From hidden gems with roof-top bars, to family apartments and luxury five-star hotels, I’ve hand picked my top 20 hotels in Rome to help you explore this great city.
You would want to be made of stone if Rome did not impress you. There are ancient wonders at every corner – The Colosseum, Pantheon, Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, I could go on and on. But where to stay in Rome? That’s where I come in, I’ve searched the top hotels in Rome to help you on your way.
As well as marvelling at Rome’s ancient wonders, enjoying fresh pizza and pasta from countless Trattorias, and sampling the best gelato are other great reasons to visit! Rome is a feast for the senses.
View this post on Instagram
Although there is so much to see and do in Rome, it can easily be enjoyed over a long weekend if you choose to stay in the right location. I have listed my top picks of 3, 4 and 5-star hotels in Rome that are all centrally located. I have also added some top tips for visiting Rome to help you get the most out of this great city.
Top tips for visiting Rome:
There are going to be queues at the top attractions in Rome, so it is vital you plan your visit in advance. It is best to avoid the peak summer months of July and August if possible, as not only are they popular with tourists, but average temperatures are a hot and sticky 30 degrees.
Pre-book tickets or guided tours to avoid queues, and remember Rome is equally stunning at night time.
Places like the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps will be much quieter and atmospheric at night time, so a late night stroll might be a good idea. Alternatively, set your alarm and enjoy an early breakfast in the city, while taking in the sights before the crowds arrive.
However, if you arrive at an attraction and find a long queue, or it is sold out, don’t despair! Check in with local tour guides, as many guided tours include skip-the-line entrance tickets. Must-visits in Rome are: The Forum, Colosseum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps and The Vatican, so allow yourself plenty of time to see them.
View this post on Instagram
We loved the Vespa tour and it is ideal if travelling with children aged five and above. Highly recommended and Irish owned, Angel Tours offer a wide selection of tours including their popular golf cart tour which is ideal if travelling with young children or an elderly parent.
You will need to allow at least four hours to explore The Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St Peter’s Basilica afterwards – a guided tour is the best option but usually takes 3-4 hours. The Vatican Museums are closed on Sundays and many museums are closed on Mondays, so make sure you check opening times in advance.
This may all sound a little overwhelming, but most of the sights are easily accessible and can be reached on foot – just bring comfortable shoes! Of course stopping for coffees and lunch along the way is all part of the Rome experience – there are plenty of places to enjoy a meal with a view.
If you don’t fancy long walks, buy a Roma Pass. These offer full access to public transport in addition to admission to museums, and discounts on performance and exhibition tickets. Bikes and scooters are also readily available to hire locally.
Remember to dress appropriately when entering churches. Women’s shoulders should be covered and skirts / shorts should be below the knee.
Italians like to eat late so if have had a long day walking the city, why not chill for a few hours and book dinner for 9 or 10pm? Don’t worry, you won’t be alone in the restaurant I can assure you! There are numerous places to dine in Rome, but make sure you take a trip to the fashionable district of Trastevere.
With cobbled- stone streets, trendy bars and restaurants, as well as a cool Boho vibe, it is one of Rome’s most popular night spots. It is located across the Tiber River – Trastevere means ‘beyond the Tiber’ , but is easily accessible from the city centre.
Where to stay in Rome
I am often asked where to stay in Rome and the answer is simple – stay as close to the city centre as possible, so you can enjoy most of the attractions on foot. However, this was one of my most difficult travel guides to write, as there are so many great hotels to choose from.
I spent hours scouring the website, reading reviews and have found some great options for you – all are highly rated at the time of publication, but facilities and service are subject to change.
View this post on Instagram
If you look closely you will find many 3-star boutique hotels in the historical centre offering superb value. Many of these are in restored palaces, and should not be overlooked. I also found some great hotels in Rome rooftop bars, which are ideal for taking in those sunset views!
Here are my top picks of 3, 4 and 5-star hotels in Rome, as well as some self catering apartments, to help you make the most of your next visit to Rome.
