Reviewed by
Abigail Blasi
This discreet hideaway is beguilingly close to the designer boutiques that throng Tridente, the area around Via Condotti. Fendi, Prada, Bulgari, Christian Lacroix, Dolce & Gabbana and hundreds of other lesser-known designers are all within easy reach. Not to mention the Spanish Steps, Villa Borghese, Piazza del Popolo and the Trevi Fountain.
Crossing Condotti is an intimate downtown pad. Don’t expect a hotel; there are just a handful of rooms in this graceful townhouse, plus a self-catering apartment around the corner. Accommodation is romantic and extremely comfortable, with big beds and antique furnishings, yet the design has a light, delicate feel which makes this bolthole seem particularly serene. You get your own key and the small reception area is staffed during the day - they can book restaurants, tours and theatre tickets for you. There’s no breakfast, though a Nespresso machine in the communal kitchen will get you through until you reach a bar (of which there are many nearby) to breakfast as the Romans do: standing up. It’s great - cosy and quiet, and bang in the centre of town.
Crossing Condotti is an intimate downtown pad. Don’t expect a hotel; there are just a handful of rooms in this graceful townhouse, plus a self-catering apartment around the corner. Accommodation is romantic and extremely comfortable, with big beds and antique furnishings, yet the design has a light, delicate feel which makes this bolthole seem particularly serene. You get your own key and the small reception area is staffed during the day - they can book restaurants, tours and theatre tickets for you. There’s no breakfast, though a Nespresso machine in the communal kitchen will get you through until you reach a bar (of which there are many nearby) to breakfast as the Romans do: standing up. It’s great - cosy and quiet, and bang in the centre of town.
Highs
- Reasonably priced for the quality of the rooms and the fantastic location by the Spanish Steps
- Nice antique pieces, contemporary art, engravings and paintings in the rooms, plus original high wooden ceilings
- Impressive level of comfort: enticing beds, soft linens, lots of L'Occitane toiletries
- A private and exclusive feel with attentive, friendly staff; manager Davide made us feel completely at home during our 2018 revisit
- The apartment makes a lovely home from home for small groups and families (thanks to its double sofabed),as well as those seeking a little more independence
Lows
- No meals on site, but you can help yourself to Nespresso, complimentary soft drinks and biscuits laid out in the communal kitchen (available all day)
- You may hear the quiet murmur of the street outside, but that's a small price to pay for the location
- The Spagna Superior Room has no view (but it's very quiet and the bed is beautifully canopied)
- There's a fee for check-ins after 6.30pm without prior notice
Best time to go
Anytime, but September, October, April and May have the best weather - sunny skies but not too hot. However, they are also high season (and busy). It’s very hot in July and August, but also vibrant, with open-air free festivals. In August some businesses close (though not in the tourist centre).
Our top tips
You're in the heart of Rome’s stylish shopping district; bring smart clothes and don't forget your credit card!