Rome Hotels For A La Dolce Vita Getaway

From romantic sojourns to immersive history, these Rome hotels are calling your name.

Paris may be the city of love and romance, but Rome definitely gives it a run for its money. When every corner you turn features ancient history, cobbled back streets and locals mingling with travellers, wining and dining at alfresco tables, it’s surprising the city isn’t the romance capital of the world.

Hotels in Rome can be on the expensive side, especially if you’re travelling during peak season. It’s worth paying the price if you want the full Rome experience, because the best hotels in Rome are in the most sought-after areas, close to all the top historical monuments, best restaurants and most beautiful streets. They’re also often inside heritage buildings or feature great extras like panoramic rooftop bars and indulgent spas or the best views of Rome, the kind you want to take bulk Instagram photos of.

So, without further ado, here are the best hotels in Rome for those looking to have the true Italian experience.

1. Bulgari Roma

Bulgari has already made a Roman splash with its newest hotel in the heart of Campo Marzio – and we’re not just talking about its floor-covering, Bisazza-mosaic swimming pool.

a spa pool at Bulgari Roma — Roman summers are hot so make sure to cool off at the Bulgari Roma spa pool.

With a rooftop bar showcasing views across the city, sumptuous king-sized beds (with pillow menus) and impeccable service across all its offerings, the almost $3000 per night price tag is certainly worth the splurge.

a bathroom with yellow marble windows at Bulgari Roma — Bright walls and ceilings make up the lavish interior at Bulgari Roma.

Address: Piazza Augusto Imperatore 10, Rome

2. Hotel de Russie

Rome is no stranger to five-star hotels, but Hotel de Russie might be one of its most famous.

an al fresco terrace at the Nijinsky Suite in Hotel de Russie — Sip cocktails at the al fresco terrace of Hotel de Russie.

In 1917, Jacques Cocteau called it “paradise on Earth", no doubt due to its Mediterranean tiered garden, complete with miniature waterfall and generous rooms – rumour has it that he and fellow guest Pablo Picasso leaned out their windows to pick oranges from the garden during their stay.

Le Jardin de Russie in Hotel de Russie — Lavish and intricate ornaments make up the hotel interior.

Location-wise, you’ll be close to the Spanish Steps, right in the heart of the luxury district.

inside the Valadier Suite in Hotel de Russie — Enjoy an elegant stay at Hotel de Russie.

Address: Via Del Babuino 9, Rome

3. Hotel Eden

Another hotel with a lengthy history, Hotel Eden has existed since 1889 near the beautiful Villa Borghese gardens.

a junior suite with a view at Hotel Eden Roma — Settle into the stylish junior suite with a view at Hotel Eden.

Many rooms feature jaw-dropping views you can usually only access from historical hotels, with windows over St Peter’s Basilica and the Spanish Steps.

the presidential suite at Hotel Eden Roma — The presidential suite comes with lavish furnishings.

Part of the famous Dorchester Collection, expect the utmost in service and luxury, with high ceilings, tall windows and marble accents.

the La Terrazza Restaurant at Hotel Eden Roma — Chill at the La Terrazza restaurant at sundown.

Address: Via Ludovisi 49, Rome

4. The St. Regis Rome

Arguably the most famous hotel in Rome, the St. Regis remains a bucket list destination for many. It is fit for royalty – literally, given past guests have included Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Grace of Monaco.

The Lumen Garden at the St. Regis in Rome, Italy — The St. Regis is fit for royalty

The rooms and suites are tastefully decorated in pastel shades with gold accents and travertine marble, complete with Venetian chandeliers.

the elegant staircase at The St. Regis Rome — The staircase is as chic as the rooms at The St. Regis Rome.

Address: Via Vittorio E. Orlando 3, Rome

5. Hassler Roma

If you really want the full Spanish Steps experience (Roman Holiday fans, anyone?), a stay at Hassler Roma is worth your while.

Grand suite at Hassler Roma, Rome, Italy — Go full Roman at Hassler Roma. (Image: Hassler Roma, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World)

Situated at their very top, you’ll also be minutes away from many other Rome attractions like the Trevi Fountain and The Vatican. The independently owned five-star hotel also has panoramic views over the city from their in-house restaurant, Imàgo.

a restaurant with views of the city at Hassler Roma — Dine at Imàgo for the best views of the city. (Image: Hassler Roma, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World)

Address: Piazza Trinità dei Monti 6, Rome

6. Portrait Roma

Owned by the Salvatore Ferragamo family, Portrait Roma is as stylish as it gets.

the penthouse suite at Portrait Roma — Portrait Roma is styled with low lighting and draped curtains. (Image: Portrait Roma, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World)

Once a sprawling townhouse, the property is now a series of bespoke rooms and suites, but you’re really staying here for the rooftop terrace, which has views that stretch over Rome, plus the location – situated in the very centre of the high fashion district, one of the most beautiful areas in the city.

the rooftop terrace at Portrait Roma — Swoon over the Eternal City views on the rooftop terrace. (Image: Portrait Roma, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World)

Address: Via Bocca di Leone 23, Rome

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7. Hotel Locarno

One of the most storied hotels in Rome, Hotel Locarno has been home to famous artists since 1925, with director Federico Fellini and writer Jack Kerouac both frequenting its halls in the past.

