10 Best Cheap Hotels in Spanish Steps, Rome - Hotels.com Pay now or later on most rooms Free cancellation on most rooms Price Guarantee Best Cheap Spanish Steps, Rome Hotels Few areas of Rome place you closer to the treasures of the Eternal City than the neighborhood around the iconic Spanish Steps. Located to one side of the picturesque Piazza di Spagna, this district’s highlight is the exquisite 18th-century flight of marble stairs—one of Rome’s most emblematic sights made famous by the 1950s Hollywood blockbuster, Roman Holiday. The district is also surrounded by a myriad of world-famous landmarks and timeless architectural wonders, making it the perfect base from which to recreate your very own Roman holiday. Hotels near the Spanish Steps This part of Rome draws more tourists than almost any other neighborhood, meaning there’s a wide range of accommodation near the Spanish Steps for every traveler. Hotel Anahi is a fantastic budget hotel offering charming rooms at competitive prices. Close by is Hotel Manfredi Suite in Rome, a top-rated 3-star hotel near Piazza di Spagna featuring a sauna and hot tub.

For a luxury Roman vacation, book into the River Palace Hotel, a popular 4-star hotel close to the Spanish Steps where you can enjoy elegant old-world décor right in the city center. Things to see near the Spanish Steps Situated on the right bank of the River Tiber in the center of ancient Rome, the area around the Spanish Steps contains some of the most prized historic and cultural treasures the Eternal City has to offer. Millions of tourists flock to the neighborhood every year to see sights such as the Trinità dei Monti. Consecrated in 1585, this late Renaissance church holds a commanding position at the top of the Spanish Steps, and contains many wonderful frescoes and paintings by Italian masters. At the bottom of the 135 steps sits another famous institution, the Keats-Shelley Memorial House. The famous Romantic poet John Keats lived out his final months in this building, which now serves as a museum dedicated to the memory of the beloved Englishman. Just a few feet away, the ornate marble Fontana della Barcaccia, crafted by Pietro Bernini in 1627 and now one of Rome’s most famous fountains, is the perfect footnote to the elegant steps.

Good for shoppers The neighborhood around the Spanish Steps is quintessentially Roman, with stately buildings and ancient churches nestling beside world-class gelaterias, pizzerias, and—naturalmente—fashion boutiques. This area is the epicenter of retail in the city, and locals and tourists alike throng the narrow streets to discover the latest offerings in European fashion. Stroll out the door of your Spanish Steps hotel to Via del Corso, the city’s main fashion thoroughfare, where well-known brands vie for your attention. If it’s high-end designer outlets you’re after, then head down the adjacent Via Condotti, where the likes of Gucci, Armani, and Prada all have a presence. How to get to the Spanish Steps Getting to the Spanish Steps from Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci and Ciampino airports is quick and easy. Bus and rail connections are available from both airports to Termini, the city’s main transport hub. Here, travelers can change to the metro and get to Piazzi di Spagna in a matter of minutes.

Thanks to its pedestrianized streets and 1-way traffic system, most visitors to this neighborhood find traveling by metro or exploring on foot the best way to take in the area’s many famous sights. There are also a host of public transit options for those wishing to travel a little further afield. Pure bravura. Cascading down the Pincian Hill in a torrential rush, the Spanish Steps epitomize that most fundamental of Baroque principles: form is more than just function. The exuberant Baroque design turns what might have been an ordinary staircase into much, much more. Inspired form here expands function, so that the steps serve not only as a land bridge between two levels of the city, but also as a breathtaking set-piece focus for the Piazza di Spagna, an elegant formal approach for SS. Trinità dei Monti, a beloved neighborhood promenade for residents, an irresistible meeting place for tourists, a world-famous gathering spot for students, and an incomparable showcase for masses of azaleas in the spring. The nickname "Spanish Steps" is something of a misnomer.

The tag derives from the Piazza di Spagna at the steps' base, so called because one of the palazzi off its southern end – the Palazzo di Spagna – has since 1622 been the residence of the Spanish ambassador to the Vatican. But the steps construction and design – which is craftily skewed to adjust for the fact that SS. Trinità dei Monti above and the piazza below do not line up on the same axis – had nothing whatsoever to do with Spain. In fact, the staircase is entirely French in origin. The French presence in the area began in the late fifteenth-century, when a group of Minims – a new order of friars from France – took over the existing villa at the top of the Pincian Hill and began construction (in 1502) of SS. Trinità dei Monti. Talk of linking the church with the piazza below began soon after the facade of the church was completed in 1570, but nothing was done until 1661, when a chargé d'affaires at the French Embassy died and left a bequest of 10,000 scudi for construction of a staircase.

Cardinal Mazarin, then prime minister of France, called in Bernini, who designed an elaborate ramped project centered around a life-size equestrian statue of Louis XIV (a statue – now in Paris – that was not executed until ten years later, under very different circumstances). But the proposed statue's inflammatory implications – a challenge not only to the political supremacy of the pope but also to the aesthetic supremacy of the ancient statue of Marcus Aurelius on the Capitoline Hill – doomed the project from the start. Some fifty years of inconclusive negotiation and bureaucratic red tape followed, until the monks at last adopted (and Pope Innocent XIII approved) a new plan by the little-known Francesco de Sanctis that incorporated elements suggested by the favored papal architect of the day, Alessandro Specchi. Construction began in 1723; upon completion in 1726, the staircase immediately became one of the acknowledged sights of Rome. For De Sanctis, however, the project ended unhappily. In 1728, the steps were badly damaged by a rainstorm, and he found himself the defendant in a messy, protracted lawsuit.

He never received another commission, and the staircase was not repaired until 1737, six years after his death. Today, more than 250 years after its construction, the Spanish Steps remain in excellent repair, and still serve to energize the entire neighborhood, now the city's most expensive and fashionable shopping quarter. And the recent ban on automobile traffic in the area has expanded the steps' function still further: they are now the best spot in Europe for measuring the pulse of a great capital city. To sit at the top in the late afternoon on a sunny summer day is to be given a God's-eye view of Rome awakening from its daily siesta. During the midday heat, the square and street below are all but deserted, populated only by stragglers sticking close to the buildings in search of shade. But as the sun begins to set, the pace of life perceptibly quickens, shoppers and tourists and students begin to appear, pedestrian patterns become more varied and complex, small groups coalesce into clusters, clusters grow to become crowds, and the crescendo of activity swells until the entire square is filled with a single teeming throng.

