The 20 Best Hotels in the Heart of Old Rome

Palazzo Manfredi

Old Rome was once the city centre and therefore this is where you’ll find many of the city’s ancient treasures including the Pantheon, the Colosseum, the Spanish Steps and the Forum. This is also a great place for old piazzas filled with small shops and centuries-old architecture. The appeals to staying in this part of the city are obvious and there are a good selection of hotels to choose from. Our hotel experts advise that some of the best hotels in the heart of Old Rome have roof terraces or balconies to enjoy this beautiful part of the city from. Our collection of our Hotel Gurus' favourite hotels in the area have something for everyone whether you are looking for a converted palazzo, a stylish design-led stay, a family-friendly hotel, or a chic boutique. So why not browse through our list to start planning your next city break?

For luxury

DOM Hotel

  • Roma Luxus Hotel is a five-star hotel housed in a renovated 18th-century palace in the Roman Forum. Rooms are smart and spacious with hand-selected design pieces. The best suites offer a private hot tub and terrace. Complete with a spa and good restaurant, this is an indulgent choice.
  • D.O.M Hotel is an intimate five-star hotel occupying a former 17th-century palace on the elegant Via Giulia. Rooms are contemporary with hand-selected artisanal and design pieces. Complete with a contemporary Italian restaurant, pick this stay for the location and the service.
  • Hotel de'Ricci is a luxury hotel located off the exclusive Piazza De' Ricci. Suites are dressed in a vintage style, with frescoes and hand-selected antiques. The hotel's professional sommeliers will guide you through a private wine tasting before dinner. A very chic stay.

For a heritage hotel

Le Quattro Dame

  • Le Quattro Dame is a heritage hotel occupying a former private residence in central Rome, close to Piazza Venezia. Rooms are dressed in a warm, neutral palette, allowing the building's classical features to do the talking; the best suites boast original frescoes and elegant Meridiani sofas. An elegant choice.

For a boutique property

Singer Palace

  • Argentina Residenza is a pretty boutique hotel that takes its name from the renowned archaeological site it faces in central Rome. Interiors beautifully mix modern styles with the building's original features. An exclusive choice with a stylish bar.
  • Residenze Argileto is a contemporary design hotel located in the stylish Monti neighbourhood. Rooms boast four-poster beds and original artworks. Pick this for the extras including a hot tub, roof terrace, and spoiling spa. An upmarket boutique hotel.
  • Nerva Boutique Hotel is a chic boutique hotel boasting the most central of locations. Smart rooms are a design masterpiece with dog-tooth check fabrics and minimalist furniture set against dark blue walls. The marble bathrooms are equally luxurious. This property has it all.
  • Eitch Borromini is a plush boutique hotel overlooking Piazza Navona. This property lies within a 17th-century palace designed by Italian architect Francesco Borromini. Suites have a classical feel and feature antique furnishings and luxurious linens. Complete with a chic rooftop bar, this is a stylish choice.
  • Hotel Monte Cenci is a boutique hotel located in the heart of Rome, a short walk from the Pantheon. Rooms blend modern interior design with classic Italian style influences, with all made-in-Italy furnishings. With a chic rooftop bar, this is a hip stay.
  • HT6 Hotel is part of the prestigious Pantheon Collection. This new boutique hotel is located in the heart of Rome's old town. Individually styled rooms boast wooden flooring and Art Deco wallpaper; the best suites are split-level and offer a private Turkish bath. A very sleek option.
  • Singer Palace occupies a 20th-century palace set between the Pantheon and the Trevi Fountain in central Rome. Rooms are warm and stylish with modern Italian furnishings, and breakfasts are served with a view on the rooftop terrace — this is a chic boutique.

For foodies

Hotel Raphael

  • Hotel Raphael is an eco-hotel with a rooftop restaurant serving award-winning biodynamic cuisine with views of the Basilica. Rooms and suites are luxurious and opulent, featuring red and gold decor, High Renaissance artwork, and marble-clad bathrooms. Pick this for bygone grandeur with environmental sensibilities.

For a special occasion

Palazzo Manfredi

  • You might try the Palazzo Manfredi, with just 16 luxurious rooms, suites and apartments, many of which actually have views onto the Colosseum and Forum, as well as an excellent rooftop restaurant with amazing views.

