Hotel Dei Mellini

Contrasting starkly with a brick-and-concrete eyesore directly opposite, the immaculate white facade of the Hotel Dei Mellini exudes a crisp, understated elegance. The building dates back to the 19th century, and interiors have been restored to reflect the mood of the era by renowned British designer Harry Gregory. The effect is bright and airy, with red velvet furnishings featuring heavily among numerous potted plants and modern artworks by Italian artists. This independent boutique property also features two outdoor spaces, one internal courtyard and a lovely, spacious rooftop terrace decked out with seating and loungers and bursting with greenery. The majority of clientele are couples looking for a more intimate place to stay in Rome, however a dedicated kids' rooms -- very unusual for a hotel like this -- helps attract a fair share of families with children.

The hotel is located on a quiet street just around the corner from the banks of the Tiber River in Rome's Prati District. Castel Sant'Angelo and Ponte Sant'Angelo are about a 10-minute walk. The Vatican is 15 minutes walk in one direction and the popular Spanish Steps are the same distance in the other. It's also about the same distance to the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon. Most hotels are near some of these sights but not all of them, making the Hotel Dei Mellini particularly well situated for those who enjoy exploring on foot. For those who'd prefer to use public transport, the nearest metro station, Lepanto, is a 10-minute walk away; it connects to Rome's main train station, Termini, in just seven minutes. 

The hotel has 80 rooms, all of which are decorated in smart, Italian styling with patterned fabrics, carpeted floors, and a mixture of wood and velvet furnishings. Categories range from tiny Petite Chambre Rooms for singles to spacious Family Rooms sleeping up to seven. Amenities include (paid) Wi-Fi, well-stocked minibars, and smart TVs, while suites also add iPod docks. Bathrooms are finished in Carrera marble and come with shower/tub combos, hairdryers, and quality toiletries. Some upgraded rooms also open to small furnished balconies, however those rooms overlooking the inner courtyard can lack natural light. 

A breakfast buffet of hot and cold items is served in the hotel's modern restaurant, and included in the room rate. The cafeteria-style dining room is also open for lunch and dinner until late and offers a menu of Mediterranean cooking, though there's no bar area. There is, however, an impressive amount of space for guests to unwind in, including a spacious TV lounge, a games room with table tennis, and a large rooftop terrace with plenty of seating and sun loungers, overlooked by a small gym. Children also have a kids' room to play in with plenty of toys and stuffed animals. Bicycles are available to guests free of charge.