Fontana Hotel

Hotel Fontana is, in many ways, typical of the aging hotels in the center of Rome. However, it does outshine many of its Trevi-adjacent competitors for one particular reason: Views that soar over the hoards of tourists and land directly on the Trevi Fountain. For many visitors to the city, this alone is enough to make them happy (and, honestly, the views are hard to top from many rooms and the pretty rooftop terrace). Otherwise, this hotel is basic, with interiors that range from classically Old World to downright tired. The rates can be quite steep for central Rome during high season, though outside of that time of year you may be able to score a deal here (particularly if you don't need Trevi Fountain views). The vibe at the rooftop terrace is lovely at night, with light music that makes a drink overlooking the roar of the fountain below quite an experience. Guests here are mostly couples, though some connecting rooms are available for families. 

To call Hotel Fontana central would be an understatement. It sits directly across from the Trevi Fountain, and stunning views are available from several rooms and the rooftop terrace. Being situated so close to an iconic landmark also means that you'll be contending with throngs of tourists starting early until well past sundown. But for many visitors to Rome, this central location puts everything in the city within an easy walk and is worth the tourist crush. It's less than a 15-minute walk to the Spanish Steps and Villa Borghese. Piazza Navona and Campo de' Fioi are around 10 minutes away on foot, and the Pantheon is just over a five-minute walk from the hotel. The closest metro is at Barberini, which is a seven-minute walk from the hotel. From there, connections to Termini are quick and a trip to Fiumicino Airport using the metro and trains shouldn't take more than 45 or 50 minutes. It's about the same amount of time in a taxi. You can also use the metro to reach the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel in about 25 minutes or so.

The rooms here definitely aren't the star of the show, though if you book one of the Trevi Fountain view rooms at the front of the hotel, the unobstructed vantages may just make up for any shortcomings. Interiors are mostly plain and dated, with the same classic Italian decor found in too many budget and mid-range hotels in the center of Rome. Expect white or yellow walls, a bit of wainscoting here and there, banged-up wooden furniture, and the occasional Renaissance- or Baroque-era print on the walls. Scuff marks and other wear aren't an uncommon sight. Features are fairly limited, including small flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, wardrobes, and free Wi-Fi. The en-suite bathrooms are compact and include stall showers, hairdryers, basic toiletries, and towels. You should expect a bit of noise in rooms overlooking the fountain, though the soundproofing is pretty good and the roar of falling water tends to drown out the tourists below. Rooms at the back of the hotel and interior rooms are, of course, quieter. Some rooms do connect to form larger units, though beware that the large sliding doors used to do so are thin and you'll hear your neighbors.

Without a doubt the highlight at this hotel is its rooftop terrace, which is a quiet escape from the tourist masses down below. Views of the fountain from tables at the edge of the terrace are astounding, and at night there are drinks and light music on offer to hotel guests. The free breakfast -- available with all bookings -- is served here as well. The buffet includes hot and cold options, and coffee and juice are available. It's a nice way to start the day -- free from the chaos of busy central Rome. Otherwise, aside from a currency exchange and free Wi-Fi, features are limited. Keep in mind that the elevator reaches all floors of rooms, but not the rooftop terrace.