Palazzo Manfredi – Relais & Chateaux

Featuring unobstructed views of the Colosseum from multiple vantages within the hotel, Palazzo Manfredi is a lavish luxury option offering prime access to ancient Rome. Those in town for a taste of ancient history won’t be disappointed: the views are magnificent and include the remains of the Ludus Magnus -- one of the original training schools for gladiators -- in the immediate foreground. And any guests staying in lower-category rooms -- which overlook either an inner courtyard or the neighboring park -- can head to the rooftop restaurant at breakfast, where the dazzling panoramic view is a guest favorite.

Housed in a former 17th-century noble family palazzo, the hotel itself feels brand new compared to its ancient neighbors. Chic interiors are accented with rich textures and playful touches, further juxtaposing classic and modern looks. Though it’s a bit short on square footage, this cozy, 14-room establishment is big on service. Guests are mostly couples from the U.S. as well as the U.K., Australia, and Western Europe. 

Palazzo Manfredi borders the Ludus Magnus, practically next door to the Colosseum. It’s less than a three-minute walk there, and guests can pop over from the hotel early in the morning for a calmer, less touristy experience (however, keep in mind that any ticketed tours must be booked in advance, and the tours are held during normal working hours). Though it’s a fairly long walk to most other attractions, the Colosseo Metro stop makes traveling around slightly easier. It’s roughly a 15 to 20 minutes on foot to the trendy Monti district and Piazza Venezia, with most other attractions -- including the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Spanish Steps, and Trevi Fountain -- around 30 minutes away by foo. Expect 20-minute metro or bus journeys to these same destinations, with at least one change. Both Fiumicino and Ciampino Airports are about a 30-minute drive from the hotel.

Rooms at Palazzo Manfredi are split into light and dark design themes. Those in the former camp have an airy feel, with chic furnishings in pale romantic hues, while the other units have a more handsome, bolder look. All rooms feature luxury amenities, including Bose surround sound systems, Nespresso machines, well-stocked minibars, Acqua di Parma toiletries, bathrobes and slippers, Sky TV channels, and free Wi-Fi. Room layouts vary, but many tend towards the small side, with limited space for maneuvering. Bathrooms have either tubs or showers, and some have see-through glass paneling. 

Entry-level Prestige Rooms lack Colosseum views, but are elegantly styled and quiet views to the internal courtyard. Executive Rooms have a more masculine feel, while Master Rooms feature direct views of the Colosseum. All rooms are roughly the same size, clocking in at a modest 270 square feet. Suites are larger with separate lounge areas, and all have views to the Colosseum. Keep in mind that, despite soundproofing, traffic noise from the nearby main road can be an issue in street-facing rooms.

Phenomenal, unobstructed views to the iconic Colosseum are what sets this hotel apart from its luxury competitors. Those views can be enjoyed from many of the rooms, as well as the rooftop Michelin-starred restaurant, which serves updated Roman and Italian classics using locally sourced produce. The free breakfast buffet is also held here, and although the service and food quality don’t quite match up to that of the evening dining experience. A chic bistro bar with views to the neighboring park serves drinks, but is often closed to guests due to private functions. Since the restaurant accommodates guests for dinner only, the hotel unfortunately provides limited opportunity for drinks with Colosseum views.