3 Star Hotels in Rome
Hotel Santa Maria
Located in Rome’s chic and lively Trastevere district this superior 3-star hotel is one of the top 10 hotels in Rome according to TripAdvisor. A renovated 16th century building with 19 rooms, you may need to act fast to secure a booking here. Its rooftop garden offers the perfect spot to enjoy breakfast or a glass of wine in the summer, and some of Rome’s best restaurants and bars are right on your doorstep.
Hotel Damaso
Opened in 2017, the stylish Damaso Hotel is housed in a restored 19th century palace, just steps away from the Piazza Navona. Its panoramic terrace and lounge bar are firm favourites with guests, as are the free bathrobes and slippers in your room. Breakfast is often included in the room rate.
Its central location means The Vatican is reached on foot in 20 minutes, while the Trevi Fountain and Via Condotti are just 15 minutes walk away. It is hard to believe that this hotel has only been given a 3-star rating, check out the hotel website and you will see what I mean.
Albergo del Senato
The Albergo del Senato is owned by the same family as the Damaso above and also boasts a central location and super service. Its rooftop terrace overlooks the Pantheon dome, while the Piazza Navona and Trevi Fountain are just five-minutes walk away. Breakfast is often included in the room rate here. This hotel is one of the top rated hotels in Rome on TripAdvisor.
Hotel Colosseum
The Hotel Colosseum is located in one of the oldest and most picturesque parts of Rome. Situated on the top of Esquilino Hill, this area is full of bars, restaurants and craft shops. Its magnificent furnished terrace is an Instagrammer’s dream and offers panoramic views of Rome. Breakfast is often included in the rate here too.
Hotel Smeraldo
The Hotel Smeraldo offers superb value for a central stay in Rome. Located just 200 metres from Campo de’ Fiori, and five minutes walk from the Pantheon and Piazza Navona, this area is packed with lively bars and restaurants for you to enjoy. A buffet breakfast is often included in the rate and you can enjoy a cocktail on its popular rooftop terrace.
Hotel Barrett
This delightful boutique hotel offers old-world charm and beautiful views of historical Rome. Its free breakfast is popular with guests as are the free snacks, drinks and coffee pods that are refilled daily in your room. The Pantheon, Campo de’ Fiori and Piazza Navona are all reached within minutes on foot, and the Trevi Fountain is 900 metres away.
4 Star Apartments and Hotels in Rome
Hotel Artemide
The Hotel Artemide is one of the best 4 star hotels in Rome. As well as a superb location, within walking distance to the Trevi Fountain, the Colosseum and the Spanish Steps, it boasts a fully-equipped gym, Artemís Spa, and the Ambrosia Rooftop Restaurant & Bar, with views over the Rome’ skyline.
Hotel Savoy
The Hotel Savoy is superbly located, beside the fashionable Via Veneto and a few minutes walk to the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain. It is housed in a historical building and its style is a mix of traditional elegance with contemporary touches. Make sure you take advantage of the popular rooftop restaurant which offers panoramic city views.
The Liberty Boutique Hotel
The family-friendly Liberty Boutique Hotel boasts a home from home atmosphere, and is one of the top rated hotels in Rome on TripAdvisor. The Liberty Boutique Hotel is located close to the Termini Train station and just over 20 minutes from the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain. A restaurant and rooftop bar are due to open shortly and will surely enhance a great experience.
Condotti Boutique hotel
This delightful boutique hotel is just a stone’s throw from the Spanish Steps, and the famous designer shopping street – Via Condotti. Elegant styling with marble floors and antiques as well as a choice of room types, including family rooms and apartments, have made this one of the most sought after four star hotels in Rome.
Double Tree by Hilton Rome Monti Hotel
The DoubleTree by Hilton Rome Monti has been completely renovated, and boasts an all-day Cafè, Rooftop Bar, and restaurant. It is located just 1km from the Trevi Fountain and the Colloseum and just 500 metres from the Termini Train Station. Family rooms are available, some of which sleep up to five.
Palm Family Suites
The stylish Palm Suites are a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World and are a superb choice for a family holiday in Rome. Two-bedroom suites have a separate living and dining area, minibar and coffee machine, and breakfast is also available if required. They are ideally located just 200 metres from the Colosseum and 1200 meters from the Trevi Fountain.
