Rome - Hotel de Russie
Spring 2007
Frank's view 
This Rocco Forte hotel absolutely lives up to its reputation and is possibly the best luxury hotel in Rome.
The positioning of the hotel is excellent, being a few minutes walk from the Spanish Steps. More significantly for the ladies, the hotel is a very convenient few minutes walk from Via Condotti, the Bond Street or Rodeo Drive of Rome. Laden with Prada, Gucci or Marni, the distance from rack to wardrobe is a comfortable struggle. I’m sure the hotel is expert at efficiently losing the bags of evidence. (“Haven’t you noticed this frock before darling?”)
The Piazza Del Popolo is close by in the opposite direction and has reasonable restaurants and bars for light lunch or a “people watching” glass of rose. That is about the standard, so don’t expect gourmet cuisine.
There is a massive difference between the various room options, not least position. A “city” view gives you a view directly across the narrow street to the buildings opposite. The rooms are dark because there is limited access for sunlight. The rooms and suites at the rear are a different proposition. The Hotel de Russie has a stunning garden and the rear accommodation really does offer good garden views.
The garden terrace restaurant offers a very good buffet lunch. Locals frequent the restaurant at lunch time and tables should be booked in advance. It is the best place in the area for lunch.
The hotel is always busy so book in advance. It is part of “The Leading Hotels of the World” group and therefore should ideally be booked through American Express Travel.
Hotel de Russie
Via Del Babuino
Rome
+39 06 32 88 81
Be Frank: agree or disagree? What do you think?
