Rome: Where to Stay: Hideaways: Il Palazzetto

Il Palazzetto

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.