The scene comprises thousands of mundane individual routines, but it is the time-honored role of the Italian piazza to transform individual routine into group ritual, and the Spanish Steps here make that transformation visible – palpable – to anyone who cares to look. Attractions - Grand Hotel Palace Rome - Official site - 5 Stars Boutique Hotel Attractions Grand Hotel Palace Rome Rome has many attractions, shopping districts, museums and cultural points of interest, for guests staying at Grand Hotel Palace to enjoy. The hotel's superb location, on one of Rome's most stylish and elegant streets, Via Veneto, gives guests easy access to many popular destinations and points of interest in the city. Colosseum The largest amphitheatre in the world, the Colosseum is one of the most impressive works of Roman architecture and engineering, and is considered to be the most recognised building in the capital city. Construction of this major tourist attraction began in 70 AD, under the rule of Emperor Vespasian and was completed in 80 AD under his successor, Titus. Modifications were made during the regin of Domitian (81-96 AD).

These three Roman emperors were known as the Flavian dynasty, which explains why the amphitheatre was originally known as the Flavian Amphitheatre. It was estimated that the Colosseum could hold between 50,000 and 80,000 spectators and it was used to stage gladiatorial contests, wild animal fights, renactments of famous battles and other public spectacles. The Colosseum is located in the heart of Piazza del Colosseo, close to the Metro stop Colosseo. The Colosseum is closed on 1st January, 1st May and 25th December. Opening hours vary depending on the time of year. Vatican City This walled enclave is the smallest internationally recognised state in the world, by both area and population. Vatican City is 110 acres and has a population of approximately 800 people. Vatican City is an ecclesiastical state ruled by the Pope and the official residence of the Pope, the Apostolic Palace, is located there. There are many cultural points of interest and popular attractions within Vatican City, including St.

Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, the Vatican Gardens and the Vatican museums. Villa Borghese One of the most beautiful residences in the city, Villa Borghese lies on the outskirts of 17th century Rome, within extensive landscaped gardens. It consists of 20 rooms, across two floors, and houses the largest private collection of art in the world. It is named after a very powerful Italian family 'The Borgheses', who rose to wealth and prominence when one of their members became Pope Paul V in 1552, and subsequently gave power and titles to many members of his family. They built Villa Borghese to hold parties in and to house an art collection, and in 1903 it was acquired by the city of Rome and opened to the public. Visitors to Rome can see a spectacular collection of art at Villa Borghese, including masterpieces from Titian, Rubens, Caravaggio and Raphael, and can explore the stunning gardens. Trevi Fountain The Trevi Fountain, which is the largest baroque fountain in Rome, is often described as the most beautiful baroque fountain in the world.

This well-known tourist attraction was designed by Italian architect, Nicola Salvi and was completed by Pietro Bracci. The central figure of the fountain is Neptun, God of the Sea, whose chariot is being led by tritons and sea horses. The fountain is filled with coins, as there is a tradition of throwing coins into it, to ensure good fortune and to guarantee a return trip to Rome, the Eternal City. Pantheon Spanish steps This impressive stairway, which consists of 135 steps, leads from Piazza di Spagna to Piazza Trinità del Monti, in the heart of the city of Rome. The Spanish Steps were built from 1723-25, to link the Bourbon Spanish Embassy and the Trinità del Monti church, which was under the patronage of the Bourbon kings of France at the time. The stairs were designed by architects Francesco de Sanctis and Alessandro Specchi. Roman forum Spanish Steps | Robert Higdon Blog Spanish Steps In line at Starbucks the other morning, awaiting the caffeine fix required to start my day, I overheard, in front of me, a conversation on the “Spanish Steps”.

As I live in Europe part of the year, I am always in the market for fresh perspectives on favorite old friends over there whom I think I may know well, but in reality do not. “Overhearing” now turned into active eaves-dropping, and I was surprised to learn that the conversation was not at all about Rome, but that we have our own version of the Spanish Steps right here in Washington DC.: a young cousin of one of the worlds best known and most venerated architectural icons, centrally located near Embassy Row – and relatively unknown. Later in the day, as a faithful reader of detective novelist P.D. James, I felt that the time had come for further investigation. So, armed with a picnic basket, I headed over to Kalorama to pick up Robert and Digby, and we set out for S and 22nd to see for ourselves. Arriving at our Washington Spanish Steps, we were surprised that we actually had this historic gem all to ourselves. We had to acknowledge that our Steps might not be in the same league as there Roman cousins, but they are indeed a charming haven of tranquility in an otherwise bustling downtown city center, a romantic spot to visit at twilight, with its fountain and sun-dappled trees.

Due to the relatively high elevation, there are lovely vista’s, and at one time this must have been a perfect spot to view the monuments. But how do the grandiose Roman Spanish steps and their Washington cousins compare, is there a connection? The Roman version was built in 1725 to connect the Piazza di Spagna with its glorious Bernini fountain and the Trinita dei Monti church above it. With its unique butterfly shape, it has always been known as La Scalinata. It is the largest and most flamboyant staircase in Europe, and a beautiful example of the Roman baroque style. The butterfly design addressed the engineering challenge of a very steep slope between top and bottom – a design solution often followed in later centuries, for instance in hilly San Francisco. La Scalinata had a controversial political past. The first archival drawings date from 1580, but the stairway was not actually constructed until 1725.

As the steps connected the Trinita dei Monti church, which was under patronage of Bourbon France, with the Spanish Embassy, under the patronage of Bourbon Spain – but both under the liege of the Pope of Rome, one can easily imagine 145 years of political deadlock…. In 1725 a French diplomat left a bequest to build the Scalinata, and Cardinal Mazarin, an Italian who served as Chief Minister in France, took the project under his wing. Today La Scalinata is one of the busiest and most popular spots in Rome, especially gorgeous in spring, with azaleas in full bloom. It has been featured in movies such as Roman Holiday and The Talented Mr. Ripley, and it has played a role in too many literary efforts and songs to enumerate. Far less controversial, the Spanish Steps in Washington came into being in 1911, again facing an engineering challenge. Originally, the steps were the entrance to an 18th century farm called Kalorama. As it was a rather steep hill, the stairway solution of its Roman cousin was adopted, though in a more modest style, beautiful but befitting the smaller scale of the capital of an emerging nation.