Hotel Locarno exterior in Rome, Italy — Hotel Locarno has been home to famous artists since 1925. (Image: Adriana Forconi)

Rooms are classic and comfortable, but it’s the dining spaces that are really special, like the secret garden-style Bar Locarno and the rooftop terrace, Terrazza Locarno, both of which have all-day dining and booking options, whether its 3pm or 3am.

the balcony at Hotel Locarno — Spend your time on the sun-cloaked balcony. (Image: Adriana Forconi)

Address: Via della Penna 22, Rome

8. Hotel Artemide

Hotel Artemide might not be as luxurious as some of the other Rome accommodation options in this list, but it is one of the top-rated across many of the popular travel booking sites such as TripAdvisor and Google. Part of this is due to location – the hotel is walking distance to the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Spanish Steps, but it’s also the staff, who are impeccably trained, knowledgeable about the city, and give guests a warm welcome.

Address: Via Nazionale 22, Rome

9. Augusta Lucilla Palace

Looking for affordable accommodation in Rome, that still places you at the centre of the action? Augusta Lucilla Palace is a great choice. Walking distance from Rome Termini station, the hotel features comfortable, clean rooms, a buffet breakfast option, and 24-hour reception. You’ll easily be able to hop onto the subway to access all the best sites Rome has to offer, too.

Address: Via Massimo d’Azeglio 24, Rome

10. Generator Rome

Often named one of Rome’s best budget accommodation options, Generator Rome is in the bohemian neighbourhood of Monti, close to the Colosseum and Termini station. It has a popular lounge and rooftop bar, making it a good choice for those looking to enjoy the city’s nightlife. Rooms are basic but clean, comfortable and design-driven, and you can choose between hostel dorm accommodation if you’re on a shoestring, through to private rooms with ensuites.

Address: Via Principe Amedeo 251, Rome

Temperatures are soaring this summer, breaking records across Europe and the UK.

Euro summer is a feeling like no other. But when a heatwave hits? The dream trip quickly turns into a sweaty mess. Extreme heat is sweeping Europe and the UK this week, with record-high temperatures impacting travel plans across the continent.

And while Australian summers are typically hotter in absolute temperature, many European cities aren’t equipped for high temperatures, resulting in unbearable weather.

Why is it so hot in Europe?

Signs of a hot summer loomed in May, when the mercury hit unprecedented spring highs. Now, extreme high temperature warning alerts have been issued in countries such as Spain, Italy, France, England, the Netherlands and Germany.

France saw its hottest day on record on Wednesday, with an average temperature of 30°C across the day and night. This surpasses the average temperature for June, which is 15°C to 25°C. Dozens of people have died, including 40 from drowning.

In Spain, 212 deaths have been linked to the heatwave.

The UK recorded its hottest June day ever on Wednesday with temperatures soaring to 36.1°C. In an article published by the Met Office – the UK’s national meteorological service – Professor Stephen Belcher CBE, Met Office Chief Scientist, shared his concerns about June’s heat. “To see temperatures like this in the UK in June is sobering. Events like this bring home the implications of climate change, with very high temperatures and humidity bringing significant health implications from heat stress, as well as impacts to a range of sectors such as transport, energy and water supply,” he said.

Heatwaves are becoming increasingly common in Europe and the UK, neither of which is prepared for such extremes. The World Meteorological Organization reported that in 2025, at least 95% of Europe experienced above-average annual temperatures and that the continent was heating up twice as fast as the global average.

How travel is impacted

A pharmacy sign displaying 40 degrees Celcius — A pharmacy broadcasting local weather data. (Credit: Getty/Dragoncello)

During a heatwave, power grids, water systems and transport networks can be affected, resulting in disrupted itineraries for travellers. In France, power outages have left thousands without electricity and early closures have been implemented for two of Paris’s biggest attractions, the Eiffel Tower (early afternoon rather than late at night) and the Louvre (two hours early). Eurostar cancelled its London to Paris and Paris to London services from the 22nd to the 25th, and major UK rail companies have been advising travellers to avoid using trains where possible, or to travel during early hours.

If a heatwave is predicted, being flexible with your itinerary and having fully refundable/changeable tickets is key, as extreme heat can force the cancellation of outdoor activities, impact rail and flight services and change the opening hours of sites and eateries.

Why does summer in Europe often feel hotter than summer in Australia?

people swimming in the Canal Saint-Martin in Paris — People swimming in the Canal Saint-Martin in Paris to cool off. (Credit: Rachael Thompson)

With some of the highest UV levels in the world, Australians are no strangers to the heat, adapting well to intense weather. But our infrastructure is largely equipped to withstand soaring temperatures with climate-responsive passive design, refrigerated air conditioning or evaporative coolers, as well as swimming spots aplenty.

Buildings in Northern and Western Europe and the UK, however, are constructed to retain heat and handle frosty winters. The lack of universal air conditioning means it generally feels hotter even though the temperature on your app might not look it. During a heatwave, it can feel like you’re in a sauna as cities act like heat traps.

How to stay cool and prepare for another heatwave

Relief is expected across Europe and the UK later this week, but more heatwaves are still possible in the coming months. Summer heat typically peaks in July and August.

Public transport often doesn’t have air conditioning, and buses in particular can be swelteringly hot. If you’re heading outside or your accommodation has no air conditioning, it’s worth buying a spray bottle and a handheld fan from a pharmacy or tourist stand. Check ahead of time if restaurants and cafes have air conditioning and make a booking in advance. The highest temperatures typically hit between 3pm and 6pm, so aim to head outdoors outside of these hours.

Rising temperatures invite travellers to enter a more intentional era of seeing the world. Now more than ever is the time to embrace lower-impact “coolcations” and off-season getaways.

The top 10 Rome hotels for your next la dolce vita getaway