Fodor's Expert Review Il Palazzetto

Formerly the retreat of a rich noble family, this 15th-century house is now one of Rome's most intimate and luxurious hotels, with gorgeous terraces and a rooftop bar affording views of the never-ending theater of the Spanish Steps. Even the Hassler, Il Palazzetto's iconic sister hotel on the other side of Piazza Trinità dei Monti, can't make this claim. The four tranquil guest rooms are outfitted in soothing taupes and creams (three look out over the Steps); none of them have room service, but guests enjoy full use of the facilities at the Hassler. Without the 24-hour attention of the Hassler, and with their sense of privacy and independence, Il Palazzetto's accommodations feel more like small, luxury apartments than hotel rooms—something that's seen as a major perk by guests, who tend to book up the rooms months in advance.