San Anselmo

Hotel Description

You know what really gets me about San Anselmo? It’s one of those places that actually delivers on the whole “hidden gem” thing without trying too hard. I mean, when you first walk up to Piazza San Anselmo, you’re thinking – wait, this quiet little square exists in Rome? The hotel sits right there on the piazza, and honestly, it feels more like you’re staying at someone’s elegant Roman townhouse than a typical tourist hotel.

The Aventino neighborhood is where Romans go when they want to escape the chaos without leaving the city. You’re literally a ten-minute walk from the Colosseum, but instead of dodging selfie sticks and tour groups, you’re wandering past orange trees and actual residential streets where people hang their laundry out to dry. The hotel itself has this understated elegance – think marble floors that aren’t too shiny, antique furniture that’s actually comfortable, and staff who remember your name by day two (which, let’s be real, doesn’t happen everywhere). The rooms are what I’d call “Roman chic” – high ceilings, warm colors, and those shutters that actually block out light when you need to sleep off yesterday’s wine. What really sold me was the garden. They’ve got this internal courtyard where you can have breakfast surrounded by plants and fountain sounds, and it’s basically the antidote to Rome’s summer heat and intensity.

Here’s the thing about staying in Aventino – you feel like you’re in on a secret. Walk five minutes to the Giardino degli Aranci for sunset views over the Tiber, or peek through the famous keyhole at the Knights of Malta (locals call it “il buco della serratura” and yes, it’s worth the slightly awkward wait in line). The hotel’s location means you can walk to Trastevere for dinner, but you’re not dealing with the late-night noise that comes with staying right in the thick of things. Parking is actually manageable here too, which – if you’ve ever driven in Rome – you’ll know is basically a miracle. The staff gave me proper directions to a nearby garage instead of that vague “somewhere around the corner” response you get at bigger hotels. Sure, you’re not going to find a rooftop pool or a massive spa, but that’s sort of the point. San Anselmo is for people who want to experience Rome like they live there, not like they’re checking attractions off a list.

Rooms

• Double or Twin Room with 1 large double bed, or and 2 single beds for 2 adults
• Double Room (1 Adult) with 1 single bed for 1 adult
• Economy Double or Twin Room with 1 large double bed for 2 adults
• Deluxe Double or Twin Room with 1 large double bed, or and 2 single beds for 2 adults
• Suite with 2 × 1 large double bed for 2 adults
• Budget Double or Twin Room with 1 large double bed for 2 adults

Reviews

• Smyth from South Africa (9/10)

  The hotel was exceptional for the price. The staff on breakfast were excellent and Luciano on reception was incredible with suggestions of places to visit in the area. We sincerely appreciated being able to leave our cases after check out so we could sight see before our flight.

• Emily from United States (9/10)

  This is a luxury hotel that we managed to book in the off season, so it was very affordable for the accommodations. The room was clean and nice looking, the view was fantastic, the neighborhood is fantastic, and the breakfast is amazing.

• Maria from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Nice quiet suburb and lovely restaurant in sister hotel. Rosa the receptionist was AMAZING!

• Linda from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Excellent location staff really helpful excellent breakfast

• Ada from Peru (9/10)

  This is a very nice and comfortable hotel located at the Aventino, a very residential and safe area. The location is very convenient as it is close to Colosseum, Forum and other attractions. It is 20 minutes walk to Trastevere.
  It is walking distance to FAO which is convenient if you have to attend meetings or events there. Rooms are comfortable, breakfast is very good, staff is very attentive. I will come back.

• Alicia from Singapore (9/10)

  The silence of the surrounding, good location. Breakfast is good too.

• Luis from Chile (9/10)

  Excellent breakfast!

• David from United Kingdom (9/10)

  The location was perfect. The hotel is a little gem with lovely staff. They accommodated my specific request for a particular pair of rooms. Fantastic!

• Martijn from Netherlands (8/10)

  Nice rooms, friendly staff, beautiful location

• Violet17 from United Kingdom (9/10)

  We loved out beautifully decorated Standard Double room with a spacious bathroom. We had a nice view of an orange tree out of our window.
  
  The service was excellent throughout. The continental breakfast was nice, with some gluten-free options.
  The bar area of the hotel is very cosy in the evening or during the day.
  
  The location was handy for the sightseeing: a 25-minute walk to the Colosseum, and a 10-minute walk to the stop of the Hop-on Hop-off tourist buses. The hotel is quite close to a couple of streets full of restaurants (a 10-15 minute walk). Look out also for a curious (and free!) attraction just around the corner from the hotel – the Aventine Keyhole, where you can take a photo after a bit of queuing.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities