome City Centre
- The best neighborhood in Rome
- What to see and do within each neighborhood in Rome
- How To Stay Safe in Rome
Best Hotels in Rome City Centre
The historic center of Rome is the perfect place to stay for anyone who wants to be close to the city’s main attractions.
The neighborhood is home to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Pantheon, and other iconic landmarks. The historic center is also home to some of the city’s best restaurants, cafes, and bars.
Best Hotels in Rome, Italy
The best hotels in Rome, chosen by yours truly, including luxury hotels, boutique hotels, budget hotels and Rome hotel deals. Read the reviews and book your reservation today.
Corso 281 Luxury Suites - Suite Hotel Rome - Holiday Apartments in Rome
Set in an 18th-century palace, Corso 281 Luxury Suites is a contemporary home away from home with apartment-style suites and a killer location on Rome’s main shopping street, a 15-minute walk from the Colosseum. Designed by Milanese architects Caberlon Caroppi, the property features just 12 sleek guestrooms, which are decked out with parquet floors, monochromatic furnishings and graphic print linens. All come with Nespresso coffee machines and Bulgari toiletries in the modern marble bathrooms.
Check Prices for Corso 281
Hotel Kolbe Rome™
Postmodern meets post-medieval. Rooms feature soaring 15th-century arches and exposed brick walls, but the overall interior design — from the airy bilevel suites to the mod leather couches and plasma TVs in the lobby — tips the balance toward a decidedly contemporary vibe. Both public and private spaces inspire a sense of relaxation and reflection, fitting for a location next door to a working Franciscan friary.
Rome Times Hotel
For those particular customers who like to start their vacation by booking a wonderful design hotel, Rome offers one of the pearls of the Mood Hotels Group: located in the heart of the capital, between the Termini Station and the Quirinale, the Times Hotel Rome is a charming place in which enjoy a dream holiday in an environment of extraordinary elegance.
Check Prices for Romes Times Hotel
Home - CASACAU - Apartments at Trevi Fountain in Rome
On the upper floors of a 17th-century building near the Trevi Fountain, owner (and restaurateur) Pino Cau fixed up five apartments to suit different tastes. Prefer some color? The pastel suite features a replica of an ancient garden fresco. Is industrial-chic more to your liking? Suite Six features a cement dining table and a balcony accessed via a wardrobe. Used to more luxury? Suite Four has its own Turkish bath and view of the piazza. And what this pied-a-terre lacks in TVs, it makes up for in the food department.
Check Prices for Casacau
Portrait Roma - 5 star hotel Rome
The Ferragamo family has left an indelible mark on the Eternal City—first, with their timeless fashion designs beloved by celebrities the world over, and now, with one of the city’s most stylish hotels. Despite sitting right on Via Condotti, within spitting distance of the Spanish Steps, Portrait Roma feels far removed from the city center.
Check Prices for Portrait Roma
Hotel Eden
This 1889 grande dame, from the Dorchester Collection, just underwent a massive revamp. Its 121 rooms were reduced to 98, so you can expect more room to spread out while still enjoying the same old-world ambiance it became famous for—albeit with added details like Murano lamps, marble baths, and too-good-not-to-pocket toiletries by Bottega Veneta. Two other additions we love: the spa, whose treatments incorporate products from cult Florentine label Officina Profumo–Santa Maria Novella (in business since 1612), and La Libreria, its gilded lounge awash with velvet seats and frescoed walls that conceal a secret piano bar.
Check Prices for Hotel Eden RomeRome Glam Hotel - Official Website - Design Hotel Rome
While we can’t guarantee Audrey Hepburn on this Roman holiday, we can promise modern minimalist design overlooking Rome’s historic streets. Old meets new to blockbuster effect here at the brand-new Rome Glam Hotel, thanks to its cool interior design within walking distance of the Trevi Fountain. Taking its name seriously, these digs are as stylish as their neighbors on the gallery- and boutique-packed streets of Rome’s charming Monti.
Aldrovandi - Aldrovandi Villa Borghese, 5 star hotel Rome near Villa Borghese
In the Eternal City’s exclusive Parioli neighborhood, Aldrovandi Villa Borghese is a palatial retreat that feels a world apart from the crowd-packed piazzas of the Italian capital. Originally a convent, built in the late 19th century, and later a school for wealthy girls, this grand four-story villa is packed full of fancy furnishings and Italian bling. The marble-clad lobby showcases a shimmering chandelier, giant wall tapestries, antique chairs and an intimate piano bar.
