GRAND HOTEL PLAZA, Rome

Grand Hotel Plaza - A 5-star historic palazzo with panoramic terraces and French-English dining near the Spanish Steps

Located between Piazza del Popolo and Piazza Venezia, this iconic Rome hotel occupies a 19th-century palazzo designed by architect Antonio Sarti. The 150-room Grand Hotel Plaza features 30 suites with private terraces overlooking landmarks like St. Peter's Dome and Villa Medici. The property's Sorelle Fontana Restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine by French-English executive chef Evans André, including seasonal dishes like radicchio risotto with Gorgonzola. American breakfast is served in the frescoed Salone Mascagni, while the Lobby Bar provides afternoon tea and cocktails. Three rooftop terraces, including the year-round Terrazza Accademia di Francia, offer views of Villa Borghese and the Church of San Carlo al Corso's dome. Marble bathrooms come with Sorelle Fontana toiletries, while 40 rooms feature private terraces suitable for breakfast or business lunches. The hotel sits on Via del Corso near prime shopping and the Spanish Steps.

Pros

Three panoramic rooftop terraces with views of major Rome monuments and landmarks

Original architectural details including frescoed ceilings and liberty-style interiors

Seasonal Mediterranean menu featuring local ingredients at Sorelle Fontana Restaurant

Located in the Spagna district surrounded by luxury boutiques and historic sites

Cons

Distance to Vatican City and St. Peter's Basilica requires transportation

The central location means the surrounding area can get crowded during peak tourist seasons