Rome 2010

Best and worst accommodations:

Best: Hotel Aberdeen
Why: The location was convenient, the rooms were clean, the hotel was quaint and charming. But, most of all Mariano was extremely instrumental in helping us locate our lost luggage. He also arranged transportation from the airport and to the port of Civitavecchia at a much more reasonable rate than we were able to find ourselves. We would definitely stay there again.

Kay Pedersen in Federal Way, WA USA 11/13/2009

Best: Hotel Paba and Hotel Adler
Why: Both very good in their own way. The Paba is in a great location! Its a really nice place and our room was outstanding. It just seemed to take us a long time to get to areas like the Pantheon and things like that. But, for Ancient Rome, it is ideal! The Adler is great for the night before you leave. Its not in as nice of a location, but, its a better location to get anywhere in the city. A very nice room and great staff. Would highly recommend both hotels!

Brian Freund in Keego Harbor, MI USA 11/11/2009

Best: Residenzia Arco dei Tolomei, Rome, Italy
Why: Incredibly helpful owners and staff. Lovely facility. Large, comfortable room with private terrace. Delicious breakfasts. Impeccable service. Brilliant location in Trastevere, walking distance to all the best sites, shopping and restaurants.

Morgan Thomas in Paris, France 11/11/2009

Best: Hotel Paba
Why: Location was amazing-Very close to the Colosseum and the Forum. Signora Castelli was a warm, welcoming host. The rooms were large and clean. We had the Imperial Room with the balcony which was great to have coffee in the morning. Restaurants, small grocery stores, internet cafe, souveneir shops located on Via Cavour are easily accessible. Will definitely stay here again! Thank you Signora Castelli!

Krystle in Clinton Twp , MI USA 11/08/2009

Best: Hotel Smeraldo
Why: Ideal location. Friendly and helpful staff. Rick Steves rate of 130E with no breakfast was great for the budget.

John and Debra Gall in Sequim, Wa USA 11/06/2009

Best: Arco dei Tolomei B and B
Why: Well worth the price for a large room and bathroom, good breakfast, excellent staff, great location.

Worst: Hotel Trastevere.
Why: Dingy room with nothing going for it. We were moved to the annex down the street - even worse, although we did get a small reduction in price when we complained. Terrible breakfast. Staff was somewhat helpful.

Susan Handloff in Steamboat Springs, CO USA 11/02/2009

Best: Hotel Santa Maria Trastevere, Rome
Why: Charming setting, well-maintained, lovely staff, Perfect in every way

Cindy Lepzinski in Lone Tree, CO USA 10/30/2009

Best: Arco dei Tolomei
Why: Refuge at the end of a busy day. Catia and Marco are great hosts, directing to good food, fun things to see, and even figuring out the bus routes. Cute friendly guest house in a fabulous location.

kay comly in Lancaster, pa USA 10/25/2009

Best: Hotel Lancelot
Why: Great location, terrific terrace outside our 6th floor room, wonderful breakfast and the most friendly staff!

Sherri Campbell in Katy, Tx USA 10/18/2009

Worst: Domus Aventina
Why: The rooms are small, smelly and dated. The fabric walls were stained and dirty. The bathroom was poorly designed and falling apart. The staff was unhelpful and knew little English.

Susan USA 10/13/2009

Best: Guest House Arco dei Tolomei
Why: Marco and Catia were very helpful in planning our days at breakfast so we were able to find unusual sites that weren't overrun with tourists. They also gave us restaurant suggestions that were excellent. The hotel is decorated beautifully with antiques and we were treated with true Italian hospitality.

Elizabeth in Portland, OR USA 10/04/2009

Best: Guest House Arco dei Tolomei
Why: It's a beautiful house - spotlessly clean smelling wonderfully of funriture polish. Very friendly welcoming hosts - genuine, kind and helpful.Perfectly situated for sights by day and bars'restaurants by night. A real hidden gem. We would highly recommend it.

shady in leeds, Yo UK 10/02/2009

Best: Hotel Nerva
Why: Umberto and Nalla were so much fun to chat with at breakfast. The night clerk was also very helpful in offering suggestions, getting cabs, etc. I would stay there again as well as recommend it to others going to Rome. A good value for our dollar, that's for sure. Appreciated getting the Rick Steves cash discount (109 Euros/night).

Worst:
Why: We only stayed at Hotel Nerva in Rome.

Cindy in Saint Louis, MO USA 09/30/2009

Best: Hotel Santa Maria
Why: If your wish is to explore the true side of Rome, this is the place to stay. The hospitality couldn't be better. Buffet every day from 4pm to 7pm. Cocktail service from noon to 10:00 PM. Completely remodeled and spotless. In the heart of Trastevere. Most relaxing atmosphere, and walking distance to most historical sights. With the Rick Steves rate, with the Rome book, I found this to be very affordable.

Jack & Sieni in Phoenix, Az USA 09/30/2009

Best: Arco de'Tolomei, Trastevere, Rome
Why: Arco de' Tolomei is one of those rare guesthouses where you're made to feel like one of the family, like you're home from home. Marco and his family are such good hosts, so helpful and full of local knowledge and recommendations. The house itself is old and full of character, and the location is brilliant - right in the heart of Trastevere, firm beds, modern bathrooms, good hearty breakfast - but most important - great company! Would highly recommend it.

Marian Fitzpatrick in Dublin, Ireland 09/12/2009

Best: Guest House Arco dei Tolomei
Why: This classical Roman townhouse, located only a few steps from the river in Trastevere, offers not only authentic and comfortable accommodation but welcomes you into the family, making your stay not only enjoyable but memorable. Nothing was too much to ask of Marco, Catia and Leena! And breakfast, the food generous and healthy, the hosts' conversation warm and entertaining, was the highlight of the day. I've found my home away from home in Rome!