Aleph Rome Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton
A powerful pastiche. In the ground-floor lobby, bar, reception area and breakfast room, black marble floors, cherrywood-paneled walls, scarlet accents and ornately carved and luxuriously upholstered furniture give off a vibe that simultaneously recalls the imperial periods of Rome, France, China and Japan. Upstairs, in the guestrooms and suites, a more maritime, Art Deco look reveals itself, with a blue-and-white color scheme, light wood paneling and such details as nickel-plated hardware, bevel-edged mirrors and Murano glass lighting.
Palazzo Naiadi, The Dedica Anthology, Autograph Collection
Neoclassical grandeur. Housed in a dramatically curved 19th-century travertine edifice overlooking central Rome’s circular Piazza della Repubblica, the Exedra welcomes guests through its front arcade and a pair of revolving doors. Inside, a soaring cream-colored lobby showcases intricate plaster moldings and a white grand piano. Up the brass-doored elevators, the 238 guestrooms are classically decorated in warm shades of brown, cream and gold; some of them are in a 15th-century annex, where exposed wooden ceiling beams and a terra-cotta-tile roof suggest its history as a papal granary.
Welcome to Relais Orso - Relais Orso
Rumor has it this 17th-century townhouse was once a holding facility for the enemies of the Catholic church. But all that dark and dusty history has been well and truly zapped thanks to the hotel’s bold design, stark décor, and hip hangouts. Thankfully, all this no-frills minimalism perfectly balances the dip and sway of the ancient cobbled streets around picture-perfect Piazza Navona. In guest rooms, distressed concrete and bare brick walls are complemented by rich, dark wood paneling, timber flooring, and ingenious recessed lighting.
Piazza di Spagna 9
It may have only opened in spring 2012, but the roots of the Gran Meliá Rome go back centuries. In the 1st and 2nd centuries AD, this sprawling site, near the banks of the Tiber River, was home to Villa Agrippina, residence of Emperor Nero’s mother. During the Meliá’s extensive excavation, numerous relics and archeological remains were discovered, many of which are displayed today throughout the hotel. Despite the unique historical ties, the flagship property is at its heart thoroughly modern; from its state-of-the-art spa and outdoor pool to its upscale restaurant helmed by a two-Michelin-star chef.
Rome Life Hotel
Within a 10-minute stroll of both the Trevi Fountain and the Colosseum, this chic 45-room boutique is perfectly placed for an authentic Roman holiday. The building may date from 1900, but inside, the public spaces are modern and minimalist and bring together statement pieces (checkered footstools, contemporary armchairs) with softly curved doorways and eggplant feature walls. The grown-up guestrooms feature plump pillows atop hypoallergenic beds, and the mosaic-tiled bathrooms come with square rainfall showers or tubs.
St. Regis Rome
The St. Regis’ Roman outpost is chic, romantic and timeless. Think regal timber and marble paneling, soft Italian leathers of every shade and grand antique mirrors and chandeliers alongside modern linens and furnishings. The brilliant original frescoes, contemporary artworks by Ubaldo Bartolini and Paolo Fiorentino and fabulous views of the ancient city make this one of Rome’s most over-the-top stays.
The Corner Rome
The Corner Rome is fabulous for proximity to bars, restaurants, and transport links to all the major sites. A 10-minute walk from The Corner Rome is the legendary Colosseum and ten minutes more and you reach the ruins of the Roman Forum, a little more and you find the Trevi Fountain.
The Vatican City is a little farther — you can take the metro from Manzoni, a short way from the hotel. After all that sightseeing you deserve a gelato. Try Il Gelato di San Crispino for a classic Italian ice cream.
J.K.Place Roma Hotel
J.K. Place Roma is located in the former architecture department of the University of Rome— Staying in this 30-room boutique feels upscale and glamorous but not too bourgeois because of the down to earth staff and interiors, which feature wood-paneled walls, classical sculptures, custom midcentury-inspired furnishings (the canopy beds are works of art in their own right), and Italian marble baths.
If you can get a reservation here do not hesitate for one second!
D.O.M Hotel | Camere e Suite di Lusso Roma |
D.O.M Hotel is an intimate five-star property with 18 guest rooms and suites, each with direct views over the historic Via Giulia. Originally a 17th-century Claretian monastery, D.O.M is an abbreviation of “Deo Optimo Maximo,” a Latin inscription found on the church adjacent to the property.
