Fodor's Expert Review Hotel Duca d'Alba

Name: Hotel Duca d'Alba
Address: Via Leonina 14, Rome, Latium, 00184, Italy
Telephone: 06-484471
Price range: $$

Via Leonina 14, Rome, Latium, 00184, Italy See on Map

Ariston Anderson

In Italy, it's all about the bella figura (making a good impression), so when you step into this lovely little boutique hotel near the Colosseum, you'll know you've hit the jackpot. Between the marble decor and reproductions of antiquated paintings, the Duca d'Alba tells the traveler that their stay will be a lovely one—and, considering the hotel's attentive staff and reasonable rates, a good value to boot. Fresh flowers around the hotel and in guest rooms are also a nice touch.

room

Rooms are done in a romantic decor with a modern neo-classical twist of custom-made wood beds, striped curtains, wood-beamed ceilings and richly-patterned wallpaper. Beds are new and cozy with lots of pillows. All rooms include desks, satellite TV, minibar, safe and air conditioning.

The building is very quiet, but many rooms are lacking in natural light.

bathroom

Bathrooms have marble accents and are kept impeccably clean. Showers have great water pressure, although they are on the small side. A wide assortment of toiletries is provided.

lobby

The welcoming lobby is just off the street, where staff will greet you behind a large oak desk. There are tons of classical details throughout like the green and white marble flooring and Baroque desk and mirrors. There's ample space to sit and relax on large plush seating surrounded by white painted brick and classical paintings. There's WiFi throughout the hotel, but the signal is strongest in the lobby.

dining

A huge breakfast buffet is offered daily, consisting of hot and cold food as well as great coffee and fresh juices. The wide variety of savory dishes is a welcome change from the standard Italian pastry breakfast. Drinks are also available throughout the day.

LOCATION

Getting Around

The hotel is just a 3-minute walk to Cavour Metro. It's walking distance to most of the ancient ruins of Rome. The hotel is also surrounded by shops and restaurants which all add to the great atmosphere here. Bus lines are everywhere, and Termini Station is a 16-minute walk away. Fiumicino Airport is a 31-minute taxi away.

Restaurants

Urbana 47 (3-minute walk) has an ever-changing menu of nightly special and homemade focaccia with special dipping sauces. Carbonara (5-minute walk) has great homemade pastas, great grilled meats, and vegetables. Get the porcini if they're in season. You're also welcome to graffiti the walls here if you want to leave your own review in plain sight.

Bars

If you need to cool off and are looking for a novelty experience, head to Ice Bar (3-minute walk), a nightclub where the bar and walls are made of ice, naturally. Sacripante Art Gallery (4-minute walk) serves great cocktails and showcases young artists on its frequently-painted walls.

WHY WE LIKE IT

The hotel has succeeded in creating a classical Italian design in a modern setting. Staff is incredibly attentive around the clock. We love the comfortable furnishings and lavish breakfast spread. It's located in one of Rome's coolest neighborhoods, so you won't have to venture far to find fun activities. While rooms can run a bit dark, at night you're guaranteed a quiet sleep.