DH in Sydney, Australia 09/08/2009

Best: info@driverinrome.com
Why: they r the best

Al Esposito in delray beach, USA 08/22/2009

Best: Apartment rental near Colosseum
Why: We felt a little less like tourists coming back to an apartment every day instead of a hotel room. Every grocery store trip was an adventure and we didn't have to have every meal in a restaurant.

Laura Logan in Kirkland, WA USA 08/04/2009

Best: Renting apartments
Why: We rented an apartment just past the vatican near a bus stop and really enjoyed feeling like we LIVED in rome adn were not just visitors. Shopping for Groceries and using a washing maching just like at home. We used SleepinRome.com everything was as advertised adn easy!

Crystal Young in Swanton, Oh USA 07/05/2009

Best: Aberdeen Hotel
Why: Staff was very helpful and friendly and the rooms were clean. They also offered to call a private car for me that was only five Euros more than a cab.

Amanda in New York, NY USA 06/25/2009

Best: Guest House Arco dei Tolomei,Rome
Why: The accomodations and hospitality wer supurb. Marco, Catia and staff were extremely helpful with local restaurant recommendations, tours, sightseeing and transportation to and from the airport. Great location and good people.

Jim & Gretta in Waukegan, IL USA 06/17/2009

Best: Residenza Cellini
Why: A true gem in this busy city! Spotlessly clean, comfortable rooms, superb and incredibly attentive staff, lovely breakfasts, and a beautiful 5th-floor outdoor latticed terrace, where we enjoyed a 'carpet picnic' of Italian beer and pizza one night when we were all exhausted! The staff seemed to anticipate everything and even insisted on bringing plates, glasses, napkins and cutlery to us on a silver platter! They also checked our airline reservation for us the night before we left and had breakfast ready for us to enjoy 1/2 hour ahead of the usual time.

Cecilia in Dallas, Te USA 06/15/2009

Best: Hotel Aberdeen
Why: Very clean and perfect location for making transportation connections

Patrick Pietrzak in Burke, VA USA 05/21/2009

Best: Hotel Arco de Tolomei
Why: Marco and Gianna were amazing. Incredibly welcoming and warm. You would think that you were right at home in Rome. They had great restaurant recommendations for near by and things to see and do while we were there...who needs a Timeout when you have these two. But to top it off they shipped a suit I left back to me...free of charge. Service with a capital S. You can't go wrong here.

Ryan in Amsterdam, NL 05/14/2009

Best: Pensione Arco dei Tolomei, Roma Trastevere
Why: This charming pensione located in the very heart of Trsatvere is quite and peacefull. We love the small terraces of certain rooms, teh ideal location and on the top of that, the kindness and warmness of the hosts. we really felt that we were guests and not clients. Of course if you're attracted by design/trendy cold hotels, pick up another address but if you want to feel a part of rome, you must try it!

ANPIRE in PARIS, FR FRANCE 05/11/2009

Best: Giuseppe Amorosi's Flats
Why: Giuseppe's apartment, as recommended by the graffiti wall, is a great location at huge savings. Plenty of street noise when the bars close at 2 am, however. Very basic accommodations, IKEA-type furnishings, not for everyone.

Steve Raffensperger in Leola, PA USA 04/11/2009

Best: Hotel Italia Roma
Why: The rooms were comfortable but the best part was the friendly, helpful people at their desk. They were always available with a wonderfully detailed map of Rome and specific suggestions for places to eat and how to get to our destinations. Their breakfast was also nice.

Suzy Pare in Cleveland, OH USA 04/04/2009

Best: Cross-pollinate
Why: We used this booking service and were more than satisfied with the result. A couple of tips: Many of the people who own the apartments don't live on site. Be sure you call 24 hours in advance and confirm what time you want them to meet you. Also, have the exact amount you owe them ready as you will need to pay immediately. We paid and never saw our landlord again for the 3 days we were there. (she did leave a number, but we had not problems so never needed to use it.) Of course, each apartment is owned by a different person, but cross-pollinate does inspect them. We were very satisfied with ours. When we arrived, we thought we were in the owner's unit and she would take us to ours. We were shocked when she said the huge apartment was what we had rented. The pictures did not do it justice. I would use cross-pollinate again.

CA Adams in Everett, WA USA 01/10/2009

Best: Hotel Parlamento
Why: Location, location, location! We enjoyed the convenience of this centrally located hotel. We had a small single room, with a full bath, and breakfast was included. The staff was friendly, and helpful. It was also nice to escape to the rooftop patio for a relaxing break after sightseeing. Reasonable price, clean, comfortable accommodations, great location.

Colleen and Tony in avon lake, OH USA 01/04/2009

Best: Hotel Nardizzi Americana
Why: The hotel was in a great location, easy to find and the rooms were very clean and comfortable. The hotel staff were all extremely pleasant, friendly and helpful. We were even able to attend a performance of the Rome Symphony that we would not have known about if the desk clerk had not suggested we might enjoy going.

Dolores Johnson in Long Beach, Ca USA 01/03/2009

Best: Hotel Giardino
Why: Location, location, location.

D. in Dallas, TX USA 12/31/2008

Best: Residenza Arco dei Tolomei
Why: 'Our own little apartment in Rome' - that is how we would describe the stay at Residenza Arco dei Tolomei for 12 December to 15 December. Upon arrival off the tram, Catia was there to welcome us and orient us to the room, the neighborhood of Trastevere (great little neighborhood in Rome), and to Rome in general. Catia was always helpful in suggestions to plan our sightseeing itinerary as well as recommending places to dine.

The room itself was comfortable with a very firm bed in the European tradition. The bathroom was also a nice size with a minor complaint of a little mold on the ceiling. Though our trip included severe rain (just part of the experience), the balcony off of our room seemed to have been a perfect place to enjoy a picnic and bottle of wine in better weather.

The morning breakfast was also very enjoyable from the coffee, Leena's cakes, the salumi and cheese, and the company. We enjoyed sharing our travel stories with the other guests as we planned our day.

If you want to experience Rome like a local with the help of locals, I definitely recommend Residenza Arco dei Tolomei!

