Myself & my boyfriend stayed here for the weeknd in January. We had such a great stay and I can't recommed the hotel enough. There is a lovely courtyard outside all the bedrooms with amazing orange trees and tables/chairs you can sit out on. Even though it was January and too cold to sit out the place still looked so inviting. The hotel has a large gate which you have to buzz in and out off so security is very tight and it's like having your own private courtyard in the middle of Rome!
The area is in Trastverse (I hope that's how you spell it) and the area is lovely. There are lovely tiny cobbled streets you find yourself wondering around with quirky shops, restaurants and pubs. Do your homework and local restaurants are much cheaper than the middle of Rome. One resturant within walking distance of the hotel charged €3 for a pizza and was always busy with locals.
The breakfast every morning was lovely and the staff are very friendly, especially the owner. Great americos at breakfast time too.
Be prepared to walk a lot though as Rome's metro doesn't link up very well to everywhere. There is a local tram though near the main street which is only a euro.
I'm sure the area will be hoping in the summer time, but for those who don't like going to the typcial tourist areas there is a local feel to the place and it was just lovely. Would love to come back in the summer and get married in the courtyard if we win the lottery!
Advice about the airport home:
Give yourself plenty time to get to the airport. The Number 8 tram takes you to Termini where you get the train to the airport. This doesn't take long only 30 mins on the train and only 8 euro but when you get to the airport be prepared to q for ages to get through passport control as only one security person was on. Then you have to walk a while to get to more security followed by an internal trian to Gate G.
BOOK, BOOK BOOK this lovely hotel and you will not be disappointed!
- Santa Maria Hotel
- Santa Maria Rome
- Hotel Santa Maria Rome
