Hotel Eden

Hotel Eden is a stunning boutique property with centuries of history behind it. Originally opened in 1889, the property balances class, style, and elegance without being too grandiose or gaudy. The vibe is undeniably high-end vibe from the outset, though, where the luxurious atmosphere starts the second white-gloved doormen greet you on the sidewalk. Through a double set of floor-to-ceiling glass doors, guests enter an intimate space decked out in black-and-white marble and a ceiling that looks lifted straight out of the Renaissance. Decorative gold candlesticks dot the walls, and guests check in at a carved, white marble reception desk. Sleek modern furniture in neutral and warm tones help to bring the space into the present and keep it feeling welcoming. Rooms are even more stunning, with high ceilings and an airy, chic decor that feels more modern than the public spaces. It's no surprise that this exclusive property draws mostly well-heeled couples. However, this hotel's style and perks come with an expensive nightly rate that's nearly double that of any similar competitors in the area. Still, if you're looking for refined luxury and a boast-worthy location, this is one of central Rome's best bets. 

Hotel Eden has a superb location in Rome's city center, amid almost every major sight you likely have on your itinerary. The property sits just two blocks from Villa Borghese -- the leafy park that in the center of Rome -- and is only a nine-minute walk from the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain. While the immediate area is relatively calm, the city's most bustling districts are within a 10-minute walk, including the posh boutiques of Campo Marzio, to the west of the Spanish Steps and south of Piazza del Popolo. There's plenty of fine art nearby, with Galleria Borghese a 15-minute walk to the north and Barberini Palace an eight-minute walk, all in. The closest metro stops are at Barberini (a seven-minute walk) and Spagna (a six-minute walk). The Colosseum is a 10-minute drive or 20-minute metro ride away, while the Pantheon is a 15-minute walk or less than 10 minutes by taxi. Budget 15 minutes to reach the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Square by taxi (or about 30 minutes using the metro and walking). Hotel Eden is essentially equidistant to both of Rome' major airports with Fiumicino/Leonardo da Vinci International Airport a 30-minute drive and Ciampino Airport 25 minutes away by car. 

Rooms here are elegant and airy, drawing influence from both Rome's historic style and its modern design trends. Expect high ceilings, a delicate color palette, and luxe bathrooms featuring white marble and gold trim. Overall, rooms at the Hotel Eden feel more contemporary than the rest of the hotel, with decor that includes beveled mirrors, golden floor-to-ceiling drapes, studded headboards, tufted couches, and brushed gold accents in the bathrooms. Tech features are modern, with iPads to control temperature, lighting, and service requests; Bang & Olufsen HDTVs; and Nespresso machines. Butler service (on request), minibars, nightly turndown service (with free bottled water), soaking tubs, and Bottega Veneta toiletries help add to the luxurious appeal here. Rooms, Junior Suites, and Suites can be upgraded for better city views, while upgrades to Signature Suites will get you a more classic look and apartment-style layouts. Signature Suites also come with extra perks like free airport transfers, use of the Mercedes house car for four consecutive hours per day, free Champagne, and free high-speed Wi-Fi. Otherwise, free Wi-Fi is limited and you'll need to pay for larger bandwidths. 

Outside of its superb location, this hotel scores big points for having its own Michelin-starred restaurant. La Terrazza is helmed by Chef Fabio Ciervo and features twists on classic Italian dishes, creatively plated with a side of Rome's skyline. The hotel also features a modern Italian restaurant on the rooftop that has seasonal terrace seating. For drinks, a chic bar serves up cocktails and light bites during its popular aperitivo hour, or guests can grab a coffee, afternoon tea, or nightcap at the La Libreria bar. 

Hotel Eden's luxe spa has a maximum capacity of four persons at a time in two single treatment rooms and one couples room. Reservations are a must and should be booked well in advance. Nail treatments use OPI products, while massages and body treatments feature sustainable Sonya Dakar products. It's also home to Rome's first blow-dry bar. 

Guests receive access to the outdoor swimming pool at Roma Polo Club, which is open from early June to mid-September. The club is about a 10-minute drive away, and the hotel will provide transportation as well as a pool kit filled with towels, sunscreen, water, and flip flops. There are a variety of activities available for kids, including a gelato-making class and gladiator day (fees apply). For those traveling on business, the hotel has three meeting and event rooms available for rent that can fit between eight to 110 guests. 

Other hotel features include a concierge, car service, and Wi-Fi access. Free Wi-Fi is available, but has a low bandwidth cap; free high-speed internet is available in the business center. Premium Wi-Fi (up to 20 Mbps) has a daily fee. Pets are allowed for a fee.