The hotel’s basic facade does little to hint at the modern and updated rooms that make up the interior. Set back from the river, the quiet hotel first opened in 1957, but has since been remodeled to combine original architectural details with an overall contemporary aesthetic. Past the front desk is a simple bar serving espresso in the morning and mixed drinks in the evening. However, most guests prefer to walk about ten minutes to the edge of Rome’s well-known Trastevere neighborhood to experience a lively atmosphere that La Rovere lacks. The hotel attracts business travelers who need access to the Prati neighborhood, as well as leisure seekers who appreciate the low-key area between trendy Trastevere and St. Peter’s Square.

Hotel La Rovere is located in between Trastevere and Vatican City, but sits in a quiet corner away from major tourist thoroughfares. One street away from the Tiber River, much of the unexpected solitude of the immediate area is due to the hotel’s position at the base of the Janiculum hill. Those willing to brave the climb will be rewarded with sweeping views of the city, most of which lies on the other side of the river. While ancient Rome’s landmarks are a bit far away, the hotel is well-positioned for nightlife and restaurants, without any of the noise that comes with it. No metro stops are nearby, but public buses serve the area, particularly along the river, and it takes about 20 minutes to reach top sights including the Pantheon and Trevi fountain. Leonardo da Vinci Fiumicino Airport is about a 35-minute drive from the hotel.  

Each room at Hotel La Rovere is unique, but the Classic guest rooms and bathrooms can be a tight squeeze. Units on upper floors have far better views and private furnished terraces, but the newest Deluxe rooms are all located on the ground floor. While these rooms offer less impressive vistas, the interiors are some of the best in the hotel. Original details like barrel brick ceilings are mixed with hyper-modern touches, such as glass floors which show off the ancient cobblestones of old Rome at the hotel’s foundation. Standard amenities are a plus, as all units come with AC, flat-screen TVs with international satellite channels, mini fridges, kettles for tea and coffee, small safes, plus free Wi-Fi and bottles of water. Bathrooms have a more dated look, but they're tidy and have walk-in showers, heated towel racks, bidets, hairdryers, and toiletries. 

While Hotel La Rovere is notably updated, the common areas in the hotel are few and far between, with no full restaurant or fitness center on-site. The popular free continental breakfast buffet is a highlight, which is served in a modern dining room ringed with colorful contemporary art. There's also a small bar that serves cocktails and coffee upon request. The front desk can help with booking private transfers or tours, and Wi-Fi is free and available throughout.