The Roman Empire Guesthouse

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about The Roman Empire Guesthouse? It’s actually in one of those gorgeous old buildings on Via Cavour that looks like it’s been there since, well, the Roman Empire. I mean, the name’s a bit cheeky, but when you’re literally a five-minute walk from the Colosseum, you can kind of get away with it. The Monti neighborhood is honestly one of my favorite parts of Rome – it’s got this perfect mix of local trattorias and tiny artisan shops that tourists haven’t completely overrun yet. You’ll see actual Romans doing their grocery shopping here, which is refreshing.

The guesthouse itself has this warm, family-run feel that’s getting harder to find in Rome these days. The owner, Maria, seems to know everyone in the neighborhood and she’ll casually mention the best time to hit the Forum (early morning, trust me) or which gelato place on Via dei Serpenti is worth the slightly longer walk. The rooms are clean and surprisingly spacious for Rome – I actually had enough space to fully open my suitcase, which is basically a miracle in this city. The beds are comfortable, though the walls can be a bit thin if you get stuck next to particularly enthusiastic travelers. But honestly, the location more than makes up for any minor noise issues.

What really sold me was stepping out the front door and realizing you’re basically in the heart of ancient Rome, but also surrounded by real neighborhood life. There’s this little café right around the corner where locals grab their morning espresso – no tourists, just quick Italian conversations and the sound of the machine hissing. The Metro station at Cavour is literally two minutes away, which saves your feet when you’ve been walking on cobblestones all day. And here’s something I didn’t expect – the area gets surprisingly quiet at night, even though you’re so central. I guess being slightly uphill from the main tourist drag makes a difference. The 8.9 rating makes total sense when you factor in that you’re getting genuine Roman neighborhood vibes without sacrificing convenience. It’s the kind of place where you might actually run into the same shopkeepers a few times and start to feel like you belong, at least for a few days.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $205. Deluxe Family Room with 1 sofa bed and 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $199. Standard Double or Twin Room with 1 extra-large double bed and 2 single beds for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• A charming guest house in the middle of Monty district. – Bradley from Australia – 28 June 2025 (9/10)

  The charm of the guest house and its central location.
  
  What could be improved: Receiving instructions on how to access the building last minute. They could have been sent a day earlier.

• Exceptional – Nixi from Ireland – 7 March 2025 (10/10)

  Absolutely everything! Not one negative! Bed was huge and comfortable. Room had all amenities needed, plenty cushions, kettle, cups, coffee, tv, toiletries, fridge, safe etc. Staff were so friendly. The location was incredible, so close to attractions and restaurants, shops etc. Quiet at night considering you're in the city centre.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Staff was the very helpful and friendly. No slippers provided, for those who are used to slippers in hotels. – Oxana from Germany – 11 February 2025 (10/10)

  Location was super great. Close to Colosseum and Forum and not far from the street with all brand shops. There were supermarkets, souvenir, shops and restaurants nearby. Next to the entrance to our hotel there was a kind of sandwich shop with sandwiches made with fresh sausages and cheese, they were very tasty. The room was clean with a nice view.

• Rome 2025 January – Vitalii from Moldova – 3 February 2025 (10/10)

  Very nice location, all you may need is not far away.
  
  What could be improved: –

• Good location, good staff – Pat from Canada – 6 December 2024 (8/10)

  early baggage handling, check in and cleanliness were all top notch
  
  What could be improved: Only annoying thing was the pictures of the hotel suggesting amenities that are local, but not within the hotel. somewhat misleading we felt

• It was a lovely stay in perfect conditions – can recommend to everyone – Katarzyna from Poland – 14 November 2024 (9/10)

  Location, size of the apartment, modern equipment

• Recommend. – Kiran from India – 11 November 2024 (8/10)

  The location is great. The room seems to be newly renovated. It was spacious and comfortable. One of the few places in Rome with an Elevator.
  
  What could be improved: The property was comfortable but the information about check in and check out time was confusing. It said 10.30am check in but when we arrived there and called them they said it meant 10.30 am onwards we could leave our baggage there but check in was only at 2pm. This was confusing cause I also mentioned my arrival time on messages.
  I did speak to them about it during check out and requested that they change this information so it’s more appropriate.

• The best location at a reasonable price. With the Colosseum a stone through away. Staff very helpful with restaurant rec – Nathaniel from United States – 11 October 2024 (10/10)

  Great location to many sites. Large variety of restaurants in the area, clean, comfortable, modern. Staff are on top with great communication with any of our concerns
  
  What could be improved: A little difficult to locate as there was only a small plaque on the wall by the door.

• Exceptional – Collin from United States – 8 October 2024 (10/10)

  A quick walk to the Colosseum can’t be beat! It’s located on a busy street, but it wasn’t so noisy that it affected our sleep. We were able to easily contact the owner via What’sApp. There are plenty of great restaurants and cafés nearby. We would absolutely stay again!

• Superb – Novak from United States – 25 September 2024 (9/10)

  The room was just as depicted, clean, safe and was in a great location for visiting the colosseum.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities