With an enviable location, atop the famed Spanish steps, in an 18th-century palazzo, Rocco Forte Hotels’ second accommodation in Rome will wow from the moment your taxi or transfer pulls up to the entrance.
Its prime location (and fabulous shopping just at the bottom of those iconic steps), as well as its elegant yet comfortable interiors, offer the ultimate base for a weekend or more in the Eternal City. It won’t take long to discover why Hotel de la Ville is not only considered one of the best hotels in Rome, but in the world.
The Vibe
Old-world glamour meets modern luxury and colourful interiors. There are plenty of ways to escape and unwind from the bustle of Roman life, as well as to engage with its vibrancy and energy, thanks to the hotel’s locally-adored rooftop bar with sweeping city views. Full of opulence, there is still an air of comfortability and conviviality, striking the perfect balance between laid-back and luxury.
The Rooms
Splurging for one of the hotel’s suites is your best option; live the Roman life with your own pied-à-terre in one of the city’s chicest neighbourhoods. Each features a private balcony or terrace. The light-drenched accommodations are dressed up in colourful, contemporary designs with just the right amount of antiques and objets d’ art to keep it rooted in Roman elegance, without feeling stuffy. Sumptuous fabrics and furnishings ensure the space feels cozy and inviting, while the generous beds will tempt you to linger all morning. The bathrooms, enveloped in marble, offer a tub and shower space plus an array of Irene Forte toiletries that will leave you a brand devotee.
The Little Extras
Speaking of Irene Forte toiletries, turndown service includes a nightly packet of the brand’s ultra-hydrating face cream to ensure your skin looks radiant – and Instagram-ready – by morning. With Illy espresso makers and international adapters in each room, you’ll feel at home from the get-go. And, depending on the level of suite you book, you may also enjoy other complimentary amenities such as private airport transfers, a welcome bottle of bubbly, and exclusive experiences.
The Food + Drink
The culinary and bar programming is one of many reasons to book your Rome weekend at Hotel de la Ville. Cielo, the rooftop restaurant, serves local and seasonal-driven Mediterranean cuisine – you won’t find a better sunset view in the city. It’s the perfect place for aperitivo, a light dinner, or a late night treat. Here, the colourful, vibrant, and flavourful dishes match the atmosphere, from the avocado and watermelon with candied lemon and chilli pepper, to the Catalan-style lobster. Be sure to save room to end your evening with Cielo’s tiramisu, cleverly paired with a refreshing coffee granita. Mosaico’s verdant, breezy courtyard is an idyllic place to start your mornings with an indulgent breakfast spread: there’s a generous buffet setup and guests can also select made-to-order specials. The perfect way to kick off a busy day of sight-seeing, shopping, or spa-ing.
You’ll also want to visit the hotel’s nearby sister property, Hotel de Russie, to experience the famed Jardin de Russie, a dreamy restaurant within a secret garden. Concierge will be only-too-happy to book you in for an unforgettable dining experience.
The To-Do List
Though the property has only been open since 2019 and had to suffer through the pandemic, its Irene Forte Spa has quickly become a top destination for luxury-wellness enthusiasts flocking to the city. Visit for their soothing world of thermal pools, the relaxation room with infrared loungers, and a generous menu of spa treatments to eliminate any lingering jet lag. Plus, the spa houses a well-appointed fitness facility if you want to hit the treadmill or use the weights.
The hotel is located near a variety of classic and under-the-radar destinations, from the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain to Palazzo Bonaparte and its rotation of excellent art exhibits, and Galleria Colonna’s inspiring interiors and secret city views, all of which are located within about 1.5 kilometres. Depending on how much time you have and how detailed your itinerary is, have a chat with the knowledgeable and friendly concierge to learn about the hotel’s incredible list of curated experiences, from private shopping trips and art tours, to city excursions by sidecar.
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