Jerod Buckel in Philadelphia, PA USA 12/27/2008

Best: Hotel Duca d'Alba
Why: The location was waay too cool! What a gem!

Marina Rizo-Patron in San Antonio, Tx USA 12/23/2008

Best: Hotel Aberdeen (Rome) and Hotel Mignon (Sorrento)
Why: I stayed at the Hotel Aberdeen for 4 nights and at Hotel Mignon for 5 nights. Both were good values and handy to sights and restaurants. Hotel Aberdeen had a nice breakfast that filled us up for our touring. Both had friendly, helpful staff and both had free internet access. Aberdeen even let us use their front desk PC when the guest PC was down for a day. If you are going to be seeing the sights recommended by Rick in the Sorrento, Naples, and Amalfi coast area the Mignon is ideally situated. I met other people who stayed at more out of the way hotels and they spent a lot of time getting to and from the hotel. I used the Circumvesuviana train 5 out of 6 days. It is very convenient and reasonably priced, but it has about 35 stops, is often very crowded, and when it rains it sometimes leaks. I did not notice any pick pockets or feel threatened at any time using it. It is similar to a subway in a big city - nothing fancy but handy to use. I talked to others who had issues at the Naples train station when they used someone to help with their bags. They offered 10 euros and the person wanted more (after they had been helped). We also had people asking for money and others trying to help you find your train, but when we declined they did not bother us. Luckily Rick warns of all of these issues in his book and we were prepared.

Jim Perschbacher in Mableton, GA USA 12/07/2008

Best: Hotel Nardizzi
Why: Very clean, pleasant staff, nice breakfast, quite room, good rates. Termini neighborhood not as nice as some, but good location for Metro connections (Termini is the only place where the two metro lines in Rome cross).

Sandra I in Huntington Beach, CA USA 11/19/2008

Best: Hotel Aberdeen
Why: My sister and I stayed here in late October. On Via Firenze, it is a 10-15 walk from the train station and a 5-minute walk to Via Nazionale and the main bus routes such as #40 and #64. The front desk staff was pleasant and spoke perfect English and answered all of our questions. Breakfast is included in the price: you can get coffee, juice, cereal, fruit and pastries--enough to get started for the day.

Barbara Murphy in Chicago, IL USA 11/08/2008

Best: Smeraldo
Why: Right in the Center of where you want to be in Rome. Earth shattering Cheap Room rate for it's location and breakfast IS included in the price. Next time we're in Rome we are most definitely staying here again! Very Quiet Too.....

Cindy in El Dorado Hills, CA USA 11/03/2008

Best: Arco dei Tolomei
Why: Great little B&B in an excellent location. Walking distance to many of the sites and easy access to public transportation. Quiet rooms with great bathrooms. More than adequate breakfast with meats, cheeses, breads, juices and a special homemade coffee cake each day. Fantastic hospitality by Marco, Gianna, Catia and staff. They took care of our every need, even before we arrived. Marco and Catia had wonderful suggestions for meals, tours, special venues, and transportation to and from airport. They are tops. A great little gem of a B&B!!

Steve & Sue in Guthrie, OK USA 10/28/2008

Best: The Quirinale Roma
Why: Its 2 blocks south of the Piazza Republic on the Via Nazionale and near the Termini so you get great connections with only a 2 block walk.

Richard York in Tyler, TX USA 10/21/2008

Best: Guest House Arco dei Tolomei, Rome, Italy
Why: We had the pleasure of staying at this charming B&B in May, 2008. Great location, great breakfast, super friendly hosts and very cozy rooms. A special note to Catia who was amazing... from the day we arrived she arranged our tours, recommended restaurants, and made reservations for us. Leena's cakes were delicous, and we enjoyed chatting with Marco during breakfast. We would definately recommend this B&B to anyone looking to stay in Rome. We hope to return again one day soon!

Katie in Mississauga, ON Canada 09/06/2008

Best: Hotel Atlantico
Why: You did not recommend this one, but we won this trip at a fundraiser and this was our hotel. We loved it. It was conveniently located, well staffed, clean, air conditioned. It is a smallish hotel in the 1920s style, but I love that kind of flavor. I'd recommend it highly. Convenient shops, sites, public transportation, restaurants, etc.

Wendy A. Paterson, Ph.D. in Buffalo, NY USA 07/09/2008

Best: Hotel Smeraldo
Why: Our family of 4 got two recently remodeled rooms, excellent air conditioning, with breakfast. We reserved in Jan. for our stay this June and made sure to mention Rick Steves and got the discount. Very pleasant small hotel. Do not expect big rooms anywhere in Rome.

Lisa in Berkeley, CA USA 07/08/2008

Best: Kiwi Bed and Breakfast
Why: The location, price and host's advice mostly. (We paid 69 Euros a night for a double room in the couple's home in centre of Rome).

ERIN in KAVANAGH, QC CANADA 06/17/2008

Best: Hotel Paba
Why: Great location, but also you'll be wonderfully cared for by Alberta! She arranged for a driver for us the morning of our departure from Rome. Since we were leaving prior to breakfast hours, she showed me how to make cappucinos for us and let me know we could help ourselves to yogurt, etc. The super air-conditioner in the room & tidiness of the hotel are bonuses that will make your stay in Rome perfect in the warm months!

Amy in Wiesbaden, Germany 05/17/2008

Best: Hotel Nardizzi Americana
Why: Delightful experience 11 April - 13 April 2008. We had a very quiet room. We could hear the birds singing in the morning and no traffic noise. Its on the 4th floor, with a cute terrace for continental breakfast every morning. Best of all they gave us 10% discount for cash when we showed them the Rick Steves guide. They helped us book transportation to meet our cruise ship in Civitavecchia.

Worst: The cruise ship (Not in Rick Steves guide)
Why: I got seasick from all the rocking & rolling!

