What’s in this article
Ciao friends! This is Lucy bringing you news from Rome.
I just got back from exploring this incredible city yet again and had to share some of my best hotels in Rome.
As many of you know, I’m obsessed with la dolce vita here in Italia.
And Roma really embodies that lifestyle like nowhere else.
Walking through the narrow streets, you feel like you’re stepping back in time with every ancient ruin you pass.
I spent hours just wandering and soaking up two millennia of history.
Of course, being Italian, the food is a huge highlight too.
I stayed in Trastevere this trip which has to be one of the best neighborhoods for dining.
From authentic cucina romana spots to international flavors, you really can eat something new on every corner.
Pasta, pizza, gelato – it’s a dream for food lovers like me!
But one of the most important aspects of any trip is where you lay your head at night.
That’s why I wanted to share my top hotel finds to make sure you all have the best possible experience on your next trip to the Eternal City.
Best Hotels In Rome
Loly Boutique Hotel Roma
As many of you know, Trastevere is my favorite neighborhood in the city – it just has such a charming, local vibe.
It used to be a working class area but now is full of great restaurants, bars and boutique shops. Definitely feels more authentic than the super touristy spots across the river.
The Loly Boutique Hotel Roma looks like a typical building tucked down one of the narrow cobblestone streets from the outside.
But when you walk in, the decor is absolutely gorgeous.
Everything is so light and airy feeling, with beautiful modern furnishings and artwork on the walls. Rooms are spacious and have huge windows letting in tons of natural light.
Everything is just so clean and chic.
Even the lobby area feel more like a luxury hotel than something mid-range.
They have snacks and drinks available all day, plus the breakfast spread is huge – pastries, yogurt, fruit, you name it.
Such a nice way to start the day.
And the staff!
Everyone working there is so friendly and helpful with recommendations.
They really make you feel welcome.
The Pantheon Iconic Rome Hotel: the gourmand hotel
While there are plenty of great hotel options in Rome, one place really stood out to me – The Pantheon Iconic.
Located right in the heart of Rome, this hotel is just a few steps from famous sights such as Piazza Navona and The Pantheon.
It makes an ideal base from which to venture out and explore this great city.
I was completely blown away as soon as I stepped inside.
From the incredible rooftop terrace and its view of Rome’s quintessential skyline to an interior paying homage to ancient architecture in luxurious design, every detail put me under a spell from start to finish.
Each of the rooms are beautifully decorated with modern amenities but also make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
I especially loved all the little details like bronze arches and marble throughout.
But the real star of The Pantheon Iconic is the food – you guys know how much I love experiencing a destination through its cuisine.
The hotel restaurant Idylio is run by Chef Francesco Apreda, who has earned the hotel its first Michelin star.
I enjoyed some of the most incredible, innovative Italian dishes of my life there.
It’s definitely worth splurging on at least one meal!
The First Roma Arte
If you’re looking for a unique hotel that really immerses you in art and culture, you have to stay at The First Arte.
It’s located in this beautiful 19th century palace building, which already sets a great tone.
But then when you walk in, you realize every room has multiple pieces of art displayed.
It really feels like you’re in a living art gallery.
The best part though has to be the rooftop bar.
It’s called Acquaroof Terrazza Molinari and the views from up there are just incredible.
You’re so high up that it feels like you’re floating over the city.
If you go right at sunset it’ll be so romantic with lights twinkling all over Rome.
The drinks are amazing too of course.
But get this – the food in the hotel restaurant Acquolina is out of this world.
The chef Daniele Lippi has even earned it a Michelin star.
I know, I was blown away. It was honestly some of the best Italian cuisine I’ve ever had.
Hotel De’ Ricci
If you want a really unique hotel experience in Rome centered around wine, you have to check out Hotel Dei Ricci.
It’s in this beautiful boutique building right in central Rome on Via della Barchetta.
The hotel has this really cozy, elegant vibe to it.
But, the greatest part is you get a wine storage spot in each room!
Can you believe it? They have more than 10,000 bottles to pick from.
When you book, they make you choose your favorite wines.
This helps them tailor your stay better.
The cellar in your room we’ll be stocked with bottles you’ll have picked that are really hard to find, from all over Italy and France.
It’s like having your own private collection.
While staying there, you can taste dozens of varieties and find out about different grapes or areas. The staff is so well informed. When you leave, you’ll feel like an expert in wine.
The First Roma Dolce
The First Roma Dolce is located right in the heart of the city on Via del Corso.
As soon as you walk in, you can tell it’s going to be something special.
The lobby have this elegant but understated vibe, with beautiful design details everywhere.
But get this – the real highlight is that the hotel houses its own pastry shop called VELO!
It’s run by this amazing patissier named Andrea Cingottini and oh my goodness, his pastries are divine.
Single-serve chocolate creations, delicate macarons, you name it.
Of course being the foodie that I am, I had to try one.
I opted for a mini fruit tart with my afternoon tea – it was honestly the best snack I’ve ever had.
I could totally see myself coming back just for that!
The rooms are just as gorgeous as the lobby, all light and airy but still cozy and romantic.
Little touches like fresh flowers and pastries from the shop on your pillow.
Hands down one of the most unique hotel experiences I’ve ever had.
The location can’t be beat right in the historic center too.
And having that pastry oasis on site takes the whole package to the next level.
Maalot for theatre and opera lovers
Maalot Hotel is actually built inside of a restaurant right in the middle of Rome’s theatre district.
The restaurant is called Don Pasquale, named after the famous opera that Gaetano Donizetti composed while living in Rome for 9 years.
They’ve got a whole menu designed like an opera program too – it’s so creative!
The hotel itself was designed by this architect Roberto Antobenedetto and it’s spread out over 4 floors.
As soon as you walk in you could just feel the theatrical vibes everywhere.
