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While the Hassler Hotel, at the top of the Spanish Steps, is far more famous (and in need of a renovation), its smaller sister hotel, Il Palazzetto is a little-known treasure. The town-house hotel, situated alongside the Steps, was built in the 1500s as a private residence and has just four rooms, all appointed in cream-colored silks and velvets, with chocolate-brown accents. It also houses the International Wine Academy of Roma, so the hotel draws dedicated oenophiles with wine-related courses, events and tastings (all of which are conducted in both Italian and English). Guests can take an intensive half-day course on Italian wines or arrange a day’s tour with an expert to vineyards in the Lazio. Il Palazzetto has a wonderful restaurant, wine bar, garden and two terraces, one for lunch, the other for drinks. The Hassler’s facilities, including a gym and a business center, are also open to guests. Tip: The Hassler’s roof restaurant, Imàgo, has an exceptional view. Rooms from $280.

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Got a hankering to be a prince or princess for a day or more? A few years ago, the current principessa, Donna Letizia Ruspoli, inspired by Indian maharajas who invite guests into their palaces, began renting Rome’s most authentic royal suite; from 1830 to 1831, Napoleon III and his mother lived in the apartments. Glorious reception rooms filled with museum-quality art and antiques lead to a master bedroom suite, which has been restored to its original Baroque splendor with coffered ceilings, parquet floors, a silk-draped bed, oil paintings and a Gobelin tapestry. The princess greets guests when she’s in Rome, and her assistant, as well as a butler and a maid, attend to visitors’ needs, arranging guides, restaurant reservations and any special requests. For those who want a less formal experience in the same surroundings, there is the Roof Garden Suite. In either suite, the maid or butler will bring you breakfast in the morning—on the family silver, of course. Rooms from $1,600 a night.