What it is

A famed 135-room hotel housed in a 1620 palace with sculptures by Rinaldo Rinaldi.

What it isn't

Creepy. Sure, the building is 400 years old and has been a hotel since the 19th century, but you’ll find your room as luxe as they come, with a Travertine marble bathroom, flatscreen TV and toiletries by Milanese fashion house Trussardi.

What we think

When Pope Pius IX wanted to meet with Cardinal Aguirre, Bishop of Guayquir, they came to one of Rome’s most lauded hotels: this one. Centuries later, it’s still worthy of Papa—and fitted with luxe amenities no impoverished nun would recognize. Take the Minerva Roof Garden, where you’ll tuck into the OTT breakfast buffet (piles of flaky croissants are only the beginning) while taking in a 360-degree view of Rome. Or Le Cupole bar, set in this former palace’s winter garden and designed by architect Paolo Portoghesi with gleaming inlaid wood floors and note-perfect martinis.

You're here because

You want to feel like the king of the castle on vacay, and this is an actual palace (where you’ll be treated like a king).

The Moment

You are, frankly, exhausted after a full day of wandering Rome’s ancient streets. So you’re more than delighted to find one of the city’s best restaurants on the top floor of your hotel: Minerva Roof Garden. Only one thing can put you back on your feet: a bowl of tagliolini with black squid ink and lemon and squid and a fresh-made tiramisu. Heaven, right here on earth.

Restaurants & Bars

Minerva Roof Garden - an exclusive restaurant with spectacular views of Rome

Le Cupole - snacks, national and international cocktails.

Location

Half a block from the Pantheon, and about six from Trevi Fountain. In other words, the pulsing heart of Rome, with any sight you could possibly want to see within walking distance.