Abitart Hotel

The distinctive curved stone building with red columns and large white, human-form sculptures announces to arriving guests that these accommodations are far from traditional. Inside, the expansive lobby is arresting, with large modern art adorning the walls and circular clusters of white and red leather chairs and sofas. A curvy front desk dominates one wall and matches the dark brown tile floors that are illuminated by modern chandeliers. A bright atrium with large tropical plants gives more seating in soothing surroundings. The breakfast area resembles a covered outdoor patio as it overlooks lots of greenery and has outdoor seating among lush landscaping. The hotel's sophisticated restaurant and bar are also situated on the lobby level, showcasing more colorful art in posh surroundings of rich hardwood flooring, leather chairs and benches, and an intimate bar. Funky and avant-garde, this hotel offers a visually stimulating stay and cheery interiors.

The Abitart Hotel is located between the Ostiense and Testaccio districts, south of the heart of Rome’s historic district. It’s in an urban neighborhood away from the tourist centers, and though it has graffiti and a homeless population, it's generally considered safe. Several restaurants and a supermarket are in the immediate area. The Piramide metro station is about a seven-minute walk away, and gives access to most major attractions in about 20 to 25 minutes, including Vatican City, the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, and the Pantheon. The Colosseum is about 10 minutes away via public transportation. The Roma Ostiense train station is a six-minute walk and gives easy access in about 30 minutes to Leonardo da Vinci International Airport. 

The vibrantly-hued, visually surprising interiors continue in the hotel's guest rooms. There are several room types offered, from Single Rooms for solo travelers, to Standard Doubles or the more spacious Superior Double Rooms, which add such extras as private terraces and lounge areas. There are several whimsically themed suites available as well, such as the Metaphysical Suite with sky-blue walls and ceilings festooned with puffy white clouds, or the Picasso-inspired Cubist Suite. Rooms are cloaked in color, with drapes typically matching the vibrantly painted walls, while floors are either hardwood or covered in colorful patterned carpets. Light wood furniture is used in most rooms, with matching wall-mounted nightstands and counters, and a simple wood platform bed in lieu of a box spring. Amenities include flat-screen TVs with SKY channels, minibars, electronic safes, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi, plus Superior Rooms have tea- and coffee-making facilities. The bright, well-lit bathrooms feature tiled walls and floors, small shower stalls, toilets, and bidets. These rooms might not suit all tastes, however; some guests may find the over-the-top, avant-garde decor a bit much, while others find it delightfully stimulating.

The hotel's Estrobar restaurant serves gourmet fare and a tasting menu in a stylish, design-oriented space. It is only open for dinner, but can be reserved for lunch by groups. There's a lovely outdoor area for alfresco dining, and DJ-driven music is offered in the evenings. A continental breakfast with hot dishes is included in the room rate and served in the sunlit breakfast room. There's also a lobby bar that serves coffee and cocktails.

Business travelers are well catered for with six meeting rooms and a business center. Though there's no fitness center on-site, guests have access to a nearby one (for a fee). In-room massage treatments can be arranged as well. Babysitting, dry cleaning, and laundry services are available upon request. Parking is available adjacent to the hotel for a fee. Free newspapers can be found in the lobby, and free Wi-Fi is offered throughout the hotel.