Julia in San Francisco, CA USA 04/28/2008

Best: Rome Cavalier Hilto
Why: The art was great and the people went out of their way on everthing

Mary Ann and Dennis Devitt in Lombard, IL USA 04/26/2008

Best: Hotel Giardino
Why: Great location, very clean, very helpful staff. Room 24 was really small, but it was within easy walking distance of everything so more than made up for it and the price was very good. Would definitely stay there again!

Sue in Newport Beach, CA USA 04/26/2008

Best: Hotel Paba
Why: I stayed at Hotel Paba, owned and operated by Alberta Castelli, during my week in Rome. I was served a delicious, filling breakfast (included in the price) every morning. My room was cleaned and the was bed made every day. In the evening, Alberta recommended great restaurants that were located relatively close to the hotel. The communications (e-mails) to set up a reservation were very professional and punctual in the months before my arrival to Rome. My room had a safe, a television with English programming, a telephone, a small refigerator, a private bathroom with shower, and air conditioning. I will DEFINITELY stay at Hotel Paba on my next visit to Rome! Grazie, Signora Castelli, grazie!

Joseph in Harlingen, TX USA 04/18/2008

Best: Guest House Arco dei Tolomei, Rome Italy
Why: Just returned from a wonderful Roman Holiday!!! We were 4 couples traveling together and spent 5 nights at the Guest House Arco dei Tolomei. We couldn't have hoped for anything better. The rooms - all with private bath - were clean, comfortable and spacious, 3 rooms had a private balcony. The location allowed us to walk just about all over Rome. Each morning we sat down in the beautiful dining room for a wonderful breakfast - it always included a daily fresh baked cake from Lena that we all looked forward to (she even shared the recipe for our favorite with us!). The 'living room' was supplied with a computer, (the house has wireless internet) books on Italy, maps, reading materials and a small fridge stocked with water. Our days with filled with touring Rome- thanks to Katia - we went out each morning with a new map - highlighted with tour tips, bus info and everything we needed for the day. Our days ended with wonderful dinners from local resturants in the neighborhood thanks to Marco - one phone call a night and we were all set - some of our favorites: Osteria - Le Mani in Pasta, Checco er Carettiere, and for the best pizza in all of Rome - maybe Italy - Pizzeria "Ai Marmi". We found the website most helpful - and corresponded with Marco frequently before our arrival. Our suggestion is to follow their directions to find them...they are a 'hidden jewel' that most taxis don't know about!!

You can be sure we threw several coins in the Trevi Fountain to insure a trip back to Rome and the Guest House Arco dei Tolomei!!!

Michelle Carli in Boston, MA USA 04/16/2008

Worst: Hotel Nardizzi
Why: Dismal experience in March 2008. Our first room's showerhead fell off when we turned on the shower (obviously not the first time it had happened either) and the "shower doors"--I use that term loosely--also fell apart. The second room we were moved to was marginally better with the bathroom but smelled like raw sewage constantly. I tried to run the WC, bidet, shower and sink and place a wet cloth over the floor drain with little relief. Both rooms had dirty floors, shabby patched linens and generally rundown condition.

In addition, we took the elevator up to the 4th floor reception, but our room was one floor down which was 3 long flights apart. They require you to leave your key when you leave thus necessitating a 3 flight hike up and back as well as the trips for breakfast. Older travelers beware! The elevator did not go to this floor.

We told them we wanted to checkout that first night after our first room experience after staying that night, but were told we could not unless we wanted to pay for our whole trip (3 nights at 120 Euros per night). We like the typical European pensione, but would have gladly paid a lot more to get a place I didn't dread going back to. We promptly cancelled the RS recommended hotels for the rest of our trip and used Trip Advisor and found great hotels. We won't be booking another RS recommendation unless I double check the reviews on other sources first.

Jenny in Highlands Ranch, CO USA 04/11/2008

Worst: Residenza Frattina
Why: Was looking forward to a really nice first trip to Rome with our family of 4. Arrived at Residenza Frattina-- with children-- exhausted from an overnight flight-- hiked up the 5 sets of stairs--carrying luggage- and they told us that they had overbooked the rooms and gave our room to another family!! I booked the large triple room 5 months in advance- held our reservation with a credit card & had a confirmation number & a copy of the confirmed reservation in my hand. They never contacted me in advance to inform that there was a problem. They said our room would be ready the next day. ...they booked a room for us at a Best Western outside of the city in a neighborhood covered with graffiti-where I did not feel safe. I was so tired I just started to cry. I searched so carefully for a boutique style hotel that was centrally located-- and we ended up at the Best Western!!! When we returned to the Residenza Frattina the next day -- our room was ready-- (it had a dead rose in a vase) but we had lost a full 1/2 day of vacation-- packing & travelling to the hotel, then un-packing, taxi, luggage up the stairs again...we spent 2 nights at this Residenza-- they did not make beds, they did not take out the trash from our room (there were soiled baby diapers that made the room smell) they did not provide fresh towels, the tiny shower stall leaked all over the bathroom floor-- and we had to sacrifice one of our (precious) towels to clean it up. The breakfast was nice and the hotel was centrally located, and the sitting room was very pretty. The room decor was very plain. However- the overbooking and lack of attention to our room ruined what could have been a lovely stay. On the upside-- we were out of the room most of the day and really enjoyed Rome. horrible hotel stay-- this hotel is not good for families. They also charged us full rate ($230E /$363 x 3 nights= $1089) -- even for the night we spent in the Best Western!! I will Never stay there again.

Kelly Myers in Saugerties, NY USA 04/03/2008

Best: Residenza Cellini, Rome
Why: My wife and I are in our seventies and we travel a fair amount. This is one of the nicest hotels/residences we have stayed in. It is a beautifully appointed hotel, very quiet and the management and staff are very kind and helpful. It is perferctly located for all sightseeing destinations and public transport is immediately available. We can recommend it without hesitation. We look forward to staying there again.