For a city style

G Rough

  • In one of the hippest spots in town, G-Rough is both luxurious and hip. This townhouse, built in the 17th-century, still has its beautiful parquet floors and original tiles but it’s also got a fantastic collection of retro furniture in the rooms. Plus there's a cool roof terrace and it’s only 450 metres from the Pantheon and even closer to the Piazza Navona.
  • The Capo d'Africa is a sleek, retro, mid-sized hotel with a gorgeous roof terrace overlooking the Colosseum and the bell tower, a gym, bar and a restaurant which serves great pasta.
  • Along the same vein is Forty Seven, a contemporary boutique hotel, also with a fantastic roof terrace restaurant, and plush bedrooms, some with private terraces.
  • Or you might try the Locanda Cairoli, a chic, comfortable hotel with a charming garden and the air of a private home.

For families

Inn at the Roman Forum

  • The Inn at The Roman Forum is a beautiful hotel with 14 charmingly decorated bedrooms, suites and family rooms and a lovely rooftop terrace, positioned right between the Colosseum and the Roman Forum.
  • Martis Palace Hotel is an elegant four-star hotel situated in a heritage building in central Rome. Rooms are modern with wooden floors and stylish design pieces. Dedicated family rooms are great for travelling with children. Complete with a roof terrace and restaurant, this is a refined hotel.
  • Corso 281 is an exclusive hotel occupying an 18th-century building on Via del Corso. Rooms are dressed in an aristocratic style and blend hand-selected design pieces with unique artworks. While adults will enjoy the private art collection, the spacious family suite makes this a good choice for families.

Still not sure which to book?

  • Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Rome.
  • Refine your list to great hotels near the Colosseum or the best hotels in Trastevere.
  • You might consider our Guru’s list of the best hotels near the Vatican or our recommendations for great hotels near the Colosseum.
  • You could also review our articles recommending the best boutique hotels in Rome or the best family hotels in Rome.
  • Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.
    • Palazzo Manfredi Rome (Colosseo) 16 rooms from $490

      Foodies  -  Michelin starred regional and Mediterranean fare is created by chef Giuseppe Di Lorio and served on the spectacular terrace
      Other Activities  -  Live the ultimate Italian experience by taking the house Lamborghini out for a spin
      Families  -  Children are well looked after with a babysitting service and kids' menus
      Local exploring  -  Located beside the Colosseum; it doesn't get much better than this!
      Air conditioningRestaurantGardenDisabled accessViews
      Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet

      Five-star luxury next to the Colosseum and the Forum with exceptional views of both from an excellent roof top restaurant. Chic rooms, suites, and apartments are decorated in a contemporary-classic design. With fantastic food, unique views, and wellness too - this is Rome in style. See More

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    • Capo d'Africa Rome (Colosseo) 65 rooms from $151

      Boutique  -  With refined decor and exemplary service that caters to guests' every whim, this is a charming boutique stay
      Sights nearby  -  Located in the heart of Imperial Rome, a stone's throw from the Colosseum
      Townhouse  -  The hotel was once a school built in the early 20th-century
      Hotel Entertainment  -  There is live jazz music every Tuesday and Friday evening
      Air conditioningRestaurantDisabled accessViews
      Recommended by  -  Tablet

      A sleek contemporary hotel in the shadow of the Colosseum in the heart of Rome. A gorgeous roof terrace overlooks the city bell tower and Colosseum. Expect attentive staff and rooms with cool retro style. There's an excellent gym, a Centrum bar and La Terrazza serves standout pasta. A chic stay. See More

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    • Forty Seven Rome (Circus Maximus) 61 rooms from $272

      Romantic Break  -  The suites have a private panoramic terrace, an ideal spot to enjoy a glass of wine with your significant other
      City Style  -  With each floor dedicated to a master of twentieth-century Italian art, this is a very stylish stay
      Hotel Entertainment  -  With an in-house cinema and a billiards rooms, there is plenty to do to unwind at the hotel
      Artworks  -  Expect to find striking contemporary art pieces throughout the property
      RestaurantViews
      Recommended by  -  Tablet

      A contemporary boutique hotel with a fantastic roof terrace restaurant. Plush bedrooms and suites have parquet floors, huge comfy beds and all the modern gadgetry. Magnificent views from private terraces and the roof top. Romantic and stylish enough for the modern traveller. See More

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    • Locanda Cairoli Rome (Regola) 15 rooms from $196

      Full of character  -  With a mix of original features, modern artworks, & traditional furniture this hotel feels much like staying in someone's home
      Local exploring  -  Well positioned in the city centre offering easy access to the Pantheon Temple and other major sites
      Close to nightlife  -  Trastevere offers a unique and eclectic variety of nightlife options
      Sights nearby  -  Close to Piazza Navona and The Pantheon
      Air conditioningPet friendly

      A chic, comfortable hotel in central Rome. Clean, crisp rooms follow a blue and yellow theme, with individual details such as floral arrangements and artworks. Close to the Piazza Navona, this is perfect for local exploring. A classic hotel with the air of a private home. See More

