Via Sistina, 69, 00187 Roma RM, Italy, Italy | (937) 315-4602
Ornate lobby and plenty of old-world charm throughout
Clean, traditional rooms with plush bedding; some suites have balconies
Superb location right by the Spanish Steps and walking distance to Trevi Fountain
Surrounded by high-end shops and restaurants
Part of Green Engage energy reduction program
Small, modern fitness center
Terrace restaurant with panoramic views of Rome
Lobby lounge and an elegant breakfast restaurant
Multi-lingual staff
Standard rooms are small and a bit generic
King-size beds are made by pushing two twin beds together
Fees for Wi-Fi, parking and breakfast
Not all rooms have coffee/tea facilities
This upscale hotel, located in a historic building that was once a convent, welcomes guests with an elegant, ornate lobby. Of the 192 rooms spread out over eight floors, the suites on the higher floors with balconies are the favored accommodations; the decor isn't quite as luxurious as some may expect given the advertised five-star rating. The location is wonderfully convenient for sightseeing -- right next to the Spanish Steps and walking distance to the Villa Borghese and the Trevi Fountain. While babysitting is available, families should be aware there is a steep charge for extra people in the room. During the spring and summer months, alfresco dining is available in a charming courtyard at La Piazzetta.
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Scene
Old-world charm at the top of the Spanish Steps
The small but ornate lobby is filled with voluminous cardinal red drapes, gilded mirrors, inlaid furniture, and large Murano glass chandeliers, for a very elegant feel. The hotel attracts well-heeled couples and business travelers with its superb location and traditional decor. The tone of grandeur set by the lobby isn't quite matched by the rooms, however, which some may find a bit staid. Still, the hotel has a storied past -- the building was once a convent -- and former guests have included Marlon Brando, Tom Cruise, and Sean Connery.
For those that prefer modern luxury, the (often pricier) 29-room First Luxury Art Hotel may be a better pick. It's located at the bottom of the Spanish Steps and has contemporary design, top-notch technology and an on-site restaurant with a Michelin-starred chef.
Location
Excellent location right by the Spanish Steps
It's easy to reach most popular tourist spots by foot from this fabulous Rome location. From the Intercontinental, it takes about a minute to walk to the top of the Spanish Steps, five minutes to the Villa Borghese, and seven minutes to the Trevi Fountain. Exclusive shops such as Dior, Gucci, Prada, Bulgari, Ferragamo, Jimmy Choo and more are close by on Via Condotti and Via Sistina. The hotel is surrounded by restaurants, trattorias of local cuisine, bars and clubs. The Vatican and Colosseum are a bit far to walk to, however, but it's usually easy enough to get a taxi from this area.
Rooms
Traditional rooms have decor inspired by neoclassical Italian style, though some may find them a bit staid.
Rooms here have traditional decor -- most have plush white duvets, patterned wall-to-wall carpets, floor-to-ceiling drapes, and dark wood furniture. Touches such as crown molding add elegance, but the overall feel is staid and even a bit dated. The lower-level rooms are on the small side.
Larger suites with balconies have drapery over the beds. Rooms overlooking the inner courtyard are very peaceful and allow for a quiet night's sleep. The higher the room, the better the view. Lovely travertine bathrooms have shower/tub combinations and include a bidet, fluffy white towels, slippers, and toiletries. Minibars and turndown service come standard, but only some rooms have coffee/tea facilities and bathrobes. Wi-Fi is free for IHG members, and for a fee for other guests.
For families, connecting rooms are available, as are rooms with sofa beds in separate living areas. Cribs can be provided for some room types.
Features
A terrace restaurant with great views of Rome, and a small but modern fitness center
This is a full-service hotel with more to offer in the way of features than many Rome properties. The business center has a desktop computer, fax, copy machine, and a printer. La Piazzeta Restaurant serves breakfast and has seasonal courtyard seating, while the lobby lounge, Cafe De La Ville, serves cocktails and light fare for lunch and dinner. The seasonal Emperor's Terrace on the sixth floor, serving dinner, has gorgeous panoramic views of Rome.
A lot of meeting space is available, and the small gym has modern cardio machines, free weights, and wood floors. Leather-bound books are available for loan in the cozy, elegant lobby library, which has oil paintings, wall paneling, oriental rugs, Murano chandeliers, and even a big freestanding globe.
Wired and wireless Internet access is available for a fee. The experienced concierge can arrange everything from babysitting to courier service.