Barry Troy in Dublin, Ireland 03/04/2008

Worst: residenza cellini
Why: I was disappointed in this hotel. It's okay, but not for the price. Our "junior suite" , which means a somewhat larger room with a third twin bed and two armoires, was on the street side, and between the street noise, the hall noise, the breakfast room noise, and the upstairs noise, I had to wear my earplugs all night, every night. I found the staff aloof and the bed hard. Again, passable but not for this price. The Hotel Adler downstairs looked just fine for less than half the price. 6 of us were rudely kicked out of the breakfast room to make way for other guests. The shower head fell off and broke my toe and the hotel personnel couldn't have cared less. Turns out there is no word for "toe" in Italian. I wish we had stayed at the Santa Maria -- next time I plan to for sure, if only for the peace and quiet. I stuck my head in and walked around their courtyard, and it looks like a haven.

April Smith in Stonington, CT USA 02/24/2008

Best: Mecenate Palace
Why: Not a recommended hotel, but very well appointed, excellent breakfast, rooftop terrace and reasonable price. Near Santa Maria Maggiore

Liz Phelps in Pittsburg, CA USA 02/18/2008

Best: 58 Le Real de Luxe in Rome
Why: We are writing to say thank you for an absolutely great stay. The room was everything that we could have wanted, breakfast was superb, and your helpfulness really made a difference to our stay. We have already recommended 58 Le Real de Luxe to many of our friends, and will definitely be back to see you again.

L. E. in LANCS,UK,B, UK UK 02/18/2008

Best: hotel giardino
Why: A very clean and secure hotel near all major sites in Roma. Kate and Sergio were very accomodating and quick with tips for travel.

Rocco Curro in Newark, DE USA 02/14/2008

Best: Hotel Nardizzi Americana
Why: I had a quiet room/refuge, the staff were friendly, and the terrace was a nice place to relax. Plus it has a great location near bus and metro stops while remaining quiet and safe (All the Via Firenze hotels have this great location characteristic)

Brian Gulledge in Woodbridge, VA USA 02/11/2008

Best: Guest House Arco dei Tolomei, Rome
Why: The Guest House Arco dei Tolomei was a wonderful b&b. Our room was perfect, the bathroom was large, and the view into the courtyard was amazing. Marco and his staff were great. They arranged for our tours, helped us get around town, and provided wonderful travel tips. When we were scheduled to leave there was a taxi strike, so no taxi's were available to take us to the train station. Marco walked us to the bus stop and made sure we got on the correct bus to the train station. Rome was amazing, but Marco and his staff made it bellissimo!!

Dawne Driver in Orlando, FL USA 12/28/2007

Best: Hotel Nardizzi
Why: This was our first trip to Rome. The Nardizzi hotel was very clean, tidy, and reasonably priced, and the staff was helpful. We arrived on an early flight, and were able to get into the room early to clean up. They offered a map and advice on the city, restaurant recommendations, and booked us a ride to the airport when we left. The hotel manager, Mario, was so helpful and eager to please. We'll book there again when we return.

Chris in Darnestown, MD USA 12/16/2007

Best: Hotel Hideria on XXlv Maggio, #8
Why: Friendly staff with clean, bright, rooms ( appears to be recently renovated) and only 10 Euros more (11/27/07) then the Hotel Hotel Giardino which uses such low wattage light blubs that a book is difficult to read, much better breakfasts also. Contact www.hotelhiberia.it; email, hotelhiberia@travel.it, PH. +39-06-678-7560. This will be the first hotel I will contact whenever I visit Rome. Great location also.

Worst: Hotel Giardino
Why: Very friendly staff but dim lighted rooms, hard to read a book/guide, and a depressing atmosphere.

Bernie Francis in Palm Beach Gardens, FL USA 12/10/2007

Best: Residenza Arco de Tolomei
Why: My partner and i stayed at this guest house for 2 nights and we had a lovely time. The guest house is very clean and all the staff were very friendly. We enjoyed our stay so much we will be returning next year and we have also just recommended Rome and this guest house to our friends. Thanks to Marco and Catia who were so helpful and we shall see you next year!

Aisha USA 12/03/2007

Best: nardizzi
Why: mario is great and helpfull mann.thanks for recomanding this place.

john in seattle, wa USA 11/21/2007

Best: Hotel Due Torri
Why: Great location. Mostly friendly staff. Got in very late and very hungry the first night and they graciously gave me a huge tray of fruit, yogurt, and pastries! The singles are tiny! But very clean and comfortable.

Stacie in Olympia, WA USA 11/04/2007

Best: Hotel Giardino
Why: Great location close to all the sights, plus right on the bus line to the Vatican. Kate and her son, Thomas, were delightful.

Michael Sherwood in Prescott Valley, AZ USA 10/29/2007

Best: Fellini Inn, near Trevi Fountain
Why: We truly felt at home here during our stay in Rome in September. Jean-Pierre and the staff took great pains to make my mother and I feel welcome. The staff were professional, yet made you feel like family after only a couple of days. The atmosphere was very relaxed; reception is located in a separate unit on the ground floor, and staff are unintrusive unless you need help. It's a great value considering that the facilities are equipped with the newest, most stylish furnishings. A big plus was the rooftop terrace where you could take your breakfast or just hang out. This is a place that I will definitely stay at on my next trip to Rome. Bravo!

Mike in Denver, CO USA 10/24/2007

Worst: Gulliver's Place
Why: After having made a reservation for 2 double bedrooms last January, we were notified about 3 weeks prior to our arrival that the rooms were double-booked (I'm sure they got a better rate and canceled ours of 90 euros). They gave us accomodations at another place whose rooms were unacceptable (the couple traveling with us was able to view them; they were on par with Gulliver's House), so we found a very nice apartment instead, with great difficulty at that late date. The folks at Gulliver's Place are unreliable at the very least.

Mary Passeri in Oakland, CA USA 10/24/2007

Best: Hotel Paba
Why: Very comfortable, convenient and reasonably priced. Owner Alberta, who speaks excellent English, was especially helpful and gracious. Breakfast delivered to the room was a nice touch, with additional cups of coffee no problem.