G-Rough – Questa casa non è un albergo
Hotel Rome G-Rough is an authentic trademark of luxury in a city where luxury is the norm. G- Rough is situated in a 16th-century townhouse near Piazza Navona. Hotel G-Rough is not your run of the mill five-star hotels, this 10-room boutique has forgone the gaudy gold and marble in favor of carefully curated grit: frescoes remain unrestored, wood beams are left exposed, plaster walls are kept unfinished.
Luxury Hotels in Rome - Hotel de Russie
A true Roman luminary between Piazza del Popolo and the Spanish Steps, the classical and cosmopolitan come together at Hotel de Russie.
Located between two of Rome’s most picturesque piazzas, Piazza di Spagna and Piazza del Popolo, Hotel de Russie is one of the Eternal City’s most prestigious luxury hotels.
5 Best Neighborhoods in Rome for Drinking Coffee and People Watching
Rome is so much more than pasta and gelato.
I suggest venturing away from the hustle and bustle of the city center and taking a long stroll through one of these 5 best neighborhoods in Rome to meditate, have your morning coffee, people-watch, or enjoy a glass of cabernet at dinner.
Here are Rome’s best neighborhoods to sit, sip and people-watch.
1. Trastevere
Trastevere is a charming neighborhood located on the west bank of the Tiber River. The neighborhood is known for its narrow, cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and lively atmosphere.
Trastevere is home to some of the city’s best restaurants and nightlife.
The hipster neighborhood of Trastevere is home to markets, cafés, and microbreweries. The once working-class neighborhood is now a colorful gentrified neighborhood full of young people looking to explore Rome.
The cobbled stoned streets are Instagram-worthy from the crumbled buildings and gritty street art at every turn.
Don’t forget your camera while you are out exploring Trastevere. Trastevere is most definitely one of the best places to stay in Rome.
2. Monti
Monti is a hip and trendy neighborhood located just east of the Colosseum. The neighborhood is known for its lively atmosphere, boutique shops, and trendy restaurants.
Monti is one of Rome’s oldest quarters from the cobblestone streets, antique shops, and local artists selling handmade trinkets, this is a go-to spot for people-watching.
This one-of-a-kind neighborhood offers plenty of fine dining options, eclectic bars, and a ton of espresso cafes.
If you are looking for somewhere quieter but just as scenic find a table at La Casetta Della Madonna where you can still see the monuments and attractions but be far enough away that the crowds will not get on your nerves.
Monti has some of the best boutique hotels in Rome.
3. Prati
Prati is a white-collar neighborhood with stunning architecture around every corner.
In the Prati neighborhood is where you’ll find the two houses of the Supreme Court, it’s also close to the Vatican and Tiber but just far enough away to make you feel like you’re a local.
4. Tridente
The Tridente neighborhood gets its name from the three main roads that lead from Piazza del Popolo: Via di Ripetta, Via del Corso, and Via del Babuino.
If you want to be close to the infamous Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain the Tridente neighborhood is where you want to chill out and people-watch.
After you have enough people watching there are several streets of high-end shopping in inclusive designer boutiques, Michelin-starred restaurants, and pricey boutique hotels so have your credit cards ready.
5. Parioli
If crowds are not your thing then I suggest taking a stroll through the Parioli neighborhood. Parioli neighborhood is ideal for travelers like me who enjoy a little solitude.
Parioli is home to some of Rome’s best restaurants, hotels, public parks, and cultural museums—the National Etruscan Museum of Villa Giulia and the Museo Civico di Zoologia to name a few.
Because Parioli is not centrally located it is not congested or hectic as the rest of Rome and you will the Parioli neighborhood more laid back and a great place alternative when deciding where to stay in Rome.
Rome Historic Centre
Location, location, location! Boutique Hotels in Rome City Center is the most desirable area to stay in because you will be centrally located to all of the historic sites including the following:
The historic center is everything you ever imagined about visiting Rome from being within steps of ancient ruins, old churches, winding medieval streets, and of course the luxury storefronts.
The Rome Historic Centre holds 90% of the significant tourist sites. It is called the Historic Centre because it is the area that has been inhabited, almost without a break, for over 2000 years.
Buildings and sites are generally dated between 2000 and 300 years old.
Just outside the Rome Historic Centre, is the more 20th Century Rome. This area is on the edge of the Historic Centre, where most buildings are between 40-100 Years old.
