Hotel Hassler

This lavish hotel, which dates to 1885, was used as the U.S. Army's headquarters during World War II. The lobby's decor is as classic and traditional as it gets -- think red carpeting, marble walls and floors, formal drapery, period-style furniture, and a baby grand piano. Other public spaces are equally luxe, and the posh Salone Eva Bistro is a highlight, with vintage hardcovers filling built-in bookcases lining walls, velvet-tufted banquettes, decorative moulding, and a striking, large, floral centerpiece as a focal point. There's also a handsome, dark-wood bar in an intimate, adjoining space. In fine weather, the rooftop terrace, which offers birds-eye views of the city, is a popular spot for guests to relax in the sun on wrought-iron loungers, or settle in at a table for a drink. With its romantic atmosphere, the hotel is a magnet for couples, and it also draws some families. Note, however, the hotel may not be the best choice for travelers with limited mobility, as there's no getting around climbing the Spanish Steps for accessing the property. 

Located next to the Trinita dei Monti church above the Spanish Steps, Hotel Hassler has one of the best addresses in Rome. The hotel looks out over the city’s exclusive shopping district around Piazza di Spagna, and the surrounding streets buzz with coffee bars and restaurants, in addition to major designer boutiques. There is a metro stop at the base of the Spanish Steps, as well as a taxi stand that has waiting cars day and night. Several top sights are within a short walk of the hotel: Piazza del Popolo (12 minutes), Villa Borghese (10 minutes), and Trevi Fountain (9 minutes). It's about 15 minutes via public transit to reach the Colosseum and Saint Peter's Square. Rome’s Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci airport is about 45 minutes away by car. 

Hotel Hassler has 92 rooms and suites (four of which are super luxe Presidential suites) that are richly decorated with dark-wood furniture, dove-gray walls, and crown moulding. Contemporary lighting fixtures and bedding add polish and prevent spaces from feeling stuffy. All units have king-size beds, desks with seating for additional workspace, and roomy wardrobes. Standard amenities include flat-screen TVs, minibars, robes, slippers, electronic safes, and free Wi-Fi. The marble bathrooms are attractive, featuring shower/tub combos with rainfall showerheads, bidets, and scales, plus hairdryers and high-end toiletries. Suites have views of the city and the beautiful Spanish Steps. Other rooms have either garden views or city views. Rooms start at a generous (for Rome) 215 square feet. 

Located on the top floor, Imago is Hotel Hassler’s crowning feature. The Michelin-starred restaurant is more than 50 years old, and today, Neapolitan chef Francesco Apreda is at the helm, dishing up refined Italian cuisine for dinner. Advance reservations are required. In addition to the gourmet restaurant, an airy breakfast room serves a full buffet for an additional fee, and the hotel’s Palm Court offers drinks and dining in a quiet courtyard. There's also Salone Eva, where light meals and afternoon tea are served, and a full menu of cocktails, wine, and spirits an the Hassler Bar. Room service is available. For beauty and wellness, the Amorvero Spa and the Rossano Ferretti Hair Salon are both on-site, and there's also a fitness center with Technogym equipment that gets flooded with natural light. While there's ample meeting space, the hotel lacks a formal business center, but all guests are given loaner smartphones with unlimited international calling. Other amenities include a concierge that provides services such as booking tours and airport transfers (fee), valet parking, and free Wi-Fi throughout.