World's Best

The Top 5 Hotels in Rome in 2021

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Published on September 8, 2021

Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2023 list of our favorite hotels in Rome.

This year's World's Best Awards survey was open for voting January 11 through May 10, 2021, as destinations around the world were lifting COVID-19 restrictions. Survey rules have always allowed readers to reflect on their travel experiences over a three-year period. We hope that this year's honorees will inspire your own travels as you get back out into the world.

Rome's cobblestoned streets are calling. And after a long hiatus, travelers are more than ready to return to the Eternal City and soak up its ancient landmarks, chic Vespas, glorious plates of pasta, and creamy gelato. Of course, to enjoy all that requires a place to stay. From historic and ornate palazzos to longstanding grand dames, the best hotels in Rome, as voted by T+L readers, offer unmatched luxury.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels were rated on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties were classified as city or resort based on their locations and amenities.

Exterior restaurant at Hotel de Russie, a Rocco Forte Hotel — Janos Grapow/Courtesy of Rocco Forte Hotels

All of this year's winners are in buildings at least a century old, with venerable histories that demonstrate their iconic status in the city. Hotel Eden, part of the Dorchester Collection, maintained its No. 4 slot from last year, with guests still appreciating its secluded hilltop location. (As one voter noted, "The rooftop bar offers excellent vistas of Rome.")

Rome Cavalieri, a Waldorf Astoria Hotel, returned to the list in the No. 2 slot after not having made the cut since 2018. The 345-room hotel sits on 15 acres of private park, a few miles from the city center — another vote from our readers for hotels that are a bit removed from the hustle and bustle.

Still, the No. 1 slot went to a tried-and-true legend, right in the center of the city. Keep reading to find out the winner and which properties got the remaining spots.

1. Hotel de Russie, a Rocco Forte Hotel

Valadier Suite at Hotel de Russie, a Rocco Forte Hotel — Janos Grapow/Courtesy of Rocco Forte Hotels

Between the Spanish Steps and Piazza del Popolo, Hotel de Russie is squarely in the middle of it all but still manages to feel like a tranquil oasis, especially within its magical courtyard garden designed by architect Giuseppe Valadier. The 122 rooms feature tasteful contemporary décor with lavish touches and marble bathrooms, and guests love the on-site spa with its hammock loungers, Jacuzzi, and Turkish steam bath. "If you want to feel like an Italian fashion icon, stay here," gushed one respondent. "This hotel defines the word chic: The terrace restaurant is gorgeous, the rooms are heavenly, the service is world-class, and the location is incredible—in the heart of Rome!" Another reader enthused, "My favorite hotel in Rome on all levels!"

Score: 94.00
More information: roccofortehotels.com