Located close to the heart of Rome’s downtown district, the 5 star Westin Excelsior is a grand building, conveniently situated on the Via Veneto, just a short walk from the Spanish Steps and some of the cities most exclusive boutique shops like Armani, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton. An iconic landmark, the large characterful building is over a century old, with stunning architecture, a grand entrance, and helpful front of house staff to greet guests in classical uniform, which all adds to the experience. The huge opulent reception and lounge instills a luxurious feel, with both a neutral familiarity for globetrotters and hints of Italian design cues.

Each of the 316 bedrooms are extremely spacious, a rarity in a capital city like Rome, but for the true experience an upgrade to a Junior Suite is essential to any discerning traveller. Rooms are adorned in Imperial style of either emerald green or deep red colour schemes, or more modern Biedermeier décor, giving a sense of individuality every time you stay, yet still providing a familiarity for returning guests. Each room features the exceptionally comfortable Westin Heavenly beds, the hotel’s own brand of bed, mattress and sheets, which leads to one of the comfiest nights sleep you could dream of.

The junior suites feature a large bedroom, a huge private lounge area and a spacious marble-clad modern bathroom with Westin’s signature White Tea & Aloe product range, and each room connected via a mirrored hall way. There’s plenty of storage space, ideal for longer stays, and all the creature comforts expected from a 5 star hotel. Even the standard rooms are incredibly spacious, starting at 30sqm, almost unheard of in the city.

The penthouse is occupied by the newly refurbished Villa la Cupola suite, a luxurious rooftop villa. Featuring seven private terraces for unparalleled panoramic views of Rome, the suite is perfect for a special occasion or event. The palatial domed living room features stunning fresco, reminiscent of a Roman luxury villa. The suite also includes a library, state of the art media room, dining room and kitchen, with hand-carved Italian walnut wood paneling and unique artwork throughout. The dining room is dominated by a stunning gold-finished antique Murano glass chandelier, with a private wine cellar tucked away for guests to discover. The most impressive aspect of the suite is the entertainment floor, which includes a Pompeiian-style Jacuzzi pool, private gym, sauna and steam bath, all accessible by a private elevator. The villa can be converted into a spacious apartment with up to 7 guest rooms.

An unusual feature for the central hotel is the gym and pool facilities, both of which are quiet and readily available for guests. The Kamispa wellness centre provides treatments ranging from massages to bio scrubs. An interesting option is rental service for New Balance work out gear, including freshly laundered tops, shorts, trainers and socks (the socks are always brand new). Other facilities that you’d expect are all included, such as laundry, room service, on-site parking and modern standards are met too with free WiFi in every room. The bar is hidden away, which is relaxing, quiet and well stocked with wines, beers and spirits from around the world. A grand piano welcomes visitors with modern renditions of popular classics.

The breakfast option is a must-have. The daily morning spread focusses on quality food, from smoked salmon and eggs cooked every way imaginable, to continental staples, as well as a cereal bar and hot British inspired plates. The staff will even pack a bag of fruits and pastries for you to take out whilst you explore the city.

The Westin Excelsior is a fabulous, old-fashioned yet glamorous hotel with an authentic Renaissance feel. The huge regal rooms, excellent guest services and supremely comfy beds make this one of the best hotels in Rome. It’s unapologetically lavish and elegant with an excellent central location.