c-hotels Fiume

A small property with lots of character, the Fiume Hotel is set in a turn-of-the-century building that’s decorated with bold designs. From outside the hotel, the lobby’s heavy red drapes can be seen through arched windows. The property was last renovated in 2011 and features comfy velvet furniture, red tones, and damask wallpaper that create a stylish, welcoming atmosphere. The front desk’s velvety facade and overhead lighting sets a theatrical first impression. Even the staircase is stylish with red patterned wallpaper and red velvet ropes. Guests -- most of whom are couples --  are drawn to the reasonable room rates and relaxed atmosphere in the garden terrace, with greenery and shade from big umbrellas.

Taking its name from the nearby Piazza Fiume, the hotel is a long trek from Rome’s city center, but some guests appreciate the quiet residential area’s authentic Italian vibe. Streets in the area are lined with boutiques, cafes, restaurants, markets, bars, and cinemas. The Museum of Contemporary Art of Rome, high-end stores on Via Salaria, and the American and French embassies are all within walking distance. Several bus stops are around the hotel, but the closest Metro stations (Castro Pretorio and Policlinico) are about 10 to 15 minutes away on foot. The Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Colosseum are a 20-minute bus or subway ride, but the more physically active can opt to make the 30-minute journey on foot. The Spanish Steps can be reached by walking through the Villa Borghese gardens. The Leonardo da Vinci International Airport takes 40 minutes by car. The Rome Ciampino International Airport is about a 30-minute drive.

Rooms are a mix of contemporary and classic decor. Dark wood furniture, glossy wood floors, and white furnishings create a minimalist, mid-century look. Executive Rooms have more space than Classic and Superior Rooms. Junior Suites have sitting areas and are on the fifth floor, offering shared access to a terrace with stylish rattan furniture. Other rooms are available with Juliet balconies. Minibars and safes are located in wardrobe closets. The best views overlook the residential streets below. All rooms have flat-screen TVs, electric kettles, writing desks, free Wi-Fi, and air-conditioning. Sleek, modern bathrooms feature dark tiles, hairdryers, bidets, heated towel racks, and shower/tub combos or walk-in showers. Bathrobes and slippers also come standard. Irons and ironing boards can be requested. 

On the fourth floor of the Fiume Hotel, there's a lovely terrace with patio furniture that’s surrounded by plants and flowers climbing up trellises. Large windows in the breakfast lounge provide a lot of natural light, but the arched doorways are low-hanging and make the room feel a bit small. Breakfast items -- including fresh squeezed orange juice, an omelet maker, and a Nescafe machine -- are spread on a buffet counter. Guests with allergies or celiac disease also have options. Room service can be arranged, but there's no full restaurant. Happy hour is a popular time in the lobby bar, a cozy and hip area with red wallpaper and velvet furniture. There is a computer in the lobby that can be used for an additional charge, and free Wi-Fi is offered throughout the hotel. The front desk can also assist guest with tours, directions, luggage service, or arranging private car service.