Hotels in Rome

Rome Hotels

The Italian capital possesses the kind of supreme self-confidence that only comes from being at the center of the world for millennia. It copes with the summer hordes and sizzling sun with barely a flutter. Modern, local life collides with the ancient at every turn, mopeds weaving through tiny streets and past majestically crumbling, ancient monuments. The historic center contains priceless treasures that foreign museums can only dream of, but here, they simply form part of the everyday fabric of life.

Things to see

Most cities have a central square, but none has the sheer drama of Rome’s Piazza Navona. At its heart is the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, a baroque masterpiece of a fountain, celebrating the world’s 4 great rivers. Around this central nexus, a parade of street performers, souvenir-sellers, and camera-toting tourists orbit, while around the edges, pavement cafes offer a spot to sit and take in the scene. Close by, the Pantheon stands grandly – its classical portico is the real deal, a wonderfully-preserved example of Ancient Roman architecture, which has inspired thousands of neoclassical imitations around the world. Inside, light streams in through the domed ceiling like rays from heaven. To the west, St Peter’s Basilica dominates the skyline, asserting the papal authority of the independent Vatican City. It’s a thrill to step inside a separate country in the middle of a city, and the wonders of Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel await.

Hotels in Rome

Compared to other European capitals, Rome hotels give you a lot of luxury for your money. The boutique, luxury hotels in Rome offer plush, individually-designed suites, designed with inimitable Italian style. Your every whim will be catered for, from in-room childcare and 24-hour room service. Onsite gourmet restaurants provide the finest contemporary Italian cuisine. Even the budget hotels in Rome come with serious style credentials, though rooms are smaller and simpler. Freebies like WiFi and breakfast are widely offered, and most rooms come with modern comforts, like flat-screen TVs and air-conditioning, helping you to relax after a day of sightseeing.

Where to stay

The Centro Storico around Piazza Navona is the densely-packed central district of Baroque wonders. The warren of streets around the piazza are packed with mid-range and budget hotels, most of them independent. The main attractions of this historic core are all within walking distance, and you’ll be spoiled for choice with dining options. If you want a taste of Rome’s high life, stay near the Spanish Steps in the north of the city. Here, elegant avenues lined with designer shops, and there are numerous luxury hotels. The Republica district, meanwhile, has plentiful cheap accommodation, and is handy for the main train station.

How to get to Rome

Rome’s main airport is Leonardo Da Vinci - Fiumicino International, which handles flights from all over the world. It’s located about 35 kilometers from the city center, and it’s linked to the Termini station by high-speed train, to whisk you there in 30 minutes. Some low-cost and seasonal European flights will arrive at Ciampino Airport, which is just 12 kilometers from the center. Buses and taxis are readily available. Once there, the pleasantly compact Centro Storico is easily explored on foot, or you can live out your Roman holiday fantasies by hiring a Vespa to zoom through the narrow streets.