Each room is meticulously decorated with style and one pays homage to Donizetti himself, which is a nice touch.
Anantara Palazzo Naiadi hotel
Anantara Palazzo Naiadi’s location can’t be beat – right in the heart of the city overlooking Piazza della Repubblica.
From the outside it looks like this beautiful curved palazzo and the 19th century marble architecture is a work of art itself.
But did you know it was actually built over the ruins of the Baths of Diocletian?
The history within those walls is palpabile.
No wonder it’s considered one of the most enviable locations in the whole city center – you’re steps from iconic sites like the Imperial Forum, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps and more.
But wait until you see the best part – the rooftop pool!
That’s right, they have an infinity pool on the top floor that allows you to literally swim while taking in views of the city skyline.
Can you imagine lounging in the water, sipping an Aperol spritz and taking in all the iconic domes and spires around you?
Definitely a bucket list experience if you ask me.
Elizabeth Unique: for art lovers
You’ll love staying at the Elizabeth Unique hotel in Rome.
Not only will you get a comfortable room in the heart of the city, but you’ll also be surrounded by art.
Fabrizio Russo has curated an incredible collection for the hotel.
He’s the owner of the famous Galleria Russo art gallery just down the street from the Spanish Steps.
No two rooms at the Elizabeth Unique are alike.
Each one has its own style and decor.
My favorite option would be to book one of the suites at the Elizabeth’s Mansion, located in an old building in Via delle Colonnette.
It has six luxurious rooms and suites spread across two floors, so you really feel like you’re staying in a historic mansion in Rome.
I think you’d find the art collection fascinating.
And the location can’t be beat – you’re steps away from major sites but also tucked away on a quiet side street.
Hotel Vilòn
Vilòn hotel is the perfect place to experience old world Rome.
The hotel is located in the east wing of the stunning Palazzo Borghese, which has long been considered an architectural masterpiece.
Vilòn has 17 luxurious rooms and suites that really make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. As soon as you walk in, you’re immersed in the charm and old world glamour of aristocratic Rome.
The attached house has been beautifully renovated to capture the elegance and romance of a bygone era.
I stayed there last year and it was like being in a movie.
You really feel like you’re living the Dolce Vita lifestyle of Fellini’s Rome.
And the location can’t be beat – you’re right in the heart of it all but the hotel provides a peaceful oasis.
Rome Cavalieri Hotel
If you’re looking to truly relax and rejuvenate on your next trip to Rome, you have to stay at the Rome Cavalieri.
As soon as you step inside this luxurious hotel, you’ll feel a sense of calm.
A major draw is the award-winning Cavalieri Grand Spa Club.
I’m telling you, I still dream about the Caviar Lifting And Firming Facial I had there – it left my skin glowing.
You can spend the whole day pampering yourself with different treatments.
When you need a break, unwind with an aperitif in the hotel’s beautiful park, shaded by century-old pine trees.
It’s so peaceful and relaxing.
Then you’re in for a real treat – have dinner at their famous restaurant La Pergola.
It’s one of Rome’s top tables and I can see why with its incredible cuisine.
Best Hotels in Rome: Final Thoughts
The Eternal City truly lives up to its name – there’s a reason it’s considered one of the most iconic places in the world.
From the delicious, hole-in-the-wall restaurants serving up Roman specialties to wandering the cobblestone streets where you can practically feel the history, Rome has so much charm.
I never get tired of exploring new neighborhoods and soaking it all in.
And the best part is, with one of the amazing hotels I mentioned, you’ll have a luxurious home base to come back to at the end of each day.
Knowing you have a comfortable, welcoming room to relax in makes such a difference.
It allows you to fully immerse yourself in the city without any worries.
So start planning your itinerary!
But most importantly, be sure to book your accommodation soon.
You won’t want to miss the chance to stay at such stylish, character-filled places.
Some Tips to Plan Your Trip to Rome
And here are some tips for planning your upcoming trip to Rome:
Book Your Flight
When it comes to finding reasonably priced flights, Skyscanner is hands down the best search engine.
It scours airline and travel sites worldwide so you know you’re getting the most options.
I’ve found some great deals on there before.
Book Your Accommodation
If you’re on a budget, Hostelworld is great for booking hostels – they’ve got the biggest selection. But if you want something other than a hostel, I’d use Booking.com.
In my experience they consistently have the best rates for guesthouses and hotels.
Keep Travel Insurance in Mind
No matter where you go, always make sure to get travel insurance.
Things can come up like illness, injury, theft or even having to cancel your trip last minute. Insurance gives you peace of mind in case anything goes wrong.
I’ve had to use it before and was so glad I had that protection.
Some good companies to check out are World Nomads, SafetyWing and Generali Global Assistance.
Need a Guided Tour?
If you want to really immerse yourself in Rome’s history and culture, I highly recommend booking a guided tour.
One of the best is with Take Walks – their expert local guides offer insider access and stories you won’t find anywhere else.
Craving Food Tours?
Hands down, the most fun tours in Rome are the food walks from Devour Tour Rome.
Not only will you sample incredible local specialties, but your guide will share loads of cultural context too.
Trust me, these tours are absolutely worth it!
Want More Planning Inspo?
Before your trip, be sure to check out my other posts about Rome: How to visit Rome in 3 Days and Where To Stay In Rome: 10 best Areas & Neighbourhoods
You’ll find all kinds of recommendations for neighborhoods, attractions, restaurants and more.
It’s full of tips to help you make the most of your visit.
Let me know if any other questions come up as you start planning.
Rome is such an amazing city – you’re going to love it!
Ciao and Safe travels.
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. This means that I will earn a small commission if you use these links at absolutely no cost to you! This will help me be able to continue to run Italia Like A Local. Thank you so much for your support!
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