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Top 10: Places to Stay

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1. Sole al Pantheon

Noted as an inn since 1467, this distinguished hotel was the choice of Renaissance writer Ariosto. Facing the Pantheon, it has painted period decoration in many of the rooms and modern touches such as Jacuzzis and double-glazing.

2. Victoria

Round the corner from its extravagant neighbours, this hotel provides a modest alternative if you want to be near Via Veneto. However, by no means is it without its charms. A terrace bar has spectacular views of the ancient Aurelian Wall and Villa Borghese. Service is excellent.

3. Scalinata di Spagna

With its coveted location in an 18th-century villa at the top of the Spanish Steps, this intimate jewel boasts marvellous views from many of its rooms and from the trellis-covered terrace. The rooms are not large but are beautifully appointed. Book well in advance.

4. Domus Aventina

A former 14th-century convent with a 17th-century façade, this serene hotel has large, softly coloured rooms. From the balconies and terrace there are great views, and prints, murals and Classical artifacts create an air of elegance.

5. Teatro di Pompeo

Have breakfast under the arches of the first theatre in Rome, built by Pompey the Great in 55 BC. Rooms have beamed ceilings, marble-topped furniture and some have great views. The style and many of the amenities of bigger hotels.

  • Largo del Pallaro 8
  • 06 687 2812
  • €€€ (€150 - 250)*

6. Coronet

This small hotel occupies a part of the Palazzo Doria-Pamphilj. Request an interior room with garden views.

7. Homs

On a quiet shopping street, this mid-size hotel is a bit plain, but antiques here and there give it a gracious feel. There are two roof terraces, one enclosed for year-round breakfasts, from which you can enjoy the panorama of Rome's skyline.

  • Via della Vite 71 - 2
  • 06 679 2976
  • €€ (€100 - 150)*

8. Marcus

This small hotel occupies a large apartment on the second floor of an 18th-century cardinal's palace. Antique fireplaces and new bathrooms are all part of the impressive decor. Some rooms have views of Piazza di Spagna, and double-glazing keeps out the noise.

9. Albergo del Sole al Biscione

What some claim is Rome's very first hotel. Its best feature is the roof terrace, affording the fine views. Rooms are basic, but the atmosphere is cosy. No breakfast.

  • Via del Biscione 76
  • 06 6880 5258
  • No credit cards
  • No air conditioning
  • € (under €100)*
  • www.solealbiscione.it

10. Abruzzi

Old-fashioned pensione-style relic just across from the Pantheon. The rooms are large and clean and each has its own washbasin. Ask for a room that opens onto the dazzling view.

  • Piazza della Rotonda 69
  • 06 679 2021
  • No credit cards
  • No en-suite bathrooms
  • No air conditioning
  • € (under €100)*

* Prices are for a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.

Telephone numbers, opening hours and prices are liable to change at short notice.

From “DK Eyewitness Top 10 Travel Guide: Rome” Copyright 2003 Dorling Kindersley