Via Capo d'Africa 54, Rome, Italy | (888) 962-8097
Spacious, bright rooms with modern marble bathrooms
Rooftop terrace restaurant with impressive view
Large, modern fitness center
Central location blocks away from the Colosseum
Free Wi-Fi
Free breakfast
Simple decor may feel generic to some
Some guests complain of water pressure and temperature problems
Lower-level rooms lack coffee/tea facilities
The Capo d’Africa is a 65-room middle-tier hotel housed in a former convent and school that was redesigned in 2001 by architect Harry Gregory. The remodeling shows: There’s a modern and elegant approach to the property's aesthetics, with bright pops of purple in the lobby and works by contemporary artists hanging throughout the hotel. Rooms have ample space in comparison to other area venues and offer a simple decor with modern amenities. The location is within easy walking distance of the Colosseum, though it's a bit of a trek to other sights in the tourist center, such as the Pantheon or Trevi Fountain.
Scene
A modern hotel with an inviting lobby, contemporary art, and rooftop terrace
The Capo d’Africa is housed in a former convent and school -- the building dates to the early 20th century -- that was refurbished in 2001 by architect Harry Gregory. The remodeling of the building shows, especially regarding the use of space: There’s a modern and elegant approach to design that doesn’t sacrifice warmth. The lobby has a black marble front desk, light woods, purple leather seating, and oversize bamboo displays. Rooms have ample space in comparison to other area hotels, with large marble bathrooms. The rooftop terrace is a big draw as well.
Location
On a quiet side street blocks away from the Colosseum
The Capo d’Africa is located on a quiet side street in the historical center of Rome, between the Basilica of St. John Lateran and the Colosseum. It's also just a couple of minutes by foot from the Basilica of St. Clemente. Many of the city’s other popular historical sights are a bit far to walk to (it's 30 minutes by foot to the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain), but the Colosseo train stop is close by. Due to heavy tourist interest, there's also an array of dining and shopping options in the neighborhood.
Rooms
Spacious, bright rooms with a comfortable, low-key decor
The rooms are modern and more spacious than at many mid-range hotels in the city center, getting plenty of natural light. The simple decor incorporates light wood furnishings and shades of ochre and saffron in the walls and bedding, which enhances the feel of brightness. The flat-screen TVs are larger than average (though there are few English channels) and minibars are only partially stocked so that there is room to store food. Lower-level Classic and Superior Rooms lack coffee/tea facilities. Bathrooms have marble tile and shower/tub combos or walk-in showers.
Features
A modern fitness center and free breakfast for guests
Besides the outdoor space provided by the rooftop garden, the other has several other features -- more than are offered at many Rome hotels in this tier. The fitness center is spacious, complete with free weights, cardio equipment, and nautilus machines. The free Wi-Fi is fast and generally reliable, and all guests receive free morning meals in the breakfast room; it can also be enjoyed on a terrace with a Colosseum view. The breakfast buffet includes scrambled eggs, bacon, fresh fruit, meats, cheeses, and pastries. An on-site bistro -- the L'Attico -- is open during the evenings as well.