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    • The Inn at The Roman Forum Rome (Foro Romano) 14 rooms from $256

      Local exploring  -  As the name suggests, this property is just a stones throw from one of Rome's major attraction, the Roman Forum
      Romantic Break  -  Pick one of the rooms with a balcony, four-poster, and a large whirlpool tub for a very romantic base
      Hideaway  -  It may be in the heart of the city, but the quiet alley it sits on feels hidden away
      Chic  -  The building is ancient, however, the interiors have a chic contemporary feel
      Recommended by  -  Tablet

      A beautiful guesthouse well located near the Colosseum. Attractively decorated bedrooms, suites and family rooms have a contemporary classic style, while the best have mahogany four-poster beds, fireplaces, and private balconies. A lovely rooftop terrace is a bonus. Ideal for city exploring. See More

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    • Roma Luxus Rome (Monti) 30 rooms from $177

      City Style  -  With rooms featuring Italian design pieces, and a trendy restaurant and bar on-site, there is plenty of city style at this hotel
      Romantic Break  -  The dramatic setting and luxurious suites score highly with couples; book a room with a hot tub for added indulgence
      Local exploring  -  Located within the historic Roman Forum, this hotel is a perfect starting point for exploring the local sights
      Sights nearby  -  Explore Trajan’s Markets, 2 minutes’ away from the hotel; the site features remains of what was once the hub of imperial Rome
      Air conditioningSpaRestaurantPet friendlyDisabled access

      This luxury, five-star hotel is housed in a renovated 18th-century palace in the Roman Forum. Rooms are smart and spacious with hand-selected design pieces; the best suites offer a private hot tub and terrace. Relax in the exclusive spa before dining at restaurant Madre. An indulgent getaway. See More

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    • Argentina Residenza Rome (Pantheon) 6 rooms from $179

      Local exploring  -  Sitting opposite one of Rome's most famous archaeological sites, this hotel is perfectly located for exploring the local sights
      Honeymoons  -  Book a suite with a hot tub for a honeymoon with an added sense of luxury
      Romantic Break  -  Couples love the luxurious suites and the romantic hotel bar
      Sights nearby  -  Explore Largo di Torre Argentina opposite the hotel, a famous archaeological site and home to a colony of cats
      Air conditioningDisabled accessNo pets
      Recommended by  -  Tablet

      This pretty boutique hotel takes its name from the renowned archaeological site it faces in central Rome. Rooms are dressed with luxurious soft furnishings in soft pastels; book the Junior Suite to enjoy a private hot tub. Relax with a drink at the sleek hotel bar in this exclusive Roman guesthouse. See More

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    • Le Quattro Dame Rome (Pantheon) 6 rooms from $200

      Local exploring  -  The location in Trastevere district and the apartment-style rooms make this ideal to dip in & out of like a local
      City Style  -  The hotel's historic building, plus the thoughtful, designer touches, make it a stylish Italian stay
      Sights nearby  -  Visit the Pantheon and Piazza Navona, both within easy walking distance of the hotel
      Romantic Break  -  Couples will love the attention to detail at this beautiful heritage hotel
      Air conditioningNo pets
      Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

      This heritage hotel occupies a former private residence in central Rome, close to Piazza Venezia. Rooms are dressed in a warm, neutral palette, allowing the building's classical features to do the talking; the best suites boast original frescoes and elegant Meridiani sofas. A stylish boutique hotel. See More

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    • G-Rough Rome (Piazza Navona) 10 rooms from $428

      Boutique  -  Boutique style sees vintage pieces by leading Italian designers set in a stripped-back historic building — very chic
      Hotel Entertainment  -  The hotel's ‘Unconventional Experiences’ include unique experiences like tours of the city via Vespas
      Chic  -  Cool from the outset: guests are checked in at the bar over a welcome coffee or prosecco
      City Style  -  Achingly trendy interiors — certainly not one for traditionalists!
      Air conditioningPet friendly
      Recommended by  -  Tablet

      One of the hippest spots in town, at G-Rough you'll find a unique blend of luxury living and trendy design finishes giving this 17th century townhouse a very urban vibe. Parquet floors & original tiles come with an eclectic mix of retro style furniture. Roof terrace for chilling and buzzy bar. See More

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    • Martis Palace Hotel Rome (Piazza Navona) 26 rooms from $232

      City Style  -  Situated in a historic, 16th-century Roman building, this hotel is full of local charm and style
      Local exploring  -  With its central location, this hotel is a great starting point for local exploring in Rome
      Families  -  The interconnected family suites are perfect for families travelling with children
      Great walks  -  Stroll through the Giardini di Montecavallo: pretty, landscaped gardens with several nearby art galleries
      Air conditioningRestaurantDisabled accessNo pets

