Hotel de la Ville review: Is it good for families?

Words by Harriet Mallinson

Never has it been easier to be like Audrey Hepburn. Simply turn right out of your hotel, grab a gelato and boom, you’re re-enacting one of Roman Holiday’s famous scenes. 

This is because the five-star Hotel de la Ville in Rome occupies one of the Italian capital’s most coveted addresses – perched atop the Spanish Steps. I peer over my balcony at sunset and see the swarm of tourists gathering at the summit of the iconic staircase – and feel very smug indeed. In this game of King of the Castle, I have most definitely won. 

Hotel de la Ville, a restored 18th-century palazzo turned Rocco Forte hotel, is a hotel for luxury-loving couples and families alike. There are spacious suites, children’s perks and a dedicated Rocco Forte Kids programme that caters for everyone from babies to teenagers. Add one of the city’s best sightseeing locations and an indulgent spa for parents, and you’ve got all the ingredients for an unforgettable Roman, well, holiday.

Family Traveller stayed at Hotel de la Ville, Rome to find out what makes it a good choice for families.

Hotel de la Ville, Rome

The Spanish Steps, Rome

Hotel de la Ville Rome location

Hotel de la Ville sits on Via Sistina, immediately above the Spanish Steps, placing many of Rome’s most famous attractions within walking distance. The Trevi Fountain, Villa Borghese, Piazza del Popolo and the Pantheon can all be reached on foot, making it an excellent base for families who want to explore without constantly relying on taxis or public transport. You will, however, have to walk up the steps when returning to the hotel – so do save a bit of puff for the exertion.

Rome Fiumicino Airport is around 45 minutes away by car, while private transfers can also be arranged from Termini Station and Civitavecchia cruise port, making the hotel a convenient option before or after a Mediterranean cruise.

– READ MORE: Six Senses Rome review: Is the hotel good for families? –

Hotel de la Ville, Rome

Hotel de la Ville Rome rooms and suites for families

Accommodation ranges from elegant guestrooms to expansive multi-bedroom suites, all combining contemporary Italian design with antiques, artwork and fancy fabrics inside the hotel’s 18th-century palazzo. I, for instance, spent the night watched over by a stern Roman man – well, his stone bust, that is. Whether he judged my room service Bacchanalian breakfast feast the next day is unclear…

If you’ve got kids in tow, the dedicated Family Room combines two Superior Rooms to create 56sqm of accommodation sleeping up to four guests, with two king-size beds that can also be configured as twins. Peaceful courtyard views make it a welcome retreat after a busy day exploring Rome.

Larger groups can opt for the Family Junior Suite, sleeping up to five guests, or the Family Suite, which accommodates up to six across 106sqm. Those travelling with grandparents or extended family can also choose from several two and three-bedroom suites.

Mums and dads won’t need to pack too much infant paraphernalia when staying here: baby cots, bottle warmers, sterilisers, baby baths, changing mats, nappies, baby toiletries and hooded towels are all available on request.

Older children are equally well looked after, with child-sized bathrobes and slippers, welcome amenities, storybooks, games, movies and more available throughout their stay.

– READ MORE: 10 of the best activities to do in Rome with kids –

Hotel de la Ville, Rome

Children’s activities at Hotel de la Ville Rome

Rather than operating a traditional kids’ club, Hotel de la Ville focuses on personalised family experiences through its Rocco Forte Kids programme.

The programme caters separately for babies, children and teenagers, ensuring activities and amenities feel age-appropriate throughout the stay. Younger guests receive their own check-in materials, colouring books, activity packs and a Rocco Forte Kids Passport, while the popular teddy turndown service adds an extra touch of magic at bedtime.

The concierge team can also create bespoke family itineraries around Rome, helping parents tailor sightseeing to children’s interests.

For parents hoping to enjoy an evening together, 24-hour babysitting is available on request, while a wide range of baby equipment can be arranged before arrival.

– READ MORE: New family-friendly hotels opening this summer 2026 –

Hotel de la Ville, Rome

Irene Forte Spa at Hotel de la Ville Rome

Hidden beneath the hotel, the Irene Forte Spa provides a welcome escape after hours spent exploring the city’s cobbled streets.

Facilities include a hydro pool, sauna, steam room, salt room, ice fountain, Kneipp foot baths, relaxation lounge and five treatment rooms, alongside a Technogym-equipped fitness centre.

Treatments use Irene Forte Skincare products (pistachio hand cream proves how just on trend the brand is), formulated with natural ingredients sourced from the brand’s organic farm in Sicily and developed using decades of dermatological research.

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Hotel de la Ville, Rome

Hotel de la Ville Rome restaurants

Dining is another highlight of Hotel de la Ville Rome, with three very different venues serving everything from leisurely breakfasts to rooftop dinners overlooking the Eternal City.

Breakfast is served at Mosaico, where generous buffet displays of freshly baked breads, homemade cakes, cheeses, seasonal fruit, salads and local specialities are complemented by an à la carte menu featuring hot dishes, including the hotel’s signature carbonara scrambled eggs. I eat this tasty speciality with gusto in the most delightful sunny courtyard –  apricot pastel walls framing us as perky red and yellow parasols add a Riviera splash of shade – and channel Audrey. Service is, alas, surprisingly slow.

Families are well looked after throughout the hotel. Baby meals are complimentary, children’s menus are available and children up to 12 receive 50% off meals and drinks.

For lunch or dinner, Café Ginori brings together Italian cuisine and the colourful design heritage of Ginori 1735, while Cielo Restaurant offers Mediterranean dishes served alongside panoramic views across Rome’s rooftops. Feasting on sensuous slivers of Wagyu Beef (so tender, so succulent, so moreish) with a sunset vista of St Peter’s Basilica is probably as luxurious as it comes – even if your partner doesn’t look like Gregory Peck.

– READ MORE: We visited Lago Maggiore’s only ‘beach resort’ –

Hotel de la Ville, Rome

Hotel de la Ville Rome prices

Family Room rates start from €2,700 per night during the low season and from €3,200 during the high and peak seasons, including breakfast and VAT.

Hotel de la Ville Rome FAQs

Is Hotel de la Ville Rome good for families?

Yes. The hotel offers dedicated Family Rooms and suites, an extensive Rocco Forte Kids programme, children’s dining discounts, baby equipment, babysitting and concierge-planned family experiences.

Does Hotel de la Ville Rome have family rooms?

Yes. Families can choose from Family Rooms, Family Junior Suites, Family Suites and several larger multi-bedroom suites.

Does Hotel de la Ville Rome have a spa?

Yes. The Irene Forte Spa includes a hydro pool, sauna, steam room, salt room, ice fountain, Kneipp foot baths, treatment rooms and a fitness centre.

Where is Hotel de la Ville Rome?

The hotel is located on Via Sistina, immediately above the Spanish Steps in the heart of Rome, within walking distance of many of the city’s most famous landmarks.

How far is Hotel de la Ville Rome from Civitavecchia?

Civitavecchia cruise port is approximately a 90-minute drive from Hotel de la Ville, with private transfers available through the hotel.