From June to August, when temperatures skyrocket, Romans tend to escape the sweltering heat and summer tourists of the Eternal City. They return on the heels of autumn, a season that suits the once-considered capital of the world so beautifully. Temperatures are milder but are still perfect enough to enjoy a scoop (or two) of exquisite gelato in the sun. Travelers still roam the streets but lineups into Vatican City are drastically shorter. It’s the perfect season for a Roman holiday, and these are the best luxury hotels in Rome to experience it all from.
Hotel de la Ville
Perched above the Spanish Steps and a short stroll from the most fashionable shopping street in the city, Via dei Condotti, Hotel de la Ville infuses the enchantment of Rome into every room and suite through vintage accents and lavish textiles selected by interior designer Olga Polizzi. Treat yourself to a terrace suite, allowing you to fully embrace the city’s autumn splendor. While summer may be coming to a close, there’s still time to relish an Aperol Spritz at Cielo with its unmatched views of the Eternal City, then indulge in a dinner crafted by acclaimed Roman chef Fulvio Pierangelini under charming striped parasols and softly glowing fairy lights.
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Palazzo di Ripetta
Rome wasn’t built in a day and neither was Palazzo Ripetta. Situated near the banks of the Tiber River, on one of the oldest streets in the city, this 17th-century palazzo boasts a colorful past that reflects the grandness of the Baroque era. Nowadays, it hosts well-heeled travelers and features an elegant in-house restaurant, chic inner courtyard, elevated rooftop deck and an impressive art collection spanning classic to contemporary artifacts which makes a perfect cooler autumn day activity. A former boarding school, convent, shelter and now one of the best luxury hotels in Rome, this enchanted place has changed chapters several times over the centuries. Just like the city itself.
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Villa Spalletti Trivelli Rome
If it feels as if you’re staying at the home of Roman aristocracy at Villa Spalletti Trivelli Rome, that’s because you are. In fact, you’re stepping into the legacy of the Spalletti family, who graciously opened their doors to guests in 2004, evident from the family photographs peppered throughout the property. While the rooms capture a balanced blend of past and present, it’s the communal areas that truly captivate, ranging from grand drawing rooms to perfectly manicured gardens. Not to be forgotten are the sun loungers and jacuzzi on the rooftop garden, an ideal spot for taking in the early autumn sunset with a glass of vino in hand. It’ll be a well-deserved treat after a long day of exploring all the historic nearby sites, including the Trevi Fountain.
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Palazzo Scanderbeg
Dating back to the 15th century, Palazzo Scanderbeg boasts an array of apartment-style accommodations that instantly make guests feel right at home. Carefully restored, this contemporary abode showcases an array of original architectural nuances, including exposed beams and restored Venetian floorboards. All the necessary elements are in place—expansive bedrooms, sprawling living spaces and streamlined kitchens (and for those opting for a Master suite, a dedicated butler is available to cater to every whim). Plus, its prime location is a crowning jewel, mere footsteps from Rome’s cherished attractions, the Pantheon and Colosseum, for fall wanderings without the crowds.
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Hotel Eden
Whether you visit in the spring or autumn, you’ll always have your very own Eden. Originally opened in 1889, Hotel Eden emanates the grandeur of the Belle Époque era, boasting a lobby adorned with gleaming marble and ornate coffered ceilings gilded in gold. A vintage charm holds sway as rooms are adorned in an exquisite ivory and gold color scheme, punctuated by vibrant hues. The Michelin-starred La Terrazza stands as a culinary marvel, spotlighting innovative culinary methods that even A-list celebs can’t pass up when in town. Tucked away on property is a cozy spa, the perfect place to find solace away from the late summer sun.
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Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá
When it comes to experiencing autumn in Rome, few places rival the charm of Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá Rome—an urban oasis gracing the banks of the Tiber, mere steps away from Vatican City. A driveway shaded by olive trees guides you through picture-perfect Mediterranean gardens to an expansive, rosy-hued palace. As you step within, the polished wooden floors and elegant armchairs effortlessly set a relaxing, autumnal tone. Those chasing the final sun-soaked days will revel in the allure of the pool, while those seeking serenity should set their sights on the spa for a deeply satisfying wellness experience.
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Sofitel Roma Villa Borghese
Regal, grand, ornate—that’s Sofitel Roma Villa Borghese. Nestled within a 19th-century palazzo on the edge of Villa Borghese, this refined boutique hotel blends Roman classicism with French art de vivre. Recently, French designer Jean-Philippe Nuel was enlisted to refurbish the property, upgrading it to 78 guest rooms and suites and introducing a rooftop bar and restaurant with views of St. Peter’s Basilica in the distance. Before taking to the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain and Sistine Chapel nearby, stop to enjoy the slow turn of the leaves in one of Rome’s best gardens: Villa Borghese. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see the city’s brilliant autumn colors shine.