Apparently, the decision to construct the steps was made by the city council, and there is no record of the type of controversies that had bedeviled the steps in Rome. In the mid 1970’s, the neighborhood residents began to call the park “The Spanish Steps”, perhaps the design seemed to offer a miniature version of the famous steps in Rome. Today, the Washington DC Department of Parks and Recreation formally recognizes the Spanish Steps Project and Endowment Fund, and encourages neighborhood participation in the maintenance of the steps. While the Roman steps are home to the Spanish Embassy, our steps are surrounded by foreign missions. While most Romans will probably not immediately make a link between their busy Scalinata and our Spanish steps, those of us who live in the capital have come to appreciate our enchanting, quiet answer to one of the world’s best known and most beloved architectural structures. Although we are close to one of the city’s busiest intersections, we are barely aware of it; the water flowing from the classic lion’s head into the pond emphasizes the element of tranquility so absent in the surrounding center of town. Let’s cherish this small oasis! Share...

Spanish Steps Rome Piazza di Spagna is surely one of the most famous places of Rome and the entire peninsula, almost a symbol of Italy itself; an irregular and sublime space, whose unique atmosphere is famous worldwide. The imposing staircase that morphologically marks the square consists of 135 steps. Designed by Alessandro Specchi and Francesco de Sanctis, two architects active in the first half of the Eighteenth century, it was opened in 1725 (the year of Jubilee) by Pope Benedict XIII and was originally used to connect the Bourbon Spanish embassy (hence the name “Spanish Steps”) to the church of Trinità dei Monti, built in the first half of the 1500s at the behest of King Louis XII of France and consecrated in 1591 under Pope Sixtus V. The staircase was built because the square of Trinità dei Monti was connected to the lower area through two steep and muddy roads not open to vehicles, placed along the slope of the hill, but the significant difference in height was a real rift between the two urban centers, of equal importance.

From the foot of the staircase, the square widens in front of the Pincio hill and is decorated with many garden terraces, which in Spring and Summer are beautifully adorned with many flowers. The square is home of monuments of great historical and artistic value, as the House-Museum of the English poet John Keats, who lived between 1700 and 1800, and the one of Percy Bysshe Shelley, English Romantic poet who was also a friend of Keats; there’s also the House-Museum of Giorgio De Chirico, opened in 1998 at the behest of the painter’s widow, in order to safeguard the artistic and intellectual activity. Another famous building overlooking the Spanish Steps is the Babington’s Tea Room, founded in 1893 by two English aristocratic women who aimed for the creation of a meeting point for the many compatriots who lived in the capital. Even today this tea room is frequented by important international people as politicians, celebrities from the world of entertainment and royal families.

The adjacent Piazza Mignanelli hosts the Column of the Immaculate Conception, in front of the Spanish Embassy in Rome and next to the Palace of Propaganda Fide. The column was designed by the architect Luigi Poletti and inaugurated on December 8th of 1857, thanks to the effort of 220 fire fighters. Due to this event, every year on December 8th, the festivity is celebrated with a team of fire fighters who strive with a crane to offer the Virgin Mary a garland of flowers, in the presence of the Pope who bless the statue and all the participants. Piazza di Spagna is now a cultural heritage of inestimable value: located at the foot of the Pincio hill, it has always been the center of cultural life and tourism of the city of Rome. Curiosities Many historical figures passed through to the Spanish Steps: Giuseppe Balsamo aka Cagliostro, famous alchemist and esoteric, lived for a while at an inn on the square.

Legends say that his arrest took place near the Spanish Steps and the ghost of his wife Lorenza Feliciani still hovers in that neighborhood, as she herself had reported her husband to the Holy Office. For its artistic and symbolic value, as well as the spectacular appearance derived from the monumental staircase and the planimetry that reminds a butterfly, Piazza di Spagna has been the backdrop for many successful movies, such as “We All Loved Each Other So Much,” “Roman Holiday” and “The girls of the Spanish Steps.” The Fontana della Barcaccia (Fountain of the Ugly Boat) The center of the square is occupied by the Fontana della Barcaccia (Fountain of the Ugly Boat), installed in 1629 by Pietro Bernini, assisted by his son Gian Lorenzo, at the behest of the Pope Urban VIII Barberini, represented by the heraldic symbols of the sun and the bees. The fountain was originally built to remember the tremendous Tiber’s flood in 1598 and the exceptional fact that in that place was found a boat. The name, only apparently derogatory, derives from the longboats used in the nearby port of Ripetta to transport wine.

Pietro Bernini designed a fountain completely new compared to the works realized in Rome at the end of the Sixteenth century; he was inspired, in fact, by the figure of the boat, creating a more sculptural than architectural work. The building was hampered by the onset of technical difficulties related to the low pressure of the Aqua Virgo, the only Roman aqueduct still active. According to a legend, a virgin had localized the spring of water, hence the name of the aqueduct. It was built by Marco Vipsanio Agrippa to supply its baths in Campo Marzio with water, and it actually feeds the Fontana della Barcaccia following the path of via dei Condotti, from which it takes its name.

The low pressure of the water, therefore, would not have been sufficient to raise the jets and waterfalls that were the usual choreography in the fountains located at higher levels, so Bernini felt the need to integrate the work in the environment, placing the base of the tank below the road surface; the architectural solution to this need was found giving the fountain the shape of a semi-submerged boat, with jets of water gushing from the mouths of cannons placed at the stern and the bow, symmetrical to each other. The water overflowing from the sides of the boat, open to offer the impression that it is sinking, is collected by a basin below, which also incorporates the jets coming from the mouths of false gunboats on the outside of the bow and the stern, on the sides of the great papal emblems characterized by bees, symbols of the Barberini family.

