Best Luxury Hotels in Rome

Rome's best luxury hotels tend towards the small luxury boutique hotels, not the global chains, so insider tip: be sure to book well in advance, or risk disappointment in finding your first or even second or third choice is fully booked out. Rome is that rare city that manages to balance its exquisite past with a present and future that do not depend on historical appeal, and even worldly visitors will be in awe of the surreal experience of seeing contemporary buildings in front of world-renowned architectural triumphs such as The Colosseum and The Pantheon. After a busy day of taking in the sights, you'll look forward to some pampering a these top TravelSort Rome luxury hotels, with Virtuoso benefits:

1. Portrait Roma

The Portrait Roma, part of the Lungarno collection, is by far my favorite Rome luxury hotel and is also an intimate boutique hotel, with just 14 studios and suites. It's on the corner of the fashionable Via Condotti and Via Bocca di Leone, close to the Spanish Steps and a short walk from the Trevi Fountain and many restaurants and cafes.

After the hustle and bustle of Rome, retreat to your impeccably designed studio or suite (of course with Salvatore Ferragamo bath products, since the Ferragamo family owns the Portrait Roma), or enjoy a drink or light meal on the tranquil rooftop terrace, which is also a great place to savor a cappuccino and breakfast in the morning. There's even a fireplace for chilly evenings.

TravelSort Clients enjoy Virtuoso Benefits at the Portrait Roma:

Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Continental breakfast daily, for up to two in room guests, via room service
One-way private airport transfer to Fiumicino airport, Ciampino airport or Termini train Station (Transfers must be booked at least 24 hours in advance with hotel Concierge and are for up to two passengers)
Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

2. JK Place Roma

Just a short 5 minute walk away from Portrait Firenze is the JK Place Roma. While not quite as luxurious or as polished as Portrait Roma, it's also a great boutique hotel choice (30 rooms) and conveniently located, just a short walk to the Spanish Steps. Rooms are on the small side, so I recommend reserving at least a Deluxe Room, and preferably a Junior Suite.

TravelSort Clients enjoy Virtuoso Benefits at JK Place Roma:

Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily full breakfast, for up to two in room guests
A complimentary lunch or dinner for up to two people per room once during stay, excluding alcohol, taxes and gratuities
Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

3. Rocco Forte Hotel de Russie

No question, Hotel de Russie, part of the Rocco Forte Collection, is a splurge–but for many, it's worth it for the luxury it offers in its superb location right in the heart of Rome. It's right on the Piazza del Popolo, a 3 minute walk from the Spanish Steps and 10 minutes to the Vatican, with St Peter's and the Sistine Chapel. It's no wonder that the hotel's famous past guests include Stravinsky, Picasso, George Clooney and Brad Pitt, among others. The hotel's private garden is gorgeous, a peaceful oasis and beautiful backdrop during the summer months for al fresco dining. Standard rooms are on the small side, Enjoy the excellent spa, with its hydropool, jacuzzi, sauna, Turkish hammam and massage treatments. Standard Classic Rooms are on the small side, at 323 square feet, but beautifully appointed. Select a room on the courtyard for a more peaceful stay–this is the bustling central Rome, after all!

TravelSort Clients enjoy Virtuoso Benefits at Rocco Forte Hotel de Russie:

Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Continental breakfast daily, for up to two in room guests
85 EUR Food & Beverage credit, once during stay (not combinable, not valid towards room rate, no cash value if not redeemed)
Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

4. St. Regis Rome

The St. Regis is Rome's very first luxury hotel, opened in 1894 by Cesar Ritz, and remains among the city's finest. Enjoy the sumputuous interiors, and rooms that include unique Italian frescos, Murano glass chandeliers, silk and damask accents, and antiques from former state residences. The Colosseum, Roman Forum and Via Condotti boutiques are close by, and the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain are within walking distance. History buffs and wine lovers will be intrigued to see the hotel's private wine cellar, built on former Roman Baths with stones from the baths still there. Le Grand Bar is popular for drinks and afternoon tea with locals as well as guests–dress up for this see and be seen spot.

TravelSort Clients enjoy Virtuoso or Starwood Luxury Privileges Benefits at the St. Regis Rome:

Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily full breakfast, for up to two in room guests in restaurant
$100 USD Equivalent Food & Beverage credit, to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

5. Rome Cavalieri, Waldorf Astoria

Although not in the historical center of Rome, the Rome Cavalieri's position, perched on a hill, affords you spectacular panoramic views of the Eternal City. Enjoy an al fresco coffee or breakfast on your private balcony, and luxuriate in one of the largest luxury hotel rooms in Rome, at 538 square feet, including lovely marble bath and Bulgari amenities. Active guests can take advantage of the clay tennis courts and one of the hotels three outdoor pools, whirlpool, or, in the winter, the indoor pool, which includes hydromassage. Don't miss an incredible dinner at La Pergola, the only three-Michelin star restaurant in Rome.

TravelSort Clients enjoy Virtuoso benefits at Rome Cavalieri:

Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily full breakfast, for up to two in room guests
$85 EUR Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full, not valid at Pergola Restaurant)
For Bookings in our Top Suites – Napoleon, Petronius, Planetarium & Penthouse One complimentary saloon-car transfer to/from Rome Cavalieri airport (Fiumicino or Ciampino International Airport) or to/from Rome Cavalieri Railway Stations (Rome Termini, Rome Tiburtina or Rome Ostiense)
Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
Complimentary internet access