Residenza di Ripetta

Housed in a former convent dating back to the 17th Century, Residenza di Ripetta has classic common spaces featuring high ceilings, decorative molding, antiques, and plenty of wood and marble accents. Most of the original architectural details, however, have been lost to renovations, and an extensive collection of eclectic contemporary art has replaced the old ornaments.Two large glass doors open onto a lobby with vaulted ceilings, a large front desk made of wood and marble, and an arched window overlooking the courtyard. On either side of the lobby are cozy sitting rooms with dark carpeting, elegant antiques, and classical paintings with ornate gilded frames. White slipcovers placed over couches and armchairs give the common spaces a somewhat dull feel. The hotel has lots of potential, but it needs some investment to be on par with similarly priced properties in the area. The majority of guests here are couples and families on holiday, though a few business travelers pass through as well.

The hotel is located on a cute cobblestone street in the heart of Rome’s historic district. Piazza del Popolo, the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, and Villa Borghese are all reachable in 15 minutes or less on foot, and there are dozens of restaurants, bars, and shops in the immediate area. Attractions a little farther afield -- such as Vatican City, the Trastevere neighborhood, the Colosseo, and the Forum -- can be reached via public transportation in 20 minutes or less. The Spagna Metro stop is a 10-minute walk from the hotel, as is the Flaminio stop. Termini Station is a 15-minute metro ride away from the hotel, and the international airport takes 50 minutes to just over an hour to reach by metro or taxi.

The hotel has 69 rooms in categories ranging from Standard Classic Rooms to Superior Suites. All units are large -- with enough space to fit at least a small sitting area with a couch and a coffee table -- but most are a tad dark, and decor varies greatly between units. Most rooms have classic decor with wooden furniture; blue, raspberry or cream-colored carpeting; and a few contemporary pieces of art on walls. Some units are more modern and feature wooden floors, elegant antiques, and rugs. However, most have maintenance issues and worn furnishings, and some are downright dated and uninspired. Classic Rooms are the least appealing of all, with bare walls, tired carpets, basic wooden furniture, and thin white bedspreads with matching curtains and slipcovers on sofas, bedside tables, and headboards. It's almost like the hotel thought by covering old furniture they could make it disappear in these rooms. Flat-screen TVs, minibars, air-conditioning, and safes are all standard amenities. All but Classic Rooms have kitchenettes with a cooktop and a sink, but utensils are not provided and there is a fee for loaner electric kettles. Wi-Fi comes with an extra charge as well.

Cafe di Ripetta is an inexpensive restaurant serving average Italian cuisine in a long dining room decorated with classic and contemporary paintings, and golden lamps over silver-colored walls. Meals can also be enjoyed in the quiet courtyard, which is heated in the winter. Breakfast is served every morning in a room with arched door ways, pink walls with burgundy baseboards and window frames, orange and yellow striped chairs, and black iron lamps with small shades. Unfortunately, breakfast is not included in room rates. The bar serves good cocktails, but it is tiny and looks a little dated, with worn leather stools and chairs, and dark carpet. The hotel has six events spaces, including a striking ballroom housed in the convent's beautiful former prayer room, and a rooftop terrace with city views. Catering services are available. Wi-Fi is free in the lobby, but there is a fee for in-room Internet access.