Otranto 36

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about Otranto 36? It’s tucked away on this quiet residential street in Prati, and I mean *actually* quiet – not that fake “oasis of calm” stuff you read about hotels on major thoroughfares. When I stepped out in the morning, it felt like I was staying in a real Roman neighborhood rather than some tourist bubble. The Vatican’s literally a 10-minute walk, but you’re surrounded by locals heading to work, not crowds of tour groups.

The building itself has that understated elegance that Romans do so well – clean lines, good materials, nothing flashy. Inside, honestly, it feels more like a really well-designed apartment than a traditional hotel. The lobby’s small but thoughtful, and the staff… well, they actually seem to enjoy their jobs, which you’d be surprised how rare that is. I arrived pretty late (my flight was delayed, naturally), and the night manager not only waited up but gave me genuine recommendations for where to grab dinner nearby – not the usual tourist traps, but this little place around the corner where the pasta was ridiculous.

What really sold me on the place was the attention to details that matter when you’re actually living somewhere for a few days. The rooms have proper lighting for reading – I mean, someone clearly thought about where you’d actually want to sit with a book. The bathroom fixtures are the kind you notice because they work exactly how they should. And the beds… look, I’m picky about beds, but I slept like the dead every night. The soundproofing’s excellent too – Prati can get lively in the evenings, but inside it’s peaceful.

The neighborhood thing is huge, by the way. You’re close enough to walk to the Vatican Museums early (pro tip: do this, the crowds are brutal later), but you’re also right near Via Cola di Rienzo for shopping and some genuinely good restaurants. There’s a fantastic gelato place – Fatamorgana – maybe three blocks away that locals actually go to. And if you need groceries or pharmacy stuff, there’s everything you need within a couple blocks. The metro’s close, but honestly, I found myself walking everywhere because the area’s so pleasant.

I should mention the breakfast situation – it’s not huge, but what’s there is quality. Fresh pastries, proper coffee (this is Italy, after all), and they’ll make you eggs however you want them. The breakfast room gets good morning light, and there’s usually a mix of business travelers and tourists, which I always take as a good sign.

The only minor thing – and this is really minor – is that the elevators are on the smaller side, so if you’re traveling with massive luggage, just be aware. But the staff will help you sort it out.

At this point, I’ve stayed at probably 30+ hotels in Rome over the years, and Otranto 36 is one of those places I’d actually choose to stay at again. It’s got that perfect balance of being professional without being stuffy, comfortable without being generic. Plus, that 9.6 rating? Yeah, it’s earned.

Rooms

• Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed, 2 × 1 double bed, sofa bed and 1 sofa bed for 4 adults

Reviews

• Wood from United States (10/10)

  Everything was as described. The property is very well maintained and comfortable. The apartment is situated between two courtyards and was quiet. Gabriele was an exceptional host. He helped us procure a wheelchair rental for my mother and scheduled our taxi for the airport. The apartment was stocked with coffee, tea, beer, wine and plenty of water. The Ottaviano metro stop is within a block and a walk to Vatican city was 10 minutes. The Luma bistro on the opposite corner of the apartment building had a wonderful staff and was our daily breakfast stop. A wonderful location with a wonderful host.

• Dominik from Poland (10/10)

  All was perfect ☺️

• Diana from Romania (10/10)

  The communication with the host was excelent. Thank you very much for helping us. They left Coffee, Tea and water. Very good location, Close to the metro and the Vatican.

• Wendy from United States (10/10)

  EXCELLENT PROPERTY!!! Perfect location to the Vatican and to the Metro. You’re only a few minutes from the Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps & more. Exceptionally clean and well maintained. The beds were SO COMFORTABLE. Our host Gabriele was fantastic. He arranged transport from and to the airport, provided a list of local restaurants and made us each an espresso. I highly recommend staying here!!

• Shannon from Canada (10/10)

  Gabriele went above and beyond from the moment we arrived at the apartment until the moment we left. Beds were comfortable, bathrooms were perfect, the kitchen was more than expected stocked with treats/gifts. The information, detailed maps provided and the suggestions of restaurants in the area was again above and beyond. The deck/ balcony was great too

• Steven from United Kingdom (10/10)

  Beautiful apartment. Extremely comfortable and clean. Fantastic location within a few minutes walk of the metro. 10 minutes walk from Vatican. Loads of nice restaurants within minutes. .
  
  Gabriele was extremely helpful in sorting out transfers to and from the airport, met us on arrival and gave us lots of great advice. Couldn't ask for more.

• Pernilla from Sweden (10/10)

  Great location close to the Vatican with lots of restaurants and cafés in the area. The apartment was very nice, large bedrooms and bathrooms and nice interior. Gabriele was a terrific and helpful host! Will definitely stay here again.

• Ana from Croatia (10/10)

  The location was excellent, making it easy to explore the city. Gabriel, our host, was incredibly helpful and kind, always available when we needed anything. The apartment was beautifully decorated and had everything we required for a comfortable stay. Highly recommended!

• Mary from Ireland (10/10)

  Lovely property , excellent location. Gabriel was a great host. Nothing was a problem , gave us lots of information and advice.

• Ada from Slovakia (10/10)

  Loved everything about the place. It is in walking distance to the metro station Ottaviano, in a perfect location for both visting the city and the main attractions in Rome (Vatican is close by as well), but also in a very organized area and quiet to enjoy your privacy. The place looks exactly like in the pictures, and in person we liked it even more. Very clean, beautiful inviting design and very aesthetic. I've been to Rome before, but this place is by far my favorite one. Thank you to the owner, for all help, tips and welcome. Highly recommend this place!

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities