Visitors to the Eternal City can count on the constancy of its allure, with its ancient ruins, vibrant street life, and plates of pasta worthy of the gods themselves. As for the best places to dream, there are some consistent choices, as well — though like the city itself, there are always surprises to be found.
Every year for our World’s Best Awards survey, iBestTravel asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels were rated based on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties were classified as city or resort, depending on their locations and amenities.
New to this list is the St. Regis Rome, whose No. 4 spot reflects its $45 million renovation, led by designer Pierre-Yves Rochon and unveiled last year. While the 125-year-old hotel retains its Belle Époque roots with original mosaics and objets d’art, the public spaces and 138 guest rooms and 23 opulent suites have been reimagined with pastel colors and modern functionality.
Both the Eden (No. 5) and Hotel Hassler (No. 2) have earned ongoing support from readers. Hotel Eden, housed in an 1889 building, completed a renovation two years ago of its 98 rooms and suites. The Hassler, where Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier spent their honeymoon, completed its latest renovation a year ago, sprucing up the 1893 property comprising 87 rooms and 21 suites, along with what is arguably the coziest bar in the city. As for which property has better sunset views, visitors would be wise to judge for themselves.
What isn’t up for debate, according to readers, is which property earns bragging rights for the No. 1 spot, and for the second year in a row. Keep reading for the big reveal.
5. Hotel Eden
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Score: 89.11
More information: dorchestercollection.com
4. The St. Regis Rome
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Score: 89.92
More information: marriott.com
3. Hotel de Russie, a Rocco Forte Hotel
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Score: 90.38
More information: roccofortehotels.com
2. Hotel Hassler
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Score: 91.00
More information: hotelhasslerroma.com
1. J.K. Place Roma
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Score: 91.86
More information: jkroma.com
From the moment visitors are greeted with a glass of hand-squeezed orange juice at check-in, which takes place in the cushy living room while passports are processed, it’s clear this boutique hotel is all about service and relaxation (even the elevator has a couch). Located on a quiet street only steps from the bustle of the Spanish Steps, the 28-room property — housed in Rome’s former school of architecture — is flawless in its spoiling of guests and anticipating their needs. The bartender remembers what you like to drink from the previous evening, the opulently modern rooms provide every comfort imaginable, including a complimentary mini-bar and Nespresso machine, and the concierges are standing ready for every request, from the general (how best to spend a day) to the specific (where to find the best stracciatella gelato). No wonder one reader wrote in to praise it as the “best hotel in Rome.”
