Top Suites in Rome

Though the Colosseum always remains in its place, the hotel scene in the Eternal City never stands still. New properties arise while Grand Dames renew themselves. Here are five diverse choices for the traveler looking for more than just a bed.

How can you say no when a butler arrives at your door and offers to unpack your suitcases? Personal butlers are the norm at St. Regis properties around the world and The St. Regis Rome is no exception.

Opened as the Grand Hotel by the famous César Ritz in 1894, it became the first St. Regis in Europe in 2000 following a $35 million refurbishment. In 2014, Starwood sold the hotel to Constellation but will continue to manage the property on a long-term basis. Although the St Regis (Via V.E. Orlando 3,00185 Rome) is already one of the most beautiful hotels in Rome, another renovation is scheduled for Spring 2016.

The Designer Suite (No. 123) is decorated in contemporary neutrals, accented with antiques and hung with Rome-themed paintings by local emerging artists. It has one bedroom but can be connected to the Royal Suite to enlarge the combined space to up to three bedrooms. The Designer Suite has a very large shower and a Jacuzzi tub in the bathroom; there is a walk-in closet large enough for a long Roman holiday.

The Royal Suite (No. 131) is traditional in its decor and at almost 4,000 square feet it has space for a very large living room, a dining room with marble table, a private wine cellar, a library and a private kitchen with outside door. The Rolling Stones and Lady Gaga have stayed in this suite, where the shower is an entire room and there are two dressing rooms off the master bedroom.

Other suites of note at the St Regis are the Bottega Veneta (No. 431), a corner suite, which can be enlarged to three bedrooms, and the three-bedroom Couture Suite overlooking the Fountain of Najadi near the Piazza della Repubblica. Of course, the decor of No. 431 includes the sumptuous woven leather identified with the Bottega Veneta brand, while the Couture Suite evokes the dynamic history of the Italian fashion designers. Junior Suite No. 326 is lovely and comfortable, with a...