Beyond of the inspiration, the fountain takes an obvious allegory of the functions of the Church: the water, a symbol of purification, flows from the cannons’ mouths, designed to spread fire, but turned off by the gushes; the papal emblems adorning the cannons’ mouths indicate the peacemaker role of the universal Church, particularly dear to Urban VIII, whose pontificate aimed to a policy of equilibrium between France and Spain, as a guarantee of the independence of the Holy See from Spain and from the empire. And if half of the large open space hosting the fountain was called the Spanish Steps, due to the presence of the Spanish embassy, the other half, open onto via del Babuino, was called Square of France to honor the French kings who had built the church of Trinità dei Monti. “Passerò per Piazza di Spagna. Sarà un cielo chiaro”. Cesare Pavese The Spanish Steps in Rome, Italy The Spanish Steps ★★★ The Spanish Steps in Rome.

(Photo by Reid Bramblett) The Spanish Steps, Piazza di Spagna, Scalinata di Trinità dei Monti—by whatever name you call it, this is one of Rome's prime outdoor living rooms, an elegant gathering place for locals and tourists alike La Barcaccia ("The Ugly Boat") fountain on Piazza di Spagna at the foot of the Spanish Steps in Rome was done by a teenaged Gian Lorenzo Bernini and his dad. (Photo by Dorli Photography) The graceful off-center curves of the Scalinata di Trinità dei Monti (a.k.a. the Spanish Steps; see sidebar below to right) rising from the hourglass Piazza di Spagna are covered with bright azaleas in spring, a life-sized nativity scene in winter, and teem with visitors, Roman teens, poseurs, Italians meeting for the passeggiata, and tour groups year-round. The steps were built in 1723–25 by Francesco De Sanctis, not on behalf of the Spanish, but for the French as a grand entrée to their twin-towered church of Trinità dei Monti at the top.

At the foot of the steps burbles the beloved Barcaccia ("Ugly Boat") fountain, a sinking and leaking marble boat sculpted by a teenage Bernini along with his father, Pietro Bernini. Other sights on and around the Spanish Steps What's in a Name? One of the most famous and visited sights in all of Rome is the Stairs of Trinity of the Mountains. Never heard of it? That's because you know them as "The Spanish Steps," a reference to the fact that they rise from the Piazza di Spagna ("Spanish Square"), whereas Italians call the stairs after where they lead: up to the church of Trinità dei Monti. So, why Piazza di Spagna in the first place? The Spanish Ambassador to the Vatican lives on the square. Piazza di Spagna has long been the Anglo-American center of Rome; the British Consul used to have his office here, and the brick Anglican church lies just a few blocks down Via del Babuino. Flanking the steps are British 19th-century bastions of Babington's Tea Rooms (genteel and pricey; ) and, at no.

26, the pink house where Romantic poet John Keats died of tuberculosis in 1821 at the age of 25. This Keats-Shelley Memorial House is now a small museum to the phenomenon of 19th-century literary greats who liked to bum around Italy—Byron, Shelley, the Brownings, Henry James, Edith Wharton, Goethe, James Joyce, and particularly "Giovanni Keats," including some of his letters and a sketch of him on his deathbed by roomie Joseph Severn (tel. 06-678-4235; ; adm). As an interesting side not, you can rent a small apartment in this building for anywhere form three nights to six months. Requiem for AMEX Until ATMs spread in the 1990s, visiting an American Express office every week, or even every few days, was a ritual engaged in by all ex-pats and American travelers in Europe. You needed to exchange traveler's checks, they operated the best travel agency, and you could pick up poste restante mail—I received my absentee vote in the 1996 elections thanks to the Amex office in Florence.

Now, it's just another business, but for decades the local AMEX office was the center of the American's universe in any European city—the second thing you had to find after your arrival in town (after your hotel). The less obvious, American connection to the Spanish Steps starts with the location of Rome's American Express office, a few doors south of the steps on the piazza (see sidebar). In 1985, crowds thronged the piazza to protest the opening of Italy's first McDonald's here (as a teenage ex-pat living in Rome, I showed up excited to get my first burger fix in more than a year; it was awful). Shopping around the Spanish Steps Leading out from the bottom of the steps is the überfashionable Via dei Condotti, the centerpiece for Rome's toniest fashion boutique shopping scene which fills the streets radiating from Piazza di Spagna. Generally speaking, the streets to the north of Piazza di Spagna toward Piazza del Popolo specialize in art and antiques, while the streets to the west and south focus more on clothing, leather, and jewelry, with names like Gucci, Valentino, Benetton, Ferragamo, Bulgari, and Buccellati.

Spanish Steps Closed until Summer 2016 The last time they did this was a 1995, after which both ends of the steps sprouted the most exhaustive list of iconic "Do Not…" injunctions I have ever seen. I worry that this time they will forbid even walking on the steps. Then again, the restoration is being underwritten by Bulgari, so perhaps they will just bling them out. This neighborhood is also the traditional area for English language bookstores in Rome, including the Anglo-American, at Via delle Vite 102 (tel. 06-679-5222).

(Sadly, several other English bookshops have closed down in recent years, including the one two doors up from the Steps where I voraciously bought paperbacks when I was an adolescent and teen—and, since the bulk of the books were printed in England, is why I still have an annoying tendency to spell things British-style.) Tips & links Spanish Steps, Rome, Italië Spanish Steps Transfer: From Ciampino Airport - 40 minutes From Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport - 50 minutes Great For: City Break Member Experiences This stylish apartment is situated in the heart of Rome, on the chic Via Condotti. At the end of the narrow street sits the Spanish Steps, while the famous Piazza del Popolo is only minutes away. It would certainly be hard to find a better base in the Eternal City than this. Prev Next About the Property In a city obsessed with designer fashion, Via Condotti is the epicentre of chic; most of the world's leading designer and jewellery brands have showrooms here. So you can be browsing in Prada or Cartier one moment, and sitting on the Spanish Steps eating a gelato the next.

The two-bedroom apartment enjoys a prime location on the fourth floor of one of Via Condotti's most attractive old buildings. Naturally, it has been furnished to the highest standards, and in a manner that reflects its style-conscious surroundings. The walls are all painted in a crisp, clean white which gives the space a light and airy feel. Dominating the living area are contemporary prints of Jan Van Eyck's 'Man in a Red Turban' and Raphael's 'The Woman with the Veil'. On the beautiful wood floor is a statement black and white striped rug. The monochromatic theme continues in the bedrooms: one has two quirky Piero Fornasetti print cushions, the other a giant black and white photograph. The charming apartment benefits from a Juliet balcony offering views not just of the designer shops below but the Spanish Steps at the top of the street. From this perfect base you can reach all of the city's iconic sights - the Trevi Fountain, the Colosseum and St Peter's Basilica, to name but three.