Staying here will ensure that you are within walking distance of most of Rome’s attractions.
Hotels in this area tend to be small (boutique style) and very expensive. But if you want to be within a few minutes walk of most of Rome’s major attractions, you can’t beat this location.
How To Stay Safe in Rome
Rome captures the imagination of the young and old by seeing ancient Roman ruins for the first time, art, and the Vatican.
While Rome is known as the eternal city of love it is also known for its criminal activities. If you are visiting Rome please be aware of these potential dangers so your vacation will not turn into a nightmare.
Pickpockets In Rome
Rome is notorious for pickpockets and purse-snatchers and tourists are easy targets because they are not prepared and do understand how to stay safe in Rome.
The best way to stay in Rome is by not carrying anything of value on you and being aware of your surroundings.
I suggest using a traveler’s scarf or phone case, do not keep your money in your pockets, and do not wear expensive jewelry.
I also suggest getting travel insurance and making photocopies of your driver’s license, passport, and any other important documents just in case you become a victim.
Con Artists In Rome
Con Artists are just as notorious as pickpockets. The con artists will give you a sad story about not having any money and needing to care for a sick relative and while they have your attention someone else will open your bag and grab your wallet.
They will also try to sell you roses under the guise that they are free and then try to charge you for the roses once you accepted the roses.
My suggestion is to ignore anyone trying to sell you roses, selfie sticks, or knock-off bags.
How To “EXPLORE” Rome
The best way to get around Rome is on foot so make sure you wear comfortable shoes.
Rome is not the place to try and be cute in fashionable flats. There are limited buses on the main roads which means you will probably have to walk a long distance to get to a bus stop.
Grab my Italy packing list so you will be prepared for your vacation to Italy.
The Rome metro is also an option, but it is not very useful because it doesn’t go through the heart of the city and only stops at the Spanish Steps and the Colosseum.
The metro is excellent if you are staying in the suburbs and is a quick way to the Rome Historic Centre.
Tours In Rome
There are many options for tours in Rome.
No need to book a tour in advance because there will not be a shortage of “offers” which will include walking tours, bike tours, and the hop-on-hop-off.
I use G – Adventures to book all of my tours no matter the country I am visiting.
“MUST SEE” Sights In Rome
* Vatican
* Castel St Angelo
* Via Giulia
* Spanish Steps
* Villa Borghese
* Trevi Fountain
* Piazza Navona
* Trastevere
* Campo Dei Fiori
* Roman Forum
* Colosseum
* Pantheon
Cash Is King
It’s not uncommon for places to only accept cash, so make sure you have enough euros on hand for your day’s planned activities.
Notify your bank before traveling so you don’t find yourself with frozen debit and credit cards, and pull out at least some money from an ATM once you arrive at the airport.
Bring a Water Bottle
Bring a bottle to fill because you will be thirsty from the walking and there are plenty of drinking fountains scattered throughout the city and around the Colosseum so you won’t have to buy water.
Make sure it is a reusable one (I use this one) and it can easily be cleaned in your hotel room.
Table Service
Coperto is a table service fee — usually 1-3 Euros or 10% of your meal — and is charged to every person who sits at the table. Restaurants do not disclose fees associated with the service table so do not be surprised.
There is always a charge for bread, so if you don’t want bread or don’t want to be charged for bread please let your waiter/waitress know as soon as you sit down because they bring it out automatically.
Additional Tips for Visiting Rome
Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Hopper or Google Flight Matrix. They are my “go-to” booking sites for airlines or if you are lucky enough you know someone who works for an airline and you grab a buddy pass.
Book Your Accommodation
I suggest booking your hotel with Tripadvisor or Jetsetter. I always find the cheapest hotel rates on both of these sites.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
I can’t say this enough but please get insurance when traveling to Italy! Even if you are only going on a short trip, you should always travel with insurance. Have fun while visiting Rome, but take it from someone who has racked up thousands of bucks on an insurance claim before, you need it.
Make sure to get your insurance before you head off on an adventure! I highly recommend Travelex Insurance.
The city is a very busy year-round destination, so if you are looking for hotels in Rome City Centre make sure you do your homework and book well ahead!
Conclusion: Best Hotels in Rome
Staying in the heart of downtown Rome also means that you’ll have plenty of accommodation options to choose from. From luxurious five-star hotels to charming bed and breakfasts, there is something to suit every taste and budget.
