Rome’s newest design hotel has a prime location

It is close to midnight by the time I arrive at the Hotel de la Ville. I’d stopped by for a few minutes early this morning, dropping off my bags before heading off to a meeting out of town. Now I’m tired and ready for bed. The staffer at the front desk, who I’ve never met before, greets me with a smile and, before I can say a word, says, “Signora Junker, I presume?”
When I concur, his smile widens. “Your bags are already in your room. Just sign here and I’ll take up upstairs.” It’s exactly the welcome you want.

Giving you what you want, it turns out, is something of a habit at the Hotel de la Ville. The new sister hotel to the opulent – and very expensive – Hotel de Russie, the Hotel de la Ville has the same dedication to service, with a much funkier vibe. The design is endlessly intriguing; each space has its own identity. There are sexy red corridors, an ice-blue lobby with reproduction Roman relics, a yellow-painted drawing room, an opulent bar with rich teal fabrics to revel in.

Where possible, the designers shopped local: in my room I find candles from Milanese firm, Absolu, while the welcome chocolates are from Said, Rome’s oldest chocolate manufacturer. What really steals my heart, however, is the oversized bathroom, the super-comfortable – and supersized – bed, and of course the gorgeous view across the local rooftops.

The food doesn’t let you down, either, with a choice of restaurants including the elegant Mosaico and the more buzzing Da Sistina. The cocktail-focused Julep Bar offers a more intimate experience. If you’re not sure what you feel like, the bartenders will let you pick a favourite from a platter of spices and build a cocktail around it. Mostly, however, you will find yourself gravitating to the rooftop Cielo Bar, to drink in the beautiful view along with your wine.

The hotel’s location also ticks all the boxes. Perched just behind the Spanish Steps, the hotel is both away from the bustle and in the heart of things. If you’re a walker – and in Rome, you really should be – most of the city’s most intriguing areas are within reach. For those who are less mobile, there’s a metro station right nearby.