Relais Casa della Fornarina

The only real drawback was the noise in the morning. Our room was one of two located right in the dining room, so we could hear people eating. Otherwise, the room was great and had most of what you need, the place was clean and well maintained, and the staff were helpful and nice.

We had the place to ourselves and never saw an employee during our stay. To get in, you have to call for the door code; we hadn’t realized that, but the number was on the door and someone had also given it to us. The rooms are typical Italian size, but ours was clean and new. It’s a little tricky to find at first, then a great base: close to shops, bars, and restaurants, with little noise. Breakfast is self-serve, just cereal and biscuits, and there’s no real breakfast service. I’d stay again.

We were comfortable here, even though it’s quite self-service and anyone with very high expectations might prefer a five-star hotel. The owner was easy to reach and very available, and the check-in instructions were clear for arriving after hours. They can arrange an airport ride if you tell them ahead of time. Keep some cash for the stay tax and the ride, since most taxi drivers don’t take cards. The kitchen was available, though the stove couldn’t be used for safety reasons. There was a microwave, electric kettle, coffee machine, and cookies. The room was roomy and clean, with a nice bathroom. The area is great, near coffee shops and lots of restaurants. A blender would’ve been handy for someone like me who wants vegetables before the carbs, but there’s a green smoothie shop a couple of blocks away that’s great for a quick detox.

I visit Rome often and usually stay at the same hotel, but I wanted a change this time. Four days before my trip, I got terrible news and couldn’t travel. I know that was short notice, but I contacted this hotel asking if they could return even part of what I’d paid. They refused and charged the full 700 euros for a stay I couldn’t make. I’ve never had another hotel treat a customer this way. It felt disgusting and greedy, and I’ll never book here again.