Hampton by Hilton Rome East

As a US traveler and a newbie to Italy, staying at a major chain felt familiar. It had all the usual chain hotel features, but seemed much more upscale than we were used to. The room was spacious and clean, and the buffet breakfast was the best I've had at a Hampton Inn. There were about five counters of food, including familiar US options like scrambled eggs and bacon, plus a really nice salad and fruit bar. Trying the machine that made different hot drinks, from coffee to lattes and cappuccinos, was a fun treat. We loaded up before our day in Rome since we didn't know when we'd eat next. Check-in and checkout were easy, and dropping off the card keys was simple. The hotel's free parking lot felt safe, with plenty of space just outside the entrance. I'd definitely recommend it to first-time visitors to the city or country, compared with local hotels or B&Bs.

The rooms are quiet and really spacious. We got a superior room, which had a huge bathtub. Parking was easy, and security was always driving around, so it felt safe. The front desk staff were great, and breakfast was decent, about what you'd expect from Hampton. There's a nice park nearby for a walk, plus a huge shopping center right next door. It's close to Rome, and prices are about half what you'd pay in the center. The gym is fine for light cardio and weights, nothing special.

The lower price makes sense given how far out it is from the city center. If I stayed again, I'd want a rental car or a tour group with shuttle service to and from central Rome. I also wish the hotel followed the same standards as in the US. Most European hotels don't have mini fridges or microwaves.

We found the hotel a peaceful place to come back to after a day in Rome, and the room was great. The surroundings are beautiful, and there's a giant American-style mall across the street. Breakfast was excellent too. It was the first place on our trip where we could make a waffle. People say it's far away, but the taxi into Rome took about 15 minutes and cost $50. On the way back during rush hour, it took around 45 minutes and cost $75. Still well worth it. The hotel kept our luggage until we returned, with no problems. Our car stayed in the lot without any issues. We made sure to bring everything into the hotel or hide it, so there'd be nothing visible to take if anyone looked inside.