The Inn at the Roman Forum

Something of a sequel to the Inn at the Spanish Steps, the Inn at the Roman Forum takes a very similar approach. This one, like the other, is a charming and luxe retreat with a personality all its own — this one tucked away down a very minor alleyway, but like the other, right next to one of Rome’s famous tourist attractions.

Which is why it’s remarkable just how quiet and private this place is. The fourteen rooms are all different, all plush and comfortable, the interiors livelier than the usual design-hotel fare — many come with whirlpool baths and all come with plasma televisions, DVD players, iPod stereo systems and a full complement of Etro bath products. Some of the rooms and suites open onto outdoor terraces, and there’s a garden terrace out back and a living room upstairs — but the greatest surprise, by far, has to be the crypt.

That’s right, the crypt; underneath this centuries-old building is a millennia-old Roman crypt, accessible via a little doorway behind the reception. That’s one amenity the average boutique hotel can’t match, though it’d be entertaining to see them try. Back in the land of the living, there’s yet another terrace on the roof, perfect for a sunset cocktail or two — one advantage of the location, next to the Forum and a stone’s throw from the Colosseum, is that travelers find themselves well taken care of.

How to get there:
From Leonardo da Vinci airport take the "Leonardo Express" train to Termini Station Rome (approximately 30 minutes). From Termini Station, Inn at the Roman Forum is approximately 5 minutes by taxi or metro (Cavour Station).