Rome, Italy
Hotel de la Ville
A Rocco Forte Hotel
What it is
A brand new 104-room hideaway on the Spanish Steps with cinematic interiors and a Sicily-inspired spa.
What it isn't
Spare. The hotel may have been born yesterday, but it’s design wasn’t; Olga Polizzi and Tommaso Ziffer went for timeless decor in this revamped 18th century palazzo, down to the chevron wood floors.
What we think
Rome is a feast for the eyes as much as the stomach, which is why it kills us to stay in anything less than Papal splendor. This new kid on the block wows in its impressive level of detail that go unnoticed by most hoteliers, but not ever-brilliant Rocco Forte. The six on-site watering holes are helmed by Michelin-starred restaurant chef Fulvio Pierangelini (hit the lobby lounge for biodynamic wines). In the gargantuan (for ancient Rome) rooms, which start at 300-square-feet: lampshades are lined in cheerful fringe, velvet headboards in nailhead trim, and the bathrooms are lined in marble that will last as long as the Colosseum. Because comfort is the goal, it’s also equally high tech; you’ll find speakers in the shower, a smart TV with interactive entertainment, and gratis, lighting-fast wifi. There’s little more relaxing after a day on the cobblestones than freshening up with Irene Forte toiletries before slipping into your robe and slippers—just like a Gladiator might.
You're here because
The hotel may be set atop a tourist mecca, but it has a leafy inner courtyard for whiling away an afternoon with a book and a cappuccino, American-style.
The Moment
As twilight blankets itself over the cityscape, you head to the sixth floor in search of one thing: a cocktail. You find it—a note perfect negroni, in fact—giggle at the selfie-taking tourists at the Spanish Steps below, and settle into a plush red and white armchair to take in the kaleidoscope of the sky.
Restaurants & Bars
- Lobby Lounge & Bistro - Italian cuisine using local produce & biodynamic wines
- Hotel de la Ville Restaurant - Sophisticated elegance and neighborhood ambiance with a Mediterranean-inspired menu
Hotel de la Ville Lobby Lounge - Local bio-dynamic wines and crafted cocktails
Hotel de la Ville rooftop bar - Crafted cocktails, and exclusive views of the city
Location
In what’s arguably the most “when in Rome” locale available: the top of the Spanish Steps, built in 1725. Shoppaholics love that both Chanel and Tiffany & Co are just down the street.