Piazza dei Cinquecento, 90, Rome, Italy | (618) 248-8274
Simple contemporary aesthetic throughout
Modern rooms with big flat-screen TVs and Lavazza coffeemakers
Next to Termini Station; extremely well connected to public transportation
Soundproofed windows shut out the street noise
A rooftop terrace bar offers good views in warmer months
Small fitness center
Free Wi-Fi throughout
Pristine hotel has a gritty backdrop near Termini station
Design is modern but somewhat underwhelming
No spa (expected for advertised five-star rating)
Superior Rooms are tiny
The 177-room, upscale NH Collection Roma Palazzo Cinquecento is set in a stately palazzo located directly next to Rome’s Termini station. The building once belonged to Italy’s postal system, but a 2016 makeover transformed the structure into a modern hotel that preserved the turn-of-the-century character but ditched any lingering post office feel. In the rooms, neutral and nudes reign supreme, with abstract leather headboards and crisp white linens -- though it's worth noting that the Superior Rooms are tiny. The major transport hub outside the door is convenient for guests planning to use public transportation to see all of Rome, but the neighborhood is a bit gritty and none of the major popular sights are within easy walking distance. Those hoping to stay within walking distance of some of the sights might prefer the slightly pricier Hotel Indigo Rome - St. George, which is a 15-minute walk from the Pantheon.
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Scene
Chic and subtle modern aesthetic against one of Rome's most urban areas
A small archaeological area containing the ruins of the Servian Wall separates the NH Collection Roma Palazzo Cinquecento hotel from the general buzz of the train station, which sits essentially at its doorstep. Crossing the lawn, the entryway offers the first taste of the brand’s signature color scheme that repeats throughout the hotel – black and white with sudden bursts of red. The lobby is a popular place for guests to gather, and adds a welcome warmth to the coolly renovated space. The cool white and gray marble floors are original to the historic building, but tasteful pops of burgundy plus fresh metal light fixtures give the hotel a fully modern-day appeal.The sleek international feel tends to attract business travelers needing a central location, as well as couples seeking a hub to relax between exploring the city.
Location
At the doorstep of the train station
Located on the same square as Rome’s main Termini train station, the hotel is well situated for easy transportation access to the entire city. A taxi stand sits just beyond the gate, as does a bus terminal and two metro lines. While the palazzo feels serene, the immediate area can be gritty, especially by night. There are regular police patrols so safety should not be an issue but the transportation-adjacent setting has serious pros and cons. One bonus is that the large open space required for the terminal also clears the view, allowing for an unobstructed outlook of St. Peter’s dome (and many other parts of Rome) from the roof terrace. However, most of historic Rome is too far away to be easily reached on foot, so guests should be willing to brave the station or ask the hotel to hail a cab. - One-minute walk to Termini Station
Rooms
Modern, upscale decor in neutral colors; the big TVs and high-end coffeemakers are nice touches
Room design at the NH Collection Roma Palazzo Cinquecento is crisp and clean, featuring light parquet floors and neutral geometric headboards that dominate the wall behind the white beds. All rooms have quality amenities, including Lavazza coffeemakers, kettles, 47-inch flat-screen TVs, minibars (fridges are stocked with mini bottles of Champagne, mini liquor bottles, beer, soda, and water), and a free bottle of water. Double-glazed windows shut out any noise, which is critical given the busy location. The main difference between rooms categories is space: The Superior rooms are the tightest squeeze, at just 183 square feet (17square meters). Premium rooms are a bit larger (237 square feet, or 22 square meters), with more space to stretch around the bed. It requires an upgrade to a Junior Suite for a separate room with a seating area. Suites on the ground floor also feature small patio areas. Families will likely appreciate that Junior Suites can accommodate four, and Family Rooms and Family Rooms XXL (both made up of connecting rooms) can fit four or six, respectively. Bed types vary between rooms, and options include a single queen-size bed, a double bed, or two twins. Cribs are also available upon request for all room types.Bathrooms have either a walk-in shower or a shower/tub combo; towel warmers, bathrobes and slippers, and professional hairdryers are thoughtful extras.
Features
Standard upscale features including a restaurant, fitness center, and Wi-Fi
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are offered and a breakfast buffet is included in some packages at the chic Grand Tour restaurant on the ground floor. The buffet has extensive hot and cold options, as well as a juicing station. Overall, the dining area manages to avoid much of a typical cookie-cutter hotel feel, and instead better resembles a lounge. In the summer months, the rooftop terrace is another option for drinks or food throughout the day. Free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the property, and may appeal to business travelers who can also take advantage of meeting spaces one level below the lobby. Dry cleaning and same-day laundry service are available, as are full concierge services. Unlike some other advertised five-star properties of this size in Rome, the NH Collection Roma Palazzo Cinquecento lacks a spa. Those looking for a workout will have to make do with a single treadmill, stationary bike, and free weights.