But don't miss out on some of the city's lesser-known gems, such as the cimitero acattolico, the 'grotesque' church of Santa Maria della Concezione, and the Roman villas at Domus Romane di Palazzo Valentini. Features Views of the Spanish Steps from the living room’s Juliet balcony Large living area Air-conditioning and heating throughout Paperback library, and a selection of toys and games for young children Flat screen TV, Apple TV, and iPod music system, an extensive collection of music in a pre-programmed iPod Two bedrooms and a sofa bed in the lounge, sleeping six guests in total Luggage Storage (Mon – Fri: 9:00-13:00, 15:00-19:00; Sat: 9:00-13:00; Sun: Closed) High quality bed linen One en-suite bathroom and one family bathroom Luxury towels and bathrobes Prev Next Rome How to sum up in just a few words a city that was once the capital of the world - and which still offers more ancient monuments, museums, galleries, shops and restaurants than virtually any other capital in the world?

Via Condotti is also a destination in its own right. While millions of tourists descend upon Rome's ancient attractions, this is where the Romans come to indulge their passion for designer labels and upmarket brands. See all recommendations Hostaria Da Pietro A family-run, traditional trattoria, a few minutes' walk from your apartment. Friendly service in a warm and casual ambience. Le Jardin de Russie Located in the Hotel de Russie, near the Piazza del Popolo, this hip Mediterranean restaurant overlooks an enchanting garden where you can eat alfresco and celebrity spot at the same time. Molto This restaurant and cocktail bar is located in a vast loft space in the residential area of Parioli. Offering mainly Italian dishes, it's the only place in Rome with a roasting spit set right in the centre of the restaurant. Gelateria Giolitti For an authentic gelato it has to be Giolitti, a few blocks north of the Pantheon. It opened in 1900 and still serves the best classic Italian ice cream in Rome. Antico Caffè Greco Have a drink in the Antico Caffè Greco at 86 Via dei Condotti.

Opened in 1760, it's Rome's oldest bar and has welcomed some of the world's greatest musicians and writers, including Wagner, Goethe, Keats and Byron. Rome by Vespa Heavy traffic means Rome is best explored by foot - or Vespa. If you're nervous about going it alone, ride pillion. There are lots of companies offering city tours by scooter. Sistine chapel In a city of must-sees, Michelangelo's frescoes are practically mandatory, hence crowded. Book a private, after-hours tour. Colosseum The Roman amphitheatre on Piazza del Colosseum is another of Rome's iconic sights not to be missed. Built of concrete and sand, it is the largest amphitheatre ever built and is considered one of the greatest works of architecture and engineering ever. It's essential to buy tickets in advance or you'll be joining a very long queue. Piazza del Popolo The magnificent Piazza del Popolo (People's Square) was built in 1538 as the starting point for the vital northbound route which connected Rome with the northern coastline. This meant that the square was the first or last thing that met travelers entering or leaving Rome from the north.

It has since been remodelled several times, most recently by Giuseppe Valadier in 1823. Biking through Rome with a guide With good English speaking students as your guide (many of them long stay Dutch students) ,you bike through Rome for around 3 hours ....going to the less well known areas , view points , churches and cafe's ...whatever your preference goes to. We did this our 4 kids (ages 11/13 and 15 ) and it was a big succes : the city came to life . Spanish Steps Spanish Steps Hotels: Compare 236 Hotels in Spanish Steps, Rome | Expedia Starhotels (1) Spanish Steps, Rome Hotel Information A trip to Rome is incomplete without tossing a coin in the waters of the iconic Trevi Fountain. Immortalized in classic movie ‘La Dolce Vita’, the fountain is one of the Italian capital’s most famous landmarks. Staying in the neighborhood, there is an abundance of great hotels around the Trevi Fountain area. Set in the historic centre of Rome, hotels here provide the perfect base for exploring the city’s sights. Rome’s hotels come in various shapes and sizes to suit an array of tastes and budgets.

You’ll find exquisite five star hotels offering a taste of the good life in keeping with the area’s famed film. This charming area has some very good three and four star hotels housed in stunning historical buildings offering all modern conveniences such as flat screen televisions, Wi-Fi and iPod stations. Embracing the past? You’ll find delightful historical hotels in the Trevi Fountain area within walking distance of the fountain and the famous Forum. In the neighborhood’s quieter streets there are some lovely smaller hotels and B&Bs offering friendly old-fashioned hospitality. Climb all 138 steps between the upper Piazza Trinita dei Monti and lower Piazza di Spagna during your visit to Rome. These stairs, called the Spanish Steps, or Scalina Spagna, were built in the 1720s to link the Trinit‡ dei Monti church with the square. Artists once flocked to these steps to gather creative inspiration, but nowadays you'll find locals and tourists lounging on the Baroque-style staircase. During your jaunt in Rome, venture to this attraction and look for the Fountain of the Old Boat, or visit the Keats-Shelley House.

Explore the exhibits at the Giorgio De Chirico House Museum, and then rest up at one of the top Rome hotels near the Spanish Steps. Expedia.com is here to pair you up with lodging within easy access of this popular Roman landmark. If your travel budget is weighing over you, don't fret. Browse our cheap deals on hotels near the Spanish Steps in Rome to keep your travels within your price range. From hotels with concierge services and Wi-Fi areas to lodging with continental breakfasts and lounges, you're certain to find your perfect match. You can even rent a car in Rome , so you can zoom off in to The Eternal City without breaking the bank. Rome Retail Blog Rome Rome city centre has a long established tradition of retailing, which dominates both the city itself and its metropolitan area, benefiting not only from a large residential population but also from a daily flow of tourists and workers. 2016 is the protagonist of the Jubilee Year, announced by Pope Francis.This religious event may represent an important opportunity for economic growth in the area and in Italy in general. It will see an extraordinary number of tourists visit Rome. As for the high street market in Rome, retailing is active.

