Lonely Planet Review

La Residenza is pleasantly old-fashioned. As you sink into a leather armchair in the lobby, with the grandfather clock ticking in the background, you could easily forget that you're a stone's throw from Via Vittorio Veneto, Rome's most dashing street. The functional rooms, however, lack this character, revealing an upmarket motel look.

The most common complaint about otherwise excellent hotels is that they serve pathetic breakfasts. Not here. The buffet breakfast is exceptional: bacon, eggs, sausages, fruit, cereal, bread rolls, coffee. It's enough to tip the balance. But there's more to this good value four-star than just colazione (breakfast). The ground-floor public rooms, reminiscent of a colonial gentleman's club, make a fine impression while the carpeted guest rooms, if less eye-catching, are comfortable, clean and spacious. Some even have their own balcony, although the hotel won't guarantee one when you book. You'll find bathrobes and heated towels in the en suite bathrooms. There's also room service, babysitting and professional, courteous English speaking staff. The location's a further plus - only 10 minutes' walk from the Spanish Steps.