Rome Hotels

When planning your Roman Holiday, you may be surprised to learn that you really will have to do as the Romans do, meaning that unless you're coveting a luxury suite at Eden, the Hassler, or Hotel de Russie, you'll probably find yourself in a tiny room. The air-conditioning may be weak and the customer service will likely be indifferent. Naturally, there are exceptions, but the Eternal City simply doesn't offer the cushy standards that most Americans are accustomed to, though standards in general are improving.

There are more luxury lodgings, bed-and-breakfasts, and designer "boutique" hotels in Rome than ever before, but if you prefer more modest accommodations (because really, who comes to Rome to hang out in the hotel room?), you still have plenty of options. There are many mid-range and budget hotels and pensioni (small, family-run lodgings) available. You may also consider staying at a monastery or convent, a hostel, or an apartment.

If you're looking for luxury, you're most likely to find it around Via Veneto and the Spanish Steps area. On the contrary, many of the city's cheapest accommodations are located near Stazione Termini. But for the most authentic Roman experience, stay in or near the centro storico (the historic center).

Breakfast is another increasingly popular trend in new millennium Rome. High-end places may serve a full American-style spread of hot and cold options, but most consist of a lighter Continental-style buffet of pastries, cereal, cold cuts, juice, and cappuccino. Proprietors are also becoming more conscientious about hotel appearance, opting for updated—or at least, tastefully simple—decor.

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