“Typical European Hotel”
We took our 2 girls, aged 14 and 10, to Rome at the end of June. We booked a quad room and it met our needs. There was one king bed, and a sofa that was pulled out to about the size of a queen. Like most european hotels, it is small - but big enough. The hotel is located off the main road, and our room was on the 4th floor and had a window that opened to a common area. We visited in summer, and it was quite toasty in our room until about 2am. A fan would have made a huge difference, but the hotel didn't have one available. It was quiet enough in the evening. Beds were hard, but after the first night it didn't seem to bother anyone as we were exhausted! There is an elevator and it held the 4 of us, but no more. It's location is directly across the street from the Vatican Museum (where you go to see Sistine Chapel), down a flight of stairs, and then about a block to the left. Restaurants and St. Peter's Square is 4-5 blocks where you can also grab hop-on hop-off bus. Breakfast is typical European. Staff was always very friendly and helpful, and even granted us a later checkout at the last minute when our flight was changed. We live in Europe and are use to these types of accommodations. If you are coming from our mainland (USA!!!) then I would equate this to our 2 stars. We felt that this was good value for the money, and if someone said they were booking, I wouldn't steer them away. This was our 3rd trip to Rome, and would likely stay closer to St. peters next time.
What to pack
Comfortable, comfortable, comfortable shoes that you can walk in for hours!! Don't wait until you get to Rome to break in those shoes. The bulk of places in Rome are cobblestone and sometimes uneven, so flip flops and sandals (with no back) can be difficult.
If you want to go into the Vatican, Bone Church, or any other religious site, there is a strict dress code. Shorts/Skirts must be to your knees and mostly covering them. Your shoulders must also be covered. Several people brought some pashmina's to use as instant wrap-around skirts and shoulder covers. If you do not adhere to these strict guidelines, you will be turned away.
Dining
THE BEST (and we've tried LOTS) gelato is at "Old Fashion Gelateria" - but get there early because there will be a long line in the evening. If you are standing in St. Peter's Square looking at the Vatican, the worlds best gelato will be found to the right, outside the wall. When you walk outside the wall, turn left, walk up about a 1/2 block and then look across the street to the right. There is an awning cover it, and there is a crepe place right next door. I'm hear to tell you - the Gelato is AWESOME...so creamy...and lots of locals go here also, AND wait in line...so you know it is good!!! I had the cherry - YUM FREAKING O!!!! ;o)
We have eaten at several places - our favorites for taste are along Via Veneto...for ambience we like Piazza Navona.
Events and shows
BUY YOUR TICKETS ONLINE! We learned our lesson the first time around, and believe me, if you go during a peak season you will be so glad that you purchased them online ahead of time. You're there to see Rome, not to stand in line!!! This is especially true for the Colosseum.
When possible, book a guided tour - you can even get one at the site for about 10 Euros per person (at least at colosseum). Understanding what you are seeing absolutely adds to the enjoyment...and the kids seem to really get jazzed about the sites.
If you haven't been to Rome here's a heads up - - if you take a picture of someone "dressed up," you are expected to pay them. This is their livelihood.
Comment from the hotel's management
Thank you for completing the survey regarding your recent stay at our property.
Your business is very important to us and we value your feedback. By telling us what you liked about your stay and how we can improve, you are helping us deliver a superior experience for you and other guests in the future. We hope you will come back and see us again soon.
Hotel Management, General Manager
Posted 13 Oct 2011
