The 10 best hotels in Rome

Just off piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere, the Santa Maria stands on the site of a 16th-century convent. Each of the 19 bedrooms has a tiled floor, colourful decor and a spacious bathroom, and they all open onto a charming, sunny central courtyard planted with orange trees. Complimentary bicycles are available for guests to use for exploring Trastevere’s winding alleys.

Although situated a little way out of the action, the Cavalieri’s majestic position on top of the leafy Monte Mario hill north of the Vatican is worth the extra travel time (there is a free shuttle bus for guests), especially if you like to spend time away from the bustle of central Rome. However, with almost 400 rooms and suites, this is more about palatial extravagance than intimate escape. Amenities are what you would expect from a hotel of this grandeur: three swimming pools, a full spa and fitness centre and Rome’s only three Michelin-star restaurants, La Pergola to name but a few.

This stunning boutique hotel is located in the heart of Rome – perfect for exploring the city on foot. Hotel La Ville Rome offers 20 fully-equipped rooms to its guests styled in a contemporary way that equally feels homey and inviting. Born as a restoration project, the hotel combines classic elements with modern style. Just a few steps away from Via Veneto and the subway, you'll be able to explore all that Rome has to offer – in minutes. Brilliante.

Looking down from the top of the Spanish Steps, the Hassler remains the grande dame of Rome’s deluxe hotels. It’s got an abundance of polished marble and glamorous chandeliers but it still maintains a personal level of service. A stay in one of the 92 rooms includes top-notch amenities such as a spa, a Michelin-starred restaurant and several bars alongside spectacular views over the Roman rooftops.

Dating back to the 15th century, this (management will tell you) is the oldest hotel in Europe. The 32 rooms have been painstakingly restored and are fresh and uncluttered, with tiled floors and frescoes. All bathrooms have whirlpool baths. Ask for one of the rooms at the front for superb views over the Pantheon; otherwise console yourself by seeking out the glorious roof terrace, where breakfast is served al fresco in the warmer months.

The former family home of the aristocratic Spalletti Trivelli, this former family home boasts views across a little park to the manica lunga of the Quirinale palace. It’s got 12 rooms with high-class extras such as a historic library with a preservation order, a formal garden where breakfast or aperitivi can be served, and a marvellous spa in the basement. Some of the largest rooms can be linked together into immense suites, while service is discreet and a chef will whip up special meals on request. The garden also includes two large and similarly elegant suites, which offer all the same services plus self-catering facilities and gorgeous private terraces.

A stone’s throw from luxury retailers like Prada and Bulgari, Crossing Condotti is remarkably central. The hotel itself is filled with gorgeous antiques from the owner, with a contemporary backdrop and attentive staff that are unfailingly helpful. It’s more of a Roman hideaway than a fully-fledged hotel, there are eight rooms and public spaces are limited to a handy kitchenette with coffee-making facilities and a fridge stocked with (free) soft drinks.

This hotel’s main selling point has to be the splendid location, as most of its 26 rooms have breathtaking views of the Parthenon (specify that you want a view when you book) and all are fitted with fresh white decor and the occasional dash of colour. Guests at Albergo Abruzzi are provided with a complimentary smartphone with unlimited local and international calls. Breakfast is taken nearby, in a café in piazza della Rotonda.

American owners Steve and Linda Brenner mix design-icon furnishings with reasonable rates and basic amenities, to create a 'youth hostel meets boutique hotel' vibe with both dormitory beds and private rooms scattered throughout the main building and in equally stylish nearby structures. All have internet access, air-conditioning or ceiling fans and use of the communal areas including the sunny garden with a comfy patio. Breakfast (at an extra cost) is served in the hotel's own organic restaurant.

Owned by dynamic Italian-American couple Elyssa and Alessandro, Daphne Trevi sets the standard for inexpensive but stylish accommodation in Rome. The hotel is decorated in modern, earthy tones throughout, and the seven tastefully furnished bedrooms have high ceilings, terracotta or parquet floors and decent-sized bathrooms. Guests are lent a smartphone for the duration of their stay and staff are endlessly helpful. Adjoining rooms can be arranged to create a significant range of family and group accommodation.