The luxury market is concentrated in Via Condotti, Piazza San Lorenzo in Lucina, Via del Babuino and part of Piazza di Spagna. This area, mostly pedestrian-only and comprising about 400 stores, is characterized by the presence of national and international fashion houses. The main mid-market locations are represented by Via del Corso, Via Frattina and Via Cola di Rienzo (Prati district, close to the Vatican area). These streets are dominated by national and international single brand stores. In particular, the luxury market is faring well, with operators willing to secure spaces in the most sought-after locations, while the mass market is slowly regaining interest from operators. Over the past 10 years, Rome has seen massive development activity in its peripheral locations, with over 700,000 sqm of GLA built and now has some 47 existing retail schemes, including two super-regional shopping centres (Porta di Roma and Roma Est) and the largest retail park in Italy, Market Central Da Vinci, near Fiumicino.

The pace of new developments has now slowed, with some projects being put on hold, but should the new Piano del Commercio receive final approval, projects such as Pescaccio (200,000m²) in the city’s southwestern quadrant might finally push ahead. Via del Babuino : 41.907977, 12.479426 PIAZZA DI SPAGNA : 41.905990, 12.482775 Piazza San Lorenzo : 41.903721, 12.478652 Via del Corso : 41.903180, 12.479490 Via Cola di Rienzo: 41.908377, 12.467748 Via Condotti Via Condotti is the main luxury high street, running about 250 meters between the Spanish Steps and Via del Corso.

Main retailers include Alberta Ferretti, Armani, Bally, Bulgari, Burberry, Cartier, Church’s, Damiani, Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Hermès, Jimmy Choo, Louis Vuitton, Max Mara, Mont Blanc, Omega, Prada, Salvatore Ferragamo, Stuart Weitzman, Swarovsky, Tod’s, Trussardi, with new entries being Michael Kors and Van Cleef & Arpels. Piazza di Spagna Piazza di Spagna is the piazza facing the famous Spanish Steps, the piazza hosts a number of high-end retailers, including top brands such as Chanel’s new boutique, Christian Dior, Camper, Diesel, Dolce & Gabbana, Furla, Jeager Le Coultre, Loewe, Missoni, Moncler, Nespresso, Sergio Rossi, Versace, as well as Valentino, recently moved from Via Condotti to open a new 1,400 sqm concept store, the largest worldwide. Piazza San Lorenzo in Lucina Piazza San Lorenzo in Lucina, just off Via del Corso.

With the opening of Louis Vuitton’s largest Italian Maison a few years ago, this location has become a new luxury venue. Other important brands are Burberry, Bottega Veneta, Car Shoe, Pomellato and Casadei, opened recently next door to Luis Vuitton. Via del Babuino Via del Babuino runs for about 600 meters from Piazza di Spagna to Piazza del Popolo. Recently pedestrianised, Via del Babuino is now considered as a good alternative to Via Condotti , with brands such as Aspesi, Boggi, Cesare Paciotti Jewels, Chanel, Chopard, Emporio Armani, Etro, Fratelli Rossetti, Hogan, Iceberg, Jo Malone, Kiton, Les Copains, Mac, Mattioli, Miu Miu, Moschino, Petit Bateau, Pinko, Red Valentino, Sergio Rossi and Tiffany & Co. Among the new entries worth mentioning is the Fabiana Filippi flagship store which opened recently, along with Maison Margiela and D Squared. Stone Island, already present in Via del Babuino, relocated this year to a larger store, more than doubling the area occupied.

Via del Corso Via del Corso is by far the main mid-market location, running for 1.5 km from Piazza del Popolo to Piazza Venezia; it comprises over 200 shops with a large presence of local operators. Tourists and locals alike come to find mainly mono brand stores such as Adidas, Alcott, Bata, Camper, Desigual, Foot Locker, Gap, Geox, Guess, H&M, Intimissimi, Lacoste, Liu-Jo, Luisa Spagnoli, Murphy & Nye, Nike Store, Piazza Italia, Puma, Sephora, Terranova, Yamamay, Zara. It is worth mentioning that Ralph Lauren opened recently with the first Polo store in Italy, occupying two floors in the historic building on the corner with Via Frattina.

Via Frattina Via Frattina, running for some 300 metres and leading to Via del Corso/ Piazza San Lorenzo in Lucina, offers a medium level range of retailers; among the main national and international brands there are Alviero Martini 1a Classe, Armani Junior, Campanile, Elena Miro', Frey Willie, Geox, Hugo Boss Uomo, Luisa Spagnoli, Marella, Max Mara, Nero Giardini, Pal Zileri, Patrizia Pepe, Penny Black, Pinko, Stefanel, Swarovski, Vic Matie'. Via Cola di Rienzo Via Cola di Rienzo is located in the Prati district on the west side of the Tiber River. It extends for about 1 km with about 130 shops, running from Piazza della Libertà toward the Vatican State walls, and is one of the main mid-market locations.

It is dominated by national and international mono brand stores such as Calvin Klein, Coccinelle, Desigual, Furla , Guess, Intimissimi, Liu-Jo, L'Occitane En Provence, Luisa Spagnoli, Max Mara, Mega Store United Colors Of Benetton, Michael Kors, Nike Store, Swarovski, Swatch, The Bridge, Alviero Martini, Timberland, Tommy Hilfiger, Twin Set, Yamamay and Zara Home, as well as the first Excelsior, the upward evolution of the Italian department store Coin, featuring selected Italian and international fashion names, cosmetics and fragrances, as well as home décor and fine food. loading map - please wait...

Porta di Roma: 41.973274, 12.542953 Roma Est: 41.915563, 12.660370 Porta di Roma Porta di Roma, located in the northern section of the city, opened in 2007 and remains the largest Italian shopping centre providing some 137,000 sq.m of retail floor space, also including 14-plex cinema, Ikea and Leroy Merlin. The food anchor is an Auchan hypermarket, while the mall provides a mix of domestic and international brands across some 220 units. Yearly footfall: 18.6 million visitors. Roma Est Roma Est in east Rome opened in 2007 and is the city’s second largest shopping centre providing some 102,000 sqm of retail floor space, also including 12-plex cinema. The food anchor is a Panorama hypermarket, while the mall provides a range of national and international retailers across some 210 units. Yearly footfall: 10.4 million visitors.

