It’s cool, it’s contemporary and it radiates style. Editor Sophie Ritchie reviews NH Collection Roma Palazzo Cinquecento, the five-star hotel with a seriously enviable location in the Eternal City
When staying in Rome, location is everything. There’s so much to see, so much to visit and so much to wait in line for – that having a smack bang central hotel can make a big difference.
Situated just minutes from Rome Termini Station, pull your suitcase over the cobbles and step inside NH Collection Roma Palazzo Cinquecento’s calm and contemporary world of stylish hospitality.
With a number of the Eternal City’s most famous sights close by, including Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, Dell’Opera Theatre and the Roman Colosseum, its adjacent location to the Termini station is in prime position for adventuring.
This is also handy if you’d prefer to catch the Metro around rather than explore on-foot, whilst private taxis, of course, are also available within minutes via the smiling concierge.
The Room
NH Collection Roma Palazzo Cinquecento was once home to the offices of an Italian railway company (there’s a distinct omission of locomotive-inspired decor, but the building once boasted a direct station entrance and platforms on its lower underground levels).
Now, the 177-room property has a suavely modern feel, with hardwood floors, gentle colour schemes and extra mod cons that give this hotel its five-star status.
I stay in a spacious Junior Suite, which is split into two main rooms and a well-stocked bathroom. Complete with a wide desk, mini fridge and velvety sofa, heading to the window also reveals views stretching across the below streets and main square in front of Termini.
The working desk is perfect for both writing (and eating) whilst the beige velvet sofa matches well with the sleek flooring.
It’s not draped in decor, but the mildly minimalist interiors still conjure a relaxed and inviting ambience – aided by little touches such as the huge mirror with a hand-scrolled ‘Love is what makes us feel alive’ statement.
After a long day ramping up your step count, climbing into the large bed has a throughly comforting feel.
The Dining
Breakfast is well-worth booking, served in the Grand Tour restaurant policed by staff ticking guests’ names off clipboards.
Served from 7 – 10am on weekdays, bring your plate(s) to the buffet selection and try a host of local specialties. Authentically Italian, there’s just as many pastries to try as there are savoury options.
Breads, yoghurt, juices, coffee and plump fruit bowls are on tap – but you can also order omelettes just the way you like ’em.
From lunchtime onwards, the space offers all-dining with an international and Italian focus. If you’re feeling too weary to dine outside, the a la carte selection is perfect for tasty sustenance.
What to do
1 The lower level gym might be small, but it’s still equipped with everything needed for a morning sweat session.
2 Explore Rome’s nearby mesmerising sights; the Coliseum, the Trevi Fountain and Roman Forum are all within walking distance.
3 Sip up the sights at NH Collection Roma Palazzo Cinquecento’s rooftop terrace. Located high above the crowds, enjoy panoramic views with a cocktail in one hand and camera in the other.
The Wordrobe Verdict
It’s cool, it’s contemporary and it radiates style. If the lure of a super central location doesn’t draw you in, the gut-busting breakfast buffet certainly will.
If you’re catching the train from Ciampino airport to Rome’s heart, then all aboard and full steam ahead – next stop, NH Collection Roma Palazzo Cinquecento.
Make it happen
Where: NH Collection Roma Palazzo Cinquecento, Piazza dei Cinquecento, 90,. 00185, Rome, Italy
How: Click here or phone+44 (0)203 49 90 485 to make a booking.
Review by Sophie Ritchie, editor