Ron in DeWitt, MI USA 10/17/2007

Best: 58 Le Real de Luxe: a little bit of luxury in the centre of Rome
Why: High quality fittings and furnishings B&B- very comfortable. Well placed for main tourist sites. Hotel staff were very pleasant and helpful. We did have a great time !

Heather in Lake Forest Park,, WA Wa, 98155, USA 10/11/2007

Best: b&b Gianicolo's Home
Why: We spent five days in Rome and we booked a room in this beautiful b&b close the center of the city. The room was very clean and the hostess was very helpfull. Another thing: the breakfast is very good... We discovery a part of Rome very interesting, just 10 minuts from Trastevere, with a lovely neightbours. We raccomended this b&b!!! www.gianicolo-bb.it

Charles in Ohio, USA 09/30/2007

Best: Gulliver's House
Why: We went to the B&B, and it was GREAT! Sara is just great, as is her staff. The rooms are beautiful, there's AC, a computer right there, a phone and fax for local calls, there are safes in each room, and it's conveniently located.

julie pasqual in Jersey City, NJ USA 09/09/2007

Best: Hotel Oceania
Why: The location was great and the staff (Stefan) was excellent! We found everything we needed close by and the fact that the public transport was around the corner was best of all. The hotel was clean and our greatest surprise was hearing an opera singer in the building practicing every day. We liked being on a quiet street and being able to walk to good restaurants close by. I highly suggest this place for those with children,

Christine Morrissey in Campbell, CA USA 08/23/2007

Best: pensione rosetta
Why: great location. felt very central being near the coliseum. plus, we walked a lot in rome and saw wonderful sights on the way to the actually central part of town.

paige woodman in los altos, ca USA 08/11/2007

Best: Hotel Sonya
Why: All new building added with beautiful renovations,furnishings and flat screen TVs. Staff is helpful and the location is a 5 minute walk to the train station.

P.Whisenhunt in Carlsbad, CA USA 08/10/2007

Best: Hotel Oceania
Why: The location was 10 min from Termini Train. Roberto was helpful and pleasant to tell us some suggestions-- getting around, a restaurant etc. They have free internet access which was helpful. Morning breakfast was pleasant---great coffee abd fresh muffins and juice.

Jan Nugent in Pennington, NJ USA 07/28/2007

Best: Aberdeen
Why: clean, quiet, and friendly staff

Brian in Cleveland, OH USA 07/26/2007

Best: We don't use the recommented accommodations
Why: I can always find a better and less expensive Hotel than the ones in the guide. It takes some work on the net and reading the blogs for reviews, but I've been happy with them. I think the books actually inflate the prices make them harder to book. I can always find Double rooms with bath for near 1/2 of those recommended.

Worst: Hotel Nice in Sorrento. Thats another guide though.
Why: Its central, its cheap, Alfonzio was a great host and did his best, but take this place off your list. I had to fix half the things in the room just to make them work. The bath flooded everyday because the floor traps were loose. And they never bothered to fix that. The breakfast was kind of a joke. And the upper terrace, was filled with laundry drying. No tables, chairs or anything....

Francis Saffell in Springfield, OR USA 07/22/2007

Worst: Maryelen B&B
Why: I was traveling through Europe with my brother and made reservations here. I confirmed with the owner that there was air conditioning (a priority for me). Confirmed by owner that there was but we found that to be untrue. We checked out a day early due to the lack of air conditioning and have just recently found out that the owner Loredana, has charged my account for the night we didn't stay even though we never were given a cancellation policy regarding early check out. She now won't respond to any emails. Unprofessional proprietor who will rip you off. Stay away!

Logan Henderson in Austin, tx USA 07/15/2007

Best: Hotel Spring House
Why: Best bang for the buck. The minibar is well stocked. Breakfast offers variety andfthere is a small bar where you can order light snacks or semi-heavy meals.

Marsh Mendez in Fremont, CA USA 07/12/2007

Best: Hotel Montreal
Why: This was the only one we stayed in and it was very nice with a quite convenient location. It might be worthwhile to note for this (and presumably other hotels) when internet service is available but has a charge. This was not clear either from the book or the hotel's web site and resulted in some confusion and a little disagreement on site. But overall the staff were courteous and the hotel suited our purposes just fine. They seemed to treat us with extra care because we had your book and made it known that this is how we found them - although that is really speculation on my part.

Kevin Masters in Syracuse, NY USA 07/06/2007

Worst: Gulliver's Place
Why: The manager had an accident and no one was present to let us in. No back up plan and room wasn't prepared for three even though the reservations had been made four months in advance. Not a bad place, just not reliable.

Dave Schleh in Stillwater, MN USA 07/02/2007

Worst: Hotel Oceania
Why: While conveniently located and pleasant English speaking people, it was not "spotless" as indicated. The carpet in the guestroom we had was greatly in need of replacing or at least a good cleaning (the rest was clean and bathroom was new). The walk up to the 3rd floor was like going through a tenament, drab desparetly in need of a coat of paint and a bit scary (not well lit and the big automatic doors at the entrance stay open for a disconcerting length of time). Next to the elevator is the trash. Overlooking the rail is not pleasant. The leather sofas in the lounge had the stuffing coming out. The rate listed in the guide book is only if paid in cash. Cash in Euros only, not US and not Travelers Checks, otherwise the 178 Euro rate is 200 Euro/per night if by credit card.

Carol Berning in Naples, FL USA 06/16/2007

Best: Casa di Maryelen B&B (near Termini)
Why: The room was spacious and very clean, with high quality wood furnishings. Although the B&B is situated near Termini railroad station, with all the noise that its location entails, once the windows were closed it was extremely quiet in the room. In fact, even with the air conditioning running, the room was more quiet than in my own suburban home. Loredana, the proprietress, was extraordinarily helpful in getting us settled and making sure that everything we needed was available and in order. She clearly takes great pride in the quality of her B&B, and went out of her way to provide us with breakfast 30 minutes earlier than the ordinary breakfast time because we had to catch a train. The only downsides were the slightly seedy neighborhood (which was more than compensated by the convenience) and the drab stairwells typical of most Roman buildings. My wife and I would love to return to Casa di Maryelen next time we're in Rome.