Euroma 2 Euroma 2, located in the southern section of the city, opened in 2008 and offers more than 50,000 sqm of retail floor space. The food anchor is an Ipercoop hypermarket, while the mall provides a range of national and international retailers across some 225 units. Yearly footfall: 10 million visitors. MARKET OVERVIEW TYPICAL RENT FOR UNIT OF 200SQM (€/SQ.M/YEAR) * RANGE OF UNIT SIZES (SQ.M)** Via Condotti The main luxury high street, connecting the Spanish Steps with Via del Corso Alberta Ferretti, Armani, Bally, Bulgari, Burberry, Cartier, Church’s, Damiani, Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Hermès, Jimmy Choo, Louis Vuitton, Max Mara, Mont Blanc, Omega, Prada, Salvatore Ferragamo, Stuart Weitzman, Swarovsky, Tod’s, Trussardi, with new entries being Michael Kors and Van Cleef & Arpels.

11,000 (including key-money) Piazza di Spagna High-end retailers, including top brands Christian Dior, Camper, Diesel, Dolce & Gabbana, Furla, Jeager Le Coultre, Loewe, Missoni, Moncler, Nespresso, Sergio Rossi, Versace, Chanel, Valentino.

6,500 (including key-money) Piazza San Lorenzo in Lucina Just off Via del Corso, opposite Via Frattina Louis Vuitton, Burberry, Bottega Veneta, Car Shoe, Pomellato, Casadei 5,500 (including key-money) Via del Babuino Medium-high end retail market Aspesi, Boggi, Cesare Paciotti Jewels, Chanel, Chopard, Emporio Armani, Etro, Fratelli Rossetti, Hogan, Iceberg, Jo Malone, Kiton, Les Copains, Mac, Mattioli, Miu Miu, Moschino, Petit Bateau, Pinko, Red Valentino, Sergio Rossi, Stone Island and Tiffany & Co Fabiana Filippi, Maison Margiela D Squared 4,200 (including key-money) Via Frattina Medium retail market Alviero Martini 1a Classe, Armani Junior, Campanile, Elena Miro', Frey Willie, Geox, Hugo Boss Uomo, Luisa Spagnoli, Marella, Max Mara, Nero Giardini, Pal Zileri, Patrizia Pepe, Penny Black, Pinko, Stef

anel, Swarovski, Vic Matie'.

3,200 (including key-money) Via del Corso The main mid-market location, with large presence of local operators Adidas, Alcott, Bata, Camper, Desigual, Foot Locker, Gap, Geox, Guess, H&M, Intimissimi, Lacoste, Liu-Jo, Luisa Spagnoli, Murphy & Nye, Nike Store, Piazza Italia, Puma, Sephora, Terranova, Yamamay, Zara. Ralph Lauren Polo Via Cola di Rienzo One of the main mid-market locations, with large presence of local operators Calvin Klein, Coccinelle, Coin Excelsior, Desigual, Furla , Guess, Intimissimi, Liu-Jo, L'Occitane En Provence, Luisa Spagnoli, Max Mara, Mega Store United Colors Of Benetton, Michael Kors, Nike Store, Swarovski, Swatch, The Bridge Alviero Martini, Timberland, Tommy Hilfiger, Twin Set, Yamamay, Zara Home 3,000 (including key-money) 100-250 Data as of Q1 2016.

* Please note that rents vary greatly according to the position on the street, the size of the shop and the internal layout, as well as the number of windows facing the street. ** General indication of the existing range of unit size. The Food & Beverage sector in Rome is dominated by many small establishments. The offer ranges from snack bars to fine -dining, passing through the typical Roman Cuisine, much sought after by the Capital’s citizens. Generally speaking, the traditional restaurants serving local cuisine and pizzerias can be found in the historic districts of Trastevere and Testaccio (also known for night clubs and pubs), while the city centre high streets cater to the tourists, workers and those looking for an exclusive dining experience. The new concept of retail food, both national and international, has, however, started to enter the market. These modern formats are present mostly along the larger streets or piazzas (such as Via del Corso and Piazza di Spagna). Major food operators in the centre of Rome include; Burger King, McDonald’s, Road House Grill, Pastarito, Montaditos, Panino Giusto, Venchi, Alice Pizza, Grom, Baccanale and Pane Vino e San Daniele.

An interesting addition in recent years to the food and beverage scene in Rome is the gourmet grocer Eataly. This 16,000sqm mall dedicated Italian specialty foods, opened in June 2012 near the Ostiense Station, with the largest megastore to open yet worldwide. The innovative integrated format (restaurants, food market and education, all rolled into one) is present in Italy in Asti, Bari, Bologna, Firenze, Forlì, Genova, Milano, Monticello d’Alba, Piacenza, Pinerolo,Torino and abroad in Chicago, Dubai, Istanbul, New York, Osaka, Tokyo, Yokohama. In Rome Eataly has recently also opened other two smaller formats, Hamburgheria di Eataly on Via Veneto and Eataly Repubblica (in collaboration with Gruppo Ethos) on Piazza della Repubblica. Rents in the City Centre vary greatly according to the position on the street, the size of the shop and the internal layout, as well as the number of windows facing the street.

In the new major shopping centres, the traditional anchor represented by the hypermarket is complementary to a far wider merchandising and leisure mx and the food court and catering provisions play an increasingly important role in attracting an holding visitors. Amongst the major brands found within the Roman shopping centres there are: Alice Pizza, Anema e Cozze, Arabian Kebab, Baccanale, Burger King, Chocolate, Flunch, Fratelli La Bufala, Giovanni Rana, Grom, Illy, La Piadineria, Lavazza, Mc Donalds, Old Wild West, Panino Giusto, Pans & Company, Rosso Pomodoro, Sushiko, Wiener Haus and Wok. It is worth mentioning that KFC opened the first of the three stores now present in Italy within the Roma Est Shopping Center in 2014. The Gracious Posse | Tag: Spanish Steps The Grand Finale ~ Rome After months of rigorous rehearsal and concerts in Venice and Florence which bolstered our confidence, the St. James’s Choir arrived in Rome polished and prepared to sing at St. Peter’s and the Pantheon.

