Margutta 54

Tucked away on one of Rome’s most romantic, old-world streets, Margutta 54 is a great choice for independent travelers who don’t need round-the-clock amenities and service.

• It's location on one of Rome's prettiest, best-located streets
• The small, personable vibe
• The comfortable, contemporary interiors

Centrally located near bustling and chic Via Condotti, it’s a little haven set in a private courtyard off Via Margutta. Lined with old ivy-covered stone buildings, the cobblestone cul-de-sac was once an artists’ colony where Cocteau, Fellini and Stravinsky found inspiration. With just four beautifully designed suites, Margutta 54 is the brainchild of Alberto Moncada whose noble connections include a cardinal (a family baldachin to receive the Pope attests to this) and whose family has long served as patrons of artists, from Caravaggio to Picasso. Moncada’s urbane, well-mannered upbringing is not only evident in his every gesture, but in the modern yet classic design of the rooms themselves—both in Margutta 54 and his other properties, Babuino 181 and Mario de’ Fiori 37.

Suite Number 4 comes with two dressing rooms, a big limestone and marble bathroom, with a deep tub and separate shower and beautifully restored, 100-year-old oak-wood floors. The sheets are Frette, naturally, as Moncada’s business partner owns the Italian luxury linen brand. Other details in the rooms might include oversized daybeds, comfortable brown leather armchairs and black-and-white Italian photography. Part of Margutta’s charm is that it doesn’t feel like a hotel, as its small size and personable staff make it much more relaxing.