Via Barnaba Oriani 92, Rome, Italy | (888) 240-0568
Historic former embassy inside a 1920s villa
Bright and spacious rooms with updated bathrooms
Some rooms have balconies that overlook the private garden
Quiet location within walking distance to art museums and parks
Simple daily breakfast served in room or outside in good weather
Free Wi-Fi throughout
Far from major Rome landmarks
Decor from the early 1900s may turn off modern travelers
Limited common spaces and no dining after breakfast
While the homey Suite Oriani hotel is not a central city choice, its location between two of Rome’s largest parks in Parioli is tranquil and pleasant. Once a private home and then the South Africa Embassy, the mid-range hotel is inside a 1920s villa. Much of the period decor has been preserved or recreated inside the townhouse, which has details such as Art Deco frescoes and original hardwood floors. The six suites are all designed with the time period in mind, which can feel equal parts charming and dated. A nearby station links to the city’s wider subway system, but the hotel’s peaceful setting comes at the cost of being significantly far away from Rome’s main attractions. For something more central, check rates at Hotel Trevi Collection, which is near the Spanish Steps.
Disclaimer: This content was accurate at the time the hotel was reviewed. Please check our partner sites when booking to verify that details are still correct.
Scene
Quiet historical building with original Art Nouveau architecture
Located inside a characteristic villa in the Parioli neighborhood, Suite Oriani has maintained a distinctive Art Nouveau style that dates back to the 1920s. It was once home to the South Africa Embassy. Rather than updating the interior, the hotel has played up many of the townhouse’s original features and emphasized the historic nature of the building with time period appropriate furnishings. Set behind a private gate in a wealthy residential area with many embassies and parks, the hotel remains quiet throughout the day. In the mornings, guests sometimes take advantage of the garden and enjoy the light Italian style breakfast that is included in the room rates.The small size of the hotel means a more personal touch from the hosts, which suits independent travelers looking for a homey stay.
Location
In residential Parioli near Villa Borghese and Villa Ada parks
Beyond the city center, Suite Oriani is in one of Rome’s quietest and wealthiest residential areas: Parioli. A significant distance from major sites like the Pantheon and Colosseum, the hotel is located closer to museums that many visitors miss, including as the MAXXI National Museum of XXI Century Arts (nine-minute drive) and Borghese Gallery and Museum (13-minute drive). The hotel is also well placed to visit some of the city’s best green spaces as it is walking distance to parks such as Villa Borghese and Villa Ada (both about 15 to 20 minutes away on foot). Major shopping or dining options in Parioli are somewhat limited, but the neighborhood does have several discrete and upscale restaurants. Buses stop nearby, and the Piazza Euclide station (two minutes from the hotel) links to Rome’s metro line. Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport is about a 40-minute drive away.
Rooms
1920s design dominates the classic rooms
The small hotel has rooms of varying sizes, the largest of which can sleep four people. While each has an individual layout and particular design touch, all have classic decor that recalls the 1920s, 30s and 40s. Floral patterned fabric, dark woods, and antique furniture have been selected to match the time period in which the villa was constructed. All rooms have private bathrooms with showers, and some on the second level also have balconies. Every room has a flat-screen TV, kettle, mini-fridge, free Wi-Fi, and air-conditioning. Spread across two floors, the townhouse does not have an elevator but guests who want to avoid the single set of stairs can request rooms on the ground floor. Views overlooking the street are pleasant and some rooms have small balconies.
Features
In-room breakfast and free Wi-Fi
At heart, Suite Oriani is a historic hotel with a few modest features. The morning meal is included in room rates and usually features fresh fruit, yogurt, cold cuts, hard boiled eggs, juice, and coffee. Breakfast can be ordered directly to the room, or eaten al fresco in the townhouse’s garden when weather permits. Some rooms have small balconies, but there are no other communal areas or dining options. Most guests enjoy the personal recommendations and support from the hotel's staff, but there are few formal services available. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout.
