Fodor's Expert Review The Westin Excelsior, Rome

Ablaze with lights at night, this seven-layer-cake hotel—topped off by its famous cupola, a landmark nearly as famous as the American Embassy palazzo across the street—is popular with visiting diplomats, celebrities, and American conference groups. The interior is lavish, with mirrors, elegant moldings, Oriental rugs, crystal chandeliers, and huge, baroque floral arrangements, while guest rooms have elegant drapery, marble baths, top-quality linens, and big, firm beds. The hotel has an array of restaurants and bars, none more famous than Doney's—once the epicenter of Fellini's paparazzi. Recently renovated, Doney's now features a pâtisserie, an American bar, and fine dining.

room

Huge bright rooms were recently updated with sleek Empire-style furniture, giant "Heavenly" beds, velvet armchairs, Bohemian chandeliers, and arched windows. Some rooms overlook Via Veneto and many rooms have high ceilings with elaborate engravings. Complimentary bottled water, WiFi, safe, and satellite TV are provided.

If you prefer more quiet, ask for a room with a view of the courtyard.

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bathroom

Bathrooms are decked out in Italian polychrome marble in gold and onyx tones. Showers and baths are huge by Roman standards. And White Tea by Westin toiletries are constantly restocked. Bathrobes and slippers are also provided.

lobby

The grand over-the-top lobby boasts towering ceilings, soaring arches, top-to-bottom marble, priceless chandeliers, and a a variety of neoclassical seating. The enormous windows let in tons of natural light and reflect off of the marble checkerboard floor. Checkin is fast and efficient, and staff are incredibly helpful throughout your stay.

pool

Neoclassical columns and arches surround a small indoor pool. There's a nice lounge area to relax in as well as a heated whirlpool.

spa

The Kami Wellness Center is also one of the better spas in Rome, with a variety of Asian massages and Elemis facials on offer. Prices are steep, but the staff is incredibly skilled. There's also a Turkish bath and men's and women's saunas. Book a treatment to beat jetlag or fatigue.

gym

The WestinWORKOUT Fitness Studios is one of the larger hotel gyms in Rome. It features all-new TechnoGym cardio and free weights, as well as pre-programmed workouts for guests. The hotel also offers special running maps for the neighborhood if you want to explore on your own.

For a small fee you can also borrow New Balance exercise gear during your stay if you forgot to pack your running shoes.

dining

The historic Cafe Doney has been recently remodeled. The new look celebrates Italian design in a more causal setting with big wooden tables and upholstered furniture with bright windows looking out onto the street. It's still a popular meeting place for business meetings, but the menu is more relaxed, including healthy smoothies and GROM gelato. Sunday brunch often includes live opera singers.

drinking

The ORVM lobby bar is accented with art deco touches including a marble bar and windows, a round sitting room, and flowing striped curtains. The bartender puts as much care into a cup of tea as he does a cocktail, many of which contain regional liquors from around Italy.