Charles Rosenblatt in Cleveland, OH USA 06/13/2007

Best: Hotel Italia
Why: We stayed there for 4 nights overall, but the fourth night was in the annex across the street. Avoid that if at all possible. Strange smells over there. Staff like Sabrina and Nadine for example couldn't have been nicer. Rooms are a bit on the small side, but on a very quiet street with numerous fine restaurants within 2-3 blocks. We would easily stay there again.

Dan Bertellotti in Foster City, CA USA 06/12/2007

Worst: Hotel Oceania
Why: We were told by the Hotel Oceania that a room was available for 4 nights in May, and to send an e-mail with our credit card information and authorization to use the card for a deposit. One full week later, a few days before we were leaving the U.S.A. for Rome, Oceania sent an e-mail saying that the room in fact was not available. This caused a frantic last minute dash to find another room. It was fortunate we had not yet left on the trip otherwise we would not have known until arriving at the Oceania front desk that we had no room. It is apparent they were overbooking and then cutting loose any hapless travelers without the slightest effort to remedy the situation.

This is a very poor and unethical way to run a business, and for this reason we would definitely not recommend the Hotel Oceania.

Mike Klepinger in San Francisco, CA USA 05/27/2007

Worst: Hotel In Parione
Why: It was hot as could be in Rome when I went. I insisted that my airconditioner did not work and the front desk kept telling me to keep trying to get it to work, they would not even look at it. 3 days into my stay with them they had a technician fix it with only 2 days left. They really didn't seem to care, even though temps topped the higher 80's. Last time I stay here!

Rob in Tampa, FL USA 05/23/2007

Best: We only stayed at Residenza Cellini.
Why: We spent four nights each in Rome, Venice and Florence. All hotels were mentioned in Rick's city guides. All were great accommodatons (La Calcina in Venice and Hotel Davanzati in Florence), but moderately-priced Residenza Cellini is a gem! An easy walk (about 3 1/2 blocks) from the train station. You can easily pick your way through traffic and no concern about theft along the way. Easy access to all modes of public transportation. Residenza Cellini is clean, bright and well-appointed, but the capstone is the gentle, gracious and friendly hospitality by Barbara De Paolis and her staff. We must return !!!

Terry J. Uyeyama in Deming,, WA USA 05/15/2007

Best: Hotel In Parione
Why: Great location. Room was small but clean and quiet enough. No breakfast included but a friend staying at Hotel Smeraldo said breakfast was not worth extra Euros we would have to pay. With Antico Forno Roscioli next door and several cafes nearby, there is no need anyway. Staff were usually pretty gruff. However, considering the location, the price, and the condition of our room, we did not care about the unfriendly reception. We would stay there again.

Marissa Borromeo in Atlanta, GA USA 04/26/2007

Best: Gulliver's Lodge
Why: Simon and breakfast in our room! Simon was so informative and fun to talk with about Italy, Italians, restuarants, and Rome. The breakfasts were huge and tasty (the BEST cornflakes). Great location too; mid-way between Termini and the Coliseum; plenty of varied eating close by; and two grocry stores.

Michelle Garcia in Tacoma, WA USA 04/19/2007

Best: Hotel Nardizzi
Why: We had a geat trip to Rome, and the Hotel Nardizzi could not have been a better choice. My husband and I brought our two boys - 9 & 13, and the staff was friendly and helpful and the location was perfect. We got great restaurant recommendations and we had a blast.

Maggie in Saint Paul, MN USA 04/10/2007

Best: Hotel Nardizzi
Why: You will not find a more lively or hospitable hotel in all of Roma: at the very least, you will have an adventure! The proprietor, Fabrizio, and manager, Mario, are gracious and helpful above and beyond the "call of duty"! The hotel (at a very reasonable rate, Rome is extremely expensive) is comfortable, charming and excellently located in the center of the city. The staff, available any time of day or night, is friendly and infintely helpful. I highly recommend the Hotel Nardizzi (and, don't forget to ask for Mario!). Buon divertimento!

maria smith in middletown, ny USA 04/10/2007

Best: Hotel Aberdeen
Why: We have just returned from another trip to Roma and, as always, stayed at the Hotel Aberdeen. Frankly, I wonder why anyone would stay anywhere else. It is perfectly located a block away from a bus stop on via Nazionale, a walkable distance from Termini, good grocery stores, a shopping mall where you will find an electonics store, a camera store where you can have your digital pictures put on disk, and excellent restaurant with good take-out, Santa Maria Maggiore and even more. It is owned and operated by several cousins and sisters who are lovely, charming and very knowledgable for first time or long time travelers. I suppose we could afford the Hassler or other more expensive hotels but why? The Aberdeen have everything you need, including an internet room, and the rate is more than reasonable. My wife and I would not stay anywhere else.

Charles M. Luther in Katy, TX USA 04/04/2007

Best: Hotel Oceania
Why: My daughter and I enjoyed a couple of peaceful, quiet nights at this fine establishment. The staff was most pleasant, the breakfast excellent, nice amenities (computer, plasma tv, where we watched some Rick Steves' episodes), and Armando an excellent host. I would certainly stay there again. Thank you!