As our bus lumbered into the Eternal City the evening of June 29, I was immediately struck by its beauty. Perhaps my expectations had been lowered by jaded travelers, but Rome took my breath away, much like Paris did the first time. Rome is a big city, but I don’t know anywhere else on earth you can get ancient history, charming tree-lined streets with enticing cafes, countless museums, art-filled churches, splendid fountains, jaw-dropping architecture, world-class shopping, and an opportunity to sing at one of the most famous churches in the world? Sunday morning June 30 began bright and early with stops the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps and the Coliseum. I had to pinch myself that I was going to see these Roman highlights in person, not just view them on a screen or book. The Trevi Fountain The fountain was built at the terminus of an ancient Roman aqueduct. It was common for popes to build elaborate fountains marking the site. It is believed the fountain received the name Trevi because it is located at the center of three (tre) streets (vie): Via De’ Crocicchi, Via Poli and Via Delle Muratte.

The Spanish Steps Built between 1723-25, these steps connect the Piazza di Spagna of the Spanish Embassy to the Holy See and the Trinita dei Monti church, both at the top of the steep hill. Purported to be the widest in all of Europe, they were a magnet back in the day for the “beautiful people” of Rome and beyond to gather. Today they remain a delightful spot to people-watch. These steps have been featured in numerous films over the years, my favorite being Roman Holiday with Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck. Next stop, The Coliseum Originally known as the Flavian Amphitheater, it is the largest amphitheater in the world. Stating the obvious, a lifetime of seeing photos and movies of this ancient structure is no substitute for walking through it. Truly, I was moved despite thinking I was going to see just another tourist trap. Cross in the Coliseum. Middle photo courtesy of Matthew Stanley. At one point in history a common belief was that Christians were martyred in the coliseum. In 1744 Pope Benedict XIV erected 14 crosses around the coliseum representing Christ’s Stations of the Cross and began Good Friday’s tradition to remember those Christians.

Today whether Romans were actually killed there because of their belief in Christ is debated; nevertheless, the Pope still leads the faithful throngs on Good Friday through the Stations of the Cross. Our time at the Coliseum was far too short, and we were permitted only a passing glance at the Forum. Again these brief encounters added more fuel to my fire to return to Rome and Italy. Too quickly we were whisked away to St. Peter’s Basilica and our appointment with choral history, at least in the annals of the St. James’s Choir. St. Peter’s Basilica A view of St. Peter’s Basilica from the square. Photo courtesy of Matthew Stanley. After enduring long lines and successfully clearing security gates that would make the TSA proud, we entered the Basilica and were greeted with a sight that seemed like God smiling upon us. The interior of St. Peter’s Basilica, looking towards the altar. Photo courtesy of Anne Daniel. Men in suits, looking like the Italian Secret Service, ushered us through the various waiting areas, including this chapel below. At last our moment had come, and we filed into the choir loft behind the organist. We exchanged looks with each other, acknowledging the gravitas of the situation.

It was a surreal moment to cherish for a lifetime. The only other time I felt like that was waiting on my father’s arm to walk down the church aisle on my wedding day. Our repertoire for this mass was Hymn to a Virgin by Benjamin Britten Christe adoremus te by Claudio Monteverdi Sicut Cervus (click to listen to our performance) by G.P. du Palestrina Da Pacem Domino by Arvo Pärt Jubilate Deo (click to listen to our performance) by Giovanni Gabrieli The mass was conducted entirely in Italian and without a printed program, making it difficult for us to know what was to happen next. At one point near the end (according to the organist who interpreted for Mark), the priest thanked our choir and told us we had “shortened the distance between God and Man.” I couldn’t imagine higher praise. After we finished, we had a few moments for picture time before we headed outside to the Square for a special flash mob. Photo courtesy of Margaret Corwin. What a wonderful way to celebrate after such a moving experience, perhaps the choral equivalent of a dance in the end zone after a touchdown. Pantheon The next day we had a full agenda again.

We were to sing at the Pantheon at noon, so we arrived early enough to sight-see and shop in the vicinity. The Pantheon is the oldest surviving intact ancient Roman structure. It’s a marvel in engineering with its unsupported coffered concrete dome. The occulus in the center is the main source of light in the structure; rain water drains through a hole in the floor. Shortly after the fall of Rome, the temple was consecrated as a Christian building, thus sparing it from the invading and looting barbarians. We sang our last concert in front of this beautiful altar and with bittersweet emotions we concluded with the Battle of Jericho on the massive portico. Photo courtesy of Ellie Briscoe. After the concert we boarded the bus for our 2:30 tour of the Vatican Museums. There, along with 30,000 other visitors, we saw gallery after gallery of ancient art owned by the Church. It was worth the heat and cramped quarters to see the Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo’s breathtaking ceiling Diagram of Sistine Chapel’s ceiling once, but given a choice I would not brave the throngs at 2:30 in the afternoon again.

Should you decide to visit, get a tour guide and do your homework on the least-crowded time to visit. As much as I have enjoyed re-living these glorious days in Rome, it’s time to bid farewell. I pray that each of you has a similar opportunity in your life to spend it with people of substance, in a setting that enhances your appreciation of God’s earthly and divine creation. I must thank my family for their patience and understanding as I rushed off to choir rehearsals, spent quality home time with my black music binder, and otherwise let things go around the house in the name of musical preparation. To my wonderful altos, especially Heather Jones, Liz Nance and Susan Mellott: you are the BEST. And to Anne Daniel: we did it! Last, but certainly not least, cheers to Mark Whitmire Maestro Whitmire at St. Mark’s Basilica, Venice. Photo courtesy of Fran McDermott. for organizing this trip, selecting the awe-inspiring music, cold-calling St. Peter’s to arrange for our performance, enduring rehearsals that will not be recounted here, and having the patience of a saint to shepherd this awesome group through six performances in five cities of Italian wonder.

I sign off, leaving you with one more fabulous recording, The Battle of Jericho , which we sang at the end of our performance at Chiesa di Santa Maria dei Ricci in Florence. Arrividerci! July 15, 2013

Question: Built 1723-25, the famous Spanish Steps are in which capital city?
Answer: Rome