Location, location, location! Whether you are into Roman history and ancient architecture, a pilgrim seeking to stay close to the Vatican, into museums or shopping, or a fan of authentic Italian gelato — Hotel Le Méridien Visconti Rome is a great place to sleep in Rome, Italy.
Did you know that at Inside Europe, we personally inspect each and every hotel our travelers stay in?
Before you check-in, we check out the rooms, facilities, take a close look at all restaurants and especially breakfast, but also explore the neighborhood to share recommendation for restaurants, local shops and where to find the best Italian gelato nearby.
Photos: Le Méridien Visconti Palace in Rome
Walk to the Vatican, Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona
Located in the chic Prati neighborhood, and within walking distance from the Vatican and the Spanish Steps — each are less than a mile away, Le Méridien Visconti Rome is an excellent base in the heart of Rome for our travelers.
Built in the 70s, the modern four star hotel may not be the prettiest on the outside, but it has long become part of the buzzing Roman neighborhood it is part of. On the inside, the hotel is contemporary, spacious and was recently updated to fit into the Le Méridien portfolio of “an upscale, design-focused international hotel brand with a European perspective”.
Spacious Rooms with Options for Families
Formerly known as Visconti Palace, and now part of Marriott, Le Méridien Rome is one of the bigger city center hotels in Rome with 240 rooms in different configurations, including connecting and family rooms. Very few Roman hotels are able to accommodate five to room, but here two parents with three young kids can stay together! Upgrades to junior suites and full suites are also an option, but only recommended if you intent to spend a lot of time at the hotel.
Featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, the modern rooms are fully air-conditioned, and rather spacious, with flat-screen TVs, bottled water plus tea/coffee in-room. Suites add separate living rooms with pull-out sofas; some of the upgraded rooms have palace views and/or private balconies. Room service is also available. The hotel also offers a fully equipped fitness center that is open seven days a week as well as bicycles for rent to explore all the city has to offer. For a full list of amenities, click here.
Photo courtesy of hotel.
Dine in, Dine Out or Order Room Service
Photo courtesy of the hotel.
While there are many restaurants, from simple trattorias to Michelin-star eateries in the immediate vicinity, the Visconti Rome is one of the few hotels where our Inside Europe team also recommends to dine in.
Most noteworthy about Le Méridien Visconti Rome is that the hotel is more than just a place to sleep well! The hotel’s restaurants cater to guests staying overnight as well as to visitors just passing through and locals coming for a nice business lunch, or to celebrate a special event. Every outlet offers mainly one cuisine: Italian. International staples like sandwiches or burgers can be ordered at as well, but when in Rome… Eat like the Romans! If you have not yet tried pasta all’amatriciana, you are missing out.
Longitude 12 bar & Bistrot, Le Méridien Visconti Rome’s main restaurant is a good option to eat-in while enjoying typical local flavors. The hotel restaurant is open for both lunch and dinner. Located just off the renovated hotel lobby, this modern eatery is ideal for a quite bite to eat.
Photo courtesy of hotel.
Roof7 Terrace is a Favorite Rooftop Bar
Roof7 Terrace, the hotel bar on the top floor, is THE place to be for sunset, with a glass of wine or cocktail in hand to enjoy great views over Rome.
Photos in this section courtesy of the hotel.
It is one of our favorite Roman rooftop bars, located between the alleys of the Prati neighborhood that are so characteristic for the Eternal City. A must-try at Roof7 Terrace is the Pinsa Romana! This almost forgotten simple, yet oh so tasty peasant dish is making a comeback. Pinsa is a traditional soft bread dating back to ancient Roman times. We prefer the classic Margherita topping with extra olive oil. However, why not sample the chef’s daily gourmet pinsa? If you are super curious, here is also a recipe and more information on Pinsa Romana!
Art Lovers Rejoice
Typical for Le Méridien hotels, guests get to experience art throughout the building at the Visconti Rome. Plus, there are several major museums and art galleries nearby. Through the Unlock Art™ program, Le Méridien Visconti Rome offers guests discounted entrance to MAXXI National Museum of 21st Century Arts. Make sure to look through the information provided as part of the guest folder in your room. In addition, check with the concierge for tickets to ballet, opera, musicals, comedy, prose and concerts in Rome’s theaters and opera houses.
Visconti Rome is a Home Away from Home
In conclusion, Le Méridien Visconti Rome has been an Inside Europe favorite for over a decade, and even more so after the recent renovations. There are special touches throughout, and the variety of room configurations is perfect for families traveling together. The hotel’s dedicated group desk works closely with our team to ensure that our guests feel at home away from home.
Inside Europe Travel Tip
Gelateria Romana is just around the corner from Hotel Le Méridien Visconti Rome in Via Cola di Rienzo, 2. Originally from Rimini and in business for over 70 years already, this ice-cream shop is a must-experience. Thankfully, Gelateria Romana is open from noon until midnight, every day of the week. Check out their Facebook page too, to get a first ‘taste’ of their classic and innovative flavors.