The Inn at the Spanish Steps

The Inn at the Spanish Steps is divine. Surprisingly, there are few exceptional accommodation choices in the historic center, but this property, half a block from the world’s most famous staircase, is truly remarkable. The dream of the Di Rienzo brothers, owners of several large hotels in Rome, was to create an intimate, almost club-like ambiance with all the trimmings for a few privileged guests in an unbeatable location. So they took over an historical, 17th-century private residence (Hans Christian Andersen lived here for years), striving to maintain its origins as a home. The inn now offers a minuscule reception room on the ground floor, 24 bedrooms spread out among the three upper floors, and a marvelous rooftop garden where guests can have an ample buffet breakfast or sunset drink, either in the cozy veranda or out on the flower-laden terrace, complete with bird’s-eye view of the steps and the fashionable Via Condotti. Doubles are divided into two categories: superiors at the back and luxury doubles and junior suites at the front. Rooms with wood floors and antique furnishings include every possible amenity. Upholstered walls and coordinated drapes accent frescoed or beamed ceilings. There is even a 3-bedroom penthouse suite with breathtaking views and 24-hour butler service. Guests who remain more than three nights receive the bonus of an airport transfer or guided tour of the city. Nothing else compares.