And with so many options, you’ll be able to find the perfect place to stay that fits your needs and preferences.
In conclusion, if you want to truly experience the beauty and culture of Rome, there is no better place to stay than in the heart of downtown.
From the famous landmarks to the hidden gems, from the cuisine to the culture, you’ll be able to experience it all in a truly authentic setting.
So book your trip, pack your bags, and get ready to fall in love with one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
Ready to plan your trip, grab my FREE Vacation Planner to help you plan your trip in the time it takes to watch your favorite TV show!
Additional Articles For Exploring Italy
20 Must Stay in Luxury Hotels in Florence
13 Ultimate Hotels on the Amalfi Coast
Did you find where to stay in Rome? Did your favorite hotels in Rome City Centre make my list?
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Beautiful! I haven’t been to Rome but it’s such a classy place to visit. If I ever decide to travel across the sea, I’ll keep you as a resource.
Beautiful! I haven’t been to Rome but it’s such a classy place to visit. If I ever decide to travel across the sea, I’ll keep you as a resource.
Roma is def one of the worlds great cities. Loved your pics and lodging suggestions. Hubby and I spent time there 8yrs ago and enjoyed the people , food and WINE WINE WINE.. The sights are truly breathtaking. Great advice getting Euros out of local ATM..get decent exchange rate compared to using your stateside bank prior to departure
I enjoyed the Amalfi Coast better than Rome. While Rome was breathtaking it was just too many people for me.
Roma is def one of the worlds great cities. Loved your pics and lodging suggestions. Hubby and I spent time there 8yrs ago and enjoyed the people , food and WINE WINE WINE.. The sights are truly breathtaking. Great advice getting Euros out of local ATM..get decent exchange rate compared to using your stateside bank prior to departure
I enjoyed the Amalfi Coast better than Rome. While Rome was breathtaking it was just too many people for me.
These look amazing! They’re almost luring me away from my AirBnB loyalty. My husband and I did one in Rome for our honeymoon, and it was just OK. Nothing spectacular.
I have never stayed in an airbnb. I am always skeptical plus who is going to cook breakfast for me each morning
These look amazing! They’re almost luring me away from my AirBnB loyalty. My husband and I did one in Rome for our honeymoon, and it was just OK. Nothing spectacular.
I have never stayed in an airbnb. I am always skeptical plus who is going to cook breakfast for me each morning
Oh la la, each of these hotels are simply gorgeous! Now I really want to go back to Rome. Funny thing is I have no memories of where I stayed last time.
Rome wasnt my favorite place because it was so busy and too many people.
Oh la la, each of these hotels are simply gorgeous! Now I really want to go back to Rome. Funny thing is I have no memories of where I stayed last time.
Rome wasnt my favorite place because it was so busy and too many people.
It looks like you can’t go wrong. The decor alone makes me want to come out and stay over. I am a sucker for bold color and fun decor.
It looks like you can’t go wrong. The decor alone makes me want to come out and stay over. I am a sucker for bold color and fun decor.
Beautiful hotels, I loved the photos, they looked like the perfect places to vacation. I definitely will keep your suggestions in mind.
I love boutique hotels and these are some great hotels
Beautiful hotels, I loved the photos, they looked like the perfect places to vacation. I definitely will keep your suggestions in mind.
I love boutique hotels and these are some great hotels
I loved Rome when we went and now seeing these gorgeous pictures makes me want to go back. We are heading to Eastern Europe next summer and this post reminds me I need to include Italy in the itinerary once again,
I am attending TBEX which is a travel conference and I think it is going to be held in Italy next year
I loved Rome when we went and now seeing these gorgeous pictures makes me want to go back. We are heading to Eastern Europe next summer and this post reminds me I need to include Italy in the itinerary once again,
I am attending TBEX which is a travel conference and I think it is going to be held in Italy next year
I have yet to visit Europe and Italy is definitely on my bucket list! Great hotel suggestions and tips for touring.
I am hoping to return next year myself
I have yet to visit Europe and Italy is definitely on my bucket list! Great hotel suggestions and tips for touring.
I am hoping to return next year myself
This is a great list. I would have no idea where to look for boutique hotels like these. Thanks for sharing.
I rarely stay in chains now. The service you receive in a boutique hotel is like no other
This is a great list. I would have no idea where to look for boutique hotels like these. Thanks for sharing.
I rarely stay in chains now. The service you receive in a boutique hotel is like no other