Hotel Farnese

We had a very pleasant midweek stay with the family. It’s just 2 minutes from Lepanto subway stop, and the staff do their best to make the stay enjoyable. The service was exceptional, and the breakfast buffet was great for Italian standards. The rooms are spacious and fully functional, though a bit dated. They have a safe but no water cooker or coffee in the room. We liked the antique design, which suited the historical artifacts found all over Rome.

The hotel’s location is superb, with shops nearby, the Tiber just a few minutes away, and the supreme court building a 10-minute walk. The Vatican is very close, and the main sights are easy to reach. The outside terraces are small, classically laid out, and intimate, lovely places to have a coffee or drink before heading into town. It’s a beautiful, well maintained building full of classic architectural details, artwork, and furnishings. The hotel has an old-fashioned feel but everything a modern traveller needs. Service at reception was friendly and excellent. Rooms are cleaned daily, with high ceilings, large, well-appointed bathrooms, classic shutters, and air conditioning. The breakfast room is small and bright, peaceful with soft music and a lovely food selection. I’d highly recommend it if you want a classic Italian hotel with wonderful, friendly service.

The breakfast buffet on the roof terrace was fantastic, and the staff were incredibly welcoming and friendly. It’s a beautiful hotel in a gorgeous area, with clean, comfortable rooms. Sights are easy to reach on foot or by metro, which is less than a minute down the road.

At €180 per night, I got a basement room that smelled damp and of old furniture, with tiles covering everything. The price felt completely unjustified for a so-called 4-star hotel. My room was right beside the basement elevator, and whenever it was called, the noise inside was loud. Everything felt very old, from the interior to the service and smells, like living in an outdated apartment. I’d probably have been better off in a hostel. I don’t recommend staying here, it definitely isn’t 4 stars.