      This elegant, four-star hotel is situated in a heritage building in central Rome. Rooms are modern with wooden floors and stylish design pieces; family rooms are great for travelling with children. Enjoy panoramic views from the hotel's roof terrace before dining at the restaurant. A refined hotel. See More

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    • Corso 281 Rome (Trevi) 12 rooms from $543

      Local exploring  -  Located in the heart of historic Rome, and close to local shopping streets, this hotel is great for exploring the city
      Families  -  The executive suite can host four people and is ideal for families travelling with children
      City Style  -  The luxurious design of the suites has guests falling in love with this stylish hotel
      Sights nearby  -  Visit the nearby Church of St Louis, the French national church in Rome and home to several Caravaggio paintings
      Air conditioningDisabled accessNo pets
      Recommended by  -  Tablet

      This exclusive hotel occupies an 18th-century building on Via del Corso. Rooms are dressed in an aristocratic style and blend hand-selected design pieces with unique artworks; the best suites have a pretty terrace with French doors. Discover the hotel gallery's private collection. A stylish break. See More

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    • D.O.M Hotel Rome (Regola) 18 rooms from $320

      Foodies  -  Verve Restaurant serves fabulous Roman cuisine using the freshest local ingredients. Opt for one of the fabulous tasting menus!
      Local exploring  -  With its central location, this hotel is the perfect base for exploring the local sights, most of which can be reached on foot
      Romantic Break  -  Couples love the hotel's plush linens as well as the cosy, low-lit bar
      Sights nearby  -  The hotel is a few steps from Piazza Navona on one side and minutes from St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican on the other
      Air conditioningRestaurantPet friendly

      This intimate, five-star hotel occupies a former 17th-century palace on the elegant Via Giulia, Rome. Rooms are contemporary with hand-selected artisanal and design pieces; a warm palette adds a homely feel to the suites. Sample modern takes on Italian classics at the restaurant. An inviting hotel. See More

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    • Singer Palace Rome (Pigna) 30 rooms from $486

      Local exploring  -  Nestled between the Pantheon on one side and the Trevi Fountain on the other, you can't get a more central location than this
      City Style  -  Housed in a heritage property, updated with contemporary, chic interiors, this hotel has plenty of modern Roman style
      Romantic Break  -  Couples love starting the day on the hotel's beautiful roof terrace with panoramic views of Rome
      Sights nearby  -  Visit two of Rome's most famous sights, both a short walk from the hotel: the Pantheon and the Trevi Fountain
      Air conditioningRestaurantDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets
      Recommended by  -  Tablet

      This hotel occupies a 20th-century palace set between the Pantheon and the Trevi Fountain in central Rome. Rooms are warm and stylish with modern Italian furnishings; the best suite offers a private terrace and separate living space. Enjoy breakfast with a view on the rooftop terrace; a chic hotel. See More

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    • Hotel De'Ricci Rome (Regola) 8 rooms from $467

      City Style  -  Located in an exclusive, high-end part of the city centre, in a plush, heritage building, this hotel has reams of Roman style
      Local exploring  -  With Rome's main attractions within walking distance of the hotel, this is a great base for your local exploring
      Romantic Break  -  Couples love the boutique feel of this hotel and the exclusive wine experiences on offer
      Sights nearby  -  Visit the nearby Piazza Navona, an elegant square dating from the 1st century A.D. with a classical fountain
      Air conditioningPet friendlyDisabled access
      Recommended by  -  Small Luxury Hotels

      This luxury hotel is located off the exclusive Piazza De' Ricci in Rome. Suites are dressed in a vintage style, with frescoes and hand-selected antiques; the best offer a private balcony. Let the hotel's professional sommeliers guide you through a private wine tasting before dinner. A chic stay. See More

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    • HT6 Hotel Rome (Sant'Angelo) 21 rooms from $400

      Local exploring  -  Set within one of the most famous archaeological sites in Rome, this hotel is the perfect place to start your local exploring
      City Style  -  WIth individually dressed rooms and unique design pieces, this hotel has plenty of Italian style
      Romantic Break  -  Couples love the suites' plush linens and the cosy hotel bar
      Sights nearby  -  Visit the Roman Forum, one of the most famous sites in Rome and within walking distance from the hotel
      Air conditioningDisabled accessNo pets

      Part of the prestigious Pantheon Collection, this new boutique hotel is located in the heart of Rome's old town. Individually styled rooms boast wooden flooring and Art Deco wallpaper; the best suites are split-level and offer a private Turkish bath. Enjoy an aperitif at the cosy bar; a sleek hotel. See More