Janet in Caille, GA USA 04/03/2007

Worst: Hotel Nerva
Why: Rooms clean and quiet and fine. Found the owners unfriendly- they told us how much business the Rick Steves book gave them but didn't seem to care about showing any TLC to Rick's readers! we were scowled at one morning when we missed breakfast by a few minutes(end time 9:30 which was early for us) and just asked for a cappucino- got a rude remark about how the kitchen closed at 9:30- the nice lady running machine made us one anyways and rolled her eyes at the owner but still, we were made to feel uncomfortable-esp considering we had to wait almost 2 hrs for our room to be ready when we arrived- we were perfectly gracious about that---then the night before leaving on our way to dinner we were told he wanted us to pay bill in cash (despite not being noted as a cash only hotel nor were we getting a cash discount) we let ourselves be bullied and said we'd go visit a few bancomats where the attempt to pull out 250 Euros(the max there) from 3 different machines caused my bank to put a fraudelent activity freeze on the card (even though we had advised them we'd be using the card in Italy)- then we had asked specifically for a regualar taxi that would accept 40 Euro for cab ride to airport which we had to argue about on the way in but achieved- the hotel called private service that told us as we were getting in that the fee was 50-- when we turned to the hotel owner for help - he shrugged and practically slammed the door in our faces and THEN he came running out demanding 3 Euro from us as we had made 3 local calls while in our hotel room- felt very "scammed"-- wouldn't go there again

anne in abingdon, MD USA 03/27/2007

Best: Hotel Nazionale a Montecitorio
Why: Stayed only here - Hotel was GREAT - close to everything, friendly, helpful, great room on the square, good breakfast, hotel not cheap but worth it! February rates helped. When my wife asked for a "bowl of freddo" they understood and brought a bowl of ice!!!!

Worst: Hotel Nazionale restaurant
Why: expensive and not very good

Gary Carson in Aransas Pass, tx USA 03/24/2007

Best: Hotel Giardino on Via Ventiquattro Maggio
Why: Great location, very gracious helpful staff, good price, loved our room because it had a balcony. Just a note--after reading the hotel's information, we thought it would not be very far and we walked from the Termini station to the hotel. Although we walked all over Rome with no problems, it was quite a hike with two small suitcases, two backpacks and a five year old who wanted to be carried. I would recommend taking the bus to the hotel if you just have a little luggage or kids in tow, and save your feet for sightseeing.

Rhonda in Dallas, TX USA 03/19/2007

Best: Due Torri
Why: Located close to everything, from the Colosseum to the Spanish Steps. Breakfast was very good, and the staff is friendly.

Desiree in Clarksville, TN USA 03/14/2007

Best: The Spring House hotel
Why: Numerous amenities, got a discount of about $25 for naming your book, great location, wonderful staff. (We had the spring room number 64 for the nights of Feb. 28 and March 1, and we had slippers and robes, fresh fruit and breakfasts (served in our room at our request), a minibar that was included, a balcony, free use of a fitness center, and beautiful fresh flowers. We paid, after the discount, €110 for the 28th and €125 for the 1st.

Christine in Sacramento, CA USA 03/03/2007

Worst: Hotel in Parione
Why: We traveled to Rome in October 2006 and made a one night reservation in Hotel in Parione. When we got there, we were told we could not stay at the hotel because of plumbing problems and we're moved to another close by (don't know the name but its not Hotel Smeraldo). We saw a couple coming down the stairs as we got our explanation from the front desk. We did not like the other hotel whose staff was very rude and what bothered me was that Hotel in Parione was not even geniunely apologetic and was wondering if they was telling the truth.

Luis Balcita in Naperville, IL USA 02/26/2007

Best: Hotel Giordino
Why: The rooms were clean, the location was great, but most of all it has a great staff, who were willing to help at all times. I would, however, recommend asking for an interior room when the weather is nice, as there is a lot of noise in those that face the street when the window is open. The windows are double-paned, so that there is no noise when they are closed.

Dan & Aggie Mannix in Waterloo, Belgium (formerly of Pennington, NJ) 02/17/2007

Best: Hotel Paba
Why: Others have said this, but I wanted to stress how much we enjoyed the Hotel Paba and its hostess, Alberta Castelli. After each day of sightseeing, we felt we were returning home. She is a lovely and very helpful person, the rooms were superb and extremely clean, the breakfast wonderful, and the location ideal. We had a balcony that overlooked the busy Via Cavour, but could not hear a sound once the windows and shutters were closed. We felt the room price was a bargain. In short, we highly recommend the Hotel Paba!

Robert in Annandale, VA United States 02/11/2007

Best: Albergo Santa Chiara
Why: We loved the Albergo Santa Chiara. The room was great and they made us reservations at some of the museums.

Nancy Otto in Austin, TX USA 01/24/2007

Best: Residenza Cellini apartment
Why: The apartment was large, well-equipted and cheaper than two hotel rooms. In a wonderful, non-tourist area we started to feel semi-native. The staff at Residenza Cellini were always very helpful.

James in Biddle, OH USA 01/12/2007

Best: Residenza Cellini
Why: Fantastic tip! Barbara De Paolis, Francesca and all the staff at Residenza Cellini were absolutely wonderful. They couldn't be more helpful. They made our stay so comfortable and gave us multiple tips that allowed us to see more in our time and enjoy the time in Rome even more. Thanks, Rick and co., for recommending that hotel!

Colleen Salomon in Claremont, CA USA 01/10/2007

Best: Hotel Nardizzi Americana, Rome
Why: We stayed there from December 23-27, 2006. I booked online seversl months earlier, requesting their limited offer "Overbooking Special", which only cost 55 EUR per night. The deal was that we had to agree to be taken by taxi (at their expense) to another comparable hotel in central Rome is they were overbooked. After reading a favorable review about this special on Tripadvisor, we took this offer. The hotel was not full (or even close)so we got to stay there. It was very nice, in a old buiding that also housed several churches, another hotel and many apartments. The breakfasts consisted of all the cereal/juice/coffee/croissants/rolls that you wanted (great for my hungry teenagers). The rooms very very comfortable and nicely faux painted. We had a VERY good experience there, especially for only 55 EUR per night for a double with bath. I would stay there again.

Terry in Bend, OR USA 01/10/2007

Best: Hotel Aberdeen
Why: Great location with easy access to Metro, Termini station, and all bus lines. Room clean. Staff friendly. Breakfast always ready. Quiet location. Felt safe after dark in the neighborhood. Only one block to main thoroughfare.

Pam Blough in Grand Haven, MI USA 01/06/2007