Elegant apartments behind the Colosseum
Contrary to the name, these apartments are about a 15 minute walk from the Colosseum, but are located right next to the Roman Forum, and 1100 metres from the Trevi Fountain. We stayed here and loved the central location as well as our attentive host.
Emma arranged airport transfers and also dropped by to welcome us and offer advice on restaurants and sightseeing. These rustic apartments are well equipped and are great value self-catering apartments in Rome.
Casa Minerva Al Pantheon
These centrally located one, two- and three-bedroom apartments are a great choice for a family or group stay in Rome. Apartments are equipped with a kitchen, flat-screen TV, and a seating area with sofa. Free toiletries are provided in the bathrooms. Situated close to the Pantheon, with the Trevi Fountain just 800 metres away, its location is ideal for exploring Rome.
5 Star Hotels in Rome:
Singer Palace Hotel
Located right on the famous Via del Corso shopping Street, and just steps away from Trevi Fountain, the landmark Singer Hotel is undoubtedly one of the best hotels in Rome. Originally owned by Mr. Singer (of sewing machines fame) this historical building was converted into a contemporary boutique hotel in 2018.
The Singer Palace Hotel also boasts a rooftop restaurant, and is the number one place to stay in Rome according to TripAdvisor. However, there are only 30 rooms in this luxury hotel, so get availability is not always easy!
NH Collection Roma Fori Imperiali
The NH Collection Roma Fori Imperiali is another top-class hotel in the centre of Rome. Overlooking the Roman Forum, it has a rooftop terrace bar and restaurant to appreciate the views. The shopping street of Via del Corso is on your doorstep, and the Trevi Fountain is just 600 metres away.
Anantara Palazzo Naiadi
This impressive white marble building will wow you from the outset. Its panoramic rooftop terrace with seasonal plunge pool, and wellness centre, will continue to impress. The Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel is centrally located, and offers good value for a 5-star hotel of this stature in Rome.
Baglioni Hotel Regina
The Baglioni Hotel Regina is located on the fashionable Via Veneto, in the heart of Rome’s shopping and tourist centre. The Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain are just ten minutes walk way.
Rooms are Art Deco style and the Brunello Lounge and Restaurant combines traditional Italian and contemporary style. A gym and a wellness centre with sauna, hammam and hot tub complete the experience. The Baglioni Hotel Regina is one of the Leading Hotels of the World
Hotel Splendide Royale
Recently restored, this converted monastery dates back to 1890. A luxury five-star hotel, it offers surprisingly good value for such an excellent stay in Rome. It is located between the main shopping area at Via Veneto and the gardens at Villa Borghese, and its Michelin Star restaurant offers magnificent views of Rome’s rooftops.
Hotel Splendide Royal is a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of World, and you can expect super service from one of the best hotels in Rome.
Dom Hotel Roma
Located at the Piazza Navona, with a chic vintage-style decor, and a panoramic terrace, the DOM Hotel Roma is often described as one of Rome’s hidden gems. It has original Andy Wharhol art in its restaurant, and a cocktail lounge that resembles a speakeasy bar.
It set in a 17th Century palace, and just a little off the beaten track to feel away from the hustle and bustle of centre, yet only 20 minutes walk from the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain. This is one of the best value five-star hotels in Rome.
Rocco Forte Hotel De La Ville
The iconic Hotel de la Villa boasts one of Rome’s best settings – just above the Spanish Steps. As you might expect from the Fortes, its stylish design attracts socialites and celebrities, and its rooftop bar is the place to be seen in Rome. The hotel boasts three restaurants – with a celebrity chef of course, as well as 17th-century elegant rooms with marble bathrooms and handmade terracotta tiles.
After some designer shopping on the nearby Via Condotti, you can also unwind in its two-floor wellness centre. Expect the price-tag to correspond with this hotel’s elite stature.
Note these hotels and apartments have been researched independently. At the time of issue all have been highly rated from previous guests, but facilities and service are subject to change. Some of the links in this post contain affiliate links, where I receive a small commission if a booking is made, but at no additional cost to you.
Like travel guides? See more here.
