Hotel Giolli Nazionale

This small, family-run hotel is housed in an 800-year-old palace, and sits in one of the most historic areas of central Rome. The reception area is small and can get crowded when many guests are waiting to check in, but it's not exactly where you'd hang out. Alternatively, there's a cozy and welcoming lounge with armchairs gathered around a fireplace and flat-screen TV. The style is an odd mixture of Italian and Asian furniture and decorative objects. The hotel draws budget-conscious leisure and business guests of all sorts, but especially couples. 

This hotel is located in the northern part of the lively and eclectic Monti neighborhood, toward Campo Marzio. It's in front of the Palazzo delle Exposizione on Via Nazionale, which links Piazza della Repubblica with Piazza Venezia. Guests can walk to the Trevi Fountain in 12 minutes, to the Colosseum in 14 minutes, and to the Spanish Steps in 16 minutes. The nearest metro station can be reached in eight minutes on foot, and Termini Station is a 10-minute walk away. The area has many shops, restaurants, bars, ice cream parlors, and pizzerias. The location is ideal for tourists as well as for business travelers, as it's central and convenient. Plan on about 40 minutes to reach the Leonardo da Vinci International Airport by car, or just under an hour by public transportation. 

Rooms are small and simple, with hardwood floors, but they vary considerably. Some have a more modern style, but others are still in need of an update, though it's hard to argue with the lovely ceiling frescoes from the 1800s that are available in some units. Views can be beautiful or dismal, with some looking out on Palazzo delle Esposizione and others overlooking an alleyway and adjacent buildings. All are equipped with air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, safes, and free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms are compact but attractive, with marble tiling, towel warmers, bidets, shower/tub combos or showers only, hairdryers, and toiletries. Suites offer more space along with an armchair and sofabed, though lower-category rooms can be compact and cramped. Most rooms do not have coffeemakers, but coffee and tea are available in the bar for free all day.

This small hotel has limited features. A free breakfast buffet is served daily in the lounge, which is also a bar. It's a cozy, elegant space with a marble floor, rich Italian tapestries hanging on the wall, and Italian statues and artwork. Breakfast selections include breads, pastries, cheeses, meats, fruits, yogurt, and cereals. Free coffee and tea are available all day. Room service is available, and guests can order sandwiches for delivery from a nearby restaurant. An internet corner has a computer for guests to use, and small pets are allowed for free. Parking is available nearby for a fee. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.