Hotel Pace Helvezia

Pace Helvezia Hotel is an affordable mid-range establishment that's smack in the bustling city center. Although some of that hectic vibe carries inside, most of the hotel is quiet and pleasant, if a bit tired in spots. The building dates back to the 1930s, and a more classic theme dominates inside -- with sculpted ceilings, antique pieces, and damask furnishings creating a more traditional vibe. These features aren’t original -- but they still convey a historical charm appreciated by guests. With their high ceilings and tall windows draped in gold, the public spaces and lounges have a grand sense of space, while the sunny rooftop terrace -- a fabulous local secret -- features iconic views of Piazza Venezia as well as some of the best panoramic views of Rome that we saw during our 2018 visit. Minor imperfections -- including occasional worn furnishings -- mean it’s no fancy place, but the hotel is decent value for no-fuss travelers. It attracts couples and families from Western Europe, South America, and China, as well as students from the U.S. 

Hotel Pace Helvezia has a fantastic central location -- one of its primary selling points. It’s just a three-minute walk to Piazza Venezia and its iconic Altare della Patria monument, with the Fori Imperiali just a further few minutes on foot. The trendy Monti neighborhood, with its numerous boutique shops and restaurants, is just a seven-minute walk from the hotel, as well as the famous Trevi Fountain. Both the Spanish Steps and Colosseum are roughly 14 minutes away on foot, while the Vatican can be reached via bus in 15 minutes. Characterful Trastevere’s wealth of independent restaurants can also be accessed in 15 minutes by bus, along with Rome’s main train station. Ciampino Airport is roughly a 30-minute drive, while Fiumicino Airport can be reached in about 40 minutes by car. 

Pace Helvezia Hotel’s 77 rooms are all decorated in a similar traditional style, with patterned bedspreads and wallpaper, sculpted ceilings, and simple wood furniture. Though there may be some visible wear and tear, and while they're fairly clean, the style is dated. Modern amenities include flat-screen TVs, minibars, electric kettles, air-conditioning, free safe access, and free Wi-Fi. Some have balconies, and views to Piazza Venezia are a bonus in certain rooms. Bathrooms are immaculate, with a classic style and peach marble sinks -- all have bidets and either a shower or tub. Traffic noise is audible in street-facing rooms, so sensitive sleepers may want to bring earplugs. Beds vary between rooms and some may be more comfortable than others, but reception staff are receptive to requests to change rooms when possible. Room categories can accommodate anywhere from one to four people.  

Though a bit tricky to access via a narrow staircase, Hotel Pace Helvezia’s highlight is its rooftop terrace, which features iconic views over Piazza Venezia and a 360-degree panorama of Rome’s gorgeous rooftops. Set over two floors, with charming garden furniture and romantic stone statues, it’s a guest favorite for evening drinks in good weather -- and there’s waiter service in summer. The cozy seasonal bar is accordingly open in summers only, but is also staffed when the hotel hosts large groups during low season. There’s no restaurant, but the free continental breakfast -- while fairly basic -- includes eggs and fresh fruit, and accommodates special dietary options upon request. The free Wi-Fi throughout can be a bit spotty at times, but it’s adequate for basic browsing. As is standard with Rome, the paid parking is accessed via a nearby commercial garage.