NH Collection Roma Centro

NH Collection Roma Centro looks and feels like it was built in the '60s. Outside, the prefabricated structure is dressed up with potted topiaries, cement flower beds, and international flags -- but it doesn't do much to hide the dreary facade. In the lobby, the scene is much cheerier but there aren't comfortable spots to sit or linger. 324 Lounge is the best spot to hang out on the property. Wicker chairs are placed in front of floor-to-ceiling windows and domed cacti and succulents top the tables. There's an attractive bar with counter seats and full bar service. This is where the breakfast buffet is served every morning. Sidewalk seating is a fun touch.

The hotel is in the Prati area, between the Vatican (about a 25-minute walk) and Castel Sant'Angelo. Both the Lepanto and Ottaviano Metro Stations are a short walk from the hotel. The surrounding neighborhood is elegant, but busy with many restaurants, clothing shops, and office buildings. Rome's court buildings are in this section of the city. Unfortunately, the hotel doesn't provide parking though there is a public lot nearby that charges a daily rate.

There are 244 rooms here, most in need of a refresh and new carpeting. Still, there are some luxe details: flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, minibars, and espresso machines. The suites are divided in two levels accessible via a winding circular staircase with metal railings. Standard rooms are on the smallish side. Two desk chairs are pushed into a counter with a heating vent to make a not-so-convenient desk. Bathrooms look updated with partial glass-encased shower/tub combinations and white marble sinks. Hairdryers and makeup mirrors are mounted to the wall. Towel warmers are an unexpected touch. Views of Rome's city streets from the highest floors are best. Noise doesn't seem to be an issue here, but some past guests have complained of cleanliness issues.

Hotel features mainly skew towards business travelers, but tourists will enjoy them as well. Wi-Fi is free and a substantial breakfast buffet is included with the price of a room. 324 Lounge serves Italian dishes with organic ingredients for lunch and dinner, both indoors and out, along with a full bar service for cocktails and wine. Room service is available. Technogym cardio equipment and weights are housed together in an attic-like room with a flat-screen TV and fresh apples for a post workout snack. Several meeting rooms offer a wide variety of seating set-ups and audiovisual equipment. Small pets are welcome for a fee.