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    • Hotel Raphael Rome (Piazza Navona) 50 rooms from $236

      Romantic Break  -  Relax in one of the hotel's sprawling top floor suites — marble-clad bathrooms, views of the Pantheon, and opulent decor
      Foodies  -  Award wining chefs lead rooftop restaurant Mater Terrae that serves exceptional vegetarian, gluten-free, and meat dishes
      City Style  -  With rooms decorated with Picasso artwork, gold and red decor, and marble furnishings, this urban hotel exudes opulence
      Local exploring  -  Located just a stone's throw away from St Peter's Basilica and the Pantheon, this hotel is superbly located
      Air conditioningRestaurantGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessViews
      Recommended by  -  Relais & Chateaux

      Hotel Raphael is an eco-hotel with a rooftop restaurant serving award-winning biodynamic cuisine with views of the Basilica. Rooms and suites are luxurious and opulent, featuring red and gold decor, High Renaissance artwork, and marble-clad bathrooms. Bygone grandeur and environmental sensibility. See More

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    • Hotel Monte Cenci Rome (Regola) 30 rooms from $314

      Local exploring  -  Located in the historic Regola district just a stone's throw from Rome's sights, this hotel is a great base for local exploring
      Romantic Break  -  Pick one of the Deluxe rooms which offer romantic tubs and chromotherapy showers for a couples' hideaway
      City Style  -  With Italian-made furnishings and chic interiors, this hotel has reams of city style
      Walking distance restaurants  -  Some of the city's best dining is within walking distance
      Air conditioningPet friendlyDisabled access

      This new boutique hotel is located in the heart of Rome, a short walk from the Pantheon. Rooms blend modern interior design with classic Italian style influences, with all made-in-Italy furnishings; book the Prestige Room for a huge private terrace. Don't miss the chic rooftop bar; a stylish hotel. See More

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    • Residenze Argileto Rome (Foro Romano) 20 rooms from $266

      Hideaway  -  With free access to the spa when you book a room, and a bar and roof terrace on-site, this is a great Roman bolt-hole
      City Style  -  With its design focus and first-class facilities, this boutique hotel oozes Italian city style
      Romantic Break  -  Couples will fall in love with the romantic rooftop terrace and hot tub
      Sights nearby  -  Visit the ancient Roman Forum and the Colosseum, both a short distance from this hotel
      Air conditioningSpaRestaurantDisabled accessViewsNo pets

      This contemporary design hotel is located in the stylish Monti neighbourhood in Rome. Rooms boast four-poster beds and original artworks, as well as smartphones with local SIM cards. Relax in the hot tub on the hotel's roof terrace before a treatment in the tranquil spa. An upmarket boutique hotel. See More

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    • Nerva Boutique Hotel Rome (Foro Romano) 19 rooms from $344

      Concierge  -  Whether you want a babysitter, a chauffeur driven Mercedes or a personal shopper — the concierge is on-hand
      Contemporary  -  Chic modern style includes pops of colour, bold patterns, geometric prints and limited-edition artworks
      Local exploring  -  Ideally located just steps from the Colosseum and beside the wall of the Forum of Nerva
      Family Suites  -  The spacious Family Suite has two bedrooms and two bathrooms for a luxe family getaway
      Air conditioningPet friendlyDisabled access
      Recommended by  -  Tablet, Mr & Mrs Smith

      A chic boutique hotel boasting the most central of locations. Smart rooms are a design masterpiece with dog-tooth check fabrics and minimalist furniture set against dark blue walls. The marble bathrooms are equally luxurious. A short stroll from the city's main attractions, this property has it all. See More

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    • Eitch Borromini Rome (Piazza Navona) 18 rooms from $291

      City Style  -  Situated in a building designed by one of Italy's most famous architects, you can't get more Italian style than this hotel
      Romantic Break  -  The bright and airy suites and the hotel's historic surroundings make this a great romantic getaway
      Local exploring  -  The central location makes this hotel a great base for local exploring
      Sights nearby  -  Visit nearby Castel Sant'Angelo, commissioned by the Roman Emperor Hadrian as a mausoleum for himself
      Air conditioningRestaurantDisabled accessViewsNo pets

      This plush hotel sits within a 17th-century palace designed by Italian architect Francesco Borromini overlooking Piazza Navona. Suites have a classical feel, featuring antique furnishings and luxurious linens; the best offer spectacular city views. Don't miss the rooftop terrace bar. A unique hotel. See More

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Written by Kat Parr Mackintosh

posted Wednesday, 9th November 2022