Perched at the top of the Spanish Steps is Hotel de la Ville, a Rocco Forte Hotel that’s a vibrant, modern-day icon. The colors and design of Hotel de la Ville remind you that you’re in Rome subtly and tastefully. Architect, Tommaso Ziffer and Rocco Forte Hotel’s Director of Design, Olga Polizzi went with an extravagant yet contemporary “Grand Tour” theme that’s reminiscent of the old days of luxurious and indulgent European travel. I especially loved the sophisticated furniture with rich fabrics, sumptuous antiques, and how they offer beds fit for royalty – king or super king-sized.
Overall, there are 89 rooms and 15 suites including 1 presidential suite with terraces overlooking Rome. Because of the unique layout of the hotel’s historic palazzo, each room or suite varies in floor plan, size, and view. Opulent white marble bathrooms are standard throughout. You’ll find Irene Forte Skincare products made with organic Sicilian botanicals from Rocco Forte’s Verdura Resort in the bathroom. Handmade wallpaper by Italian designers Rubelli and Dedar as well as fabrics and tapestries from U.K. based artisans, Zardi & Zardi grace the rooms.
If you’re really looking to take things to the next level, take the private elevator up to the De La Ville Suite and step through the doors of your very own spectacular apartment. Here you will find refined artwork, sophisticated furniture, and lavish textiles that decorate the sitting room, study and bedroom, all of which convey a sense of sublime comfort and timeless style. If it’s relaxation you are looking for, the opulent marble bathroom and super king-sized bed will provide it. If you are in the mood for entertaining, the private dining room, guest bathroom, and two beautiful outdoor terraces offer mezmerising views over Rome. This suite can also be connected with rooms on the seventh floor to create a multi-bedroom apartment.
One of the main highlights of the hotel is its panoramic views that showcase iconic landmarks in the Eternal City. Cielo Bar and Restaurant on the 6th and 7th floors of the hotel perfectly frame the city of Rome from above the Spanish Steps and the Piazza Di Spagna. True cocktail aficionados should stop at the Julep Herbal & Vermouth Bar and sample the innovative and bespoke drinks inspired by the 13th-century spice route that wound across the globe from Venice to Asia. If you’ve got a few hours, I’d suggest having a negroni and a few bites while overlooking this dazzling and historic city.
Aside from Cielo, the hotel offers a number of options for dining and imbibing. Mosaic is the flagship restaurant, located in the film-set-ready inner courtyard in the warmer months and chic, open-kitchen dining space in the Winter. Breakfast is served buffet style in the Mosaic indoor and outdoor space, and includes continental classics and modern flourishes like a juicing station and freshly baked pastries. Made-to-order items are offered as well.
If you find yourself able to escape this opulent palace of a hotel, you’re in one of the best locations in Rome. The boutique-lined Via dei Condotti shopping district is just steps away, and sights like the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, and Villa Borghese are all within walking distance. That said, it may be hard to pull yourself away from this fantastic hotel that embodies the Eternal City.