Piazza del Popolo and the Spanish Steps, Rome, Italy
Contemporary, upscale rooms with comfortable bedding
Large marble bathrooms with walk-in showers and soaking tubs
Modern touches such as Nespresso coffee machines and iPod docks
Beautiful rooftop terrace used for breakfast and cocktails
Centrally located near major tourist sights
Free Wi-Fi
Some rooms in annex are smaller with little natural light
Some complaints of heating/AC problems
Limited additional features
Fee for breakfast
Split between two buildings, the 24-room Babuino 181 is an upscale boutique ideal for the discerning traveler. The rooms are modern and well-furnished, with high-end amenities such as Nespresso coffee machines, iPod docks, comfortable mattresses, and soft bedding. The spacious bathrooms have large glass walk-in showers and separate soaking tubs. There’s also a popular rooftop terrace breakfast room and cocktail lounge for guests. Even with the hefty price tag, the sheer space of the rooms makes this a top option for its tier.
Scene
A sophisticated, contemporary ambiance with a covered rooftop terrace for breakfast and evening cocktails
The Babuino 181, part of the Rome Luxury Suites group, is housed in a fully renovated historic building and its annex. The 24-room property is a true boutique hotel, with sophisticated, modern decor. There’s a gorgeous covered terrace used as a breakfast room and cocktail area for guests. There is little common space otherwise, but the rooms themselves are spacious and well-designed.
Location
On a side street near the city center, within walking distance of the Spanish Steps and other attractions
Babuino 181 is located on a safe side street in the city center between Piazza di Spagna and Piazza del Popolo, putting it within easy walking distance from many of Rome’s popular tourist sights. It's a 15-minute walk to the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon. The area is very well serviced by both bus and metro, and there is no shortage of dining and shopping options nearby.
Rooms
Spacious, clean, and modern, with large marble bathrooms, high-end furniture, and comfortable bedding
Babuino 181 ditches the kitsch found at some other hotels in this price category in favor of streamlined luxury, offering rooms with original art and sophisticated contemporary style. Fresh white bedding is paired with green and maroon color accents and light woods. The spaces are spotlessly clean and spacious, with soft lighting, Nespresso machines, iPod docks, high-end furnishings (such as solid wood desks and crane lamps), and comfortable mattresses. The spacious bathrooms have soaking tubs and glass walk-in showers. Apartment-style suites are available as well.
Features
Free, fast Wi-Fi and a rooftop terrace
Guests can make use of the fast and reliable free Wi-Fi, but nothing else is included in Babuino 181’s price tag, with breakfast available for an extra charge. The rooftop terrace, where both breakfast and cocktails are served, is gorgeous, with upscale wicker furniture and fabrics accents in greens and maroons (just like in the rooms).